Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Seoul South Korea
Table of Contents
Overview
Go on to a journey to the heart of South Korea’s bustling capital, Seoul, where every corner tells a story of tradition, innovation, and vibrant culture. As you explore the top 10 best places to visit in Seoul South Korea, you’ll uncover an array of experiences awaiting you. From the majestic palaces steeped in history to the pulsating beats of K-pop, Seoul offers a tapestry of attractions to enchant every traveler. Join us as we delve into where to visit in Seoul Korea, what to visit in Seoul Korea, the enchanting palaces dotting the city, iconic K-pop destinations, and must-visit spots that promise unforgettable memories. Let’s start on an adventure through Seoul’s rich tapestry of sights and sounds!
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Namsan Tower
N Seoul Tower, often called Namsan Tower, is a well-known landmark in Seoul that offers panoramic views of the city. Situated at the geographic center of the city at the summit of Namsan Mountain, it serves as both an observation and communication tower. One of the most well-liked tourist destinations and essential sights for any itinerary is N Seoul Tower. Locals also use it as a favorite destination for dates.
N Seoul Tower is located atop Namsan Mountain, which is 797 feet tall, and has a height of 777 feet from base to peak, or roughly 1,574 feet above sea level. Standing at the pinnacle of Seoul, it provides a full 360-degree panorama of the city. In addition, it was South Korea’s first universal radio wave tower and is still in use today to transmit signals for stations including FM, SBS, MBC, and KBS.
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The Namsan Tower started to be built in 1969, and it started to broadcast in 1971. The tower wasn’t made public until 1980, and the renowned observatory wasn’t constructed until 1975. Namsan Tower had welcomed more than 20 million people by 2001. The tower was renamed N Seoul Tower in 2005, with the “N” standing for “Namsan,” “new,” and “nature.” According to a 2012 city study, tourists chose N Seoul Tower as their top attraction in Seoul. Today, the tower draws roughly 8.4 million tourists a year.
N Seoul Tower is not only a visitable landmark but also a stunning sight from a distance, particularly at night. The tower is always illuminated with a variety of colors and patterns thanks to the most recent advancements in LED technology. The green space surrounding N Seoul Tower is also meant to showcase the coexistence of modern, cutting-edge architecture with the natural world. Namsan Mountain is kept clean and green by limiting general car usage.
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Bukchon Hanok Village
One of the few areas in Seoul that still holds onto its traditional Korean past is Bukchon Hanok Village. Bukchon Hanok Village is more than 600 years old, having its origins in the Joseon Dynasty, which lasted from 1392 to 1910. Many of the hanok homes in the area were occupied at this time by government officials, aristocrats, royal families, and rich locals.
The hanoks, or traditional Korean homes, are the most distinctive and traditional aspect of this lovely community. Earth, stone, and Korean red pine wood are the only earthly resources used in the construction of hanoks. Bukchon translates to “northern village” in Korean. Since the village is situated above Cheonggyecheon Stream, it is officially regarded as being north of Seoul. Nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, two renowned royal palaces, lies Bukchon Hanok hamlet. All of the hanoks were to be destroyed as part of an area makeover planned for the 1960s. However, the residents were able to stop modernity in this small area by protesting. As a result, the history of the former Joseon Dynasty continues to this day.
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National Museum of Korea
One of the must visit places in Seoul. The National Museum of Korea serves as the repository for more than 5,000 years of Korean art, culture, and history. It does this by researching, preserving, exhibiting, and globally promoting Korea’s significant and essential cultural heritage, which spans from the ancient Korean kingdom’s GOJOSEON period to the JOSEON dynasty—the country’s most recent and last dynasty—so that visitors can appreciate and comprehend the timeline of Korean history and arts.
The history of Korea’s museums is also symbolically represented by the National Museum of Korea. The Imperial Museum of Korea was founded in 1909, which is when museums in Korea first appeared. The Government-General of Joseon Museum and the Yi Royal-Family Museum were two of Korea’s representative museums during the Japanese colonial era, which lasted from 1910 to 1945.
After regaining its independence from Japan in 1945, Korea called the two earlier museums the National Museum of Korea. The National Museum of Korea had relocated multiple times since then until 2005, when it finally acquired a permanent home in Yongsan. We commemorated Korea’s museums’ 100th anniversary in 2009.
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- Lotte World Tower
Seoul, South Korea’s Lotte World Tower is an extremely tall skyscraper. The tower is regarded as Korea’s highest structure. The tower is named after a nearby recreation complex called Lotte World; Lotte Group, one of the biggest business conglomerates in South Korea, developed and owns both the tower and the recreation complex. The tower is also known as Lotte World Premium Tower and Lotte Jamsil Super Tower.
Lotte World Tower is located in Shinchon-Dong, Songpa-Ku, Seoul, South Korea. The tower was constructed adjacent to the Han River’s bank and Lotte World Park. The 555-meter-tall Lotte World Tower has a parapet at its highest point, which is 497 meters above ground. The tower does not have a spire. At 555 meters, Lotte World Tower is the tallest skyscraper in Korea Peninsula, a title was previously held by Ryugyong Hotel in North Korea before 2017.
Lotte World Tower is ranked 5th globally, ahead of New York City’s 541-foot One World Trade Center, and 6th if the incomplete Goldin Finance 117 is considered. To view the list of the world’s tallest buildings in 2023, click this link.
There are 123 stories above ground and 6 floors below ground in the tower. Operated by Signiel Seoul, the hotel in the skyscraper is the newest luxury landmark establishment in South Korea, taking up levels 76 to 101. The top ten stories of the Lotte World Tower are dedicated to a public area. There are observation decks and other entertainment options in the public space.
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- Gyeongbokgung Palace
The earliest and biggest royal palace constructed during the Joseon Dynasty was called Gyeongbokgung Palace. It is one of the must visit palaces in Seoul to visit, Constructed in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace symbolized the Joseon Dynasty’s power and was situated in the center of Seoul, which was then known as Hanyang, the newly designated capital. Gyeongbokgung was the principal palace of the Joseon Dynasty and the largest of the Five Grand Palaces (the others being Gyeonghuigung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, and Changdeokgung Palace).
In order to preserve the palace for future generations, the Korean government has devoted a great deal of time and energy to its reconstruction. Rebuilding and renovating the structures that were devastated during the Japanese occupation is part of these efforts. As they are situated on the royal grounds, visitors to Gyeongbokgung can also explore the National royal Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea.
Yeongchumun, the western entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace, opened to the public in December 2018 to facilitate easier access from the palace to Seochon and vice versa. Gyeongbokgung Palace had only three entrances over the previous forty-three years: the National Folk Museum of Korea’s eastern entrance, Gwanghwamun, located in the south, and Sinmumun, located in the north. But now that Yeongchumun, the western entrance, is opened, access to the palace from all directions is feasible.
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- Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
The DMZ, or Demilitarized Zone, is the 240 km long and 4 km wide strip of land that divides North and South Korea. Enjoy the opportunity to gaze out over this big tract of extremely controversial property and be prepared to encounter barbed wire and electric fences from this unpleasant buffer zone. This tour will make stops at the key DMZ locations, giving you a better grasp of Korea’s modern history as well as a peek into the political tensions between these two ideologically opposed nations.
In Imjingak Pyeonghoa-Nuri Park, which was once a safe haven for refugees during the Korean War, you may discover the stories of those who made the difficult journey from North to South Korea. The Bridge of Freedom was used by South Koreans traveling home from the North when it was constructed in 1953 to free 12,773 detainees. Part of the 1,635-meter-long 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, constructed by North Korea as a tool of invasion, is accessible.
The tour’s most fascinating stop is definitely Dorasan Observatory, where you can use powerful binoculars to peer into North Korea over the border. You will be able to see Propaganda Village, or Kjong-dong. North Korea established this fictitious collective farm to demonstrate how wonderful life is north of the DMZ, but in actuality, it looks as though no one really lives there and the buildings are essentially empty shells. The ninth-largest city in North Korea, Gaesong, is also visible.
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- Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA)
The Seoul City Council is in charge of running the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA), an art museum located in Seoul, South Korea. After renovations in 2002, it launched a larger main branch behind Deoksugung Palace, having been opened in 1988. The public can take advantage of the museum’s many services, which include lectures, docent programs, and art lessons. Kim Hong-hee is the museum’s deputy executive at the moment. Two further branches of the museum are located in Seoul: SeMA Nam-Seoul in Gwanak-gu and SeMA Buk-Seoul in Nowon District. The main branch has an administration annex, lecture halls and offices on the basement level, and three stories of exhibition spaces.
- Blue House
From 1948 until 2022, the Blue House, also called Cheong Wa Dae, served as the president of South Korea’s official house and executive office. Situated in Seoul’s Jongno-gu neighborhood, it is the most secure official house in Asia. Originally built in 1948, the Blue House stood where a former royal villa once stood. It was known as Gyeong Mu Dae before 1960; the name translates to “Capital Pavilion” in Korean.
The blue roof tiles that cover the building gave it its current name. In March 2022, South Korea’s President-elect Yoon Suk Yeol declared that he will open the Blue House to the public as a park after taking office on May 10. The Ministry of National Defense building in Seoul’s Yongsan District is now home to the presidential office. On May 10, 2022, the Blue House was formally opened to the public, with a daily cap of 39,000 guests. The compound’s magnificent background, Bugak Mountain, is reached by hiking trails, tours, and cultural performances available to visitors.
There was opposition to the Blue House’s transformation into a public park due to worries about possible harm to national security, related expenses, and other matters. However, given that the Cheongwadae has already grown to be a significant public area, many think it is doubtful that presidents in the future will visit there again. Since its founding as a royal palace site a millennium ago, the Blue House has served as a seat of authority for a considerable amount of time. With the compound’s public opening, the more than 70 years that it was the official residence and office of South Korean presidents have come to an end.
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- Bongeunsa Temple
Situated in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea, Bongeunsa Temple is a noteworthy Buddhist temple in Korea with a lengthy history that dates back to the Silla Dynasty in 794. Under the patronage of Queen Jeonghyeon, it was refurbished and renamed Bongeunsa in 1498 after being known as Gyeonseongsa previously. Despite being located in the busy Gangnam neighborhood and surrounded by skyscrapers, the temple, which is associated with the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, is renowned for its tranquil ambiance.
A range of shrine halls can be found in Bongeunsa Temple, such as the Yeongsan-jeon Hall honoring Chilseong (The Seven Stars), the Jijang-jeon Hall featuring murals of the Ten Kings of the Underworld, and the Daeung-jeon Hall with three sculptures. Among the temple’s most notable features are the 23-meter-tall statue of Maitreya, which was built between 1986 and 1996, and the Panjeon library, which has woodblock carvings and Buddhist texts inside.
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In addition, Bongeunsa provides programs such as “Temple Life” and “Temple Stay” that allow guests to immerse themselves in the monastic lifestyle, mental training, and traditional Korean Buddhist culture. Through the Temple Stay program, visitors can partake in meditation and temple activities, offering a rare chance to experience Eastern culture among Seoul’s contemporary urban landscape.
As a major cultural and spiritual landmark in Seoul, Bongeunsa Temple has welcomed both local devotees and foreign visitors seeking peace and spiritual development throughout its lengthy history. It has also played a crucial role in the rebirth and spread of Korean Buddhism.
- Gwanghwamun Gate
Gwanghwamun Gate is the main entry into Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most majestic of the four gates. The monarch is permitted access through the middle of the three large arched gates, while the crown prince and other royal officials use the other two lesser arches. The elaborately adorned wooden gate tower, which stands guard over the city, is supported by the tall granite construction of the gate. Two magnificent Haetae sculptures, which are based on mythological lion-like creatures stationed to defend the palace from fire, guard the gate of the pavilion, which also held a bell that signaled the time of day to the city.
Gwanghwamun Gate was one of only four gates created in the palace walls, initially completed in 1395 during the reign of King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty. Nonetheless, there have been numerous cycles of destruction and repair involving the gates and walls. It was reduced to ruins until it was reconstructed in 1867 after being damaged by fire in 1592 during the Imjin Wars. Gwanghwamun Gate was relocated by the Japanese in 1926, and the Korean War damaged the wooden pavilion with two roofs. Gwanghwamun Gate was relocated once more in 1968, then back to its original location in 2006 after restoration work was finished in 2010. During the restoration, the original wooden pavilion structure was recreated using Korean pine, the base was recreated using conventional materials, and the wooden nameplate was recreated.
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Gwanghwamun Plaza is the space in front of Gwanghwamun Gate, and it is here that guests may witness the magnificent royal changing of the guard ritual, which takes place every day from 10:00 to 15:00. Along with several impressive fountains, statues, and sculptures, the square that houses the gate also has an underground museum honoring Sejong the Great, the fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty. There used to be several watchtowers positioned to monitor Gwanghwamun, and the gate had three entrances as well as a soaring two-story pavilion.
Gwanghwamun Gate is open around-the-clock and is situated near Gyeongbokgung Palace’s entryway. Admission at the gate is free, but a ticket is required to enter the palace. Travelers can use Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5) or Subway Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 2) to arrive at Gwanghwamun Gate.
As you plan your next luxurious getaway, consider Seoul, South Korea, a vibrant city bursting with history, culture, and endless opportunities for exploration. From the majestic palaces to the bustling markets and serene temples, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re wandering through the trendy streets of Gangnam or savoring the flavors of Korean barbecue in Insadong, Seoul promises an unforgettable experience. This was our list of Top 10 best places to visit in Seoul South Korea. Let Luxury Vacations and Holidays be your guide to the top 10 best places to visit in Seoul, as you start on a journey filled with wonder and discovery. Start packing your bags and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can go to: Historic Sites: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village. Parks and Nature: Namsan Park, Bukhansan National Park, Han River Parks. Shopping and Fashion: Myeongdong, Dongdaemun Market, Gangnam District. Food and Culture: Insadong, Gwangjang Market, Jeonju Hanok Village.
You can visit: Namsan Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, National Museum of Korea, Lotte World Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA), Blue House, Bongeunsa Temple, Gwanghwamun Gate.
You can visit: K-star road: A must visit for K-pop fans with pop-up stores and decorations, K-pop Museum: Explore the history and evolution of K-pop, SM Kwangya Seoul Flagship Store: Merchandise and experiences for SM Entertainment artists.