10 Reasons to Visit Seoul: A City of Tradition and Innovation

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a city that blends ancient traditions with modern technology. Surrounded by mountains and the Han River, Seoul is a populated metropolis known for its rich history, dynamic night scene, and variety of foods. Whether you're exploring traditional palaces, enjoying K-pop culture, or getting some of the world's best street food, Seoul has something for every traveler. Here are ten reasons to visit this Seoul.

1. Explore the Historic Palaces Seoul is home to five grand palaces, each offering a glimpse into Korea’s royal past. The most famous, Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was the king’s residence during the Chosun Dynasty, features the stunning Gwanghwamun Gate and a daily changing of the guard ceremony. For a quieter experience, Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden offers a tranquil retreat with beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional pavilions.

2. Indulge in Korean Street Food From sizzling tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to crispy hotteok (sweet pancakes), Seoul’s street food scene is appealing for food lovers. Head to Gwangjang Market for a taste of authentic bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) or explore Myeongdong’s food stalls for creative fusion treats.

3. Discover the K-Pop Culture As the hub of K-pop, Seoul is a destination for fans of Korean music and entertainment. Visit the K-Star Road in Gangnam, explore the HYBE Insight Museum, or attend a live music show at a broadcasting station to experience the K-pop up close.

4. Shop in Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Seoul has countless shopping streets, offering everything from luxury brands to trendy streetwear. Myeongdong is the go-to spot for skincare and fashion, while Dongdaemun Design Plaza hosts night markets where you can find stylish apparels.

5. Experience the Nightlife in Hongdae and Itaewon Seoul’s nightlife is diverse and exciting. Hongdae is known for its music scene and hip-hop cafes, while Itaewon is the perfect spot for international lounge bars and clubs. Go visit karaoke, dance clubs, or rooftop lounges in Seoul!

6. Relax in a Traditional Korean Jjimjilbang A visit to a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) is an essential part of trip to Seoul. These 24-hour bathhouses, like Dragon Hill Spa and Siloam Sauna, offer hot baths, saunas, and relaxation rooms where visitors can rest after a long day of exploring.

7. Hike the Mountains Surrounding the City Despite being a large city, Seoul is surrounded by beautiful mountains. Inwangsan offers scenic trails with panoramic views of the skyline, while Namsan Mountain provides a more accessible hike leading up to the iconic N Seoul Tower.

8. Visit Bukchon Hanok Village to Explore Tradition To experience traditional Korea, walk through Bukchon Hanok Village, where well-preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) line the streets. This historic area offers a great background for pictures and insights into Seoul’s traditional culture.

9. View at Seoul’s Skyscraper Standing at 555 meters with 123 stories, the Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in South Korea and the sixth tallest globally. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, Seoul Sky. Beyond the Lotte World Tower, areas like Gangnam and Yeouido has numerous high-rise buildings to get a nice view of the city.

10. Witness Seoul’s Changing Seasons Seoul’s scene changes with the seasons, offering unique experiences year-round. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, summer brings lively festivals, autumn offers stunning foliage, and winter changes the city into a snowy wonderland, making every visit special.