SEOUL at a Glance

Seoul is bisected by the Hangang River, with initial development concentrated in the North, followed by growth in the South. To experience the old-fashioned charm of Seoul, head to the northern part, while the southern part offers a more urban feel. Additionally, the neighborhoods of Hongdae and Seongsu, located in the east and west respectively, are great places to immerse yourself in the youthful energy of Seoul. With the efficient public transportation system, you can easily travel to most places within an hour, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Myeongdong is a popular area for travelers as it has convenient transportation and offers a variety of department stores, markets, and brand stores, making it an ideal shopping destination. Compared to other areas, there are many employees who can communicate in English, Japanese, and Chinese. Additionally, the discounts on souvenirs, which are commonly purchased items, are often quite high. Take advantage of this and shop smartly to get the best deals.

- Eating street food in Myeongdong - Enjoying the night view at N Seoul Tower - Grocery shopping at Lotte Mart in Seoul Station - Shopping for face masks on Myeongdong shopping street

- When making a reservation, check the room view as there are many hotels with a view of N Seoul Tower. - If you take the Namsan circulation bus, you can get off at the nearest point to N Seoul Tower.

Surrounding Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seochon, Bukchon, Insa-dong, and Ikseon-dong are gathered, making this area a great place to experience Korean traditional culture. The area is a perfect blend of high-rise buildings and Hanok buildings to create a harmonious landscape. Most signboards here are in Korean, and there are many Hanok rental shops nearby, which is why it is common to see both locals and travelers walking around in Hanok. With its tranquil atmosphere, it is a neighborhood that both locals and tourists love to visit.

- Experience the Joseon era by wearing a Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) at Gyeongbokgung Palace - Enjoy traditional tea in Insa-dong - Have a traditional Korean meal at a Hanok in Bukchon - Visit an exhibition at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art - See traditional Korean craft items at Seoul Museum of Craft Art - Compare the vibes of Bukchon, Seochon, Insa-dong, and Ikseon-dong neighborhoods

・ Free admission to Gyeongbokgung Palace when wearing a Hanbok ・ Bukchon and Seochon have many restaurants and cafes in traditional Hanok buildings. ・ If you want to buy traditional souvenirs, Insa-dong is recommended. ・ The closing time of Gyeongbokgung Palace varies by season, so be sure to check before visiting.

Located in the southern part of the Hangang River, Gangnam Station is a transportation hub. It is known for its high population density, which has led to significant commercial development. The area boasts large and diverse shopping malls like Starfield and Lotte World Mall, offering the convenience of fulfilling all your needs in one place. With its many high-rise buildings, Gangnam exudes a modern atmosphere, and its booming beauty industry makes it a perfect destination for those seeking cosmetic procedures.

- Buy clothes for 10,000 won at the Gangnam Station Underground Shopping Center - Take photos in front of the Starfield Library at COEX Mall - Capture a panoramic view of Seoul from Lotte Tower in Jamsil - Go ice skating at Lotte World - Get treatment at a dermatology clinic in Gangnam Station

- It's very crowded during commuting hours near Gangnam Station and COEX, so it's better to take the subway rather than the bus. - It's cheaper to book tickets for the Lotte Tower Observatory in advance. - You can also buy clothes at a reasonable price at the shopping center near the Express Bus Terminal.

The area around Hongdae is known for its concentration of universities such as Yonsei University, Ewha Woman's University, and Hongik University. As a result, it is a place where you can feel the youthful energy of college students. With Hongdae and Sinchon as the center, busking performances and flea markets are often held, and at night, the streets are filled with bars and clubs, bustling with young people. Especially in Hongdae, there is a shopping district where many people come to shop.

- Watch a busking performance on Hongdae street - Find charming desserts at cafes in Yeonnam-dong - Enjoy marshmallow ice cream at Mangwon Market - Eat Ramyeon and go for a bike ride at Mangwon Hangang Park

・ There are many cafes and boutique shops in Yeonnam-dong. ・ If you want to enjoy a trendy atmosphere, go to Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong. ・ If you prefer a quiet atmosphere, go to Sangsu and Mangwon. ・ When visiting Ewha and Yonsei University, please refrain from entering the campuses. ・ It takes about 20 minutes to walk from Mangwon Station and Hapjeong Station to reach Mangwon Hangang Park.

This is the place where most of the latest fashion trends in Seoul originate. It's a popular area among fashion-savvy individuals in Seoul, featuring numerous designer concept stores and brand stores. It's also an area frequented by Korean celebrities. Moreover, there are plenty of upscale and trendy cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to enjoy a special meal. In particular, there are many trendy cafes centered around Dosan Park.

・ Take four-cut photos at a selfie photo studio ・ Go shopping for designer brand clothing at Apgujeong Rodeo ・ Try on sunglasses at the Gentle Monster flagship store ・ Explore dessert trends at a cafe

Formerly an industrial area, Seongsu has become a beloved neighborhood for young generation as various concept cafes and curated shops have emerged. It's a fun place to explore trendy spots tucked away in old factories. With Seoulsup Forest and Ttukseom Hangang Park nearby, it is also great for enjoying a picnic. If you want to have fun until late at night, head to the nightlife of Seoul near the Konkuk Univ. Station.

・ Have a cup of coffee at a Seongsu cafe that suits your taste ・ Have a glass of wine at a Seongsu wine bar ・ Create your own lip tint at Amore Seongsu ・ Have a picnic at Seoul Forest Park ・ Enjoy chicken and beer at Ttukseom Hangang Park ・ Visit an escape room cafe near Konkuk Univ. Station

The areas around Dongdaemun, such as Euljiro and Jongno, have been established for a long time and offer a glimpse into Seoul in the 1980s. It is a place where you can experience local life through printing and lighting alleys, Gwangjang Market, Dongmyo Market, Dongdaemun Market, and other nearby markets. In addition, at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) located in Dongdaemun, you can feel a mysterious atmosphere through the building and lighting.

・ Shop for clothes at night at Dongdaemun Market ・ Buy vintage clothes at Dongmyo ・ Enjoy Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and Yukhoe (beef tartare) at Gwangjang Market ・ Take a stroll at Naksan Park and Cheonggyecheon Stream ・ Try one whole chicken at Dak Hanmari (whole chicken soup) Alley

・ There are many places near Hyehwa Station where you can watch theater performances at affordable prices. ・ It is recommended to visit Dongmyo Market early as it closes at 6 o'clock. ・ The distance between Dongdaemun Station and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station is very close, so it is possible to walk. ・ Especially at Dongdaemun Market, it is great for purchasing accessories and socks at very cheap prices.