Seoul's BEST 5 Must-Visit Travel Destinations:
Exploring Seoul as a Foreign Student!
Hello to all exchange students studying hard in Korea! Seoul is a captivating city where modern skyscrapers beautifully blend with quaint traditions. Today, I'm excited to introduce you to 'Seoul's BEST 5 Must-Visit Travel Destinations,' handpicked to help you make the most of your time in Seoul. I've packed in detailed info on each place's special charm, fun activities, historical background, useful travel tips, and more, so you can personally experience Seoul's diverse beauty during your weekends or free time!
1. Bukchon Hanok Village: A Serene Hanok Alley for Time Travel
- Characteristics & Things to Enjoy: Bukchon Hanok Village is a representative traditional residential area in Seoul with a 600-year history. Well-preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks) from the Joseon Dynasty make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Stroll through the charming alleyways to admire the beautiful hanok architecture and discover hidden galleries or charming cafes. The hillside street in Gahoe-dong is especially famous for its stunning photo opportunities, where hanok eaves blend with the N Seoul Tower in the background. At the Bukchon Cultural Center, you can learn about hanok history and culture, and even try traditional craft experiences (paid, around 8,000 to 20,000 KRW).
- Why You Should Visit: If you're an exchange student looking to experience Korean traditional houses and culture firsthand in a unique blend of past and present, this is a must-visit. It's also a perfect spot for capturing picturesque photos in a truly Korean setting.
- What Makes It Unique: Since real residents live here, it's important to visit quietly and respectfully. The sight of the hanok village hidden among high-rise buildings shows Seoul's surprising charm.
- Historical Background: Located at the foot of Mount Bugaksan, Bukchon was once a prestigious residential area where high-ranking officials, royals, and noble families of the Joseon Dynasty lived. Most hanoks here are designed in urban "ㄷ" or "ㅁ" shapes.
- Useful Information for Travelers:
- Address: 37 Gye-dong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (based on Bukchon Cultural Center)
- Cost: Free admission, but craft experiences are paid.
- Visiting Hours: As residents live there, it's best to visit between 10 AM and 5 PM. Visitors are asked to let the alleys rest on Sundays.
- Transportation: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) is the closest.
2. Myeongdong Shopping Street: A Paradise for Shopping & Street Food
- Characteristics & Things to Enjoy: Myeongdong is Seoul's premier shopping and cultural hub. You'll find everything from global brands to popular Korean beauty and local fashion brands all in one place. Cosmetics shopping is especially popular among foreign exchange students. The area is also packed with street food vendors, making it a must-try experience for Korean street food (hotteok, gyeran-ppang, cheese tteokbokki, dakkochi, grilled lobster, etc.).
- Why You Should Visit: If you want to shop for K-beauty products or experience Korea's vibrant street culture while trying various street foods, Myeongdong is an essential stop.
- What Makes It Unique: You'll hear various languages spoken everywhere, and it's always bustling with foreign tourists, making you feel like you're on an international trip. It's a place where you can see ever-changing trends in real-time.
- Historical Background: Myeongdong developed early as a commercial district and became a center for fashion and trends after the 1960s. Today, it's known as a "holy ground" for foreign tourists visiting Korea, becoming a truly international hot spot.
- Useful Information for Travelers:
- Address: Myeongdong 8-gil area, Jung-gu, Seoul (near Myeongdong Station Exit 6)
- Cost: Shopping and food costs vary depending on personal choice.
- Tip: Street food prices can be a bit higher here, so keep that in mind. It's close to Lotte Department Store Main Branch and Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch, so you can combine it with department store shopping. Currency exchange offices are also easy to find.
3. Gyeongbokgung Palace:
Experience the Grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty(1392~1910)'s Royal Palace
- Characteristics & Things to Enjoy: Gyeongbokgung is the foremost and central royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Stroll through the majestic buildings and beautiful palace gardens to get a glimpse into Joseon-era royal culture. Don't miss the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony held daily in front of Gwanghwamun Gate; the disciplined movements of the guards in traditional attire are a sight to behold. Wearing a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) grants you free admission to the palace, allowing you to create special memories and take stunning photos. Guided tours available in various languages offer in-depth explanations of the palace's history and culture.
- Why You Should Visit: If you want to experience Korea's grand history and the beauty of traditional architecture firsthand, Gyeongbokgung is the perfect place. Hanbok experience is especially popular among foreign exchange students, letting you feel like a character from a Korean drama.
- What Makes It Unique: It holds deep historical significance as the first palace built after the founding of the Joseon Dynasty. It was dismantled during the Japanese colonial period but is now being restored to its original grandeur through continuous restoration projects, making it a living historical site.
- Historical Background: Founded in 1395 by King Taejo Yi Seong-gye, its name means "the new dynasty will enjoy great blessings and prosperity." It was destroyed during the Imjin War and later rebuilt under the leadership of Heungseon Daewongun during King Gojong's reign.
- Useful Information for Travelers:
- Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Cost: 3,000 KRW for adults. Free admission when wearing a hanbok.
- Operating Hours: Closed every Tuesday (hours vary by season).
- Tip: It can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, so visiting early is recommended. The palace grounds are vast, so wear comfortable shoes.
4. Cheong Wa Dae (The Blue House):
Step into Korea's Presidential Past
- Characteristics & Things to Enjoy: Cheong Wa Dae, meaning "Blue House" due to its distinctive blue tiled roofs, served as the official residence and office of the President of South Korea for over 70 years. Opened to the public in May 2022, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the historic grounds where significant decisions were made. Visitors can tour various buildings, including the main office building (본관), the Presidential Residence (관저), the State Guest House (영빈관), and the Seven-Springs (칠궁). The meticulously maintained gardens and traditional architecture provide a serene environment. You can see the blend of traditional Korean architectural style and modern elements.
- Why You Should Visit: For foreign exchange students interested in modern Korean history, politics, and the daily life of its leaders, Cheong Wa Dae offers an unparalleled glimpse. It's a chance to walk through a place that was once highly restricted and is now open for all to explore.
- What Makes It Unique: Its transformation from a highly secured presidential compound to a public park is a significant historical event itself. The serene beauty of the grounds contrasts with its past as a political nerve center, offering a unique perspective on Korean governance and tradition.
- Historical Background: The site has a long history, dating back to the Goryeo Dynasty as a royal villa. During the Joseon Dynasty, it served as a royal garden and examination site. After the Japanese colonial period, it became the office and residence for the US military governor and later for the presidents of South Korea. Each building within the complex has its own story and purpose from the presidential era.
- Traveler's Tip:
- Address: 1 Cheongwadae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Cost: Free admission.
- Operating Hours: Generally open from 9 AM to 6 PM, with varying closing days (often Tuesdays). Check the official website for precise schedules and any required pre-booking.
- Tip for Foreign Students: While online reservations were initially mandatory, walk-in visits are often possible now. However, checking the official Cheong Wa Dae website (eng.opencheongwadae.kr) before your visit is highly recommended for the latest information on operating hours, reservation requirements, and special events. Allow ample time (at least 2-3 hours) to explore the vast grounds.
5. N Seoul Tower: Majestic Views of Seoul from a Landmark
- Characteristics & Things to Enjoy: N Seoul Tower, located atop Namsan Mountain, is Seoul's iconic landmark and a popular spot for night views. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city. The glittering nightscape of Seoul is especially breathtaking. The 'Locks of Love' is another famous feature of N Seoul Tower, where countless couples hang padlocks to symbolize their eternal love. Inside the tower, there are restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, offering a variety of entertainment.
- Why You Should Visit: If you want to take in Seoul's entire cityscape at a glance or create special memories in a romantic setting, N Seoul Tower is an unmissable destination.
- What Makes It Unique: The tower's lighting color changes depending on the fine dust concentration, conveying an environmental message. The unique landscape created by countless locks is a sight not easily seen elsewhere.
- Historical Background: Originally built as a broadcast transmission tower, it was later transformed into a complex cultural space with an observation deck and various amenities. Its location next to Namsan Palgakjeong (Octagonal Pavilion) creates a unique blend of traditional charm and modern tower architecture.
- Useful Information for Travelers:
- Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Cost: Approximately 16,000 KRW for adult observation deck admission (online booking may offer discounts).
- Transportation: You can take Namsan Circular Bus (No. 01) or the Namsan Cable Car. Taking the circular bus from Dongguk University Station (Line 3) is convenient. Walking up is quite strenuous, so public transport is recommended.
- Tip: Visiting around sunset is ideal as you can witness the daytime view, the sunset, and then the stunning night view. Locks for the Locks of Love are available for purchase nearby.
Besides these five places, Seoul has many more hidden gems. We encourage you to explore and find places that suit your taste to make your life in Seoul even more enjoyable.
Seoul's BEST 5 Must-Visit Travel Destinations:
Exploring Seoul as a Foreign Student!
Hello to all exchange students studying hard in Korea! Seoul is a captivating city where modern skyscrapers beautifully blend with quaint traditions. Today, I'm excited to introduce you to 'Seoul's BEST 5 Must-Visit Travel Destinations,' handpicked to help you make the most of your time in Seoul. I've packed in detailed info on each place's special charm, fun activities, historical background, useful travel tips, and more, so you can personally experience Seoul's diverse beauty during your weekends or free time!
1. Bukchon Hanok Village: A Serene Hanok Alley for Time Travel
2. Myeongdong Shopping Street: A Paradise for Shopping & Street Food
3. Gyeongbokgung Palace:
Experience the Grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty(1392~1910)'s Royal Palace
4. Cheong Wa Dae (The Blue House):
Step into Korea's Presidential Past
5. N Seoul Tower: Majestic Views of Seoul from a Landmark
Besides these five places, Seoul has many more hidden gems. We encourage you to explore and find places that suit your taste to make your life in Seoul even more enjoyable.