10 Reasons to Visit Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is one of the top cities to visit in Asia. Whether you’re visiting South Korea on business or as a tourist, Seoul offers plenty of unique attractions and experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Here are 10 reasons to visit Seoul on your next trip.
1) Watch a K-Pop Show
K-pop is a form of music that originated in South Korea and has spread to other parts of Asia, Europe, North America, and beyond. There are multiple concerts going on in most cities in South Korea at any given time. The top artists can have hundreds of thousands of fans show up just for one concert! Shows sell out quickly so be sure to get your tickets online before they’re gone.
2) Check out The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
From fresh coffee beans to fresh-baked pastries, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is a great place for snacks and drinks. This worldwide chain serves up blended beverages in creative flavors, like Mocha Mint and Birthday Cake. With locations all over South Korea, you’re sure to find one near you! And if you have any excess time on your hands after seeing these top 10 sites, try one of their savory or sweet treats—you won’t be disappointed!
3) Try Ilbeop – Korean Pancakes with Sweet Red Bean Paste
The best part about visiting South Korea is getting to try all sorts of delicious street food. One of my favorites was ilbeop, which are Korean pancakes with sweet red bean paste. They were so good that when I came back home, I tried making them myself! Skip spending a fortune on American-style pancakes and make these instead - they're just as tasty and you'll be supporting local business in South Korea!
4) Take a Detour on your Walk Through Insadong
Take a break from your wanderings through Insadong, South Korea’s most famous shopping district. Insadong is filled with innumerable shops and traditional markets that specialize in antiques, art and crafts, as well as trendy souvenirs you can pick up for friends back home. However, you might find it difficult to resist some of these tempting trinkets.
5) Get Lost in a Maze at Namsangol Hanok Village
This South Korean village, home to a gorgeous cluster of hanok (traditional homes), is a great place for visitors who like to travel off-the-beaten path. Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, Namsangol Hanok Village offers visitors an opportunity to take a step back in time and learn about traditional Korean life.
6) Go Grocery Shopping in Apgujeong Rodeo Street Market
Apgujeong Rodeo Street Market is a famous market in Korea. You can buy various kinds of foods and delicacies from all over the world at reasonable prices here. You can spend hours walking through stores that have things you cannot find anywhere else in Korea or even around Asia. The environment and crowds make you feel like you are part of a local community rather than being a tourist! Experience some of these top things to do in Seoul by visiting Apgujeong Rodeo Street Market today!
7) Eat at Jang Ga Nae
A fan favorite amongst locals and visitors alike, Jang Ga Nae is a restaurant that serves all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue. It’s conveniently located close to Myeongdong Subway Station, making it easy for you and your family or friends to hop on over after shopping or sightseeing in one of Seoul’s most popular areas. If you love meat, definitely consider visiting Jang Ga Nae when you visit Korea.
8) Take a Breather at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Located in Seoul, South Korea, Gyeongbokgung Palace is an 8th-century Korean palace that was once a site of ceremonies for royalty. Today, it stands as one of six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Korea. Gyeongbokgung means the palace beautiful as afar as it can be seen—and with its traditional architecture and rich history, it certainly lives up to its name.
9) Explore World Cup Stadium Park
When you’re in Seoul, make sure you check out World Cup Stadium Park (also known as Jamsil Stadium). This lively park is filled with a large fountain and plenty of space for picnics and play. Check out a free concert while you’re there or just soak up some sunshine. Enjoy!
10) Explore Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is a gem of South Korea, and a must-see for nature lovers. While relatively underdeveloped in terms of tourism infrastructure, there are ample opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, sightseeing and camping in Bukhansan’s dense forests. Whether you visit Bukhansan during autumn (one of Korea’s most scenic seasons) or any other time of year, it won’t disappoint!