Seoul is a city at the cutting edge. A world leader in both technology and fashion, with an ever more globally dominant music and film industry, Seoul is bursting with confidence. Yet, this hasn’t all developed at the expense of its rich and deeply traditional heritage. Here you can find yourself swept up in its meticulously designed cityscape that softens the hard edges of its architecture with beautifully landscaped parks. You’ll find yourself drawn to its historical elements, such as the Jongmyo shrine, traditional wooden homes of Bukchon, or the imposing city walls. It is a city to lose yourself in again and again.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Seoul
Jongno — The historical heart of Seoul, Jongno is rich with palaces, shrines, and traditional Korean houses. As well as Gyeongbokgung, the most renowned of the Five Grand Joseon Palaces (of which two more are also in this district), it’s here that you’ll also find the UNESCO World Heritage listed Jongmyo Shrine. And with Seoul’s largest antiques market street to be found here as well, lovers of antiquity will be spoilt for choice.
Seodaemun/Mapo — Home to many universities and colleges, these two districts play host to some of Seoul’s liveliest nightlife. As well as a plethora of restaurants, bars, clubs, and stores that stay open long into the night, you’ll also enjoy all sorts of street performances, discover incredible works of graffiti, and have the chance to catch countless live bands and musicians.
Yongsan — This is where you should head if you’re a tech or gaming fanatic. Home to the Yongsan Electronics Market, one of the largest electronics markets in the world, here you’ll be able to try out the very latest in electronic gadgetry. What’s more you’ll also be able to watch professional gamers take each other on in the Starcraft Arena. The heart the global games industry, Yongsan boasts a truly international vibe, with shops and restaurants offering products and cuisine from all four corners of the world.
Gangnam — You all know Psy’s song, but this is where the global phenomenon that is Gangnam Style hails from. Here Korea is at its brashest, glitziest, most future-leaning best. Everything is here: non-stop nightlife, enormous shopping malls, endless neon lights, and towers hurtling into the sky. Many travel destinations offer a step into the past - in Gangnam you take a leap into the future, in style.
Things to See in Seoul
Seoul is teeming with sights and wonders. You can pay a visit to Deoksugung palace, the only one of Seoul’s palaces that is open in all its illuminated glory at night time. Or, you can take some time out in one of Seoul’s delightful parks such as Namsan Park, which is home to a number of wild animals.
Things to Do in Seoul
Believe it or not Seoul is also a great location for fans of the great outdoors. Hikers can hit the mountain trails around the city, as can mountain bikers, whilst skiers can take to the slopes. And those of you travelling with children have no less than four amusement parks to choose from.
You can also book top Seoul hotels and great Seoul package holidays right here on Expedia.co.uk.
