Introduction
It’s no secret that Seoul is one of the must-visit cities in the world. It’s fast-paced, modern and full of exciting things to see and do. But not all visitors have time or energy to explore everything that South Korea’s capital has to offer. Fortunately, there are several attractions in Seoul that should be at the top of every traveler’s list.
N Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower is the highest structure in Seoul and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The tower stands tall at 340 meters (1,120 feet), offering visitors a breathtaking view from its observation deck.
The tower has a revolving restaurant, which makes it easy to get your bearings without having to walk around too much; you can simply stay seated and watch as the city lights come on below you! There are also some great restaurants nearby if you want to grab dinner before heading up there for dessert or drinks later on in the evening.
The park itself is located right next door–it’s just steps away from Namsan Park Station on line 4, making this attraction easily accessible by subway or bus from anywhere else in Seoul
Bosingak Bell
Bosingak Bell is a bell tower on the north side of Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was built in 1469 and is now one of Seoul’s most famous landmarks. It’s also known as Jang-gyeonggak (Bell Pavilion), so named because it houses two large bells that were used to announce royal decrees throughout Korea during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).
The only remaining structure from Gyeongbokgung Palace and thus considered symbolic of Seoul and Korea itself, Bosingak Bell has been designated as one of Korea’s important cultural assets since 1962; its hexagonal shape mimics that of a pagoda–a style commonly seen in Buddhist temples across Asia–and was influenced by Chinese architecture during this period.
Palaces of Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung and Gyeongbokgung
All of these palaces were built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) and still serve as official government buildings today. The traditional architecture of each palace is a great example of Korean architecture dating back hundreds of years ago.
The Changdeokgung Palace is located right next to Gyeongbokgung Palace so you can visit both easily during your trip! It’s also close to Insa-dong which has lots of shops selling traditional Korean items like tea sets or art pieces made from wood blocks carved with beautiful patterns for printing onto fabric using ink stamps called “samjae”–it’s fun just walking around looking at all the different shops here!
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional Korean neighborhood with narrow alleys and traditional houses. The village is located in the heart of Seoul, near Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jongno-3-ga Station on Line 1 (Green). It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The area has been home to some of Korea’s most influential families for centuries–and it shows! Many of these hanoks (traditional Korean houses) are still inhabited by their original owners or descendants today; others have been turned into museums showcasing how people lived in this area during different eras throughout history. Visitors can explore their beautiful gardens or just wander through them as they please without having to pay admission fees like at other tourist attractions such as palaces or temples.
War Memorial of Korea (National Memorial Cemetery of Korea)
The War Memorial of Korea is a must-visit for first-time visitors to Seoul. Located in Namyangju, the cemetery houses the remains of over 300,000 soldiers who fought during the Korean War (1950-1953). The memorial contains two museums: one dedicated to documenting North Korea’s atrocities against South Koreans during this period and another that chronicles South Korea’s history leading up to it.
The grounds are large enough that you could spend several hours exploring them on foot or by bicycle; however, if you’re short on time or want more information about what there is beyond what can be seen with just your eyes, consider taking an audio tour instead. Audio guides are available at each entrance gate as well as inside some buildings throughout the park itself–they’re free and easy enough for anyone with basic English skills (or even without) to follow along without difficulty!
Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Park (DDP)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Park is a must-visit attraction in Seoul for first-time visitors. This urban park is located in downtown Seoul, and it has a view of the city’s famous Dongdaemun Gate. It’s also home to one of Korea’s biggest shopping malls, Lotte World Mall.
The DDP offers several places to relax and enjoy the views from its gardens or lawns, including two cafes where you can sit down for lunch or tea while admiring the scenery around you. If it’s too hot out during your trip to South Korea, there are also plenty of indoor attractions within walking distance from this park–like Lotte World Mall itself!
National Museum of Korea (Gyeonghui-gwan)
You can’t miss the National Museum of Korea, located in Gyeonghui-gwan. The museum houses everything from ancient Korean artifacts to modern paintings and sculptures. There are also numerous exhibits that focus on Korean history and culture, such as one dedicated to Joseon Dynasty royal court clothing. Another highlight is a collection of tombstones from various eras throughout Korean history (including some dating back more than 4,000 years).
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am until 6pm; admission costs 1350 won for adults (around $1 USD), 700 won for seniors and children ages 7-18 years old, 500 won for students up through college level who show their ID card at the ticket counter; there’s also free entry every Friday evening from 5pm until 8pm! To get there by subway take line 3 or 4 along Gyeongbokgung Station exit 1 where you’ll see signs pointing toward Exit 2D.”
COEX Mall & Entertainment Complex
COEX Mall & Entertainment Complex is a massive shopping center, movie theater and casino located in the heart of Gangnam. It also has several hotels, restaurants, swimming pools and an ice skating rink (hockey too). If you’re looking for something fun to do in Seoul on your first day there–and maybe even your last–this could be it!
These must-see attractions in Seoul provide a taste of Korean history and culture.
- N Seoul Tower: This iconic tower is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Located on top of Namsan Mountain, it provides panoramic views of Seoul and offers access to restaurants, shops and museums.
- Bosingak Bell: Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, this bell was cast in 1420 during the reign of King Sejong (1397-1450). It is said that if you ring this bell three times while facing northward toward Pyongyang (the capital city), your wish will come true! * Palaces of Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung and Deoksugung: These palaces were built during Korea’s Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). They are known as “Three Great Palaces,” along with Gyeongbokgung Palace which is located nearby them but not part of this group because it was built later than these three others during modern times after Korea gained independence from Japan following World War II ended their occupation rule over our homeland.* Bukchon Hanok Village: This village contains many traditional Korean houses called hanoks which were built during Joseon Dynasty times but renovated over time so they’ve become beautifully restored versions now rather than originals still standing today.”
Conclusion
Before you leave Seoul, make sure to visit these must-see attractions. They will give you a taste of Korean history and culture as well as show off some of the best views in town.
