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Seoul

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a bustling metropolis known for its modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, and historic palaces. The city offers a harmonious blend of traditional Korean culture and contemporary trends, with vibrant street markets, trendy shopping districts, and world-class dining options. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and N Seoul Tower, while also enjoying the city's dynamic nightlife scene and K-pop music culture.

Seoul's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to navigate the city and discover its many attractions.

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  • "κ³ λ§™μŠ΅λ‹ˆλ‹€ (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
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Prices in Seoul

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $7 - $30
  • β˜• Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • πŸ›’ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • πŸ‹οΈβ€β™‚οΈ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Highlights

  • Vibrant culture and rich history with numerous landmarks and traditional areas.
  • Excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city.
  • A thriving economy with numerous job opportunities, particularly in technology and manufacturing.
  • Diverse culinary scene offering a wide variety of delicious food, from street food to fine dining.
  • Safety and low crime rates compared to many other major cities.
  • Strong emphasis on education, with many quality universities and schools.
  • High cost of living, particularly in terms of housing.
  • Heavy traffic congestion can lead to long commuting times.
  • Air pollution can be a concern, especially during certain seasons.
  • Fast-paced lifestyle can be overwhelming for some individuals.
  • Cultural pressure to succeed academically and professionally.
  • Limited green spaces in the urban area can make it feel crowded.

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Seoul's History

morning

:

Begin your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces. Don't forget to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

afternoon

:

Visit the National Folk Museum of Korea located within the palace grounds to learn about traditional Korean culture. Afterward, stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village to admire traditional Korean houses.

evening

:

Head to Insadong for local crafts and tea houses, perfect for a cozy evening. Enjoy a traditional Korean dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.

day 2

Urban Adventure

morning

:

Start at Namsan Park and take the cable car up to N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city. Explore the surrounding hiking trails for a breath of fresh air.

afternoon

:

Discover the vibrant Myeongdong shopping district, where you can enjoy street food and shop for cosmetics. Visit the Myeongdong Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.

evening

:

Wind down by exploring Dongdaemun Design Plaza in the evening. The LED rose garden here is especially stunning at night.

Explore Day Plans

Attractions in Seoul

Visit one of these nice places.

N Seoul Tower

Offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset or at night when the city lights up.

View

Bukhansan National Park

Provides stunning mountainous landscapes and hiking trails, offering numerous photo opportunities of the natural beauty surrounding Seoul.

View

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Boasts traditional Korean architecture and beautiful gardens, providing scenic views and photo opportunities representative of Korea's historical and cultural heritage.

View

Is it safe in Seoul

Widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the world, the capital of South Korea boasts a low crime rate, particularly when it comes to violent crime. Residents and visitors alike often feel secure walking the streets at night, thanks to well-lit areas and a visible police presence. Public transportation systems, including buses and subways, are efficient and safe, with many stations and vehicles equipped with surveillance cameras. Additionally, the South Korean government places a strong emphasis on public safety, leading to ongoing community initiatives aimed at crime prevention. Emergency services are responsive, and the public is generally cooperative with authorities. Although petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, they are relatively uncommon compared to other major cities. Cultural attitudes towards safety also play a role, with a strong sense of community and social responsibility among citizens. Overall, those in the area can generally feel at ease, whether engaging in daily activities or exploring the vibrant city attractions.

Seoul's Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bibimbap

A signature Korean dish featuring mixed rice topped with an assortment of sautΓ©ed and seasoned vegetables, chili pepper paste, and often a raw or fried egg. It's commonly served in a hot stone bowl, creating a crispy layer of rice at the bottom.

Must-Try!

Kimchi

A traditional side dish made of fermented vegetables, commonly cabbage and radishes, seasoned with chili powder, scallions, garlic, and ginger. It's a staple of Korean cuisine, served with nearly every meal.

Korean BBQ (Galbi and Bulgogi)

Korean BBQ encompasses a variety of grilled meat dishes, with galbi (marinated beef short ribs) and bulgogi (thinly sliced marinated beef) being the most popular choices. The meats are often grilled at the table and eaten with lettuce, perilla leaves, or rice.

Things To Do in Seoul

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Bukhansan National Park

Hiking and exploring the scenic mountains and beautiful landscapes.

Han River Park

Cycling, picnicking, and enjoying water sports along the river.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Strolling through the historic palace grounds and gardens.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Taking a scenic cable car ride and enjoying panoramic views of the city.

Weather in Seoul

The climate features a humid continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with average temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently exceeding 30Β°C (86Β°F). Spring and autumn are typically mild and pleasant, making them ideal times to visit. During spring, cherry blossoms bloom, attracting many visitors, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Precipitation is concentrated in the summer months, often associated with monsoon rains, and snowfall can occur in winter, although it's usually not heavy. The transitional seasons of spring and fall provide some of the most comfortable weather. Overall, the climate can greatly influence daily life, festivals, and activities throughout the year.

How To Behave in Seoul

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bow when greeting

In Seoul, it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect.

Remove shoes indoors

When entering a Korean home or certain traditional establishments, it is polite to remove your shoes as a sign of respect for the space.

Use both hands when giving or receiving items

When giving or receiving items, it is considered polite to use both hands as a sign of respect in Korean culture.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea, including Seoul. It is not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or for other services.

Payment

In Seoul, cash is widely accepted for transactions, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. Mobile payment and electronic funds transfer are becoming increasingly popular as well.

Nightlife in Seoul

Seoul's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone, whether you're looking for high-energy clubs, laid-back bars, or cultural experiences. The city comes alive after dark with neighborhoods like Hongdae, Itaewon, and Gangnam each providing a unique vibe and a variety of entertainment options. In Hongdae, you'll find a youthful, artistic crowd frequenting live music venues, hipster cafes, and indie clubs. Street performances and late-night shopping add to the area's bustling atmosphere. Itaewon, known for its international flair, boasts a mix of trendy bars, upscale lounges, and diverse restaurants. This area is particularly popular with expatriates and tourists, making it a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Gangnam, synonymous with luxury and sophistication, attracts a more upscale crowd. Here, you can enjoy high-end clubs, chic wine bars, and glamorous rooftops where you can sip cocktails while taking in the city skyline. Traditional experiences are also easy to find. Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong offer night tours where you can explore historic sites and sample Korean teas in serene, authentic settings. For those interested in late-night shopping, Dongdaemun Market is open 24 hours and offers everything from fashion to food, making it an exciting nocturnal adventure. Whether you're a night owl looking to dance until dawn or someone interested in soaking up local culture, Seoul's nightlife has something to offer.

Best Time to Visit Seoul

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and mild temperatures.

Summer

Warm and humid with occasional monsoon rains.

Autumn

Ideal for colorful foliage and pleasant weather.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow, but great for winter activities and festivals.

Accomodations in Seoul

Find the best place to stay when visiting Seoul.

Hotels Apartments