Gangnam is just a mere fragment of the rich tapestry that is Seoul.
While the enchanting Gangnam district by the south bank of the Han river might teem with the buzz of modernity, it's the northern part of the city that actually offers an array of uniquely compelling experiences for Seoul's visitors. The city's intriguing blend of ancient heritage and modern charm truly comes alive here.
If you are looking to explore and have ample time to spare, I have comprised a list of recommendations on what to visit when you travel to South Korea's bustling capital city.
1. Korea Furniture Museum
This museum is a delight for not only furniture enthusiasts but also those interested in Korean history. Housing more than 2,000 pieces of traditional furniture, it provides a unique glimpse into Korean lifestyle through the ages.
Experience cultural immersion at the Korea Furniture Museum.
By: kim nam-hun
Upon first glance, the name may not seem to promise a thrilling experience; however, the Korea Furniture Museum in Seoul is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored.
This captivating museum serves as a time capsule to Korea's past, storing more than 2,000 traditional furniture exhibits and also 10 fully preserved hanok - the quintessential Korean houses.
The museum's architecture alone is a marvel to behold and stands as a testament to Korea's aesthetic heritage. This is a must-see destination for international curators and designers visiting Seoul—it’s a part of their itinerary, to be more precise.
Remember: You must make a reservation to visit. Unscheduled visits are not accepted.
Address: 330-577 Seongbuk-dong, Seongbuk-gu; Contact: +82 2 745 0181; Visit arrangements and restaurant reservations are strictly by appointment only; www.kofum.com
2. Bukchon Hanok Village: A Step Back in Time
Woven with history and aesthetic beauty, Bukchon, undeniably Seoul's most enchanting district, invites visitors to roam its narrow alleys and catch glimpses over walled roofs at the charming variety of hanok, traditional Korean abodes.
Do not miss out on the chance to enrich your experience with a visit to the immersive outdoor museum, where every artifact tells a story, followed by a warm cup of poignant yet sweet omija tea in one of the local tea houses. Did you know omija means 'five-flavor-fruit', signifying the harmony of the five basic elements of Oriental medicine?
The Bukchon Culture Center, situated at 105 Gye-dong, Jongro-gu, invites you to dive deep into the cultural narrative of this region. You can reach the center at +82 2 3707 8388. Fun fact – 'Gye-dong' means 'chicken neighborhood', tracing its roots to a poultry market that once flourished there.
3. Gwanghwamun Station
Tucked away in the heart of Seoul, Korea is the widely respected monarch, King Sejong's statue, and the ever-efficient Gwanghwamun subway station.
Immerse in the timeless resonance of history at the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace and the tranquil beauty of the Cheonggyecheon stream.
Interestingly, Gwanghwamun subway station serves as a perfect pivot point, putting all three of Seoul’s premier attractions within a mere stroll away.
Relish in the awe-inspiring sight of the palace intertwining with the colossal mountains in the backdrop – a vista that undoubtedly stands as one of Seoul's most breathtaking scenes.
Beneath the bustling surface of the Finance Center, you can indulge in a culinary journey with some of the finest dining options in the financial hub. Additionally, Kyobo bookstore in the Kyobo building houses a fascinating mix of chic stationery and an eclectic array of design products, including accessories, intriguing gadgets, DIY project kits, and toys.
83 Doryeon-dong, Jongro-gu
4. Insadong
The historic district of Insadong, having gone through significant transformations, is shaking off its former reputation as a hub for cheap and tacky souvenirs. It has now evolved into a hip, artistic haven adorned with a fresh array of modern galleries and stylish tea parlors.
Indulge in delectable brews and explore shops filled with artisan-made accessories for a plush city break that even locals relish. Whether you're a passionate tea-lover or an ardent supporter of the arts, Insadong ensures an experience both culturally rich and aesthetically pleasing.
For those wanting to explore this unique district for a longer period, it might be beneficial to find a place to stay at tophotels.com. Here, you'll find a vast selection of choices : from economic and comfortable to luxurious hotels, putting you right at the heart of this vibrant district of Insadong.
Insadong, Jongro-gu; english.visitkorea.or.kr
5. Korean galbi
One cannot talk about Seoul without mentioning its notorious culinary gem - the Korean galbi. A significant part of Korean cuisine, galbi refers to marinated meat (usually beef) cooked on a grill, and it's a customary order in Korean barbeque restaurants.
Korean barbecuing is an art not to be taken lightly. Experienced servers guide you through the process of getting that succulent galbi (the tenderest cuts of beef) to grill just right.
One excellent locale noteworthy of your attention is Maple Tree. A delightfully budget-conscious and upbeat Korean barbecue eatery, it successfully straddles both the Gangnam and Gangbuk districts. Let's consider more of our best picks for BBQ places.
31-1 Samcheong-dong, Jongro-gu; +82 2 730 7461; don't forget about the restaurant's additional branches waiting for you in Itaewon and Dogok-dong; www.mapletreehouse.co.kr
6. Glam
On Saturday evenings, a dapperly attired crowd is often found thronging-- the chic ambiance of Glam speaks volumes about the visitors.
Although a bit breathlessness is anticipated,
Glam is distinctively more a socializing bar than a boisterous club. This one-of-a-kind spot in Seoul promotes more standing and mingling, making it one of the most buzzing places in the city's nightlife scene.
Such high popularity comes with an expected consequence - jostling through large crowds. This place is synonymous with celebration, highlighting the pulsating spirit across the week.
Location: 116-1 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu; for reservations, call +82 2 792 6164
7. Doosan Tower
The Doosan Tower, also known as Doota Mall, is a must-visit landmark in Seoul. Popular among both tourists and locals alike, this 33-story retail building is home to a variety of stores offering fashion, cosmetics, and a wide range of dining options. After a long day of shopping and dining, you may want to rest at some of the luxurious accommodations available in the city. You can find a list of them here >> https://www.seoulhotelspage.com/en/5-stars/.
Fun Fact: Doosan Tower is not just a shopping center; it's also the hub of Korea's textile trade. Majority of the country’s textile exports are done from this location, making it a pivotal location in South Korea's economy.
Notably known as Doota, an abbreviation for Doosan Tower, this destination shines brightly as a superior style hub among spacious, non-branded boutique-filled shopping centers scattered across Dongdaemun district. Moreover, prestigious Korean editions of Vogue, GQ, and W magazines have established their presence within the same complex.
A preferred haven for both fashion-conscious men and women, Doota caters extensively to those seeking trendy yet pocket-friendly clothing and accessories. Remarkably, the shopping excitement doesn't ebb as night falls; instead, the area pulses with vibrant life into the wee hours of the morning.
Visit Doota at 18-12 Euljiro 6-ga, Jung-gu, or explore their collection online here.
8. Bongeunsa
The Bongeunsa Temple is a charming sanctuary nestled within the hustle and bustle of the Gangnam district. The location offers a mesmerizing blend of Korea's old-world charm as seen through the integrity of the age-old temple, against the backdrop of Seoul's contemporary skyscrapers.
This year stands special as it commemorates a decade of Korea’s innovative temple stay program. Nation-wide, temples are offering a unique array of experiences designed specifically for travelers. Apart from cultural immersion, these programs allow you to glimpse monastic life in Korea, as well as immerse yourself in the tranquillity of these religious sanctuaries.
Resided at 73 Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, contact us at +82 2 511 6070 or visit our website at www.bongeunsa.org for more information.