Destination Idea: Seoul, Korea

Seoul, South Korea is a destination that more and more travelers are itching to visit as interest in the country has grown exponentially. Just one of the reasons for this interest is music. Once a relatively niche genre with only a select few songs getting U.S. billboard recognition, K–pop burst into the West’s cultural lexicon ever since PSY’s release of “Gangnam Style” in 2012. This song smashed records and brought South Korean music, food, style, and cinema mainstream in North America. There is so much to see and do in South Korea, specifically in its capital city, Seoul. Considered one of the largest and most progressive cities in the world, and the most livable city in Asia, if Seoul isn’t on your travel bucket list, it should be.

With so many sights to see in Seoul, the Lotte World Tower might be the easiest to spot. This skyscraper stands at 1,823 feet tall, making it the tallest building in Seoul, as well as the sixth tallest building in the world. Visitors can go to the observation deck, Seoul Sky, located on the 117th to 123rd floors, where there are plenty of opportunities to see panoramic views of the city, get a bite to eat at the Seoul Sky Café, or grab a drink at the premium lounge bar on the 123rd floor. While Lotte World Tower is one of the tallest, Namsan Seoul Tower is an all-time favorite for locals and tourists to visit. Although it’s not the highest tower in Seoul, its location on the Namsan mountain makes it a renowned national landmark. Over 8 million people visit this tower every year to see an unobstructed, panoramic view of the entire city.

Another unmissable landmark is the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Known for being the power center of the Joseon Dynasty which ruled Korea from 1392 to 1897, it is now an attraction that brings in over 5 million visitors per year. With many beautiful rooms and buildings to tour on-site, the National Palace Museum has plenty of exhibits that display preserved royal relics giving guests some history of the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire. If you enjoy museums, stop by the National Museum of Korea. With over 220,000 artifacts in its possession, this three-story museum provides guests with plenty of opportunities to learn more about Korea’s history, art, and culture.

If you’re looking to wander the beautiful streets of Seoul, visit Ikseon-dong. This neighborhood has become increasingly popular with the young locals due to the abundance of hip shops and cafés that surround renovated traditional Korean houses. It’s easy to get lost wandering through these maze-like streets when popping in and out of the small craft shops operated by young artists. Another great spot in Seoul is Myeong-dong. This street is a shopper’s paradise, with over 13 percent of visitors to Seoul calling it their favorite activity while visiting. The Myeong-dong shopping street is one of the top 10 most expensive in the world with stores like Lacoste and Louis Vuitton. But even so, there are plenty of affordable stores that line the streets for those looking to stay on budget while going on a shopping spree.

A few blocks from Myeong-dong is Gwangjang Market. The first permanent market in Korea now thrives with locals and is a favorite among tourists. Gwangjang translates to “to gather from afar and keep all together.” What was once a small trading center that connected regions by selling goods is now a large wholesale market selling upholstery, groceries, fish, and much more. You’ll feel like a local as you stroll through this traditional Korean market with everything it has to offer.

Just outside of the city center is Bukhansan National Park. This 31 square mile park has towering granite mountains separated by crystal clear streams and forested areas throughout its grounds. There are three peaks in Bukhansan National Park that visitors can climb, with the tallest being Baekundae which stands at 2,744 feet tall. The second tallest peak is Insubong, which is 2,659 feet tall, and finally, Mangnyeondae stands at 2,623 feet tall. With over 1,300 species of plants and animals, you won’t want to forget your camera.

Are you a fan of Korean BBQ? Or are you interested in learning a little more about Korean culture through food? Going on a Korean food tour will give you more insight into the flavors of Korea. With numerous tours at many different price points, there is something for everyone’s palate.

No other city comes close to having as many cool and comfy accommodations as Seoul does. A city that effortlessly blends modern architecture and ancient, traditional buildings, there is an accommodation for every traveler’s desire. Regardless of preference, staying in a Hanok for a couple of nights is necessary. These are traditional Korean houses, where many have been renovated to stay up to date with heating and maintenance. Hanok’s are able to remain traditional and stunning on the outside while being comfortable for guests on the inside. If you’re looking to splurge on your accommodations, the Signiel Seoul is the perfect luxury hotel for you. Located on floors 76 to 101 in the Lotte World Tower, this 5-star hotel has incredible sweeping views of Seoul. Also included in Signiel Seoul is a Michelin-star restaurant, an indoor pool, a spa, and a sauna for guests to visit. If you are looking for something a little more budget-friendly that still evokes a sense of luxury, Boutique Hotel Loft is excellent. With its proximity to the subway station; staff that speaks Korean, English, and Japanese; and plenty of additional facilities free to guests, this boutique hotel is at the top of its game.

Adding Seoul to your bucket list is a must, but with the Covid-19 pandemic constantly evolving, it is best to check official government websites to ensure the rules and guidelines haven’t been changed or updated. For those living in the United States, read the updates from the Korean Embassy here.  For those with a Canadian passport, find similar information here. And those from the United Kingdom can find the same information here.

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