Awesome Things to do in Seoul, South Korea

I had the privilege to visit Seoul in South Korea several years ago now in 2014. I was visiting an old school friend who had spent a few years in England when we were teenagers. Not only did I get to have a 9 year reunion with one of my closest friends from school, but I also got to experience this unique city, that I might not have done otherwise (I had never really thought of visiting before).

I really enjoyed my visit to South Korea, and it was quite different to the usually places I visit. The city runs smoothly, with subways running every few minutes, but there is also a more traditional side to the city, with many temples to explore.

Here are just some of the amazing things to do in Seoul, South Korea…

Visit Deoksugung palace

Deoksugung, which is also known as Deoksu Palace, Gyeongun-gung, or Deoksugung Palace, is made up of several palaces in the capital of Seoul. These palaces were originally occupied by the royal family during the Joseon monarchy. Each of these palaces (or halls) has a different style.

Jeonggwanheon was apparently the king’s favourite space, Junghwajeon was where they held political meetings, and Seokjojeon holds a Japanese art gallery.

Get a Glimpse of North Korea

Imjingak Park and the Demilitarized military zone (DMZ) are situated north of Seoul, and can be reached by train. This is one of the closest towns to North Korea, and here you will find a museum, park, and a wall of colourful ribbons, where people can write messages on. Here you can see the bridge over to North Korea, for those of you who are interested.

I couldn’t see much, mostly empty land and a couple of guards at their hut, but it was fascinating to see this so secretive country in person!

Walk around Changdeokgung Palace

This was one of my favourite things to do in Seoul and the best of the palaces in my opinion. Not only were the buildings really nicely decorated, but the grounds were also stunning too, with the sun streaming through the trees and onto small ponds.

Go as early as you can, for the opening time, as it gets busy here, so you can explore the garden area in quiet and when it’s at its most enchanting.

Check out the Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a cultural centre, designed by the late Zaha Hadid, and is a cool place to visit for anyone interested in art and design. They also have many galleries, event spaces, museums, design shops, and fashion shows. Take a look at what’s on when you visit!

Explore the War Memorial and Museum

The War Memorial of Korea is situated in Yongsan-gu. You will find exhibits and displays from the Korean War, as well as an iconic statue at the front. There are several different rooms to walk around, educational events and displays, various activities and events like the guards marching outside.

I enjoyed my visit here and was able to learn a little more about Koran culture and life back then.

Booking.com

Watch the changing of guards at Gyeongbukgung Palace

Gyeongbukgung is the biggest palace in Seoul, built in 1495 during the Joseon Dynasty. It has had several partial destructions over the years due to Japanese invasions.

I would recommend going here early in the morning as it gets very busy and find a good spot to watch the changing of the guard’s ceremony which is impressive with the temple backdrop.

Walk Through Ewha Womans University

My friend who I was visiting in Seoul took me along to the Ewha Womans University, as she actually went here. It is one of the most prestigious universities in Korea. Whilst you cannot walk into all of the buildings, you can enjoy the almost European look to the buildings, as well as the pretty surrounding grounds, where you can get a decent view of the city.

Walk up to the N Seoul Tower

The Namsan Seoul Tower, or N Seoul tower was originally created in 1969, to distribute TV and radio signals. It is now a popular tourist spot in which you can walk to the top to enjoy views over the city. I went at twilight/ night where you can see the city in all its glory.

Be sure to avoid the weekends if you don’t like crowds, it gets busy here! There is also a spot where lovers can put padlocks to a gate, which is quite cute!

Visit the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

If you are a lover of art and photography, then Seoul, and indeed other parts of South Korea have some really cool art galleries. The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is a huge space, with 8 large exhibition halls, a cinema, video library, places to eat, and more. It’s a great way to spend the day, I wasn’t disappointed with the exhibits!

Try a Delicious Korean BBQ

You should definitely try a traditional Korean barbeque in Seoul. You get to pick from a range of different meats and sides, and cook it yourself at the table, on a small hot plate. Not only is this a super fun way to enjoy a meal out, but the meats are also just delicious and flavoursome.

Booking.com

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village, situated close to Gyeongbukgung Palace. It is a world away from the bright lights and tall buildings of the central city, where you will find hanoks, or traditional houses lined the streets.

Some of these are now used as touristy places where you can find more information, and some are still used by local residents. Head to the tourist information centre to get a map so you don’t miss anything!

Drink at a Beer Bar

There are plenty of places to enjoy a beer in Seoul, and many have these cute little hideaways. I visited this beer bar in Seoul, and when I ordered my chips, it came with these almost thimble like plastic things to put on your fingers, as not to get grease on your fingers! Thought this was pretty ingenious and quirky haha!

Take a Walk Along the Cheonggyecheon Stream

Once covered by an ugly highway, and hidden away, the Cheonggyecheon stream has gone through a massive restoration project. By the way, in places it looks much nicer than my pic above, and is really impressive in places, where visitors and local can enjoy walks and lovely views. The stream stretches 11 km long from Cheonggye Plaza all the way to the Hangang River.

Enjoy the Nightlife

There is so much nightlife in Seoul, every street seems to be buzzing. From cafes, beer bars, rooftop bars, restaurants, outdoor markets and clubs, there is always something fun to do. I visited a hip hop club (I am in no way hip btw!) and it was so much fun. Everyone was just enjoying themselves and basically dancing like no one was watching, very funny and a great night out.

Booking.com

Find Cheap Clothes at an Underground Market

There are lots of underground shops or even little side ally’s selling super cheap and cute clothes. You can always find a bargain in these places, but be warned, the Korean sizes come up small. I am usually a small and had to get size large in some of the clothes!

If you are more into high street shops, you will also find all the usual big name brands.

Enjoy the Delicious Food

One of the best things to do in Seoul is to eat! There are an overwhelming number of places to choose from so ask the staff where you are staying if they can recommend some good places. From street food, to cafes, restaurants and bars, there are all kinds of international cuisine to try, but of course you need to try some traditional Korean food.

It can be spicy, but some dishes are fine, and the flavours are to die for!

Check out Gangnam District

You’ve probably heard of the very catchy ‘Gangnam style’ song, maybe you even have thrown out a few of the moves?!, but this area of Seoul is actually really trendy. Take a visit to this upmarket district of Seoul and wander along the designer shops and fancy restaurants.

I hope you enjoyed this post of things to do in Seoul, South Korea. Please share on Pinterest or social media!