The most beautiful places in South Korea. Sights and interesting places in North Korea (with photos) Tourist places in Korea
I collected in one post the sights of South Korea with photos and descriptions and the best places that are worth visiting if you come to the country of morning freshness. For convenience, I divided all interesting locations into categories.
If you don’t know what to see in South Korea, I also recommend reading this post.
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Sights of South Korea
DMZ or Demilitarized Zone
One of the most popular places visited by tourists is the so-called demilitarized zone. It separates the two Koreas, its width is 4 km, and its length is more than 240 km, and this entire zone is stuffed with mines, barbed wire, shells and weapons. It is one of the last remnants of the Cold War in the world, and it is here that meetings and negotiations between representatives of the two countries take place.
Border of North and South Korea
You can buy a one-day tour from Seoul to the Panmunjom settlement area and see the tunnels, the so-called JSA (Join Security Area), where the negotiations take place. Interestingly, before visiting you will sign a document where you will take responsibility in the event of your death, the situation there is really tense.
The cost of tours is 85-135 thousand won (85-135 dollars).
Palaces and traditional architecture
You're unlikely to pass by the capital, so be sure to stop by the two royal palaces in Seoul: Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. There are actually even more palaces, but these two are simply a must see.
Gyeongbokgung is a kind of Korean Kremlin, located next to a huge square (reminds me vaguely of Tiananmen in Beijing). It was built at the end of the 14th century, but was partially destroyed several times by the Japanese. It’s very cool to attend the changing of the guard ceremony (several times a day), it looks very bright and colorful!
The Changdeokgung Royal Palace is considered the aesthetic ideal of Korean traditional architecture with gardens, bridges, gates, a throne room and other pavilions.
Koreans themselves love to rent a traditional costume and take pictures against the backdrop of the graceful lines of the palace.
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Also in Seoul, just between the palaces there is a traditional village Bukchon Hanok Village. There are about 900 wooden houses called hanok. They are newly built, but give a good idea of what South Korea used to look like.
Traditional quarter in Seoul
Something similar can be seen in Hanoe Folk Village(near Andong city) and in Jeonju Hanok Maeul(near Jeonju city).
If you are in Busan and tired of the bustle of the metropolis, take a look at Seokbul-sa Temple. It is a wonderful walk and will give you an impression of the traditional temple architecture.
Haeinsa Temple (Haein-Sa) near the city of Daegu is one of the most beautiful in South Korea. Here, sacred Buddhist texts are stored on 80,000 thousand wooden tablets.
Haeinsa Temple
In the city Gyeongju- a whole scattering of attractions of the ancient Silla dynasty, many of which are on the UNESCO list.
In the suburb of Seoul, Suwon, you will find ancient city walls and fortresses under the general name Hwaseong.
Suwon Fortress
What else to see in South Korea?
National Parks and Outdoor Activities
South Korean national parks have everything for an active, but at the same time quite comfortable holiday: stairs, gazebos, drinking fountains, fences, toilets and much more.
Jeju Island- an ideal place for short hikes, enjoying nature and a beach holiday. In the center there is a large extinct volcano Hallasan, and special routes called Olle Trails are laid throughout the island.
Beach on Jeju Island
Waterfall on Jeju
In Jeju you can even go diving, see several waterfalls and have fun as you please - the tourist infrastructure here is well developed.
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On the next small Udo Island You can also take a nice walk, because there are Olle Trails there too, and enjoy the silence and solitude.
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It is considered one of the most beautiful in Korea, especially in the autumn months. You can easily get here by city bus from the town of Seongcho, on the sea coast.
Sights of South Korea - Seoraksan Park
(near the town of Mokpo), although the smallest in South Korea, is famous for its bizarre rocks, as well as a 52-meter bridge spanned between two peaks at a high altitude.
If you come in winter, be sure to go skiing or snowboarding at one of the ski resorts. simply the most popular Phoenix Park located just 40 km from Seoul, and on Star Hill Korean youth are coming.
Yeonpyeong Ski Resort
Markets and shopping centers
In every Korean city you will find more than one market and shopping center. Here are only the most famous ones.
In Busan, visit - recognized as the largest shopping center in the world! A paradise for shopping, but the prices are steep.
Busan also has the largest fish market in South Korea - Jagalchi. It is located next to the port, and here you can buy any seafood product you can imagine.
Where to go in Korea - Jagalchi fish market
There are many more reasons to visit South Korea than just the cancellation of visas.
- Firstly, this is a very distinctive country with a rich history and unique cultural monuments.
- Secondly, stunning nature and many options for recreation - hot springs, beaches, ski resorts.
- Thirdly, South Korea keeps up with the times, and sometimes gets ahead of it. A rare fusion of tradition and innovation awaits you, so there are activities and entertainment to suit every taste.
In addition, South Korea is still not the most popular or even exotic destination, so if you are looking for off-the-beaten-path routes, urgently book a ticket for a Moscow-Seoul flight.
When to go:
You can go to South Korea all year round, but remember that the country is located in a temperate climate zone, so the seasons there are very distinct. Winter is a time for skiers, but not only. Koreans brighten up the cold with a variety of winter-themed festivals. For example, the Tebaksan Natural Park hosts the Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival. Want to bask in the sun? Then you need to plan your trip for the summer and choose seaside resorts. At this time the temperature rises to +35C.
Sightseeing lovers should go to South Korea in the spring, from mid-March to June. At this time it is already warm, there are many sunny days, and the monsoon season has not yet arrived. Spring is the time of cherry blossoms. But autumn is also good in South Korea - bright, colorful, without precipitation until the end of September.
How to get there:
Aeroflot and Korean Air fly direct from Moscow to Seoul. The flight will take about 10 hours. The cost of a round-trip ticket is from 30,700 rubles. It will be cheaper (from 26,242 rubles) to fly with a transfer in Dubai with Emirates airlines or in Helsinki with Finnair airlines. From Incheon International Airport, located 52 km from Seoul, the city can be reached by express bus or taxi.
How to get around:
South Korea is a small country, so it’s worth taking advantage of this and traveling outside the capital. Getting around is very convenient: the main cities are connected by rail, and traveling to the sound of wheels in South Korea, which values advanced technology, is very pleasant. Trains are divided into 4 types according to speed and level of comfort. The very best are the super-fast KTX. Then there are the Saemaeul express trains, the Mugunghwa high-speed train and the Thong-il passenger train.
For foreigners, there are special general KR Pass tickets, which can be purchased online. This is a kind of pass for all types of trains, except the metro, with no restrictions on the number of trips. In addition, for tourists, the Haeran train runs with compartments similar to hotel rooms, a restaurant and an observation deck.
Suburban buses are also very convenient. They run frequently, are equipped with air conditioning, and sometimes even have free wireless Internet. Do you want complete freedom? Rent a car. Well-known rental agencies operate in South Korea, for example, AVIS. However, keep in mind that traffic in the country is on the right and in large cities it is very heavy. Road signs are written in Korean and are duplicated in English in small print.
Where to go and what to see:
The first thing that comes to mind is, of course, Seoul. The capital and largest city of South Korea. This is where acquaintance with the country usually begins. Are you planning a cultural program? Seoul is perfect for you. There are four royal palaces from the Joseon Dynasty and the oldest royal palace from the Gyeongbokgung era. The spirit of the past is still felt in the palaces, and magnificent ceremonies are still held today.
You can travel back in time by walking along Insadong Street, a piece of old Seoul. There you will find many cozy cafes and tea houses, restaurants with local cuisine and traditional souvenirs.
In addition to antiquities, one of the most popular attractions among tourists is a trip to the Demilitarized Zone on the border of South and North Korea. Foreigners are allowed to climb through a secret tunnel dug 70 meters below the border. You can only enter the Demilitarized Zone with an organized tour.
But you can safely go to 4DX, a 4D cinema. It was in South Korea that the first such cinemas appeared. They are strikingly different from the 3D to which we are already accustomed: in addition to visual effects, in 4DX you can feel movement and smells, feel the wind and splashes of water.
You can easily spend a week or even more in Seoul, but the impression of South Korea will not be complete, so go to other cities, and on the way, do not deny yourself the pleasure of visiting small villages.
By the way, two historical Korean villages, founded back in the 13th-14th centuries, are even included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as important monuments of Confucian culture. This is the village of Hahoe in the city of Andong (Gyeongsangnam-do province) and Yangdong in the city of Gyeongju (Gyeongsangbuk-do province). Andong is known not only as the cradle of Confucianism, but also as the home of the yangban, the Korean nobles. Some of their traditional dwellings have survived to this day and function as hotels.
The entire historical center of Gyeongju, the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, is a UNESCO site. The ancient Buddhist temple of Bulguksa and Cheomseongdae, the oldest observatory that has survived to this day, have survived.
Busan, the country's second largest city and also the sea capital of South Korea, is famous for its skyscrapers, and the world's largest department store located there Shinsegae Centum City will delight shopaholics.
Tired of big cities? Busan has many beautiful parks: Taejeongdae, Hale National Marine Park, Haeundae and Gwanalli Beaches, Geumgang Park and Monnae Hot Springs. In search of peace, quiet and perhaps the meaning of life, go to Thondos Monastery, where Buddhist relics are kept.
Daegu is beautifully located in a valley surrounded by low mountains and is a major Buddhist center with numerous temples. The main attraction and pride of Daegu is the highly revered Haeinsa Temple, in whose repository is the Tripitaka Koreana, the most complete collection of Buddhist canons in East Asia. Don't miss the Chikchisa Monastery with its ancient columns and thousands of small Buddha statues.
The city of Suwon is also interesting. Hwaseong Fortress, although not very ancient (only the end of the 18th century), is very beautiful, and the Korean Folk Village is located nearby. Suwon itself enchants with its harmonious combination of new and old, this is especially noticeable on the street of restaurants, where the aroma of kalbi, grilled ribs, simply drives you crazy.
The islands deserve special attention. In the Yellow Sea lies the island of Ganghwado, and on it there are as many as 120 dolmens, ancient burial structures. There is also an altar to Tangun, the legendary founder of the nation, and other younger landmarks.
Jeju Island is a popular seaside resort with a mild tropical climate. If you are into golf, then Jeju is a must. It is home to 16 golf clubs and is known as the Island of Golf, one of South Korea's most popular sports.
Are you dreaming of a winter fairy tale? For snow, skiers need to go to Yeonpyeong, Phoenix Park and Hyundai Songgu.
But the most important thing you cannot leave South Korea without are natural hot springs. An hour and a half drive from Seoul are “Asan Spavis”, open-air thermal springs - you can swim in them even in cold weather. Pamper yourself with unusual treatments such as a pool with jasmine extract or a yellow clay sauna.
Koreans themselves love to soak in hot water, but they won’t refuse to go down the water slide with the breeze. One of the most popular water parks, Seorak Wotopia, is located near the Seoraksan Mountains on the coast of the East Sea. Even if you don't really like water activities, it's worth a visit: Seoraksan is part of the Kumgangsan mountain range, which means “Diamond Mountains,” and is considered one of the most picturesque places in the world.
What to do:
In addition to hot springs and golf, there are other entertainments in Korea that, at the mention of which, the heart of every Korean begins to beat faster. Oddly enough, this is baseball. The favorite American pastime was so loved in the East that it became almost a national sport. If you have never been to the USA and have not seen this game, be sure to go, just study the rules in advance, otherwise it may be a bit boring.
The second is walking in the mountains. This is probably one of the secrets of Korean longevity: fresh air, physical activity and contemplation of picturesque views greatly contribute to increasing life expectancy.
What to try:
Koreans eat a lot of rice, but they also really like soups and seafood dishes. An obligatory component of the meal is kimchi, that is, pickled vegetables. Fruit is usually served for dessert, and infusions and makkori rice wine are popular drinks.
Koreans love to eat and take food very seriously, but fat people are rarely seen. Probably the whole point is that all dishes, according to the Koreans themselves, are extremely healthy.
What to buy:
South Korea has a lot of things that are an everyday item for locals, but exotic and a good gift for foreigners. Here you can find very beautiful pearl products, boxes inlaid with mother-of-pearl, fans, embroidery, masks, wooden and ceramic products.
The special pride of South Korea is ginseng. It is sold in different forms - tea, tinctures, extracts, dried and sun-dried ginseng, in honey, in alcohol, in syrup. There are even chocolates and candies with ginseng. Original and, as they say, useful.
Harmony of opposites reigns in the capital of Korea. Ancient monuments are surrounded by ultra-modern skyscrapers, the largest Asian high-tech industries are adjacent to magnificent parks, universities and research centers are located next to sanctuaries where the spirits of ancestors are worshiped. Seoul's landmarks and ordinary city buildings form a fantastic architectural mosaic. The secret of the miracle of harmony is simple: a neat layout. It became a key rule of Korean urban planning more than 600 years ago. Time has confirmed the relevance of this approach. The metropolis amazes with its scale, well-groomed environment, and the ability of its residents to protect nature and preserve the spirit of antiquity. However, at the head of these qualities remains precisely that accuracy, which Koreans consider one of the main virtues.
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Gyeongbokgung
The royal palace was built in the 14th century. The time of its construction and the transfer of the capital of Korea to Seoul coincide. At the end of the 19th century, the palace complex consisted of 330 buildings. 10 of them were demolished during the next Japanese occupation, but the bulk of the structures survived. Today the palace complex occupies an area of about 410 thousand square meters. One of its main buildings: Geunjeongjong - a throne room decorated with paintings and animal statues.
The second most important building, the Gyeonghweru Pavilion, houses the National Folklore Museum. This building on 48 granite stilts is located in the center of a man-made lake and looks especially impressive when the lotuses are in bloom. The Palace Gate, where the changing of the guard in period dress takes place, is a favorite selfie spot and a landmark for tourists looking for the National Palace Museum (located nearby).
Rainbow Fountain Bridge
The length of the world's longest bridge-hydraulic structure: more than a kilometer. “Rainbow Fountain” was opened in 2009, and since then has not lost popularity among guests and residents of the city. The functioning of the fountain is ensured by 38 pumps. At the same time, it serves as a wastewater treatment plant. In a minute, 190 tons of water from the Han River “pass” through its filters and return back to it.
The range of water jets varies from 20 to 40 meters. The hydraulic structure looks impressive at any time of the day. The fountain operates daily with breaks from 20 to 60 minutes (depending on the day of the week). At night, the backlight turns it into a rainbow shining in the dark. Next to the bridge there is a park with recreation areas overlooking the fountain.
Mapo Bridge
The infamous building was erected in the 70s of the last century. The city authorities renamed it “Bridge of Life”, hoping to deceive fate, but the townspeople still call it: “Bridge of Death”, “Bridge of Despair”, “Bridge of Suicides”. Previously, 13% of suicide cases took place here; since 2013, the numbers have decreased, but the problem remains. The proximity of the capital's financial center adds fuel to the fire: it is businessmen in Korea who most often become suicides.
The city treasury spends up to $2 million annually on maintaining the rescuers assigned to the bridge. In order to somehow change the situation, local authorities decided to turn the pedestrian area of the bridge into a place of psychological relief. For this purpose, mirrors, signs with funny inscriptions, photographs of Korean dishes, and sculptures were placed along the parapet. Surprisingly, they actually stop desperate townspeople from taking a fatal step.
Bukhansan National Park
The area of the small and most visited national park in the world: 80 square kilometers. It occupies part of the city and the neighboring province. Bukhansan receives over 5 million tourists every year. The park covers 3 mountain peaks, each of which has its own name. Scientists estimate that there are about 2,500 species of plants, fungi and animals here.
At the same time, the natural area serves as an open-air museum. In Bukhansan, fragments of a fortress wall built 2000 years ago and about 100 Buddhist temples have been preserved. For the convenience of guests, the park has historical, sports, and educational walking routes designed for visitors of different ages and physical abilities.
Trick Eye Museum of Optical Illusions
The name of the museum is borrowed from the French language, it means: “optical illusion”. Its exhibits can be touched, photographed, excursions can be recorded on video, which undoubtedly adds to the popularity of the art object. Every year the museum is visited by 300 thousand people from all over the world. The art object consists of thematic galleries dedicated to history, world art, romance, luxury, traditions, mirrors, and everyday life.
The latter can turn out to be an extremely entertaining spectacle if, with the help of special effects, familiar information is presented in a new light. Famous parts of the art object are the museums of love and ice. Access to the Love Museum for minors is prohibited. The Ice Museum, home to magnificent ice sculptures, is open to visitors of all ages. Trick Eye Museum has several branches located outside of Seoul.
Namsan Ropeway
Namsan is a classic example of how a cable car can be turned into one of the city's main attractions. It carries about 50 thousand passengers monthly. The cable car route covers the peaks of Mount Namsan and the Seoul Tower. The funicular began operating in the 60s of the last century. Since that time, the structure has been reconstructed several times, which made it possible to make the “route by air” as comfortable and safe as possible.
Each cabin moving along the cable car can accommodate up to 48 passengers. Transparent walls allow you to freely admire the beauty of the city and nature in the dark and during the day. There is a good chance that the cable car will disappear from the map of Seoul in the coming years. City authorities are considering projects to replace the funicular with special elevators, where the role of cabins will be played by gondolas of smaller capacity.
Seoul Tower
The building has several names, which is quite symbolic, because it performs various functions. YTN Seoul Tower, N Tower and Namsan Tower are all one structure whose height is 236 meters. The landmark is located on Mount Namsan; in the 70s, the tower was the first such object in Korea. It continues to provide broadcasting to local television and radio studios and is the most popular observation deck in the city. The tower was renamed several times, but it remains a symbol of the city to this day.
The building is divided into 3 parts. In the lower and middle sections there are souvenir shops, cafes, bars, ticket offices, a museum and a special room for parents with children. The upper part consists of 4 floors, where there are shops, observation decks, and restaurants. Among the most famous objects in this sector: a digital observatory, a revolving restaurant, a pond where visitors throw coins (making wishes).
Namsan Village Museum of Traditional Korean Hanok Housing
The Namsangol Hanok Village open-air museum is located in the city center. It is surrounded on all sides by skyscrapers. The museum consists of 5 houses, pavilions, gazebos, and performance areas. On the territory of the complex there is a traditional Korean garden, a pond, and a stream. The museum covers an area of about a hectare. For Seoulites, such a site was enough to create an authentic rural atmosphere.
The only caveat: the construction of the houses presented here could be afforded by officials, wealthy aristocrats, and members of the imperial family. However, the household items placed in the premises belonged to representatives of different social classes. The museum began receiving visitors in 1998, and it took 10 years to create it. Entrance to the village is free and it is open from April to October. At this time, master classes on folk crafts and special events (including weddings) are held here.
Skyscraper Lotte World Tower
The construction of a building on the territory of an entertainment complex was accompanied by scandals. The construction process of the skyscraper took 9 years, the work of the architects - 7 years. It took 15 years to obtain government permission to build the 123-story tower. Those who like to tickle the nerves (Russians in the first rows) illegally entered the protected territory of the facility and took photographs... Even the grand opening ceremony of the tower was postponed - the two-story elevator was out of order.
The skyscraper is recognized as a leader among similar structures in Korea and the world according to a variety of indicators. The building houses offices, shops, and restaurants. There is a 10-story shopping center and a luxury hotel here. Total height of the structure: 555 meters. There is a swimming pool on its 85th floor, and at an altitude of 500 meters there is an observation deck, the floor of which is made of heavy-duty glass.
Republic of Korea War Memorial
The museum complex was built in the 90s of the last century; it occupies an area of 20 thousand square meters. A visit to the memorial is a tribute to the soldiers who fought for Korean independence. There are monuments with the names of fallen servicemen carved here. Police officers are buried on the memorial grounds. The most famous monument of the complex - the Statue of the Brothers - is located in its central square.
It symbolizes the unity of the people living in North and South Korea, which to this day does not cancel the possibility of a war between states. The main building of the memorial: the headquarters of the Korean army, where unique collections of ancient and modern weapons are displayed. An exhibition of military equipment (including aircraft, tanks) is located nearby in open areas.
Gwanghwamun Square
An architectural masterpiece created in the 21st century. Over 40 thousand people visit the square every day (this figure doubles on holidays). The names of the nearby gates of the ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace complex and the modern square are the same. This is very symbolic for Koreans, who are proud of the history of the state and honor the memory of the imperial Joseon dynasty, which owned the palace.
Each element of the area, whose length is 557 meters, carries a huge semantic load. The number of flower garden plants corresponds to the number of days that have passed since Seoul became the capital of Korea. The numbers of the fountains are reminiscent of victories over the Japanese fleet. The dates of the most important events in the history of the city are engraved on the stones immersed in water. Stones without inscriptions are given a special place - they wait their turn.
Olympic Park
The largest park in the city is aimed at lovers of active recreation. The sports and recreational area covers an area of more than a million square meters. The park was opened in the 80s of the last century on the eve of the Olympic Games. On its territory there are indoor sports palaces and stadiums, a 17-story Olympic center, a swimming pool, a velodrome and other facilities. The famous Olympic Museum is also located here.
The symbol of the park is the Gate of Peace on Earth. The masterpiece of modern architecture, 24 meters high, is made of concrete and decorated with mosaics with images of dragons. The park is famous for its sculpture garden and art museum. It attracts those who study Korean history. The walls of the ancient fortress of Moncheonthoseong, the pearl of the complex, preserved in the park, remind of the times when the city was under the threat of invasion by invaders from the north.
Changdeokgung
The construction of the palace complex dates back to the beginning of the 15th century. The buildings were destroyed by the Japanese invaders, the structures burned, but the palace, after repeated restoration, was preserved without changes in architecture. Today, there are 13 main structures on the territory of the complex, including the oldest bridge, the royal bedchamber, the throne room, and the queen’s residence. The site is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Luxurious gardens, 300-year-old trees, galleries, pavilions, artificial ponds create an atmosphere of peace here and emphasize the splendor of buildings for official ceremonies. Residents believe that Changdeokgung was built on a magical place, because favorable energy descends from the top of the mountain. The palace belonged to the ruling Korean dynasty, Jeongseon, for centuries. As fate would have it, it was here that it was interrupted when the last Emperor of Korea, Sunjong, died, deprived of the opportunity to rule the country.
Seodaemun Prison
The building was erected at the beginning of the 20th century, when power in the state actually belonged to the Japanese. The building was built in a year, it changed its name several times and until the 80s performed exclusively the functions of a prison. The building became a famous landmark because political criminals served their sentences there. Among them: Lee Myung-bak, who was elected president of South Korea, then stepped down from power and then... ended up in another prison for bribery and corruption.
Seodaemun is currently a museum. The structure has been preserved since its construction without significant changes. Historians managed to completely recreate the atmosphere that reigned in the watchtower, torture room, and prison cells. The museum's halls display documents from the time of the Japanese occupation, personal belongings of fighters for Korean independence, photographs, and paintings dedicated to the history of the state.
Lium Art Museum
Created and operating thanks to the support of the world famous Korean company Samsung. In guidebooks it is often called a gallery of Korean contemporary art, which is not entirely true. The art object includes two separate exhibition pavilions and a children's educational center. Among the authors of the works presented here are many foreign citizens, including the British and French.
Innovative technologies allowed exhibition organizers to bring into reality the idea of a harmonious art space that unites aesthetic opposites. The first gallery displays masterpieces of painting, decorative and applied arts created before and during the Joseon Dynasty. In the second - the brilliant creations of modern sculptors and artists. It is noteworthy: the buildings of the pavilions fully correspond to the exhibits. One was built following the example of medieval Asian fortresses, the other in the spirit of futurism.
Myeongdong Cathedral
The cathedral was built according to the canons of the neo-Gothic style. Height of the building including the spire: 70 meters. There is a clock on the top of the temple tower. At the beginning of the last century, the cathedral was the tallest building in the city. It is named after the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. The main relic of the temple: the burial place of local martyrs - clergy who died during the reign of the Joseon dynasty.
The unique architectural monument is recognized as a national treasure; it was built with funds from French Christian missionaries. The ambiguous attitude of the generally tolerant Seoul residents towards the temple and its parish is explained by the following. The traditional religion of Korea is Buddhism, and it influences government policy. Christians in the state are a religious minority, but they constantly participate in opposition movements, guided by the ideals of European democracy, which does not have the best effect on the reputation of the church.
Dongdaemun Gate
The magic of the oldest city building, a business card, is difficult for Europeans to understand. "Dongdaemun" is an ambiguous expression. If translated literally, it is simply “the great gate on the east side.” The gate has another name: Heunginjimun - “the place where kindness (virtue) rises.” It is also associated with the East, which for Koreans symbolizes material and spiritual benefits.
The gate, according to the beliefs of many peoples, is an important link between the worlds of the living and the dead. The destruction of such structures among Koreans is comparable to a national tragedy. Therefore, caring for Heunginjimun is at the same time preserving a unique monument, showing respect for the memory of ancestors and piety. Dongdaemun was built at the end of the 14th century.
Since then, the facility has been reconstructed several times. The gate acquired its current appearance in the 19th century. Once they were part of the fortress wall and performed defensive functions. For centuries, representatives of the ruling Korean Joseon dynasty allocated funds for the restoration of the gate.
Dongdaemun Market
The trading platform is located next to the gate of the same name. This is quite a common practice in the East, when neighboring streets, squares and even buildings are named after one famous object. Tourists often have to specify “which Dongdaemun” they want to see, which, in general, is not necessary, because ancient monuments with the same name are usually located within walking distance of each other.
The market was opened at the beginning of the last century. During the Korean War, Dongdaemun was left in ruins, but it was restored. Today, over 150 thousand Korean citizens work here, 7% of the market personnel are professional designers. These days, the largest wholesale and retail trading platform, Dongdaemun, serves as a giant factory for the production of branded clothing. The market, where you can bargain and buy quality items, is always popular among tourists and city residents.
Deoksugung Palace
The residence palace of the Joseon dynasty that ruled Korea dates back to the 15th century. Deoksugung is part of the complex of five main royal palaces, but is inferior in size to similar structures. The main feature of the residence: European architectural solutions were used in the construction of a number of buildings. At one time, conservative Seoulites compared this to a challenge to the traditions of their ancestors.
Deoksugung consists of 12 objects and covers an area of over 60 thousand square meters. Initially, there were 180 buildings. Fires and wars caused irreparable damage to the residence, but even today Deoksugung, hidden behind the fortress wall, looks peaceful and solemn. On its territory there is a garden and secret passages that allowed members of the royal family to save their lives.
The palace was first opened to public visits in the 30s of the last century. Here you can see rooms where representatives of the Joseon Dynasty lived, exhibitions of palace treasures and works of modern art.
National Museum of Korea
One of the most popular art objects in Asia covers an area of about 137 thousand square meters and is among the top most visited museums in the world. It is a unique cultural center where, as if in a fantastic reality, various art directions are intertwined. The museum displays unique artifacts, historical relics, works of Korean masters and masterpieces created in neighboring countries.
His first exhibitions were opened in 1945. In order to protect 220 thousand unique relics from natural disasters and pass them on to descendants, a new special building was erected for the National Museum in the 21st century. Outwardly, it resembles a medieval Asian fortress. Even if earthquakes destroy neighboring skyscrapers, the museum, as seismologists assure, will stand. The structure of the art facility includes galleries, lecture halls, exhibition halls intended for children, cafes, and restaurants.
Bongeunsa Temple
Guidebooks assure: there is no analogue of this building in the world. Age of the Buddhist shrine: more than 1200 years. The difference between the ancient and modern location of the temple: about a kilometer. Initially, the building served only a religious role. Today, the activities of the temple include the functions of a cultural center. You can learn a lot of interesting things about Korean folk traditions and customs from the clergy.
The temple complex is located in the most prestigious area. It creates the impression of complete detachment from the hustle and bustle. There are no noisy crowds of tourists here. Mass religious holidays in the temple are held quietly and orderly. It is, as Seoulians say, ideal for meditation. The first daily temple service begins at dawn. Pilgrims from all over the world come to pray at Bongeunsa's main relic: an ancient stone statue of Buddha, whose height is 28 meters.
Korea Bank Money Museum
Turning the bank's main office into a money museum is a very logical decision. However, the exhibitions housed in such a building are dedicated not only to numismatics. The main goal of the new cultural object was to promote the economic achievements of the state. The official start date is June 13, 2001, but the formation of its funds began earlier. For those who are indifferent to economics and numismatics, it also makes sense to visit this building, whose total area is 8 thousand square meters.
It was erected at the beginning of the last century. After the fighting in the 50s, it was restored in record time. The bank office is an architectural monument atypical for Asia. When looking at its exterior and examining the luxurious premises, you get the feeling that a time machine has transported the building from the European Renaissance to modern Korea.
Naksan Park
The name of the park literally means “camel mountain.” Guests are eager to visit it to admire the city from the top at any time of the day. The park was opened at the beginning of the 21st century, but the trees located on its territory are much older. Many of them were planted centuries ago and are a memory of the times when Korea was ruled by the Joseon Dynasty.
Naksan is intended for lovers of silence and hiking, those for whom the beauty of nature is more important than entertainment venues. Its main value: the unique landscape. The main walking route in the park runs along the ancient fortress wall. The historical monument literally miraculously survived the years of the Japanese occupation of Korea.
Jongmyo Temple
The sanctuary was erected at the end of the 14th century. It acquired its current appearance 300 years later. The histories of the Confucian temple and the ruling Korean Joseon dynasty are closely intertwined. The structure was repeatedly completed and restored after earthquakes, fires, and military operations. For Seoulites, it has become a symbol of people's memory.
The temple is dedicated to the spirits of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty and consists of 19 halls. The building does not attract attention with the luxury of its interior and exterior decoration. The ascetic building is intended exclusively for memorial and burial rites. The sanctuary is named after the rituals performed here by the Confucians. People are still prohibited from entering the southern gates of the temple - they are intended for the spirits of the royal family that was interrupted at the beginning of the last century.
Park overpass Seoullo 7017
The old road junction was due to be dismantled, but local authorities found a new use for it. The recreational area was located right on the overpass. The length of the amazing park was about a kilometer. It took over 24 thousand plants to create it. An important nuance: the city authorities plan to make the park (open to free admission) self-sustaining, turning it into a nursery that will supply seeds and seedlings for sale.
Seoul Skygarden began operating in 2017, and work on its arrangement is still ongoing. The construction of additional crossings made it possible to connect the park with hotels, shopping and entertainment centers. These days, additional terraces and art objects are appearing in the park. Since its opening, Seoullo 7017 has become one of the most popular outdoor exhibition venues in Korea.
Starfield Library
The library is open in the COEX shopping center. In just a few years, it has turned into a world-famous cultural site, a favorite selfie spot for guests and city residents. There is a version: it was the library from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, created by the imagination of JK Rowling, that became the prototype of the Seoul miracle.
The Starfield Library holds 50 thousand printed publications. The library has sections for e-books, foreign and Korean periodicals. “Korean paradise for book lovers” occupies an area of over 2 thousand square meters. Its racks are 13 meters high and its whimsical installations amaze the imagination. The library has a reading room with 200 seats; meetings with writers, poets, concerts, and lectures are regularly held.
COEX Aquarium
The largest Korean aquarium was opened in 2000; it is located on the underground floor of the shopping center of the same name. The COEX aquarium consists of 6 thematic halls and covers an area of more than a thousand square meters. Today there are 90 observation aquariums in it. There are 40 thousand fish in the aquarium. Among its inhabitants: crocodiles, sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, polar bears.
Here you can admire exotic plants and hold representatives of marine fauna in your hands. The aquarium contributes to the conservation of rare species of birds, fish, animals, and plants. An important part of its activities: social advertising, designed to draw public attention to environmental problems.
Seoul Cathedral Mosque
The building was built in 1976. The mosque serves as a center of Islamic culture in a state where the traditional religion is Buddhism. The attitude of Koreans towards Muslims is more loyal than towards Christians. Anti-Islamic actions did not escape the state, but the authorities promptly took tough measures against those who incite interreligious hatred.
In Korea today there are 8 mosques and about 200 thousand Muslims live. Those who are far from religious prejudices perceive the mosque more as a monument of Islamic architecture. Lectures on topics of Muslim traditions and customs are regularly held here. Near the building there is a huge number of cafes and shops focused on Middle Eastern cuisine.
Unhyeonggung Palace
Residents call this royal residence one of the standards of grace. There are disputes about the exact date of its construction, because the building was often destroyed. The current building is an architectural monument of the 19th century. In the last century, during the Japanese occupation, the layout and exterior of the palace were changed, but restorers managed to save the building.
Unhyeongun's exterior style is reminiscent of Italian villas. The garden and palace complex largely correspond to the canons of the neo-Renaissance, but the interior of the premises is traditional, Korean. The building has perfectly preserved halls for special events, which today house museum exhibitions. Today, the palace houses educational institutions for women and children.
Seoul is one of the megacities that does not sleep 24/7, as well as one of the most expensive capitals in the world. Visiting famous viewpoints, expensive Korean beef and partying until dawn can seriously damage any credit card. However, in Seoul there are a good hundred free entertainment and interesting places that everyone can visit.
Stroll through picturesque streets, attend poetry readings and free-to-enter viewpoints with our list of 30 free things to do in Seoul.
Literary Museum named after Yoon Dongju (Korean poet)
This three-room museum was converted from a technical room in 2012 into an open space. The works and old photographs of the poet are stored there. Behind the museum is Poet's Hill, which offers beautiful views of Seoul Tower.
Address: 119, Changguimun-ro Jongno-gu
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Cheoldusan Martyrs' Temple
Built in memory of the events of 1866, the temple is a reminder of the tragic and massive death of Catholics at this site. The temple houses a gallery and a museum where instruments of torture are displayed. There tourists can learn about the history of the tragedy and the construction of the temple. The best time to visit is at dusk, when the flickering candles create an incredible atmosphere.
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Oil tank in the cultural park
Five oil tanks from the 1970s can be seen in the cultural center. They hold concerts, exhibitions and lectures, free of charge. Even if there's not much going on inside, visitors can spend several hours exploring the nooks and crannies, or watch musicians practice in the outdoor Greek amphitheater. The uniqueness of this place attracts photographers here.
"The Soul of Jeong Kyung-ja" (South Korean artist) at the Seoul Museum of Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of several free ones in Seoul, and it is located in a historical building. High-demand exhibitions are often crowded and sometimes charge admission, but the permanent exhibition is free and less well attended. It is called “The Soul of Jeong Kyung-ja” and is dedicated to the life of the Korean artist in chronological order, with special attention paid to the African influence on her work.
Jeongun Library
Located at the foot of Mount Inwan, the library is also one of the most beautiful museums in the country. The lower floor houses a collection of books, while the reading rooms, inspired by Korean houses, are located on the second floor. They are spacious and well-lit - a book lover's dream.
Gyongyu Park in the forest area
The park is built on 100-year-old railway tracks that previously led to North Korea. The park is a unique symbol of the northwestern region of Seoul. In summer, this place is filled with picnic lovers; mass meetings and music festivals are held here. In good weather, pianos are placed outside and musical performances are held outdoors.
Tour of Bukchon Hanok Village
Walking through the village of Bukchon between hanoks (traditional Korean houses), tourists feel as if they are entering the Joseon dynasty. Although the preservation of cultural architectural heritage is a hotly debated topic, the alleys continue to fascinate tourists from all over the world.
Free gifts at the Blue House (presidential residence)
By booking your entrance ticket several months in advance, you can get a free treat at the office of the Korean President. Although the tours are conducted in Korean, foreigners are offered audio guides in English, as well as a walk through the most famous places of the residence. Nokjiwon, the forest garden at the Blue House, is the highlight of the tour as it is where free gifts are given out at the end of the trip. In the past, silk wallets and watches were given as gifts.
If you suddenly decide to book a tour, you can do it.
Spend a full day at the National Korean Museum
The National Museum of Korea is the largest in the country and boasts a collection of 15,000 artifacts from different eras, from ancient times to modern times. There is an entrance fee to seasonal exhibitions, but tourists can freely view the permanent collections. The 10-level pagoda of Gyeongcheon Temple in the center of the museum is definitely worth seeing and photographing.
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Watch a movie at Hanan Park
One of the most popular free places in Seoul is a park along the Han River, which zigzags through the city. You can happily take a walk anywhere in the park and look at the beautiful scenery, but the best vantage point is Manwon-dong. If your trip is during the summer, you can attend many free events in the park, including the Hanana Summer Festival. Also be sure to attend outdoor film screenings.
Time travel at the Seoul History Museum
At this museum, located next to Gyeonghee Gung Palace, even temporary exhibitions are almost always free. It houses relics of the Joseon Dynasty and houses an exhibition hall of donated gifts (ground floor). There you can see everything from old computers, film cassettes, T-shirts from the 60s. to household items used by ordinary citizens. Free events are designed to introduce tourists and residents of the capital to Korean culture, so they most often take place on local holidays.
Selfie in Ewha Village
We talked about this “lunar” village with wall paintings in.
Walking the Bukhansan Mountain Range
The ridge has 37 peaks. If a tourist in Seoul asks an avid hiker in the local mountains where the best place to hike is, he will almost certainly be directed to Bukhansan. Its highest height is 836 meters, and it offers incredibly beautiful views. You might even get a mug from a friendly hiker, of which there are many along the ridge. And local adventurers are known for their good-natured desire to give drink to tourists who have climbed so high above the city.
Hiking for the amateur: Inwangsan
Inwangsan is lower than Bukhansan, with a maximum height of only 338 meters, but it also attracts travelers with its views as well as history lessons. There are several ancient fortresses here, and you can also look at Gyeongbokgung Palace from afar. There are many benches along the way up and down where you can rest.
Free walking tours of the capital
Such a trip should be booked at least three days in advance on the website of the corresponding tourist program. Such tours are conducted by volunteer guides, so the quality of such travel is inconsistent and not standardized. However, the tour is free and covers a variety of topics, from local markets to historical sites, such as a street designed in the unique style of the Korean alphabet, Hangul. Tours are offered in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese. On food tours you can still taste local food and drinks until you are completely exhausted.
Product tasting at Lotte Mart Station Seoul
Large South Korean grocery stores are located here, offering the public a wide selection of local products. Most often, representatives of brands/stores/factories/farms speak English, Chinese and Japanese and are always ready to give customers a couple of seconds of their time. If you walk down the noodle aisle at 6:00 pm on a weekend, you won't want to eat until the next evening.
The most beautiful temple in northern Seoul
Although Jogyosa is considered the heart and most famous temple of Seoul, the title of the most beautiful temple should probably go to Gilsansa, located in Seongbuk-dong. Gilsansa is a restaurant converted into a temple in 1997. It attracts tourists not only with the richness of the surrounding nature, but also with numerous English-language programs, including on Buddhism.
The most beautiful temple in the south of Seoul
Those who have already looked at the Han River and completed their shopping at COEX Mall must visit Bongeunsa, a temple dating back to the 10th year of the Silla Kingdom. Most of the original buildings were destroyed by fire in 1939, but the fresh air of the complex, the carved wooden buildings of the Avatamsaka Sutra and 3,479 Buddhist sculptures will delight tourists.
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Walk (without shopping) through the Dongmyo flea market
There are many shops and markets in Seoul that you can browse for free and enjoy, but the Dongmyo Flea Market is a place where strolling will be more fun than shopping. Here you can find electronic pagers, ancient Korean coins, and dollar T-shirts.
Address: 84, Nangye-ro 27-gil, Jongno-gu.
Walk along the "sky bridge"
Seoullo Suspension Bridge Park 7017 is written about in.
Dancing the night away at Venue/
Itaewon's popular club, Venue/, has no entry fee, so you can get in (by waiting in line) and dance all night for free. Plenty of smaller clubs in Hongdae also don't charge entry fees, and some clubs in Gangnam don't charge at certain night times. However, it is “Venue/” that has the best combination of dance music, crowd pleasers and free entertainment.
Beautiful and Underrated Churches of Seoul
Although the churches of Myeongdong Cathedral are the most famous and historically significant in Seoul, it is worth visiting the Anglican Cathedral, which rivals its “brother” in beauty. Its designer was the English architect Arthur Dixon. The building is designed in the Renaissance style, its interior and exterior decoration demonstrates European charm. The church is open to the public and services are regularly held at 09:30 in the local chapel.
Become a child and play water fights
If you visit Seoul during the summer heat, be sure to head to the Sinchon Water Fighting Festival. It has been held for more than six years in a row. There are areas for water battles, for children, and celebrity performances and concerts are held on the territory. Admission is free, but you have to pay to rent water weapons.
Wonderful Cheongyecheon Stream
Jeongyeocheon is one of the city's ecological wonders; it is an artificial stream located in the capital. Green spaces have been laid out along it and pedestrian paths and bridges have been created. It is there that the Chinese Lantern Festival is held in early November. The museum, which is located near the stream, is also free.
Dewan Tonkatsu: Eat Fast and Free
The Korean restaurant, which specializes in fried pork cutlets, is known for its speed-eating competition called tonkatsu (named after the dish). Although the initial fund is 15,000 won per person, it will be refunded to the participants who make it to the top 30 on the honor board where all competition winners are collected. Goal of the test: to master a dish 15 centimeters high in less than 10 minutes. You will be served a giant cutlet tower, a mini salad, soup and a bowl of rice, all of which must be devoured quickly and with gusto. Indigestion comes as a gift to winners and losers.
Address: 57 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu
Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Park
We wrote about this unusual building in.
Health Day in Sonyudo Park
This is the first ecological water park in Korea. Green Island is located in the city center and is the perfect escape for those who simply need a break from the chaos of life in Seoul. There are several botanical gardens on the territory, as well as green space for picnics and sunbathing.
Romantic walk along the Seoul City Wall
The wall was built in 1396 and is the country's national treasure. However, locals are accustomed to using it as a place for romantic walks. You can walk along it in Naksan Park, be enchanted by the warm glow of the Ancient Fortress and look at the panoramic views of the city.
The largest fountain bridge in the world
We wrote about the Rainbow Fountain on the Han River Bridge, built in 2009. However, do not expect a very colorful show, since the photos on the Internet are the result of professional editing. In the original, the fountain looks less fabulous.
Culture Day
On the last Wednesday of every month, exhibition centers, museums, and cultural centers throughout the city open their doors for free admission. The Seoul City Hall works with a variety of businesses to provide tourists and residents with easy access to attractions such as the National Museum of Modern Art or the Seoul Performing Arts Company. On this day, most cinemas in the city offer generous discounts on tickets.
Which attractions and tourist spots in Korea were the most popular among foreign tourists in 2018? You will learn about this from our article, where we have prepared a chart of the 10 most popular tourist places in Korea, which were most often searched for on the website of the National Tourism Organization of Korea by foreign tourists during 2018! We invite you to familiarize yourself with the list of attractions included in the hit parade and create a travel itinerary for South Korea to suit your individual taste. If you only want to visit a few of these places, you can break them up into themed itineraries, but if you decide to see almost all of them, we recommend a 2-night, 3-day trip. In addition, as a note to tourists, we have prepared useful information for travelers. Let's start our hit parade!
Thematic tour for 1 day
Traditional tour
Gyeongbokgung Palace or Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Garden → Insadong Street → Folk Village of Traditional Korean Hanok Houses in Bukchon
Modern tour
Lotte World amusement park and Lotte World Mall → Seoul Tower on Mount Namsan
Shopping tour
Myeongdong → Hongdae street
Wellness tour
Gyeongbokgung Palace → Insadong Street → Folk Village of Traditional Korean Hanok Houses in Bukcheon → Myeongdong → Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain
Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Garden → Lotte World Amusement Park and Lotte World Mall → Hongdae Street
Namisom Island or Garden of Morning Calm
Most Popular Tourist Spots in Korea (1-5 places)
1st place Gyeongbokgung Palace
2nd place Seoul Tower on Mount Namsan
3rd place Lotte World amusement park
Lotte World Amusement Park and Lotte World Mall 
If you're looking for a place in Seoul where you can spend a whole day of fun and excitement, visit . Guests of the Lotte World theme park will enjoy exciting adventures, bright and colorful parades and performances, as well as a lot of joy and good mood for 365 days a year! The entire territory of the Lotte World park is divided into 2 thematic zones inside and outside the building: Adventure and Magic Island. The most popular attractions include: “Balloons” with a view of the interior of the park, “World Monorail” with a view of the Adventure and Magic Island zones, a carousel with horses, where you will feel like the main character of a romantic fairy tale, and the Atlantis roller coaster. , breathtaking “Jyro Drop”, “Jyro Swing”, “Jyro Spin” in the Magic Island area. The park is located in the vicinity of the highest in Seoul, which is also definitely worth a look.
- 1 day: Adults 54,000 won / Teenagers 48,000 won / Children 45,000 won / Young children 14,000 won
- After 4: Adults 43,000 won / Teenagers 38,000 / Children 34,000 won / Young children 14,000 won
Note! While riding the attractions, take advantage of the special Magic Pass booking service!
This service will reduce waiting time if you have a free ticket valid for all entertainment attractions. So, you can make a reservation by checking the available attractions at a specific time at the Magic Pass kiosk. The service can be used up to 3 times a day, for 40,000 won you can purchase a Magic Pass Premium, which can be used 5 times, for 100,000 won - an unlimited number of times during the day.
Seoul, Songpa-gu District, st. Olympic-ro 240
How to get there
approximately 5 minutes walk from Exit 4 of Jamsil Station (잠실역, Jamsil Station) subway lines 2 and 8
Opening hours
Mon.~Thu. 09:30~22:00 / Fri~Sun. 09:30~23:00
during the “season”, opening hours on weekdays are also extended until 23:00
Cost (free subscription)
4th place Bukchon Folk Village
5th place Namisom Island
Most Popular Tourist Spots in Korea (6-10 places)
6th place Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Garden
8th place Hongdae (Honik University area)
9th place Myeongdong
Note!
Enjoy the romance of the night at ! This bright, magical holiday takes place every year from the beginning of winter until spring. In 2018, it began on December 5 and will last until March 31, 2019. If you have dreamed of being in a fairy tale, be sure to visit this festival!