What to do in South Korea
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Culture & museums
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most architecturally stunning of the Five Grand Palaces. Inside, Gwanghwamun Gate, Heungnyemun Gate, and the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, which sits beautifully on a lotus pond, showcase the exquisite architectural aesthetics of the Joseon period. The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, held daily at scheduled times, reenacts the solemn guard duties of the royal court and is highly worth watching.
Good to know
Take Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5) for direct access. The recommended visit duration is about 2 hours. Visitors wearing full Hanbok can enjoy free admission. Please note that the palace is closed on Tuesdays when planning your itinerary.
N Seoul Tower
Landmarks
Located at the peak of Namsan Park, N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul's most representative landmarks. Whether overlooking the Han River and city skyline by day or admiring the glittering city lights by night, it holds a unique charm. The Love Locks wall at the base of the tower is a popular romantic spot for couples. On your way to the tower, you can also explore Namsan Park and enjoy a touch of nature in the heart of the city.
Good to know
Take Subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station, then walk to the Namsan Cable Car station to ride up the mountain, or take the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus from Myeongdong Station. The recommended stay is 2 to 3 hours, with evening being the best time to visit. Tickets are required to enter the observatory.
Myeongdong Shopping Street
Shopping
Myeongdong is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Seoul. This bustling district brings together Korea's leading cosmetics brands, trendy fashion boutiques, and major department stores. Shopping here is incredibly convenient, with many stores offering multilingual services and instant tax refunds. As evening falls, the streets come alive with food carts serving delicious Korean street snacks, from sweet egg bread and spicy tteokbokki to grilled cheese skewers, perfectly satisfying your shopping and dining cravings in one place.
Good to know
Take Subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station, or Line 2 to Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station. The recommended stay is 3 hours or more. Many beauty stores offer instant tax refunds, so be sure to carry your passport with you.
Gamcheon Culture Village
Landmarks
Originally a refugee shelter during the Korean War, Gamcheon Culture Village was transformed by local artists and residents. They painted the terraced houses in vibrant colors and filled the alleys with creative installations, turning it into a popular artistic landmark. The famous photo spot where you can overlook the village alongside the Little Prince and his fox is a must-visit for every traveler.
Good to know
Take Busan Subway Line 1 to Toseong Station, then transfer to local bus Saha 1-1, Seo-gu 2, or Seo-gu 2-2, and get off at Gamcheon Elementary School. The recommended stay is about 2 hours. As this is a residential area, please keep your voice down to respect the locals' daily lives.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Culture & museums
Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional residential area with a 600-year history. During the Joseon Dynasty, this neighborhood was home to high-ranking nobility, and it still beautifully preserves its traditional architectural features, including blue-tiled roofs, stone walls, and wooden structures. As you wander up and down the sloping alleys, you can admire the rustic architectural details and enjoy a unique view where modern Seoul skyscrapers contrast with traditional Hanok roofs.
Good to know
Take Subway Line 3 to Anguk Station and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the village. The recommended stay is 1.5 to 2 hours. Since this is an active residential area, some zones have restricted visiting hours. Please follow the signs and keep your voice down during your visit.
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