*Guide to must-visit attractions in Seoul for foreigners
Reasons Why Foreigners Visit Seoul
Seoul is a world-class metropolis where history and modernity coexist in harmony. Foreign visitors are drawn to the city for various reasons, which can be summarized as follows:
1. History and Traditional Culture
Seoul is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks that showcase Korea’s rich heritage. Palaces like Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can also experience traditional Korean architecture and culture at Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong, where they can see traditional houses, try on hanbok, and explore local crafts and cuisine.
2. K-POP and the Korean Wave (Hallyu)
With the global success of K-POP stars like BTS and BLACKPINK, Seoul has become a must-visit destination for Hallyu fans. Foreign visitors flock to attractions such as HYBE Insight, SMTOWN Museum, and K-Star Road to immerse themselves in K-POP culture. Additionally, districts like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam offer access to K-beauty, fashion, and other Korean pop culture trends.
3. A Modern City with Cutting-Edge Technology
Seoul is renowned for being a high-tech smart city. With ultra-fast internet, an efficient public transportation system, and advanced IT services, it provides visitors with a seamless travel experience. Iconic landmarks such as Lotte World Tower and Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) highlight Seoul’s futuristic and innovative spirit.
4. Shopping and Trendy Fashion
Seoul is a shopping paradise, offering a variety of options for different tastes and budgets. Myeongdong and Gangnam are famous for global brands and K-beauty products, while Dongdaemun and Namdaemun markets are ideal for affordable fashion finds. Trendy areas like Hongdae and Garosu-gil attract visitors looking for unique and stylish clothing and accessories.
5. Korean Cuisine and Culinary Experiences
Foreigners visit Seoul to enjoy a wide range of Korean dishes. Popular foods include bulgogi, bibimbap, kimchi, samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). Traditional markets like Gwangjang Market offer a chance to taste authentic Korean street food, while Michelin-starred restaurants provide high-end Korean dining experiences.
6. Nature and Urban Green Spaces
Despite being a bustling metropolis, Seoul offers plenty of green spaces where visitors can relax. Namsan Park, Hangang Park, and Bukhansan National Park allow tourists to enjoy nature within the city. Seasonal changes bring stunning scenery, making Seoul beautiful all year round. Visitors can also ride bikes or take a cruise along the Han River for a unique cityscape view.
7. Convenient Public Transportation and Safe Environment
Seoul’s public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis, is highly efficient and easy to navigate. The city is also known for being one of the safest in the world, with a low crime rate, allowing foreign tourists to explore freely and comfortably.
8. Festivals and Events
Seoul hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The Seoul International Fireworks Festival, Lotus Lantern Festival, and Hangang Summer Festival are popular attractions. Seasonal celebrations like Halloween in Itaewon and Christmas festivities in Myeongdong also draw many visitors.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 09:00 ~ 18:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)
Admission: 3,000 won for adults, 1,500 won for teenagers
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the representative palace of the Joseon Dynasty, and you can enjoy magnificent architecture and beautiful gardens. The hanbok experience, popular among foreigners, allows you to walk around Gyeongbokgung Palace wearing traditional clothing and take pictures.
Recommended tourist destinations in Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Experience
Must-see attractions in Seoul for foreigners
2. Myeong-dong (Myeong-dong)
Address: 27 Myeong-dong 8-na-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Varies by store
Myeong-dong is Seoul's representative shopping street, a great place to buy cosmetics, clothes, souvenirs, etc. You can taste traditional Korean snacks such as tteokbokki, hotdogs, and hotteok at street food stalls located throughout the street.
Myeong-dong shopping spots
Recommended street food in Seoul
Seoul travel shopping places
3. Namsan Seoul Tower (N Seoul Tower)
Address: 105 Namsan Park-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 10:00 ~ 23:00
Admission: 16,000 won for adults, 12,000 won for children
A famous spot where you can take in the entire view of Seoul at a glance, especially famous for its beautiful night view. In addition to the observatory, there is also a love lock spot, making it popular among couples.
Namsan Seoul Tower Night View
Seoul Date Course
Best Observatory in Seoul
4. Insadong
(Insadong Ssamjigil)
Address: 62 Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Hours: Varies by store
If you want to experience traditional crafts and Korean culture, Insadong is the place to go. You can feel the artistic sensibility of Korea by visiting traditional tea houses and various galleries popular with foreigners.
Experience traditional culture in Seoul
Recommended tea houses in Insadong
Purchase traditional Korean crafts
5. Hongdae
Address: 19, Wausan-ro 21-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Hours: Varies by store
Hongdae is a street full of youth and freedom, and is a cultural center with indie music and various street performances. It is very popular with foreign tourists because of its many unique cafes and fashion stores.
Hongdae Street Performances
Trendy Cafes in Seoul
The Center of Youth Culture in Seoul
6. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 10:00 ~ 19:00
DDP is a landmark famous for its unique architectural design. Various exhibitions and fashion shows are held here, and it is considered a famous spot for its beautiful night view.
Seoul Night View Spots
DDP Exhibition Information
Dongdaemun Design Spots
7. Hangang Park
Address: Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Always open
Hangang Park is a great place to enjoy various outdoor activities such as biking, cruises, and picnics. In the summer, the Hangang Fireworks Festival is also held.
Hangang Park Bicycle Rental
Seoul Picnic Spots
Recommended Hangang Night Views
8. Bukchon Hanok Village
Address: 37 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Always open
In this place where traditional hanoks are abundant, you can feel the quiet atmosphere of Korea. There are many photo spots, making it a great place to take photos for SNS.
Recommended traditional houses in Seoul
Bukchon Hanok Village photo spots
Seoul's best photo spots
9. Changdeokgung Palace
Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 09:00 ~ 17:30 (Closed on Mondays)
Admission: Adults 3,000 won, Youths 1,500 won
Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its beautiful rear garden. Guided tours are available by making a reservation in advance, making it popular among foreigners.
Recommended Seoul Palaces
Changdeokgung Rear Garden Tour
Seoul Cultural Heritage Exploration
Visit various famous places in Seoul and deeply experience the charm of Korea!