With so many places to visit it can be difficult to schedule a trip to Korea. Korea Tourism Organization has created a list of the top ten most searched for attractions in Korea to help you determine where to go. These attractions are great to add to your itinerary! You can pick a themed course with similar attractions if you only have a limited period of time.
Why not join a virtual tour with SeoulBox of the selected 7 attractions? No matter which choice you select, keep reading to find our travel tips to make your visit even more enjoyable for every attraction.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
During the Joseon Dynasty Gyeongbokgung Palace was the royal family's principal legal residence. It was the first palace constructed during the Joseon Dynasty, bearing a sense of "a place where the new King will enjoy the happiness of great blessings." The palace is remarkable for its vast area and the harmony of its buildings, and is the only palace that still has all four main gates to this day.
2. Namsan Tower
Seoul's iconic attraction is none other than Namsan Seoul Tower, located in the centre of town atop Namsan Mountain. The tower attracts tourists throughout the year, and is best known for its city view of the nightscape. The tower is a must-visit attraction for hallyu fans, having been featured in dramas including 'My Love From the Star (2013)' and 'Legend of the Blue Sea (2016).'
3. Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village, a symbolic attraction of Seoul, displays the beauty of the traditional Korean buildings. The neighbourhood where the royal family's relatives lived, the hanok here is grand, offering beautiful scenes down every road. We recommend discovering the "Eight Scenic Spots of Bukchon" to make the most of your stay. These eight sites are each special but share the value of providing spectacular views. With those spots in the background, your souvenir pictures will turn out perfect!
4. Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon
Changdeokgung Palace was built in the early Joseon period and served the most as royal residence among all the palaces. The palace boasts a majestic harmony with the surrounding nature, as each building has been built with careful consideration of geographical and environmental features within the city. The contrasting elegance of the pavilions, ponds, and rock formations in the palace, in particular, is quite a sight to behold. The magnificence of Changdeokgung Palace has been internationally recognised and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. If you are looking for a beautiful and environmentally friendly palace, go to Chandeokgung Palace!
5. Insa-dong
Insa-dong is also referred to as the "Street of Traditional Korean Culture." The main thoroughfare lines up in shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs, while the several side streets feature restaurants and cafés serving local food and teas in Hanok buildings. There are countless things to see here, but Ssamzigil tops the list.
6. Hongdae
Hongdae is a cultural center of youthful energy and refers to the region close to Hongik Univ. Station (Seoul Underground line 2). Streets lined with cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops are packed with youth, and the area is packed with exciting vibes that live cafes and clubs clustered in. Its presence has recently extended to include the Gyeongui Line Forest Park of Yeongnam-dong, providing tourists with a calming walking route and exclusive shops within the urban neighbourhood. There are also other tourist attractions here including Trick Eye Museum and KT&G Sangsangmadang.
7. Myeong-dong
The Myeong-dong area is packed with exclusive street foods and plenty to see! A fashion and shopping area, many young Koreans and foreign tourists are looking for some great deals and the latest trends. The Myeong-dong extends from Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4) to Eulji-ro Avenue and Lotte Department Store for around 1 kilometer.
