Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant capital, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. Like no other, the city offers culture, nightlife, shopping, luxurious stays, onsens, and many Korean barbeque spots. The city is safe – this is a big plus: all you need is uber and credit card. Here’s a guide to exploring the best things to do in Seoul, where to go, what to eat, and where to stay.
The article feels messy, but that’s exactly what it’s like when you travel to Seoul—everything happening all at once. The city is a chaotic yet fascinating mix of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers stand beside traditional hanok villages, and neon-lit streets pulse with life while serene temples offer a quiet escape. Enjoy!
Things to do and Places to Visit in Seoul – Our Favorite Spots in Town
Bars and Nightlife
- Charles H. Bar
Address: 97 Saemunan-ro, Sinmunno 1(il)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A swanky cocktail bar in the basement of the Four Seasons Hotel. Perfect for expats and tourists, this spot combines cozy vibes with expertly crafted drinks. - Kompakt Record Bar
Address: 46 Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A tiny, underground bar with a focus on hip-hop, jazz, and funk. Great for music lovers seeking a relaxed, authentic nightlife experience. - Six Night (식스나잇)
Address: 13 Eonju-ro 174-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A trendy bar with plush seating and international vibes. Come for the cocktails and people-watching, but don’t expect a wild dance floor. - Piranha Nightclub
Address: Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A high-energy spot known for drag shows, diverse dance floors, and open-air terraces. Perfect for a vibrant night out.
Restaurants
- Myeongdong Night Market
Address: Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A bustling street food haven offering spicy tteokbokki, crispy hotteok, and more. A must for foodies exploring Seoul at night. - Terrace Room (테라스룸)
Address: 37 Seolleung-ro 152-gil, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A stylish restaurant with indoor and terrace seating. Perfect for people-watching over Italian-inspired cuisine and good coffee. - Legume
Address: 2F, 652 Gangnam-daero, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A vegan restaurant in an office building. A unique find in meat-centric Seoul, offering a calm dining experience. - Chicken Restaurant “Dageuro-Ga”
Address: 20 Nonhyeon-ro 153-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A cozy, homey spot with generous portions of chicken. Run by a kind older woman who makes the experience even more charming. - Sua Epice (수아에피스)
Address: 2F, 652 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A Thai restaurant with a great view of Gangnam’s bustling streets. Perfect for people-watching while enjoying bold flavors.
Culture and Attractions
- Gyeongbokgung Palace
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A stunning royal palace with historical significance. Best experienced during the changing of the guard ceremony. - Leeum Museum of Art (리움미술관)
Address: 60-16 Itaewon-ro 55-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A mix of contemporary art and traditional Korean porcelain, great for a 1-2 hour cultural experience. - National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
Address: 198 Sejong-daero, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A fascinating exploration of Korea’s rapid rise as a global powerhouse. - Mullae Artist Village
Address: Mullae-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A former industrial area turned creative hub, filled with art studios, quirky cafes, and galleries.
Designer Shops
- Apgujeong Rodeo Street
Address: Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: Seoul’s answer to NYC’s Soho, featuring luxury boutiques and trendy fashion. - Beaker Flagship Store (비이커 청담플래그십스토어)
Address: 408 Apgujeong-ro, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A hotspot for Korean and international designer brands. A must for fashion enthusiasts. - GENTLE MONSTER Flagship Store (젠틀몬스터 홍대 플래그십스토어)
Address: 19 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
What It Is: Known for avant-garde eyewear and Instagram-worthy decor. - Thisisneverthat (디스이즈네버댓)
Address: 13 Wausan-ro 17-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A popular streetwear brand offering edgy Korean fashion.
Hotels
- Lotte Hotel Seoul
Address: 30 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A massive hotel with dated decor. Conveniently located next to City Hall but feels impersonal and lacks charm. - Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Address: 97 Saemunan-ro, Sinmunno 1(il)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A luxurious stay with stunning views, world-class service, and a Japanese-style spa that’s second to none. - Ananti at Gangnam
Address: 734 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
What It Is: A stylish but noisy hotel. While the rooms look great, road noise and extra charges for spa access can be a letdown.
The Fascination of Seoul and Korea
I attended a language school in Boston, MA, where I met many Koreans. I was fascinated by their approach, which was so different from that of Americans and Europeans—understated, hardworking, attentive, and focused on education and skills first, with leisure coming second. The more I talked to my Korean classmates and the more I read about and watched things related to the country, the more intrigued I became.
I wanted to see the “Miracle on the Han River” for myself—a country with numerous challenges, such as its location and limited natural resources, yet it has become one of the most developed, educated, and wealthy nations, at least on paper. This curiosity led me to explore where to go in Seoul and experience firsthand the nation’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
How did they manage to surpass Japanese electronics and automobiles, even if only in the short term?
I was eager to understand how their society functions, especially with global cultural phenomena like Parasite, Squid Game, and K-pop influencing perceptions of Korea worldwide. My visit was also a chance to dive into the many things to do in Seoul and witness its vibrant energy and rich cultural landscape.
Seoul Like a Local: Unique Things to Do, Places to Visit, and Hidden Gems 2025
Jongno vs. Gangnam: Where to Stay in Seoul
During our trip to Seoul, we stayed in both Jongno and Gangnam, and if you’re wondering where to base yourself, here’s our take: Jongno makes more sense. It’s closer to many of Seoul’s must-see spots, and getting around from there is relatively easy. Gangnam, on the other hand, is interesting to explore but not ideal for staying—it feels more corporate and less accessible to the city’s highlights.
City Rhythms and Uniformity
One fascinating aspect of Seoul is how synchronized everything feels. Workers stream out of office buildings almost exactly at 6:02 PM, whether it’s a corporate headquarters or a factory. It’s a level of punctuality that might leave Europeans scratching their heads.
The city itself is vast and uniform. As you step outside the main tourist hubs, you’ll notice rows upon rows of identical blocks, each marked with numbers, stretching endlessly like a real-life SimCity. It’s an urban landscape that blurs the line between the old and new. Even Seoul’s “ancient” castles have a restored look, making it hard to guess whether they’re centuries-old or built in the 1990s.
Being a Foreigner in Seoul
Seoul feels mostly welcoming as a foreigner, though there are moments when you might feel a bit out of place, depending on where you go. To say a few words like Thank you (Gamsahamnida) and Hello (Annyeonghaseyo) – is a must! People like it and smile. Navigating between local and tourist-centric areas highlights the city’s contrasts and adds to the adventure.
Where to Live in Seoul: Hotels We Stayed at
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Jongno
The Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is pretty new and feels more international than Korean, but that’s not a bad thing—it’s one of the best Four Seasons I’ve stayed at. The views from the rooms are stunning, but the real star here is the spa.
Honestly, it’s probably the best spa in a Four Seasons I’ve visited. It’s Japanese style, with different baths, lots of space, and not crowded at all. It’s gender-divided, so no awkward moments worrying about swimwear. Everything feels calm and luxurious, exactly what you want after a day exploring Seoul.
Ananti at Gangnam
The Ananti at Gangnam didn’t live up to the hype. The rooms look nice and match the photos, but the road noise is insane—constant, day and night. It’s hard to relax with that level of disruption.
The spa isn’t included in the price, which feels a bit cheeky for a so-called luxury hotel. On top of that, the service was disappointing. They told us the room was ready but wanted to charge extra for a 2-hour early check-in. Most hotels would just let you in if it’s available. Overall, it felt more like a dressed-up motel than a proper five-star experience.
Lotte Hotel Seoul, Jung District
The Lotte Hotel Seoul is huge, and its location next to City Hall makes it feel more like a government building than a luxury hotel. The decor and furniture are outdated—it might’ve been fancy years ago, but now it’s just tired.
The hotel sits on top of a mall, and it feels as impersonal as it sounds. The first room they gave us was noisy due to bad ventilation. They moved us to a bigger room on a lower floor, but it didn’t change much. The spa? Nothing special. It’s like a public facility, and they charge extra to use it. You can get a wash massage if you’re into that, but overall, the experience lacked charm or attention to detail.
Jongno District: The Heart of Seoul
We stayed in Jongno, which makes more sense as more areas of interest are closer. It’s relatively easy to get around, though the city is huge and traffic gets busy during rush hour from 6 PM. Jongno is the cultural heart of Seoul, offering a mix of grand historical sites, fascinating museums, and vibrant local experiences.
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
Jongno Close to Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village is a fascinating mix of chaos and charm, drunk wibe, where the young and old come together to indulge in junk food, drinks, and a lively night out. This vibrant area is unapologetically Korean.
This lively area contrasts with Jongno’s historical and artistic side. It’s a maze of narrow streets filled with bars, cafes, and quirky shops. Whether you’re in the mood for junk food, karaoke, or just people-watching, Ikseon-dong has an unpolished charm that feels authentically Korean.
During the day, afternoon, and early evening, the area offers Korean BBQ and karaoke bars. Later, it transforms into a mix of (gay) bars, tarot readers, photo booths with full wardrobe options, hidden gay massage rooms (no signs), and beer bars with a slightly German vibe. The bars and hangouts are scattered across street levels, basements, and even upper floors, creating an intriguing maze of nightlife options.
If you’re looking for a specific spot you found online, good luck—navigating Ikseon-dong can be tricky. We gave up on a few Google Maps recommendations and just wandered around until we stumbled upon something that caught our interest. The spontaneity added to the fun.
One quirky highlight? I found a Danish beer here—one that’s probably unknown outside Korea! They market it as Danish beer, even though it has nothing to do with Denmark. Ikseon-dong is messy, unpredictable, and utterly captivating—a must-visit for anyone seeking an offbeat and authentic Seoul experience.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
One of Seoul’s most iconic palaces, Gyeongbokgung stands as a symbol of Korea’s royal past. While undeniably impressive, the palace can feel overly restored, which might detract from its historical charm for some. Still, it’s worth visiting for its grand architecture and to catch the changing of the guard ceremony.
National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
Dive into Korea’s modern history at this extensive museum. From the country’s post-war development to its cultural milestones, you can easily spend hours exploring the exhibits and gaining a deeper understanding of Korea’s journey to the present day. The general admission is free.
MMCA (National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art)
Art fans will love the MMCA. With diverse collections ranging from contemporary Korean art to international works, it’s a place where you can lose track of time immersing yourself in creativity and thought-provoking exhibitions.
Myeongdong Night Market
The Myeongdong Night Market is a hotspot in the heart of one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts. While the crowds can be intense, the market’s charm lies in its wide variety of freshly made street food.
Stalls line the streets, offering everything from spicy tteokbokki and crispy hotteok to grilled seafood and creative desserts.
Beyond the street stalls, you’ll also find more established street food vendors inside nearby arcades and small eateries, adding even more options for food lovers. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the surrounding shopping opportunities, makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Seoul at night. Just be prepared for the crowds—they’re part of the experience! Interesting to visit once.
Gangnam District: Glitz and Glamour
Gangnam is interesting to visit, but not to stay there. It feels a little deserted and empty in many places. It’s like a bad copy of a large American city, with people dressing in a more American way – large shoes and street style clothing.
Gangnam can feel a bit deserted and empty in some areas, especially if you visit the major business streets, districts, and malls. Our first impression was that it seemed like a less inspiring copy of a large American city.
The fashion here is also more influenced by Western styles. Compared to other parts of Seoul, where neutral colors and oversized jackets dominate (similar to Japan’s minimalist style), Gangnam leans toward street-style clothing, larger shoes, and visible luxury brands. Rolls-Royces and fast cars drop off stylish young girls heading to hip cafés for afternoon tea, adding to the flashier vibe.
Apgujeong Rodeo Street
This is the heart of real Gangnam. Think of it as Seoul’s version of Soho in London or NYC, or Le Marais in Paris. It’s packed with trendy boutiques, high-end stores, and unique finds, making it one of the most stylish shopping areas in the city. The best area for shopping and people-watching.
Beaker (비이커 청담플래그십스토어)
Address: 408 Apgujeong-ro, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, SeoulLocal and new Korean fashion brands. Very interesting.
Fueguia 1833 Cheongdam Gallery
Fueguia 1833 Cheongdam Gallery, located in the upscale Cheongdam-dong area of Seoul, is an international perfume store that manages to stand out despite being part of a chain. The flagship store, opened in 2023, offers a unique sensory experience in its 150.61m² space. The interior design blends traditional Korean elements like hemp cloth and traditional Korean paper with modern materials such as Corten steel and Carrara marble, creating an intriguing atmosphere. While it may not be a local brand, the attention to detail in the store’s design and the curated selection of fragrances make it an interesting stop for perfume enthusiasts exploring Gangnam’s luxury shopping district.
Terrace Room (테라스룸)
It is a stylish restaurant and hangout spot located in Seoul’s upscale Cheongdam area (2F, Olive Building, 37 Seolleung-ro 152-gil). The restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere with both indoor and terrace seating. You can sit here an watch limousine cars bring K-girls for a bubble tea. It’s particularly known for beautiful Christmas decorations and ambiance during the holiday season, Italian-inspired cuisine, and good coffee (actually, Seoul is all about good slow-brewed coffee, it is trend there). Reservations are recommended, especially for prime times and during holidays.
B.chord Lounge (비코드라운지)
B.chord Lounge is a trendy spot in Seoul’s Gangnam district. Located at 14-3 Seolleung-ro 157-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, this lounge offers a youthful atmosphere ideal for afternoon drinks.The name “B.chord” is inspired by the guitar chord, aiming to provide patrons with a thrilling experience similar to mastering a difficult guitar position. The lounge’s green theme symbolizes support for nature and environmental causes.
While the ambiance may be appealing, our experience suggests the food is not a strong point. It’s better to visit for drinks in the afternoon rather than for a meal. The lounge seems to prioritize creating a cool vibe over culinary excellence. Despite the underwhelming food, B.chord Lounge could be a good choice if you’re looking for a trendy place to relax with a drink and soak in the youthful Gangnam atmosphere.
Starfield Coex Mall
Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea. Another giant shopping mall with everything is located in the heart of Gangnam’s business district, is a massive underground shopping complex that may not appeal to everyone. While it boasts an impressive array of shops, some visitors find the offerings rather mundane.
The surrounding area, particularly along Teheran-ro, can feel somewhat sterile and uninviting, dominated by office buildings and heavy traffic. The mall’s design seems to cater more to vehicular access, with many visitors being dropped off and picked up, rather than encouraging pedestrian exploration of the neighborhood. Despite its size and central location, the mall and its environs may leave some visitors feeling underwhelmed, especially those seeking a more authentic or vibrant Seoul experience.
Legume Restaurant
Address: 2F, 652 Gangnam-daero, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. A vegan restaurant in a multi-purpose, mostly offices building on the 3rd floor. It’s cool enough, though a little awkward at first as we were the only ones there. For Seoul, it’s a special place as most other Seoul restaurants are focused and obsessed with meat.
Chicken Restaurant – “Dageuro-Ga”
Address: 20 Nonhyeon-ro 153-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Local feel with large portions. Nice old women serving and smiling/laughing at you not doing/eating in the right order or the “correct” food combinations. It is a nice, homey place with good chicken.
Sua Epice (수아에피스)
It is a great spot in Gangnam, perfect for catching the city’s energy while enjoying a meal. Perched on the second floor, the restaurant offers a stylish space with big windows overlooking one of Gangnam’s bustling streets—ideal for people-watching.
They serve Thai cuisine with bold, spicy flavors, and while the food is good, it’s the overall experience that really stands out. Imagine digging into your curry or pad Thai while watching the fashionable Gangnam crowd go by. The vibe is sleek and trendy, and the elevated view adds a fun twist to the meal.
If you love a mix of great ambiance, decent food, and a prime spot to soak in Gangnam’s fast-paced city life, Sua Epice is worth a visit. It’s a cool choice for a relaxed dinner with a side of urban buzz.
Kompakt Record Bar
A small and cozy Kompakt Record Bar (콤팩트 레코드바) in Seoul at 46 Gangnam-gu is known for its unique atmosphere and music selection. The place was opened by Jinmoo, one of the founders of the OG DJ crew 360 Sounds, and that is why the vibes are here all focus on hip hop, jazz, soul, and funk sounds.
The bar (they serve nuts and some small things to your beer) is more about an underground, authentic experience than larger clubs, providing a laid-back environment for those looking to enjoy quality music in a relaxed setting. Its small size and carefully curated playlists make it an ideal spot for music lovers seeking a more personal nightlife experience in Seoul.
Six Night
Six Night (식스나잇) is a trendy bar in Seoul’s Gangnam district, offering a spacious setting, chic vibe, and late-night hours. It’s one of the go-to spots for a night out, but let’s set the expectations straight—it’s not all glitz and glamour.
To start, be prepared to queue. Getting in often means waiting at least 40 minutes, especially on weekends, and by the time you step inside, expectations can run high. The reality? A bit of a letdown. Once you’re in, the system feels chaotic. You drop your coat and bag on the floor—yes, under the bar—and you don’t get to choose where you sit. The staff assigns you a spot, which takes away the usual freedom of picking a cozy corner or prime spot to enjoy the night.
Ordering drinks isn’t easy as we thought either. There’s a strange system involving numbers and queues that can make getting a cocktail feel like a mini-mission. And while the DJ plays a good mix of English pop hits and classics, the energy on the floor is noticeably low. No one’s dancing—everyone’s just sitting, sipping drinks, and, honestly, watching each other. A few groups might be playing billiards, but that’s as lively as it gets.
That said, Six Night does have its perks. The cocktails are well-crafted, and the space itself is stylish, with plush seating and an international crowd. If you’re looking for a place to drink and people-watch rather than a high-energy clubbing experience, it could be fun in its own way.
The bar is open late (until 4 am on weekdays and 6 am on weekends), so it’s a good spot to round out the night. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to skip the long wait and keep your expectations in check—because Six Night is more about the ambiance than the party.
Itaewon-dong: International Vibes
The old American military area, now more international. More pubs and bars branded as gay bars (In Seoul there are a lot of bars not marked on maps as such, but the locals know well where to go). It’s very hilly with some good vistas around.
Itaewon Market
Address: 119 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, SeoulAn interesting spot with funky clothing.
Leeum Museum of Art (리움미술관)
Address: 60-16 Itaewon-ro 55-gil, Yongsan-gu, SeoulDecent for 1-2 hours. Lots of different porcelain and concept art.
Hongdae Area: A Hub of Trendy Consumerism and Sensory Overload
This area is focused on material consumption. Gimmicks, short-lived concept shops – everything and everyone wants your eyeballs here. It’s quite stimulating and tiresome.
short for Hongik University area, is a vibrant district in Seoul known for its youthful energy and focus on material consumption. We observed that it’s a place where “everything and everyone wants your eyeballs.” Gimmicks, short-lived concept shops – everything and everyone wants your eyeballs here. It’s quite stimulating and tiresome. But the surrounding alleys have many smaller shops, cafes, and restaurants. Eat, eat, eat!
The shopping experience can be overwhelming, with some shops selling products that are difficult to categorize. However, there are several noteworthy stores:
- GENTLE MONSTER (젠틀몬스터 홍대 플래그십스토어)
Address: 19 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Known for its avant-garde eyewear and striking store decor - Thisisneverthat (디스이즈네버댓)
Address: 13 Wausan-ro 17-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
A popular Korean streetwear brand - ADER error
Address: 5 Wausan-ro 29-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Another trendy Korean fashion brand known for its unique designs
Hongdae’s shopping scene reflects Seoul’s fast-paced fashion industry, where trends come and go quickly. The area is particularly popular among young people and foreign hipsters seeking the latest in Korean street fashion.
Yeongdeungpo District and Mullae Artist Village
Yeongdeungpo District, located in southwestern Seoul, is known for its mix of commercial and industrial areas. While the Times Square area, centered around a large shopping mall, may not offer much beyond typical retail experiences, the district holds a hidden gem – the Mullae Artist Village.
Mullae Artist Village is a former industrial area that has undergone a gradual transformation, showcasing the transition of Seoul from its industrial past to its creative present. This neighborhood began as a hub for small and medium-sized ironworks in the 1970s and 1980s. However, as the industry declined in the 1990s, young artists from areas like Hongdae and Daehak-ro discovered the inexpensive, vacant spaces and began converting them into studios.
As we observed, the area feels like a work in progress, with places coming and going rapidly. However, some establishments have become fixtures in the neighborhood, serving as anchors for the artistic community. Among these is Old Mullae (올드문래), which seems to have been around for a while and acts as the heart of the area. It’s a good starting point for exploring the village. Other notable spots in the area include:
Old Mullae
Located at 11-4 Dorim-ro 128-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, Old Mullae (올드문래) sits at the heart of this creative neighborhood and is the perfect starting point for exploring. Plan your visit in the afternoon or evening—things don’t really kick off until after 5 PM.
Seoul’s charm is all about contrasts. From sleek, uniform skyscrapers to the character of traditional sites, and from buzzing shopping hubs to peaceful artist enclaves like Mullae, the city offers something unique for travelers ready to venture beyond the beaten path.
Gallery Mullae
In the heart of Mullae-dong, Gallery Mullae (갤러리문래) is a laid-back spot where good food meets local creativity. Housed in a cool industrial-style space with lots of greenery, it’s perfect for relaxing with friends or soaking in the vibe.
The menu keeps it simple and tasty, offering dishes like truffle pasta, wood-fired pizza, and drinks from coffee to craft beer. Plus, live music nights make it more than just a place to eat—it’s a little slice of culture.
A chill hangout in one of Seoul’s most artsy neighborhoods.
Verde Coffee
In the heart of Mullae-dong, Verde Coffee (베르데 문래) is where young Seoulites gather for a laid-back afternoon escape. Housed in a refurbished industrial space, the café blends raw, minimalist design with a warm, welcoming vibe, reflecting the neighborhood’s mix of old factories and creative studios.
As we noted, the best time to visit Mullae Artist Village is in the afternoon or evening, as the area doesn’t really come alive until after 4-5 pm. This timing allows visitors to experience the unique blend of industrial heritage and artistic innovation that defines this evolving neighborhood. The village now houses over 170 artists in about 100 workspaces, covering a wide range of artistic disciplines from visual arts to performing arts. It’s a place where the energy of ironworks craftsmen coexists with the creative urge of artists, creating an exotic atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Reflections on Seoul: Traditions, Modernity, and Unexpected Surprises
Retrospectively, there were, of course, a few surprises and lessons learned about things to do in Seoul and its unique cultural nuances. The society feels like a mix of Japanese and Chinese influences, yet it remains distinctly its own.
There are many couples, and they often hold hands, giving the impression of a very traditional society. However, they are not as extremely polite in public as the Japanese, which adds a different dynamic when exploring where to go in Seoul and interacting with locals.
High-tech habits and gadgets are everywhere, along with large cars reminiscent of those in the US and China. The fashion leans towards uniformity, with black and muted colors being prevalent—something I also remember noticing in Japan. It’s interesting to observe these trends while navigating Seoul’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Unlike Japan, there seems to be less emphasis on preservation, as much of the cities’ older structures have been lost due to development. However, visiting iconic spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace or the traditional Hanok villages reveals glimpses of the city’s rich history amid its modernity.
One surprising and unpleasant discovery while exploring things to do in Seoul was that the young and fashionable crowd is just as adept as others at the habit of clearing their throats and spitting. It’s incredibly off-putting and happens every five minutes while walking—something I never quite got used to. Still, these quirks add to the layered experience of discovering where to go in Seoul and embracing its unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Have you been to Seoul? Share your favorite spots and places. Write to us at hello@localsinsider.com
