8 things to do in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul has emerged in recent times as an in-demand destination. However South Korea’s capital can nonetheless really feel daunting for first-timers, given its dimension — it is one of many world’s greatest and most densely populated cities — and variations in language and tradition.

As anybody who’s already taken a visit to Seoul will guarantee you, there is not any motive to hesitate. Sure, town is large, but in addition straightforward to get round because of intensive public transportation, together with a contemporary subway system (assume spotless automobiles, English signage and heated seats within the winter). And since Seoul is a uncommon place that experiences 4 distinct seasons, you’ll be able to go to when it fits your schedule. (Although we advocate avoiding June to July’s wet monsoon season.) Most significantly, you may really feel extremely protected: The journey insurance coverage firm Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection simply launched a report that ranked Seoul among the many world’s prime 15 most secure cities for leisure journey in 2025.

As a result of there’s a lot to see, eat and do on this South Korean metropolis, we have curated a information to the 8 finest issues to do in Seoul to make sure an unforgettable first journey.

1. Dig into avenue meals

Meals is central to Korean tradition, and one of many best methods to pattern some iconic bites — whereas getting a glimpse into on a regular basis metropolis life — is thru Seoul’s avenue meals markets. This fashion, you’ll be able to pattern an array of things in a single stretch and lower your expenses. Whereas Myeongdong Market is essentially the most well-known, it is perpetually filled with vacationers and errs on the pricier aspect. As an alternative, head to Namdaemun Marketplace for kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and hotteok (stuffed pancakes), Gwangjang Marketplace for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and Jungang Marketplace for tteokbokki (spicy rice muffins).

South Korea can also be famend for its storied consuming tradition with over 1,000 kinds of sool (Korean alcoholic drinks). To study extra, make a reservation at Oul. Positioned within the elegant Four Seasons Hotel Seoul — a part of American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts — this one-of-a-kind consuming vacation spot focuses solely on Korean-made spirits. Head bartender Ike Ryu whips up imaginative cocktails just like the Goosoo Highball, a hauntingly wealthy mix of barley tea soju, toasted rice syrup and seltzer. Fittingly, the anju (snacks consumed with alcohol) are simply as elevated: The lobster tteokbokki arrives effervescent scorching and filled with beneficiant chunks of house-made fish muffins and contemporary seafood.

3. Lease a hanbok

At Gyeongbokgung Palace, the architectural masterpiece that served because the official royal residence through the Joseon dynasty, you may discover individuals wearing hanbok (conventional Korean apparel). Many close by shops hire these colourful two-piece outfits relationship again to the Goryeo Dynasty (918 to 1392) and provide extra providers like make-up, hair styling and picture shoots. The exercise is promoted by the Korea Tourism Organization and inspired by locals as an indication of cultural appreciation, so do not be shy. One other perk? All 5 of Seoul’s royal palaces will waive their admission charges in case you arrive dressed accordingly.

South Korea champions creativity, as evidenced by the worldwide phenomenons of Ok-dramas, Korean movies and Ok-pop. No surprise the Western modern artwork world has its eyes squarely on Seoul. Now, town is house to Asia’s solely Frieze Artwork Honest (debuted in 2022), together with outposts of the world’s most revered galleries, corresponding to New York’s Gladstone Gallery and Berlin’s Konig Galerie. Remember to help Seoul-based establishments as nicely; must-stops embrace Bukchon Hanok Village’s gorgeous new Futura Seoul (unveiled throughout Frieze Seoul 2024), Kukje Gallery and Gana Art.

5. Get scrubbed at a bathhouse

One of many best methods to reset your physique following a long-haul flight or lengthy day of exploration is at a jjimjilbang. These conventional Korean bathhouses, nevertheless, are about greater than getting clear; they’re accessible hubs — entry charges are sometimes below $15 — the place locals join with mates and disconnect from on a regular basis life. (Keep in mind that nudity is required for the same-sex bathing areas.) It is simple to spend hours between the swimming pools, saunas and leisure zones, however find time for seshin, a deeply invigorating full-body scrub that stimulates circulation and leaves pores and skin silky easy. Sparex Goodmorning City is tourist-friendly and open 24 hours a day, however in case you’re craving extra privateness, 4 Seasons Resort Seoul’s Korean sauna and Spa Heum have personal rooms.

6. Refill on Ok-beauty

Seoul is a bona fide buying mecca for magnificence and skincare lovers. To replenish on cult favorites, from Mediheal’s sheet masks to Great thing about Joseon’s face sunscreen, swing by the nation’s premier retailer of inexpensive Ok-beauty, Olive Young. There are many choices to help unbiased manufacturers, too. Take into account reserving a make-your-own-skincare class at Seongsu-dong’s Whipped. Uncover a sublime fragrance nobody else has at Changyong Park’s Written on Water, an enthralling perfume studio in Yeonhui-dong. Clean up the drabbest areas in your house with Soohyang‘s gorgeously scented candles, diffusers and wax tablets.

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Why sleep in a standard lodge when you’ll be able to keep in a hanok, a standard Korean home? That is the pondering behind Rakkojae Seoul, a group of meticulously preserved historic residences outfitted with modern-day comforts. Staying right here is about slowing down and embracing quiet luxurious: Slumber on therapeutic jade ondol flooring; gas up within the morning with a standard breakfast of rice, soup and banchan superbly introduced in brassware; or just bask within the tranquility. Regardless of being within the coronary heart of town, Rakkojae Seoul feels far faraway from town’s crowds and visitors.

8. Soak up sky-high views

Although South Korea’s capital is rewarding from town streets, it is much more memorable from excessive above. Occupying the 76th by one hundred and first flooring of the Lotte World Tower, the world’s sixth-tallest constructing, Signiel Seoul is a lodge in contrast to some other on the town with jaw-dropping fowl’s-eye views of the cityscape, dreamy lodging and splendid touches like Bar 81, the place’ll you discover the nation’s greatest Champagne assortment. (It is also a part of American Categorical Effective Motels + Resorts.) Feeling particularly courageous? Head up just a few flooring to Seoul Sky, which holds a number of data, together with the world’s highest glass-floor observatory and quickest elevator.

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