My dear travellers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the new series of travelogues on the Mr.M blog. During the previous months you had the opportunity to get to know some of the countries of South America, and during November and the following months I will show you the beauties of the countries of the Far East, which make up the heart of Asia. Today I want to share with you one of the most fascinating trips in my life, which is a visit to the capital of South Korea – Seoul. First of all, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism for the support and hospitality they provided me during this trip. Their dedication to promoting sustainable tourism and connecting cultures around the world is an inspiration to all of us who love to explore the world around us. Also, a special thanks to JW Marriott Seoul for the amazing luxury experience and attention to every detail during my stay in Seoul. This travelogue is my dedication to the city that conquered me at first sight and that offers unforgettable experiences to every visitor.
SEOUL: A MEGALOPOLIS THAT RADIATES TRADITION, HISTORY AND MODERN INNOVATIONS
Seoul is the capital of the Republic of Korea and the largest city on the entire Korean peninsula. With a population of approximately 9.6 million in the city itself and over 26 million in the greater metropolitan area, Seoul is one of the most densely populated urban areas in the world. It is interesting that the population density of Seoul exceeds the density of New York almost twice, and Rome even eight times. The city covers an area of about 605 square kilometers, and the Han River cuts it into two parts, north and south, creating a distinctive urban landscape.
The history of Seoul goes back a long way. The city was founded in 18 BC by the people of Baekje, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. During the Joseon Dynasty, which ruled from 1392 to 1910, Seoul officially became the capital and was surrounded by city walls whose remains testify to its rich past even today. The very name “Seoul” actually means “capital” in the Korean language, which perfectly describes the central importance of this city for the Korean nation. The city has survived a dramatic history, including the Japanese occupation in the early 20th century when it was renamed, as well as devastation during the Korean War in the middle of the last century. Despite all the challenges, Seoul has risen from the ashes and transformed into one of the most advanced megalopolises in Asia.
SEOUL: ROYAL PALACES, WINDOWS INTO THE GLORIOUS PAST
No trip to Seoul is complete without a visit to the magnificent royal palaces that bear witness to centuries of Korean civilization. Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most impressive of the five grand palaces. Built over six centuries ago, this UNESCO World Heritage Site delights visitors with its architecture and expansive gardens. The changing of the guard ceremony held in front of the main gate of Gwanghwamun is particularly impressive, providing an authentic insight into royal traditions. I recommend renting traditional Korean Hanbok clothing as this will give you free entry to the palaces and the photos you take will be truly spectacular.
Changdeokgung Palace, also inscribed on the UNESCO list, is famous for its Secret Garden, which is a masterpiece of landscape architecture. This complex shows how Korean kings lived in harmony with nature. Deoksugung Palace, located in the very center of the city next to the City Hall, offers a unique combination of traditional Korean and Western architecture. For those looking to avoid the crowds, Gyeonghuigung Palace is a lesser-known but equally fascinating alternative.
GYEONGBOKGUNG SEOUL: PALACE OF GREAT BLESSINGS
History and Significance
When I first stood in front of the massive gates of Gyeongbokgung, I felt like I had stepped into a time machine. This imposing palace, whose name means “Palace of Great Blessings from Heaven”, was built in 1395 as the main royal residence of the Joseon Dynasty. It was the first palace built in the new capital, after the founder of the dynasty, King Taejo, moved the capital from Kaesong to Seoul (then known as Hanyang).
The palace covers more than 400,000 square meters and once had over 500 buildings, making it the largest complex of the five grand royal palaces in Seoul. During its golden age in the 15th century, during the reign of King Sejong the Great, the palace flourished, it was here that Hunminjeongeum, the Korean script that is still used today, was created.
Turbulent history
The history of Gyeongbokgung was not easy. During the Japanese invasion in 1592, the palace was burned to the ground and remained in ruins for almost 270 years. It wasn’t until 1867 that King Gojong launched a major renovation project, restoring the palace to its former glory. However, the tragedy was repeated at the beginning of the 20th century when the Japanese occupation brought new destruction, more than 90 percent of the buildings were destroyed, and in 1926 the Japanese built the General Governor’s building in the very courtyard of the palace.
Since 1990, the South Korean government has been implementing an ambitious reconstruction program that is due to be completed in 2045. So far, about 90 buildings have been restored, representing approximately 36 percent of the original palace.
What not to miss
Gwanghwamun Gate is a monumental entrance to the palace with three passages that symbolize the king, state officials and the people. The gate has been reconstructed several times, but it is still one of the most recognizable symbols of Seoul.
Geunjeongjeon Hall is the throne room and the heart of the palace. The most important state ceremonies were held here, including the coronations of seven of the twelve kings of the Joseon Dynasty. The hall exudes grandeur with its two-tiered roof and richly decorated interior.
The Gyeonghoeru Pavilion is perhaps the most photogenic place in the entire palace. This rectangular pavilion from 1412 floats over an artificial lake on 48 massive stone pillars. It was used for royal feasts, reception of foreign envoys and state ceremonies. The reflection of the pavilion in the water creates a magical scene, especially in autumn when the leaves change colors.
Hyangwonjeong Pavilion is another beautiful pavilion located on an island on a small lake, connected by a hexagonal wooden bridge. This place served the royal family for rest and meditation.
Changing of the guard
The changing of the guard ceremony takes place every day at 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm and 2 pm (except Tuesdays when the palace is closed). This reconstruction of a traditional ritual from the time of the Joseon Dynasty is a spectacle of colors, sounds and precise movements. Guards in authentic uniforms perform the ceremony accompanied by the sounds of traditional instruments, and visitors are given a unique opportunity to see what life was like at the royal court.
Practical information for visitors
Working hours:
- February-May and September-October: 9:00-18:00
- June-August: 9:00-18:30
- November-January: 9:00-17:00
- Closed on Tuesdays (last entry one hour before closing)
Ticket prices:
- Adults (19-64 years old): 3,000 won (about $2.3)
- Children (ages 7-18): 1,500 won
- Free entry: children under 6 years old, over 65 years old, those wearing hanbok (traditional Korean dress)
- Last Wednesday of the month (Culture Day): free entry for all
Night visits: Twice a year, in spring (May-June) and autumn (September), the palace opens its doors for evening visits from 19:00 to 21:30. Tickets are limited to 3,000 per day and sell out in minutes. 300 tickets are reserved for foreigners, which are sold at the counter on the same day from 6 p.m.
How to get there:
- Subway Line 3: Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5)
- Subway Line 5: Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 2)
Guided tours: Free tours in English are held at 11:00, 13:00 and 15:30.
Tips for visiting
I recommend that you set aside at least 2-3 hours for the tour. The palace is huge and there is a lot to see, so I strongly advise you to make time for this palace. Try to start your visit to the palace early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid heavy crowds. If you want to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early to get a good position.
Renting a hanbok is an amazing experience and provides free entrance to the palace. There are plenty of shops nearby where you can rent these traditional clothes for 10,000-20,000 won ($8-15) for a few hours or the whole day.
CHANGDEOKGUNG SEOUL: PALACE OF BLOOMING VIRTUE
UNESCO World Heritage
Unlike Gyeongbokgung which follows a strict architectural structure, Changdeokgung Palace is built in complete harmony with the natural environment. This fact earned it the prestigious title of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and it is the only one of the five royal palaces in Seoul to receive this recognition.
Historical background
The palace was built in 1405, ten years after Gyeongbokgung, as a secondary royal residence under King Taejong. However, after the Japanese invasion in 1592 destroyed all the palaces in the city, Changdeokgung was the first to be rebuilt in 1610. Because of this, it became the main royal palace and remained so for almost 270 years, until Gyeongbokgung was rebuilt.
Unlike other palaces that were built according to strict rules, Changdeokgung follows the natural relief of the terrain. The complex spans an area of 110 hectares and includes administrative buildings, public halls, royal residences and a spacious Secret Garden.
The main buildings of the palace
Donhwamun Gate is the oldest surviving palace entrance in Seoul, built in 1412. Although it was destroyed during the Japanese invasion, it was rebuilt in 1607 and stands as a unique testament to Korean endurance.
Injeongjeon Hall is a royal palace where state ceremonies were held. Many kings of the Joseon Dynasty were crowned here, including Emperor Sunjeong, the last emperor of the Korean Empire.
The Daejojeon Hall was the queen’s main living space. Tragically, it was in Heungbokkheon, a side building of this hall, that the Japan-Korea treaty was signed in 1910, by which Korea lost its independence.
Secret Garden (Huwon): The hidden gem of Changdeokgung
What makes Changdeokgung really special is the Secret Garden, also known as Huwon or Biwon. This garden occupies almost half of the total area of the palace, over 78 hectares, and is a masterpiece of Korean landscape design.
The garden was originally formed in the 15th century for King Taejong as a private retreat for the royal family. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and nurtured with the aim of remaining as natural as possible. The Korean philosophy of garden design emphasizes harmony between man and nature, and the Secret Garden best exemplifies this.
Buyongji Lake is an artificial lake with the Buyongjeong Pavilion. The pavilion was used for royal studies and as a place where princes were educated. The reflection of the pavilion and the surrounding trees in the calm water creates an image that I will remember forever.
Ongnyucheon Stream was created in 1636 and flows through the northern part of the garden. Along the stream are three pavilions collectively called the “Three Pavilions of the Royal Forest” – Soyojeong, Taegeukjeong and Cheonguijeong. This area was closed to the public until 2004 to protect the environment.
Yeongyeongdang is a unique building that combines traditional Korean architecture with elements of an ordinary village home. King Sunjo built it to experience a simpler way of life.
To walk through the Secret Garden is to find peace and tranquility. Trees more than 300 years old, quiet ponds, beautifully spaced pavilions and paths that wind through the natural terrain create an experience that takes you back in time. Autumn is especially spectacular when the leaves change colors to shades of red, orange and yellow.
Practical information
Opening hours of the palace:
- February-May and September-October: 9:00-18:00
- June-August: 9:00-18:30
- November-January: 9:00-17:30
- Closed on Mondays (last entry one hour before closing)
Opening hours of the Secret Garden:
- March-October: 10:00-17:00
- February: 10:00-16:40
- Visit only with a guided tour that lasts about 90 minutes
Ticket prices:
- Palace: 3,000 won for adults, 1,500 won for children
- Secret Garden: Additional 5,000 won for adults, 2,500 won for children
- Combined ticket for all palaces (valid for 3 months): 10,000 won
Secret Garden Tours in English:
- December-February: 10:30, 11:30, 14:30
- March-November: 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
Important: Only 100 tickets are sold for the Secret Garden per time slot (50 online, 50 on-site). Online reservations can be made 6 days in advance on the official website. As they sell out quickly, I recommend you buy your ticket in the morning as soon as you arrive at the palace or book online.
How to get there:
- Metro Line 3: Anguk Station (Exit 3) – 6 minutes walk
- Subway Line 1: Jongno 3rd Station (Exit 7) – 10-15 minute walk
Tips for visiting
You need about an hour to tour the main part of the palace and an additional 90 minutes for the Secret Garden. Make sure to get here early in the morning, especially if you want to buy Secret Garden tickets on the spot. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking uphill to the garden and believe me you have a lot of walking to do, you need extremely comfortable shoes and keep in mind that the terrain here is gravelly and dusty.
Free tours in English of the palace are held at 10:15am and 1:15pm, while Secret Garden tours are mandatory and sold by time slot. Be sure to respect the time stated on the ticket, because if you are late you cannot enter.
THE BOTANICAL GARDEN: THE GREEN OASIS OF THE MODERN CITY
After a historic journey through the royal palaces, a visit to the Seoul Botanical Garden offers the perfect contrast, a modern haven where plants from around the world meet.
About the botanical garden
The Seoul Botanic Garden (Seoul Botanic Park) opened in May 2019 in the Magok district, as the first project in the city to combine a botanical garden and a public park. It covers an area equivalent to 70 football fields and is part of the city’s initiative to expand green spaces in Seoul.
The complex is divided into four zones: Open Forest, Themed Garden with a greenhouse, Lake Garden and Wetland Garden.
The Glass Garden: A Tropical Paradise
The central part of the botanical garden is a huge greenhouse divided into two zones, tropical and Mediterranean. The architecture of the greenhouse itself is a stunning, modern construction that blends perfectly with its surroundings.
When I entered the tropical zone, I felt like I had stepped into a jungle. Artificial rocks, a waterfall, staghorn ferns from Australia that grow upside down in an artificial cave, a bodhi tree (the type of tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment), a huge baobab tree, all this creates an atmosphere of exotic places. There are over 3,000 different types of plants from 12 cities around the world, from Barcelona to San Francisco to Jakarta and Bogota.
The Mediterranean zone is brighter with plants adapted to dry climates such as olives, lavender, rosemary and various types of cactuses.
Outside gardens
The theme garden includes eight different gardens that represent traditional Korean gardening. Here you can see plants that were once common in Korea but are now rare, as well as seasonal gardens that change their appearance throughout the year.
The lake garden provides a peaceful atmosphere with tall grasses and sedges swaying in the wind. The blue lake in the center attracts birds and creates a perfect resting place.
The wetland garden is designed to preserve the wetland ecosystem and provide a habitat for various species of birds and aquatic plants.
Practical information
Working hours:
- Glass Garden and Theme Gardens:
- March-October: 9:30-18:00 (last entry 17:00)
- November-February: 9:30-17:00 (last entry 16:00)
- Closed on Mondays
Open forest, lake and wetland garden: open 24 hours, all year round
Ticket prices (only for the greenhouse and theme gardens):
- Adults: 5,000 won
- Youth (13-18): 3,000 won
- Children (6-12): 2,000 won
- Free entry: children under 6 years old, over 65 years old
How to get there:
- Metro Line 9: Magongnaru Station (Exit 3 or 4)
- 10 minutes from Gimpo Airport, 40 minutes from Incheon International Airport
Additional benefits: The botanical garden offers stroller and wheelchair rentals, several restaurants and cafes, a plant shop, educational programs for children and adults.
Tips for visiting
You need about 2-3 hours to visit the whole garden. The Glass Garden can be toured in 20-30 minutes, but I recommend allowing more time for the outdoor gardens. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal times to visit when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant.
Bring coffee or drinks (allowed), but not the food in greenhouse area. The outdoor gardens are perfect for a picnic, so you can bring a snack and enjoy nature.
Visiting the Royal Palaces and Seoul Botanical Garden is not just a tourist attraction, it is a journey through Korean history, culture and philosophy. Each palace tells its own story, each stone remembers centuries, each garden reflects the Korean world view.
From the monumental Gyeongbokgung that exudes power and majesty, to the natural and serene Changdeokgung with its hidden garden, to the contemporary botanical garden that connects Seoul to the rest of the world, these destinations give you a complete experience to remember.
Don’t rush, let yourself get to know each place through their story. Rent a hanbok, join a guided tour, talk to the locals. Seoul is a city that cannot be understood in passing, it simply has to be felt, lived, enjoyed in the moment in order to get to know the city in the best possible way.
Korea is a country of contrasts where antiquity and modernity meet at every turn. Nowhere is this more evident than when you stand in the hall of the 600-year-old palace and watch the glass and steel skyscrapers rise behind the traditional roofs. That mix makes Seoul unique, fascinating and unforgettable.
Whether you’re a lover of history, nature, architecture, or simply looking for a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Seoul Royal Palace and Botanical Garden will have something for you. They preserve the soul of Korea and invite you to discover it.
SEOUL: TRADITIONAL VILLAGES AND AUTHENTIC KOREAN ATMOSPHERE
Bukchon Hanok Village provides a unique insight into the traditional Korean way of life. Located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces, this village preserves hundreds of traditional Korean houses known as hanok. Walking through the narrow streets of this neighborhood feels like traveling through time. Many of these houses have been converted into cultural centers, guesthouses and teahouses where you can experience Korean traditions first hand. Namsangol Hanok Village and Ikseon-dong Square also offer an authentic experience, but with less tourists and more local atmosphere.
N SEOUL TOWER: A BREATHTAKING VIEW
N Seoul Tower, better known as Namsan Tower, is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. Located on top of Namsan Mountain at an altitude of 480 meters above sea level, the tower offers a panoramic view of the entire city. I recommend taking the cable car about an hour before sunset to experience the city’s magical transformation from daytime glow to nighttime glitter of millions of lights. The walls of the tower are covered with love padlocks that couples leave as a symbol of eternal love, creating a romantic atmosphere. Namsan Park itself offers numerous walking and cycling trails, and admission is free.
GANGNAM: SYNONYM FOR MODERN KOREA
The district of Gangnam, whose name means “south of the river” in Korean, became globally famous thanks to the famous song, but this part of the city offers much more than a pop culture phenomenon. Gangnam is the financial and business heart of Seoul with impressive skyscrapers, luxury boutiques and cutting-edge restaurants. Tehran Street, named after the Iranian capital when Seoul and Tehran became sister cities, is a hub of information technology and innovation. The COEX complex with its famous Starfield library and aquarium deserves a special visit. COEX Aquarium is the largest in Korea and covers over 1,300 square meters, offering over 90 different aquariums with themed sections.
The Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Seoul, offers an observation deck, art gallery, concert hall and luxury shopping all in one place. For fun lovers, the Lotte World amusement park is one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. The Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae), which served as the residence of the President of South Korea, opened to the public in 2022 for the first time in 74 years, making it one of the newest and most exciting visitor attractions.
SEOUL AS A GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY: FLAVORS THAT CONQUER
Korean cuisine is one of the most exciting gastronomic experiences I’ve had. Kimchi, fermented cabbage with spices, is served with almost every meal and is considered the national dish. There are over a hundred different types of kimchi, from traditional cabbage to radish and scallion. Bibimbap, which literally means “mixed rice”, is a cult dish consisting of warm rice with various vegetables, meat, egg and spicy gochujang paste. Be sure to stir it before consuming, it’s part of the ritual! Jeonju Yuhalmeoni Restaurant in Myeongdong, known as “Grandma’s Kitchen”, has been serving authentic Joseon Dynasty bibimbap for forty years.
Korean barbecue, known as gogi-gui, is an unmissable experience. Bulgogi, thin slices of marinated meat, and samgyeopsal, pork bacon grilled on the table in front of you with numerous side dishes, form the heart of Korean barbecue culture. Each meal is accompanied by a series of small dishes known as banchan which are always complimentary and refillable. Naengmyeon, a cold noodle originating from Pyongyang, is especially refreshing during the hot summer months. For an authentic street food experience, visit Gwangjang Market where you can try everything from bindaetteok (bean pancakes) to tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).
Namdaemun Market, the oldest and largest traditional market in Korea, offers a veritable sea of flavors and aromas. Gimbap, a Korean version of sushi with rice and various side dishes wrapped in seaweed, is the perfect snack for a walk. Research by the Korea Tourism Organization shows that food has become one of the main motives for visiting Korea, with as many as 20% of potential tourists citing a gastronomic experience as the primary reason for traveling.
K-BEAUTY STANDARDS OF BEAUTY: A REVOLUTION IN THE WORLD OF BEAUTY
Seoul is rightfully considered the beauty capital of the world. The Korean cosmetics industry, known as K-Beauty, has transformed global skin care standards and occupies a leading position in the world market. The roots of Korean cosmetics go back to the Three Kingdoms period more than a thousand years ago, when women used natural ingredients like honey and rice water to achieve a glowing complexion. Today, Korea leads innovation with products like face masks, essences, snail slime serums and the latest treatments based on salmon polynucleotides.
The concept of “glass skin” of glowing, transparent and impeccably hydrated skin has become a global phenomenon thanks to the Korean approach that puts skin care before makeup. A typical Korean skincare routine can include up to ten steps, from double cleansing to multi-layered hydration. What particularly fascinates me is the affordability of these products, while the best quality face masks cost only a few hundred dinars, and quality creams and serums are available at prices that are often half as low as in Europe or America.
The Olive Young store in Myeongdong is a paradise for cosmetics lovers. On several floors, you can find thousands of products, from viral masks to dermatologically tested acne treatments. The Sulwhasoo brand offers luxury products based on traditional Korean medicine hanbang, while more modern brands like COSRX and Some By Mi offer effective solutions at affordable prices. During my stay, I bought a number of products for myself and as gifts for my loved ones, and the quality is really exceptional.
SEOUL: THE CAPITAL OF AESTHETIC SURGERY
South Korea is the global leader in the field of cosmetic surgery according to available statistics, this country performs as much as 25% of all cosmetic interventions in the world. Seoul has the most plastic surgeons per capita on the planet, twice as many as the US and 150% more than Brazil. Gangnam’s Apgujeong district is known as “Plastic Surgery Street” with hundreds of clinics specializing in various procedures. According to research, every third woman and fifth man between the ages of 20 and 35 has undergone some form of aesthetic intervention.
Beauty ideals in Korea include a porcelain complexion, large round eyes with so-called “double eyelids” and a V-line jaw. The most common procedures include blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), rhinoplasty (nose correction) and jaw contouring. What attracts international patients is the combination of superior technology, experienced surgeons and significantly lower prices. A rhinoplasty that costs over seven thousand dollars in New York can cost around four thousand in Seoul. Botox on the forehead that costs over $400 in America can cost as little as $30 here. Annually, more than 200,000 foreign tourists visit South Korea for medical tourism.
Korea is also leading the way in non-invasive treatments such as laser treatments, microneedling with radio frequency energy and treatments such as Rejuran which uses polynucleotides from salmon to regenerate the skin. Clinics offer packages with several treatments at discounted prices, which leads many visitors to combine a vacation with an aesthetic beautification. Of course, it is important to emphasize that any surgical intervention carries risks and that careful research is necessary before making decisions for any type of treatment or surgical procedure.
SEOUL: GETTING AROUND THE CITY EFFICIENTLY
Seoul’s subway system is regularly rated as one of the best in the world. With 23 lines and 768 stations, the network covers practically every part of the city. Trains run from about 5:30 a.m. to midnight, and stations are equipped with signs in Korean, English, and Chinese. The basic price of the ride is 1,400 won (about one euro), and the system works on the principle of distance. Buy a T-Money card at any store or metro station and you can use it to pay for the metro, buses, taxis and even make purchases in stores.
Naver Maps and KakaoMetro apps are indispensable for navigation as Google Maps has limited functionality in Korea. The metro system is extremely clean and safe, for all this time of use I have not experienced a single unpleasant incident. Avoid rush hours between 6:30am and 9am and between 4:30pm and 7pm when crowds can be intense. The bus system is color-coded: blue buses connect different parts of the city, green ones connect metro stations with residential areas, and red ones represent express lines to the suburbs.
JW MARRIOTT HOTEL SEOUL: MY LUXURY SANCTUARY IN THE CAPITAL OF SOUTH KOREA
My stay in Seoul was enriched by an exceptional experience at the JW Marriott Seoul Hotel, located in the heart of the prestigious Gangnam district. This 5-star hotel, which has been a symbol of luxury since its opening in 2000, underwent a thorough renovation in 2018 that perfectly combined modern aesthetics with timeless elegance. With 376 rooms, including 32 suites and two exclusive penthouses, the hotel offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the Han River.
During my stay, I enjoyed their One Bedroom Suite, which really exceeded all my expectations. The spacious interior with dark gray tones and wooden accents exudes sophistication, while polished marble floors create a striking first impression. The living room is equipped with a comfortable chair next to the window that turns into a chaise longue ideal for enjoying the view of the city with your morning coffee or evening glass of wine. The elegant dining nook is perfect for in-room dining or working on your laptop.
I especially appreciated the access to the exclusive guest lounge (Executive Lounge) which offers an impeccable breakfast with healthy options, as well as evening snacks with cocktails. A three-story fitness center, indoor pool, and jimjilbang Korean spa are available to all guests. The hotel’s location is perfect, direct connections to the subway station, bus terminal and Shinsegae department store make exploring the city incredibly easy. The staff was extremely friendly and professional, always ready to help with any request. I am grateful to JW Marriott Seoul team for the unforgettable hospitality that made my stay in this fascinating city even more special. In the next post, you will have the opportunity to read my detailed review of this hotel, so you will have the opportunity to learn more details and information about this exceptional hotel.
SEOUL: PRACTICAL TIPS FOR TRAVELERS
For the best experience of getting to know Seoul, I recommend a stay of five to seven days. This period allows visiting key attractions, tasting traditional food, exploring nightlife and a possible day trip to the demilitarized zone on the border with North Korea (due to a change in the travel program, we did not have time to visit). Bukhansan National Park, located just outside the city, offers spectacular hiking trails and views of Seoul from above. The warmest weather is from June to August, while spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant conditions for touring.
The Cheonggyecheon stream, which runs through the center of the city, is an oasis of calm amidst the urban chaos. Once covered by an overpass, today it has been revitalized into a green path decorated with art installations and lighting. I recommend an evening walk along the stream that takes you from Myeongdong to Gwangjang Market. For tech lovers, the Yongsan district offers electronics at bargain prices, while Hongdae is a hub of youth culture, nightlife and the independent art scene.
The Korean exchange rate is favorable for European tourists, and card payments are widely accepted. However, I recommend having some cash for the smaller shops and markets. Etiquette in Korea includes removing shoes when entering traditional restaurants and homes, speaking quietly on public transportation, and accepting and giving things with both hands as a sign of respect. Koreans are extremely hospitable and will help you even if you don’t speak the language, translation apps like Papago or Google translate can be very helpful.
SEOUL: K-POP AND CULTURAL PHENOMENA
It’s impossible to talk about Seoul without mentioning the K-pop phenomenon that has transformed the global music industry. The Hongdae district is the epicenter of youth culture with independent musicians, street performances and clubs open until the early hours of the morning. HiKR Ground, an interactive center dedicated to K-pop culture and media art, opened in 2022 and offers a unique experience for fans of Korean popular culture. Many visitors come to Seoul precisely for the concerts of their favorite groups and the opportunity to visit the agencies that have launched global stars.
Korean culture goes far beyond music, the traditional teahouses of Insadong offer a peaceful and meditative experience, while the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple provides insight into the spiritual side of Korean society. Art can be experienced at the National Museum of Korea, which is among the ten largest museum complexes in the world with over 200,000 exhibits. For contemporary art, Samsung’s Leeum Museum offers an exceptional collection. Hanbok, traditional Korean clothing, is experiencing a renaissance, with many young Koreans wearing modernized versions in everyday life, not just for special occasions.
WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT SEOUL?
Seoul is a city that successfully balances between respecting tradition, as well as adopting and applying innovation. From the magnificent palaces that bear witness to the glorious past, to the bustling street markets full of tastes and smells, to the futuristic skyscrapers and luxury shopping malls that define the skyline, every corner of this city tells its own story. I felt Korean hospitality, known as jeong, at every step, even from small signs of attention and kindness in the subway to exceptional care in a luxury hotel.
On this occasion, I would once again like to thank the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism, whose support made this unforgettable trip through Asia possible. Their work to promote sustainable and responsible tourism is the foundation for preserving the cultural heritage of destinations like Seoul for future generations. Also, my heartfelt thanks to the JW Marriott Seoul Hotel team for their impeccable hospitality, luxury and attention that made my stay truly exceptional. This city has left a deep mark on me and I will surely return to continue exploring its endless wonders.
Have you already had the opportunity to visit Seoul, this unique city that lives in the rhythm of K-culture, royal palaces and modern harmony? Or maybe you are just planning to discover the magic of Seoul, its colorful districts, markets, world music scene and distinctive skyscrapers that leave no one indifferent?
Feel free to leave your impressions, comments or questions below the text, or contact me via email and social networks. All information is available on the CONTACT page.
See you soon, with a new story from the heart of the Far East!
With Love from Seoul,
Mr.M
This post is sponsored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and JW Marriott Seoul Hotel, as well as other local partners who selflessly supported this project. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.