Top 17 Best Places to Visit in Seoul
The capital of South Korea, Seoul, is one of the world's most developed, beautiful, and interesting megacities. It is also a popular travel destination. In ... read more...Seoul, there are lots of fun places to go and sites to view. This city offers it all, including a unique and fascinating culture, delicious food, incredible shopping, and exciting entertainment opportunities. It is a safe and accessible location in Asia because it is also highly hospitable and used to tourists. You'll enjoy an entertaining and hectic trip to Seoul because of all the attractions that the city has to offer. This article has compiled a list of the best places to visit in Seoul, which range from natural treasures to coffee shops.
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Gyeongbukgung Palace is the best place to get those picture-perfect panoramas of Seoul. A must-see in Seoul is the Gyeongbokgung Palace, which is frequently compared to Beijing's Forbidden City. It was the primary royal palace of the Joseon family, who controlled Korea for hundreds of years, and it was constructed in 1395. There are five royal palaces in Seoul, but this one attracts the most tourists wearing hanbok and searching for the ideal shot. Explore the grounds to view the historical landmarks, the manicured landscaping, and the cultural displays and performances.
Imperial Japan largely damaged the palace in the early 20th century, but it has since undergone painstaking restoration. It is today regarded as one of the most stunning palaces in the entire world, making it one of the top Seoul tourist attractions. The cherry blossom-lined Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and pond, the recently refurbished Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, the royal exhibition rooms, or the numerous traditional chambers dispersed around the palace grounds are just a few of the lovely locations to take pictures in this palace.
Watch the guards change outside the front gates about 10 or 2 in the afternoon. Another location that is fantastic to explore year-round. Visit this palace in early April to witness the cherry blossoms or late October to see the fall foliage if you wish to wear hanbok and experience the best of Korean nature. either walk from Gwanghwamun Station or take the metro to Gyeongbokgung Station.Location: Seoul JONGNOGU 161
Phone: +82 2-3700-3900
Opening hours: 9 am - 7:30 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 10693 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: www.royalpalace.go.kr
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The Seoul women are gorgeous. This is the reason they always look stunning in their clothing and makeup. There are more cosmetic shops and brands than you can imagine in the entire retail district of Myeongdong. You can thus discover the appropriate goods in this category regardless of the type of skin you have or the makeup style you choose. If you enjoy shopping for cosmetics, include a trip to Seoul's cosmetic district - Myeongdong - on your list of things to do. Korea creates unique skincare products that are hardly ever found anywhere else in the world, ranging from hydrating face packs to conditioning lotions.
Keep your eyes open and take advantage of the many special discounts and deals that are constantly available in this region, which is the most well-known shopping district in Seoul. Many stores also provide free samples, so don't be hesitant to test a product you've never heard of! The best goods from Korean companies like Innisfree and Nature Republic are sold across the city, but particularly in Myeongdong, a famous shopping district. Leave the boys at home because this trip is primarily for the ladies and go with your closest friends instead.
Try out free samples, take advantage of large savings on group packs, and stock up on enough cosmetics for a year—all for a reasonable cost. In Myeongdong, ARITAUM is one of the best options for shoppers on a tight budget. It can be considered as one of the Best Places to Visit in Seoul.
Location: Seoul Jung-gu
Phone: unknown
Opening hours: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 10376 Tripadvisor reviewsWebsite: www.mdsd.or.kr
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Visitors to Seoul should not pass up the chance to see Changdeokgung Palace's Secret Garden, which is incredibly beautiful. This expansive garden area is hidden at the back of the castle and has intricately designed pagodas, ponds, and other amenities suited for a prince or princess. Numerous temples, pavilions, ponds, and unusual plants and animals can be found in Huwon, a sizable "hidden garden" of natural beauty behind Changdeokgung Palace. It is an exceptional illustration of a Korean garden design that harmoniously blends with the surrounding landscape. The excellent design has been tailored to the ridges, geology, and geography of Mount Bugaksan. This garden can be seen as one of the Best Places to Visit in Seoul.
One of Seoul's most picturesque locations, The Secret Garden is also one of the least frequented. This isn't because it's unpopular; on the contrary. For centuries, only members of the royal family were permitted access to this palace garden, and only a few tour groups are permitted daily. To reserve your tour, arrive early. You can enter Changdeokgung Palace for free if you are dressed in hanbok (and look stunning).
The Secret Garden can be visited at any time. View cherry blossoms in the spring, a plethora of wildlife in the summer, crunchy fall leaves in the fall, and frozen, white ponds in the winter. Go to Anguk Station on the subway, then turn left to travel to Changdeokgung Palace. You must schedule a guided tour in order to enter the Secret Garden. Book as soon as you arrive because tours tend to sell out quickly.
Address: 99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03072, South Korea
Phone: +82 2-762-8261
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 4634 Tripadvisor reviewsWebsite: http://www.cdg.go.kr/default.jsp
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A museum called the War Memorial of Korea is situated in Seoul, South Korea's Yongsan-dong neighborhood. In order to preserve and commemorate Korea's military history, it opened in 1994 on the location of the former army headquarters. It was created in anticipation of the hoped-for peaceful unification of North and South Korea as well as to prevent future wars by learning from the Korean War.
This location, which has six exhibition halls and an outside area for war machines that are too large to fit inside, is crowded. In actuality, the Korean War Memorial, situated on the grounds of the former army headquarters of Korea, contains more than 13,000 items of military hardware and memorabilia. This isn't the kind of museum where you just stand back and look; instead, the emphasis is on the Korean and Vietnam wars. To help visitors understand what the conflicts were actually like, the exhibits are made to be touched and felt.
Make sure you set aside a few hours because there is a lot to see at the War Memorial of Korea. The Combat Experience Room is especially fascinating since it immerses you in the sights, sounds, and scents of the battlefield via audiovisual effects. If you're interested in this kind of equipment, you'll have a great time examining the lines of tanks and heavy artillery that are set up in the outback.Address: 29, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04353 South Korea
Phone: +82 2-709-3139
Opening hours: 9:30 am - 6 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 4290 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: www.warmemo.or.kr
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Every culture is unique, and it can be fascinating to see firsthand how different one country might be from another. The NANTA Theater is the ideal location to acquire a fresh perspective on South Korea's contemporary culture. The Nanta Theater is Korea's first and only dedicated location for Nanta performances, which are humorous non-verbal plays set in a kitchen and centered on the beat of the samulnori (traditional Korean percussion quartet). It might seem a little odd, but it's a great opportunity to experience another side of Seoul while on a backpacking trip.
Check out the schedule before you travel to the city because this theater hosts performances frequently. Once there, simply take in the comedic performance with a gastronomic theme that combines acrobatics with rhythmic music. You most likely haven't seen anything like it before and won't again!
Nanta was the first long-running Korean show on Broadway in New York City and a smash hit at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in the UK. The performances are currently being held in three upscale theaters in Seoul with specialized lighting and sound systems to maximize audience impact because they have been so popular. Every year, 380,000 tourists from other countries travel to Nanta Theater.Address: Seoul 26, Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Myeongdong NANTA Theater, 3F, Unesco Bldg.
Phone: +82 2-739-8288
Opening hours: 11:00 - 00:30
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 1879 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: www.nanta.co.kr
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Seoul frequently breaks world records, which has an impact on the things people make and the things they like. With 6.6 million annual visitors, Everland Resort in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, south of Seoul, is a sizable theme park, zoo, and water park. The park was inaugurated in 1976 and is run by the Samsung Group. South Korea's largest outdoor theme park, Everland, comprises five zones with various rides and activities. Expect some thrills—this includes the steepest wooden roller coaster in the world and the only safari in South Korea.
The five distinct theme zones that make up Everland are Global Fair, American Adventure, Magic Land, European Adventure, and Zootopia. There are many rides available at Everland. The first wooden roller coaster in Korea, T-Express, is among the most well-known. The 15,000m2 Zootopia exhibit in Everland, which has 2,000 animals representing 201 species, is yet another must-see sight. Riding on the bus, which occasionally transforms into a boat to cross the river, visitors may observe the animals in comfort. The thrill of feeding animals up close is added to the experience.
Each visit to Everland is unique and enjoyable thanks to the several themed festivals held there throughout the year, such as the Snow Festival, Winter Wonderland, Tulip Festival, Rose Festival, Summer Splash, Halloween Festival, and Romantic Illumination.
There is a lot to do, and you'll need the entire day to get it all done, so get there early. Make sure you ride the highest wooden roller coaster in the world if you enjoy them, and be ready to scream your lungs out the entire way!
Address: 199, Everland-ro, Pogok-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do 17023 South Korea
Phone: +82 31-320-8346
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 1812 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.everland.com/ -
You could find Seoul to be overwhelming at times while you're there. It doesn't matter, though, because the best hiking in Seoul can be found in Bukhansan National Park, which is located just outside the city center. Northeastern South Korea is where Bukhansan National Park is situated. The size of the national park is 30.86 square miles (79.92 sq km).
The cultural experience present in Bukhansan includes temples. The granite summits that make up the park are encircled by forested areas. Although Baekundae is the highest summit at 2,744 feet (836.5 m), the entire region is pretty amazing. The Bukhansanseong Fortress, which was built in the 1700s, is one of the park's key attractions. There are additional temples and historical features in addition to the fortress. Although they are no longer in use, these temples once housed monks and now serve as examples of historically significant architecture.
Although the national park is not well recognized for its fauna, there is some. The park is home to water deer, wild boar, and several smaller creatures including chipmunks and squirrels. The abundance of different bird species, which makes this a popular location for birdwatchers, is more noticeable. There are several species of songbirds, predator species, and woodpeckers.The Bukhansan National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities in addition to stunning mountain views and a verdant forest. Hiking is the main activity that draws visitors to Bukhansan National Park. You can choose a trail here that is appropriate for your skill level, whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner.
Address: Gyeonggi-do Deogyang-gu, Goyang-si 161-69 Bukhansan-ro 618beon-gil
Phone: +82 2-909-0497
Opening hours: unknown
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 1102 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.knps.or.kr/front/portal/visit/visitCourseMain.do?parkId=121500&menuNo=7020092
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The main temple of the Korean Buddhist Jogye Order is called Jogyesa (Jogye Temple). The structure was constructed in the late 14th century, and in 1936 it was named the main temple of the order. As a result, it is crucial to how Seon Buddhism is practiced in South Korea today. The temple was initially built in 1395 at the start of the Joseon Dynasty; the current structure was built in 1910 and was first known as "Gakhwangsa." During the Japanese occupation, the name was changed to "Taegosa," and in 1954, it was altered again to its current form.
To truly comprehend a culture, there is sometimes nothing like seeing a temple that is still in operation today. And one of the greatest spots to go in the city to learn more about the locals is this temple right in the center of Seoul's high-rise sector. Due to the constant influx of locals and visitors, this Zen Buddhist temple is both an exciting and fascinating site to people-watch and spend some quality time.
Spend some time simply observing the folks as they go about their daily lives. After finishing, look around the compound. A guide who can tour you around and explain each statue in detail is another option. It appears that the trees in this location are over 500 years old, and to further enhance their outstanding appearance, brightly colored banners and streamers have been attached to them. This makes Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple one of the best places to visit in Seoul, even only for a moment of quiet reflection.Address: 45 Gyeonji-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 110-170 South Korea
Phone: +82 2-768-8600
Opening hours: unknown
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 1021 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.jogyesa.kr/
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Seokchon Lake's sparkling waters and the tree-lined walkways that circle this figure-of-eight pond make this the ideal location for a quick afternoon stroll. As you go around, you'll also notice Lotte World Tower and the incredibly Disney-like Lotte World Magic Island. This can be seen as one of the Best Places to Visit in Seoul.
A must-see location when visiting Seoul is the spectacular Lotte World Tower, a marvel of human design and engineering. Views of Seokchon Lake and the all of Seoul may be had from the sixth-tallest structure in the world. You feel brave? From Seoul Sky Observatory, see through the glass floor. If that isn't spooky enough, take the Sky Bridge Tour to the top of the tower, which is 541 meters high.
Simply enjoy the amusement park with your children or friends. Lotte World has some of the best rides and attractions you'll ever experience, so spending a full day here is well worth it. For the most fun and excitement, be sure to try the Desperados game, Dragons Wild Shooting, and Comet Express rollercoaster! It's undoubtedly a must-see in Seoul, if only to relive your childhood. Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid standing in line.
Plan a fun-filled day at the Lotte World Tower, Seoul Sky, Lotte World Aquarium, and indoor theme park Lotte World Adventure. With the Songpa L Pass, you can visit all of these locations without paying admission and save $50. Millions of people flock to Seokchon Lake in early April to take a stroll along the wooded lake paths, making it one of the best sites to watch cherry blossoms. Weekends are ideal for going to watch shows and food trucks, particularly in the summer. To get to Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake, take the metro to Jamsil Station and exit by Exit 2.
Address: KR Seoul 8F, Lotte DFS World Mall, 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
Phone: +82 1577-0371
Opening hours: 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 821 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://kr.delvaux.com/en/boutiques/delvaux-lotte-avenuel-world-tower
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In Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea, there is a museum and a former prison called Seodaemun Prison History Hall. Its previous name during the early years of Japanese colonialism was Keijo Prison. Seodaemun Prison became its new name in 1923, and it thereafter went by a number of additional titles. This prison, built in 1908, housed Korean insurrectionists who battled Japan's invasion and occupation.
Before Seodaemun Prison History Hall was built, the nation had almost no prison system, and this place came to represent the Korean people's resolve to achieve their freedom no matter the cost. This place is a somber reminder of the darker side of humanity, as many Korean patriots perished while being held here, were tortured there, or were put to death. As a memorial to people who contributed to the creation of the contemporary Korean country, it stands out among Seoul's other historic locations.
This is not a great Seoul location to visit. It is a harsh and even ugly example of Seoul's past and was rehabilitated in 1995 after being classified as a historic landmark in 1988. You may find chillingly replicated torture rooms, jail cells, isolation cells, and more all across the restored prison-turned-museum. The basement cells used for the women's section, which offered no privacy, have been preserved. Famous Korean patriot effigies and shockingly lifelike mannequins of those who perished in the prison can be found in some of the torture cells.Address: 484 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03628 South Korea
Phone: +82 2-360-8590
Opening hours: unknown
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 388 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://www.sscmc.or.kr/culture2/foreign/eng/eng01.html
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In Seoul, South Korea, there is a small abandoned theme park with a quieted carousel, bleached-out pictures of '80s pop stars, and 'dodgem' automobiles that have long since stopped dodging. However, this amusement park invites visitors to participate in its slow demise, unlike the majority of inactive amusement parks.
Since its construction in 1980, Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park has operated successfully as a modest family-friendly entertainment park. By 2011, fashions had changed, and the establishment shuttered as business dwindled. Despite rumors of a few ghosts, its demise was probably mainly a matter of business when many, much larger and better situated theme parks were built, luring the thrill-seekers away.
The old Yongma Land is once again open thanks to a savvy local businessman, but this time to enjoy its sad charm of deterioration. Visitors are free to roam the old rides without having to hop over fences for a nominal fee of 10,000 won per adult (about $9; somewhat more for professionals) and 5,000 won per youngster. Additionally, for 30,000 won, the proprietor would turn on the eerie merry-go-lights round's for you after 8:00 night.
A number of K-pop videos, most notably Crayon Pop's "Bar Bar Bar" video, and other photo shoots have been inspired by the fading colors and disorganized figures, which have also proven to be appealing to musicians and other artists. Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park is still enough carney charm to enthrall even inexperienced photographers with stacks of dodgem (or bumper) cars, a decaying octopus ride, a Viking ship, and a dislocated roller coaster with a clown motif. It is considered as one of the Best Places to Visit in Seoul.
Address: 118, Mangu-ro 70-gil, Jungnang-gu, Seoul 02180 South Korea
Phone: +82 10-8792-6865
Opening hours: unknown
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 20 Tripadvisor reviews
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065498379225
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They don't get much more "top" than this if you're seeking for the best location to visit in Seoul. The N Seoul Tower, sometimes referred to as Namsan Tower or Seoul Tower, is a communication and observation tower situated on Nam Mountain in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. Its official name is the YTN Seoul Tower. The second-highest point in Seoul is the 236 m (774 ft) tower. On Mount Namsan, the N Seoul Tower is the most recognizable landmark in Seoul and has been since its completion in 1980. This can be seen as one of the Best Places to Visit in Seoul.
The N Seoul Tower, the first general radio wave tower in South Korea, was constructed in 1969 and provides TV and radio broadcasts throughout Seoul. Despite being a communication and observation tower, it has evolved over the past few years into one of the most significant and recognizable landmarks in the city. The tower currently transmits signals for Korean television networks like KBS, MBC, and SBS.
Visit the summit to take in the scenery. This tower provides the ideal location in the city to accomplish just that. Sometimes, the best way to see a city is to see it far above and at a distance so you can get a sense of the scale. After that, visit the cultural center to catch a movie or an exhibit, or simply reserve a seat at one of the chic eateries and savor a delectable dinner. On a transit tour of Seoul from the airport, if you're passing through Seoul, you'll view this (but not climb). The cost to climb the tower varies depending on the visitor's age, gender, and whether they are an adult or child. Rates vary depending on the package and group size.Location: Seoul YONGSANGU 105
Phone: +82 2-3455-9277
Opening hours: 10 am - 11 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 9.482 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://www.nseoultower.co.kr/eng/
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The famed Bukchon Hanok Village is situated between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. This is undoubtedly one of Seoul's most picturesque locations, and it's a well-liked tourist destination. Explore the historic lanes that gaze out over central Seoul while attired in a billowing hanbok. Hanok, or traditional residences, are found across Seoul and date back to the Joseon Dynasty, which lasted from 1392 to 1910.
These homes are built to retain harmony with the surrounding landscape, which includes mountains, rivers, and land contours. As a result, they are incredibly beautiful and one of Seoul's must-sees! If you're lucky, you can even be able to locate an Airbnb in Seoul that is constructed in this manner! Watch how the black slate roofs are supported by wooden doors and beams. Examine the flowing patterns and artwork on the high brick walls that surround each home. You can even go inside hanok buildings in some locations to savor traditional Korean teas, sweets, and snacks. You can also tour a number of art galleries and workshops in the vicinity.
For the greatest photos, rent a hanbok when you are Bukchon Hanok Village. Since this is a residential area, it is better to visit during the day to avoid upsetting the residents. Arrive at 9 a.m. to avoid the early rush. You might see the curved rooftops covered in snow if you go in the winter. To learn even more, go on a guided tour first thing in the morning, if you can. Alternately, spend some extra time exploring the area and making sure to capture some pictures. The most dramatic photo opportunities are found in locations where classic homes contrast more contemporary features.
Location: Seoul JONGNOGU 37
Phone: +82 2-764-1255
Opening hours: all day
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 5.258 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://hanok.seoul.go.kr/front/index.do
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When traveling to another nation, you should eat where the locals eat if you want to find good street food. And everyone in the neighborhood is aware of Gwangjang Market. Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul's busiest traditional marketplaces, is centrally placed, making it simple for even first-time tourists to find. The early 20th century saw the opening of this historic market, which is now home to a variety of food and clothes vendors where visitors may sample traditional Korean fare.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of Korean specialties, starting with "addictive gimbap," one of Koreans' all-time favorite snacks, and nokdujeon (mung bean pancake). There are also other traditional foods available, like tteok-bokki (stir-fried rice cake) and eomuk (fish cake). For lovers of seafood, there is a road devoted solely to various varieties of fresh fish. Everything is available there, including the well-known live octopus, raw fish (which is similar to salami), hwareo-hoe, and fresh and raw seafood on an assortment dish. If you prefer sweets, try the sweetened version of rice flour pancakes called "Hotteok," the hot, fresh Twisted Korean Doughnut, and the "Bungeo-ppang," a fish-shaped pastry with a sweet, deep red bean filling.
Visit the hanbok stores and antique clothes stores on the second floor if you have a strong interest in clothing. There is a huge variety of materials and clothing in general in Gwangjang Market. The materials are of the highest quality, and the designs are striking. While some vendors can be located on the first floor and in the alleys, the majority are situated on the second level. But if you desire excellent quality, immediately proceed upstairs. While visiting this market, you can do some shopping, but the cuisine is what you really want to taste. Bring your hunger and enjoy as much of the street cuisine as you can as the market is open from Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 10 night.
Address: 88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03195 South Korea
Phone: +82 2-2267-0291
Opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 2319 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: www.kwangjangmarket.co.kr
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You probably haven't seen an optical illusion museum like this, even if you've been to one before. The cultural contents company "Creative Tong Company Limited" is the creator of the Seoul Alive Illusion Museum. It is a fun experimental art attraction that emphasizes interaction between viewers and the artworks. This is among one of the Best Places to Visit in Seoul.
The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum is the first institution to promote interactive art and optical illusion art to Korea. You'll probably spend the most of your visit to this location laughing out loud at the exhibits you can participate in because many of the exhibits at this museum are a little odd and eccentric. It's simply some typical Korean insanity, nothing special. Visitors can create their own hilarious artworks by participating in the fascinating works of art and using their own natural face expressions and emotions.
Before you spend a few hours visiting this museum, make sure your phone or camera is fully charged since you'll need it. Even if you've been to museums with optical illusions before, this one is special. Make sure to check out the Disney exhibits and incorporate themes from well-known films like Frozen and Cinderella into your own original artwork. The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum is currently gaining popularity and expanding as a Korean wave representative abroad. To enjoy an even better experience, arrange your reservation in advance!Address: Seoul 12, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Daeil Bldg. B1F & B2F
Phone: +82 2-2034-0600
Opening hours: 9 am - 8:30 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 202 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://en.alivemuseum.com/
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In the heart of Seoul, South Korea, the Seoul Museum of Art is a gallery run by the Seoul City Council. It was inaugurated in the vicinity of Gyeonghuigung Residence, a Joseon dynasty royal palace, and had an outdoor sculpture park in addition to six exhibition halls. However, the Gyeonguigung Branch was replaced as the main branch in 2002 by a larger main branch that was opened behind Deoksugung Palace. This newly rebuilt version, which is housed in the former Korean Supreme Court building, has three floors of exhibition halls, a connected administrative annex, and a basement with lecture halls, classrooms, and offices.
The main branch of the Seoul Museum of Art provides the general public with a vast array of services. In order to further its objective, the museum offers low- or no-cost public art lessons in Korean traditional arts, docent programs in both English and Korean, and open-to-the-public talks.
What about a free activity in Seoul? The regular exhibit at this museum is completely free, but it also hosts a variety of special exhibitions that can be quite pricey. The exhibit alone is worth the journey to the museum since it displays the career of the Korean artist Chun Kyung-Ja, who was influenced by African culture and art.
Check out any special exhibitions that will be running while you are there before you go. Spend some time learning about the distinctive style of Korean art, which is quite interesting and well worth investigating. But don't forget to look at the normal exhibition as well; it's lovely and moving.
Location: Seoul JUNGGU 61
Phone: +82 2-2124-8800
Opening hours: 10 am - 7 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 149 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://sema.seoul.go.kr/ -
A Catholic memorial on the Han River called Jeoldusan Martyrs' Shrine honors those who lost their lives in the Byeongin persecutions of 1866. Nine French missionaries died as martyrs around the end of 1866. This led to two attempts by a French fleet to invade Korea. Many French and native Korean Roman Catholics were mercilessly slaughtered by the Joseon authorities after the attempted invasions. Beheading Mountain became the name of the location. Although this is undoubtedly not an enjoyable place to see, it is an essential piece of Korean history and must be viewed if you want to comprehend the present.
In 1956, the Catholic Church bought the land. The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine was built here in 1962 in memory of those who were put to death there. To commemorate the persecution's 100th anniversary, a church and museum were constructed here in 1967. In order to honor these sacrifices and to strengthen believers' faith, several new structures were constructed. The church's basement became the shrine for the martyrs' relics in 1968. The remains of 29 martyrs, including one whose identity is unknown, are being kept in the cathedral.
While the shrine is most lovely at night, when votive candles give it an unearthly glow, it is also lovely and somber during the day. Don't bring your kids because The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine has a gallery and a museum where you may see the tools of torture that were applied to the imprisoned Catholics.
Address: 96-1 Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul 121-883 Korea
Phone: +82 2-3142-4434
Opening hours: 9:30 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 31 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://www.jeoldusan.or.kr/renew/