The front view of the National Museum of Korea

Y. Kwon

Seoul is a modern hub of education, fashion, technology, and tourism. This is where the old meets with new. It is a place where people adapt to all the modern changes around them while retaining their traditions, thus preserving their true Korean identity. There are a lot of things that you can do and see in Seoul and this list will give visitors the right perspective on what to expect when visiting Seoul.

Gyeongbokgung

Seoul is an old city and Gyeongbokgung is a reflection of this. This is a magnificent palace built in 1395. Upon entering the palace, history and culture can be experienced firsthand. One of a kind architecture and intricate designs along with rare art frescos can be seen in this palace. Many foreign dignitaries visited this landmark palace and it is also the place where important stately matters were discussed. Enthronements of kings were done here and the splendid king’s throne still stands as a testimony of the monument’s royal legacy.

Visiting the National Museum of Korea

The National Museum of Korea is the largest and the most representative museum in Korea with over 220,000 objects in its collection. If you would like to know the core of Korean history and art, this is the place you must visit.

Since its establishment in 1945, the museum has been committed to various studies and research activities in the fields of archaeology, history, and art, continuously developing a variety of exhibitions and education programs.
The current museum site in Yongsan area was opened to the public in 2005. The museum displays over 13,000 pieces throughout six permanent exhibition galleries such as Archaeological Gallery, Historical Gallery, Fine Arts Gallery I, Donation Gallery, Fine Arts Gallery II, and Asian Art Gallery. It also has special exhibition halls, education facilities, a children's museum, huge outdoor exhibition areas, restaurants, cafes, shops and other amenities. One-hour guided gallery tours in English are available at 10:30am and 2:30pm daily.

Visiting the 63 Building

Built in 1985, this building was the tallest structure in Seoul until 2003. this gorgeous building overlooks the Han River, which is one of the largest rivers in Korea and flows along Seoul. There are a lot of activities that you can do while visiting this famous structure. Located at the underground level and housing at least 20,000 species of fish and other creatures of the sea, Sea World is truly a breathtaking site to see. After Sea World, admire the amazing view of the city from the top floor. Be sure to squeeze in your schedule a visit to the famous IMAX Theater to complete the tour of this landmark.

Climb the Namsan Mountain

Tourist can commune with nature by climbing the 262-meter tall Namsan Mountain.  Located in Jug-gu district, it overs a scenic view of Seoul’s busy street. It is a nice break from Seoul’s bustling city life. Apart from hiking, visitors can also go biking in this well-maintained national park.

Explore Lotte World

Lotte World is an amazing theme park, very vibrant and colorful. Open every day from morning to night, this wonderland boasts 2 amusement parks--the Adventure Park and the Magic Island Park. There are, of course, endless carnival rides for the young and the old. Different performances are held everyday like Musical Tarzan and the Cosmos Laser Show and anyone who visits Lotte World should not miss the World Carnival Parade at night.

Seoul is an Asian city that has adapted well to changes, from the days of the kings and queens to being one of the most modern and technologically-advanced regions in the world.