It might be a disgrace to write down off Seoul as merely one other Asian mega metropolis. Whereas it’s true the South Korean capital has traditionally been influenced by neighbors China and Japan, the Seoul that exists at this time is a novel cultural powerhouse that has embraced its previous even whereas it appears in the direction of the long run.

Procuring

A nexus of trend and know-how, procuring in Seoul seems like making a fast journey to a not-too-distant future. The truth is, your first buy may happen earlier than you truly attain the procuring areas correct: Pocket Wi-Fi is offered for underneath US$5 a day, permitting you to maintain monitor of the perfect offers when you make your method across the metropolis. 

The place you store relies on what you’re out there for. Insadong is a good district for conventional wares, whereas Namdaemun Market is a good place to go for nearly all the pieces else. These wanting extra for the expertise of procuring somewhat than precise gadgets have just a few locations to go to as properly. Seoul has a number of underground markets to discover, together with Gangnam Underground Procuring Middle. From 10PM to 5AM, there’s all night time procuring at Dongdaemun for these fashionistas on the market. Lastly, Myeongdong is nice for make-up, skincare, and extra worldwide merchandise. 

After all, no procuring journey is full with out snacks. Thankfully, most procuring districts both characteristic Korean road meals or are in shut proximity to it. Strive some favorites comparable to kimbap, bibimbap, rooster skewers, or spicy rice desserts. 

Sightseeing

When you arrive, there are numerous issues to do in Seoul. Whether or not your itinerary is full of historic sights or extra trendy diversions, the town can ship in spades. Begin your go to out proper by heading to Namsam N Seoul Tower, arguably essentially the most well-known landmark within the metropolis, to get panoramic views of all the area. From right here your itinerary diverges a bit relying in your curiosity. 

Traditionally-minded vacationers ought to head out to Bukchon Village, a district house to conventional Korean homes and exquisite alleyways. Ensure, additionally, to cease by Gyeongbokgung, the ancestral palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Not solely do you get to discover the gorgeous structure, however you additionally get to see individuals strolling round in conventional clothes. As you may think, this makes for nice photograph ops.

Those that favor to see the extra trendy facet of Seoul ought to focus much less on landmarks and extra on the assorted metropolis districts. Gangnam district is legendary for its flashy type and is definitely price a go to, however for those who’re searching for one thing equally artistic however only a bit extra subdued, head to Hongdae. This space surrounding Hongik College is fashionable and hip in all the proper methods. Lastly, these with households ought to take a look at Lotte World, a procuring and leisure district that’s the Korean equal of Disneyland – full with its personal fortress!

Nightlife

Sure, Seoul has its fair proportion of nightclubs, bars, and different mainstays, and lots of of them are even price your time. These seeking to actually lose themselves within the metropolis’s tradition, nevertheless, ought to take a look at a few of these distinctive choices.

Surprisingly, many theater reveals are definitely worth the admission worth even for those who don’t converse a phrase of Korean. Seoul’s iconic NANTA reveals characteristic non-verbal comedy in more and more hilarious conditions; the present present focuses on kitchen hijinks. Although it closes a bit earlier within the night, the Operating Man Thematic Expertise Middle affords to place you in the course of a Korean sport present expertise the place you possibly can trigger some hijinks your self. 

Those that favor digital actions ought to think about dropping into certainly one of Seoul’s many arcades or PC cafes (regionally often called bangs). Whether or not you wish to play or just watch the professionals at work, there’s one thing decidedly distinctive about spending the night in such an electrical setting. 

Header photograph by Kenneth Bastian on Unsplash