· KR

Seoul

Seoul, Seoul, Korea, South

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient history and modern marvels. Explore magnificent palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, wander through the charming Bukchon Hanok Village…

#capital city#urban#modern#cultural#dynamic

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Seoul.

Top Hotels in Seoul

Top Flights to Seoul

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Seoul.

Tours

Dongdaemun Design Plaza Exploration

Visit Asia's largest fashion district for cutting-edge fashion and design exhibitions.

Explore Bukchon Hanok Village

Walk through the charming streets of Bukchon and admire traditional Korean houses.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Tour

Explore the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty.

Shopping

Traditional Shopping at Insadong

Experience traditional Korean culture through shops offering Hanboks, arts, and crafts.

Shopping at Myeongdong

Enjoy a vibrant shopping experience at Myeongdong, famous for cosmetics and street food.

Outdoor

Namsan Hiking and N Seoul Tower Visit

Hike up Namsan mountain and visit the iconic N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of Seoul.

Han River Park Biking

Bike along the scenic Han River, offering fantastic views and relaxation spaces.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Seoul.

Currency

₩ | KRW | South Korean Won

Population

9.7 million

Languages

Korean, Korean, English

Average weather

Seoul

Jan

23°23°

Feb

32°12°

Mar

-23°-23°

Apr

2°1°

May

23°12°

Jun

23°23°

Jul

23°23°

Aug

23°23°

Sep

23°23°

Oct

2°23°

Nov

23°23°

Dec

23°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Seoul.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Seoul, South Korea:

Rich history and culture: Seoul is a city with a long and fascinating history, with many historical sites and cultural landmarks to explore. Visitors can learn about traditional Korean culture, visit ancient palaces, temples, and markets, and experience traditional Korean cuisine.
Modern and vibrant city: Seoul is a modern and dynamic city with a bustling urban atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy shopping in trendy districts, dine in world-class restaurants, and experience the vibrant nightlife of the city.
Efficient public transportation: Seoul has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis, making it easy for visitors to navigate the city and explore its many attractions.
Beautiful natural surroundings: Seoul is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and parks. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities in and around the city.
Friendly and welcoming people: Koreans are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Travelers to Seoul can expect to receive a warm welcome and assistance from locals.

Overall, traveling to Seoul offers a unique blend of history, culture, modernity, and natural beauty, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a diverse and enriching experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Seoul, South Korea, may include:

Language barrier: While many people in Seoul can speak English, especially in tourist areas, the overall language barrier may present challenges for travelers who do not speak Korean.
Air pollution: Seoul is known to have high levels of air pollution, especially during certain times of the year. This may affect individuals with respiratory issues or those sensitive to poor air quality.
Crowded public transportation: Seoul's public transportation system, including buses and subways, can become overcrowded during peak hours, making it uncomfortable for some travelers.
High cost of living: Seoul is considered one of the most expensive cities in Asia, with high costs for accommodations, dining, and entertainment. Travelers on a budget may find it challenging to stick to their financial limitations.
Limited English signage: While efforts have been made to include English signage in Seoul, some areas may still lack clear English directions, which can make navigation difficult for travelers.

It's essential to note that these cons may vary depending on individual preferences and experiences. It's always a good idea to research thoroughly and prepare accordingly before traveling to Seoul.

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, has a rich history that spans over two millennia. Here's a detailed overview:

Ancient and Medieval History

Founding and Early Periods:
- The area now known as Seoul has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The city itself traces its origins back to 18 BCE when it was established as Wiryeseong, the capital of the Baekje Kingdom.
- During the Three Kingdoms period, it was a contested area among Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla.
Unified Silla and Goryeo Periods:
- Under Silla (57 BCE – 935 CE), the area developed as a significant center due to its strategic location.
- It continued to grow during the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392) but was not the capital.

Joseon Dynasty

Establishment as Capital:
- Seoul became the capital of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) in 1394 under King Taejo. It was then known as Hanseong or Hanyang.
- The Joseon period was marked by the construction of significant landmarks, including Gyeongbokgung Palace (1395) and Changdeokgung Palace (1405).
Cultural and Philosophical Development:
- Seoul was a center for Confucian learning and culture. The Joseon Dynasty focused on Confucianism, leading to the establishment of institutions like Sungkyunkwan, the royal Confucian academy.
- King Sejong the Great (r. 1418–1450) contributed significantly to Korean culture, including the creation of Hangul, the Korean script.
Invasions and Reconstruction:
- The city suffered during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598), but it was eventually rebuilt.
- The Imjin War (Japanese invasions) and later the Manchu invasions impacted the city's development.

Modern History

Korean Empire and Japanese Occupation:
- In 1897, the Korean Empire was established, and Seoul was renamed Hanseong. This period saw modernization efforts like the introduction of trolley cars and electricity.
- Seoul was under Japanese rule from 1910 to 1945, during which it was renamed Gyeongseong. The Japanese occupation led to significant changes in the city's infrastructure and layout.
Post-Liberation and Korean War:
- After liberation in 1945, the city was renamed Seoul.
- The Korean War (1950–1953) devastated Seoul, with the city changing hands several times between North and South Korean forces.
Reconstruction and Rapid Development:
- Post-war reconstruction was rapid, and Seoul emerged as a symbol of South Korea's economic growth, known as the "Miracle on the Han River."
- Landmark events include hosting the 1988 Summer Olympics and the 2002 FIFA World Cup (in partnership with Japan).

Significant Landmarks

Gyeongbokgung Palace: The main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty.
Changdeokgung Palace: Known for its beautiful gardens, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bukchon Hanok Village: A traditional Korean village preserved with hanok (traditional Korean houses).
N Seoul Tower: A modern landmark offering panoramic views of the city.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza: A major urban development landmark known for its neo-futuristic design by architect Zaha Hadid.

Recent Developments

Seoul is now a global city, known for its technology, culture, and economy. It is a hub for K-pop, Korean drama, and other cultural exports.
The city aims to be eco-friendly, with projects like the Cheonggyecheon Stream restoration and the expansion of green spaces.

Seoul's dynamic history and development reflect both its deep cultural roots and its modern innovations, making it a unique blend of old and new.