Dongdaemun & Daehangno
A place where you can shop till you drop, enjoy the indie theatrical performances, get the best herbs in the whole of South Korea, and after a long day out, enjoy a beautiful view of Seoul from Naksan Park.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Opened in 2014, the DDP soon become the biggest architectural masterpiece in South Korea. The plaza consists of museums, shops, exhibition halls, coffee shops, display areas and so much more. It holds various cultural events, including the famous Seoul Fashion Week.
Daehangno
The heart of Korean performing arts, Daenghangno is home to various theatres, museums, galleries and coffee shops. Just nearby, there is a Maronie Park, where a number of buskers regularly perform to passers-by, making it an enjoyable time for everyone. It is a great place to get the ‘local feeling’ and enjoy the time go by. While you are there, why not pay a visit to the oldest coffee shop in Korea- Hakrim Dabang, opened in 1956?
Naksan Park
Founded in 2002, the park has a number of attractions, including an exhibition hall, a hexagonal pavilion, and sports facilities such as basketball and badminton courts. Although it is just over 100 meters tall, the park offers stunning views of Seoul and Namsan Tower in the distance. It is also part of Seoul City Wall walking trail along which one can learn about various events in Korean history and see Seoul from all angles.
Seoul Yangnyeong Market
Korea’s biggest medicinal herbs market is where more than 60% of the country’s medicinal herbs are distributed. Once you step into the market you will soon be met by various aromas of the traditional Korean herbs, one of the most famous ones being ginseng (more on it below). Step into a Korean medicinal herbs experience area and try out the traditional foot baths, acupuncture, aroma therapy and even cooking experiences for yourself!
Dongdaemun Fashion Town
If you like the idea of ‘shop till you drop’, then this might be the right place for you. The DDP fashion town consist of a large number of traditional and modern markets and shops, most open 24 hours a day. It is a perfect place to explore Korean fashion and create your own unique style. The shops vary in quality and price, thus there is something for everyone.
L'atelier
Step into the 19th century France, as you admire the works of Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Edouard Léon Cortè, Maurice Utrillo and many more in this interactive museum. As you immerse into the Post-Impressionism art scene you can converse with the figures in paintings, view various musicals, hologram talk shows and so much more. It is a unique place where the experiences will make one feel lost in time and place.
Ihwa Mural Village
Some time ago the neighbourhood was set for demolition to make way for new housing development. However, the local authorities have transformed the poor and unattractive neighbourhood to a piece of art (or many pieces as you will see). Not only famous for its artistic displays, it also has beautiful views of the city. Please be considerable when visiting this village as this is a residential area.
