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Here Are 5 Must-Visit Places When You're Out And About In Seoul

From touristy spots to unexpected finds, we've gotchu covered!

Cover image via Hafiz Zainuddin/SAYS

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1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

One of the most historical landmarks in all of Seoul is Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The palace was first constructed in 1395 by King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, and served as the main royal palace for several centuries. The name "Gyeongbokgung" means "Palace of Shining Happiness." It was strategically located at the heart of Seoul and served as the centre of political and administrative activities during the Joseon Dynasty.

Today, Gyeongbokgung Palace stands as a symbol of South Korea's cultural heritage and is a major tourist attraction in Seoul. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, witness traditional Korean ceremonies, and immerse themselves in the historical architecture and artifacts on display in the various museum halls within the complex.

You can even rent hanbok, traditional Korean clothing that has been worn for centuries and is still worn on special occasions and traditional events today.

Hanbok holds great cultural significance in Korea and is worn during various traditional events, such as weddings, holidays, and ancestral ceremonies. It is also frequently seen in Korean historical dramas and cultural festivals.

2. Lotte World Tower

Lotte World Tower is a landmark skyscraper in Seoul, South Korea, and is currently the sixth tallest building in the world.

Standing at approximately 555 meters (1,821 feet) tall, you will be able to experience the entirety of Seoul from a bird's eye view while taking in the impressive cityscape as you look down below.

Additionally, the building's design combines modern architectural elements with traditional Korean aesthetics, making it a visually captivating structure. The tower's elegant curves, inspired by traditional Korean pottery and celadon vases, set it apart from other skyscrapers.

You can even capture an array of visually aesthetic shots of Seoul from various angles and perspectives from their observation deck. If you're afraid of heights, do keep in mind that it's pretty high up!

3. Samsung Flagship Store, Hongdae

Although not technically a tourist spot, the Samsung Flagship Store is unique and impressive enough to warrant a visit if you're in Seoul.

As soon as you enter the store, you will be met with a unique Galaxy Box vending machine that features an array of products, from smart watches to Galaxy ear buds, that you can just tap and buy on the spot!

It also boasts up to four floors filled with Samsung's entire arsenal of smart devices, from the latest smartphones to gaming peripherals and home appliances.

Watch the video below:

4. HiKR GROUND

K-pop fans absolutely cannot miss this tourist spot when they're in the a-re-uh, hehe.

Situated in the heart of Seoul, HiKR Ground is a Korean tourism publicity centre where you can simultaneously experience K-pop sets and view media art.

There are up to four floors of Korean visual aesthetics to enjoy at this centre. On the first floor, various media arts are showcased through the large media 'HiKR Wall', including 'Landscape of the New City' by media artist Lee Lee-nam, as well as Korean tourism videos publicly submitted by global Hallyu fans.

Furthermore, the second floor boasts familiar and famous sets from popular K-pop groups like BTS and Aespa. You will also have a chance to shoot your own videos and take Instagrammable pics with these unique backdrops.

Finally, on the third and fourth floors, visitors can get immersed in Korean local tourism through various arts, experiences, and exhibitions.

5. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA)

The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) in Korea, also known as the National Museum of Modern Art, is a prominent cultural institution dedicated to contemporary and modern art in South Korea.

There are four branches of MMCA in total in South Korea, with the one in Seoul being the flagship.

Located in Gwacheon, a city near Seoul, the flagship is the largest branch of the museum. It houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary Korean art, as well as international artworks. The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions, art events, and educational programmes.

Currently, they're hosting two exhibitions, Game Society and Back To The Future, both of which showcase a diverse collection of Korean artworks in video games, historical events, and more!

Click here to find out more.

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