About Seoul

Seoul is the capital of Korea with over 600 years of history. It is the heart of Korea’s culture and education as well as politics and economics. Seoul is unique in that historical sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and modern cultural facilities coexist in harmony. Seoul is a world-class city with numerous amenities and shopping districts such as Myeong-dong and Apgujeong.

Attractions

Gyeongbokgung

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful and remains the grandest of all the five palaces.
The premises were destroyed by fire at the time of the Japan's occupation of Korea during 1592-1598. However, all of the palace's 7,700 rooms were later restored under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun in the years of King Gojong (1852~1919). Remarkably, the most representative edifices of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoe-ru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond are still relatively in tact.  Woldae and the sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) represent the past sculpture art which was the trend back then. The National Palace Museum of Korea is located south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is located east within Hyangwonjeong.

Cheonggyecheon

The Cheonggyecheon that flows between Jongno-gu and Jung-gu is quickly becoming a favorite area among locals and tourists in Seoul. Through a restoration project commenced in 2003 and completed on October 1st 2005, this stream has been revived as a historic reincarnation in the heart of the city. Through this project, six hundred years of Seoul history and culture, long forgotten was restored as well. Today’s Cheonggyecheon is a symbol of what Seoul stands for and at the same time, is celebrated by people as a great relaxation and recreational area.

Myeong-dong

Located in the heart of Seoul, Myeong-dong is a representative financial and fashion district in Korea. It also houses Myeong-dong Catholic Cathedral, China Embassy and Korea National Commission of UNESCO Center. The main street in Myeong-dong is lined with large shopping malls department stores as well all kinds of shops. The Association of Myeong-dong shop owners conducts Myeong-dong Festivals twice a year to promote the image of Myeong-dong as one of the world’s best shopping street.

Insa-dong

Insa-dong has become home to dozens of galleries, antique shops, traditional restaurants, and souvenir shops since the late 1970’s. It builds a reputation as the place where foreigners visit first in Korea. It becomes more popular after the Queen Elizabeth visited in 1999.

Namsangol Hanok Village

The power and dignity of Korean houses, or hanok, are available for view in the heart of Seoul at the Namsangol Hanok Village. Located less than a block away from Chungmuro subway station, the Village is host to a garden, several cultural properties and magnificent views of the area. Several traditional festivals are held on the grounds throughout the year, creating a festive mood during the holidays.

Jongmyo Royal Shrine

Jongmyo Royal Shrine is the worshiping place for the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. The Royal Shrine was listed as UNESCO World Heritage because the tradition and customs such as the memoral services and traditional music are very well preserved. It was built when the first King of the Joseon Dynasty, Yi Seong-gye (1335-1408) founded the Joseon Dynasty, giving its grandeur and serene feelings. Jongmyo Royal Shrine memorial services, which have been held for 600 years, are conducted according to strict procedures in an austere ambience on the first Sunday of May, Yearly.

Lotte World

Lotte World, an indoor them park, encompass Lotte World Adventure, Magic Island(a lake park), shopping malls, a folk museum, an ice rink, a sports center, a hotel, and a department store so that people can enjoy sightseeing, leisure, shopping, culture, and sports at one location. At Lotte World Adventure, people can enjoy the latest equipment, fantastic parades, various multi-media systems, laser beam shows, performances, and various international foods throughout the year. In addition, its folk museum provides visitors the chance to experience the Korea’s 5000year history and traditional cultures.
For more information about Seoul

http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto
http://www.visitseoul.net/