In today’s blog, I’m going to tell you about some fun things to do and places to visit while in the Capital of South Korea ( Seoul). As K- Drama fans I know that we all definitely want to visit Korea someday, so in order to make the most of your visit I’m here to give you some ideas. Let’s get to it!

Namsan Tower

One of South Korea’s main tourist attraction, the tower stands on the Namsan mountain in central Seoul, hence the name. You might’ve seen it in multiple dramas and movies and it’s so gorgeous, it’s definitely on my bucket list. If you go with that special someone you can hang a love padlock on the tower fence too.

Han River

It’s the fourth longest river in Korea and because of its closeness to the capital, it’s the most popular. It’s a great place to hang out especially at night when the Hangang Bridge has the light displays on. There are many convenience stores nearby so you can even eat some Korean junk food while you enjoy the scenery.

Rent a Hanbok

We often see the traditional dresses worn in dramas, they’re sewn really beautifully with intricate designs and bright colors that we get jealous of the actresses. While on your visit, you can rent the ensemble for a few hours and it’s really inexpensive to do so. You can walk around the streets of Seoul looking like a Korean Empress/ Emperor, you might get a few stares or find people taking pictures but that’s because you look beautiful.

Bukchon Hanok Village

After renting your Hanbok, you should check out the Hanok Village, it’s located between Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeok Palace, and Jangmyu Royal Shrine. It’s a walk down Korea’s history lane because all the houses have traditional Hanok designs. If you go to the top, there is a breathtaking view of modern Seoul and Namsan Tower, the contrast between the opposing sides is a sight to see so don’t forget to take your camera.

Palaces and Museums

There are five palaces in Seoul. I’m only familiar with Geongbukjeon Palace because it’s the most popular but definitely check them all out. The last Wednesday of every month is Culture Day in Korea so most museums and Palaces are either free admission or at a discounted price, perfect if you’re looking to save some.

Innisfree In Myeongdong

One word ” Beauty Cafe”, basically there is a store on the first floor where you can get beauty/ skincare products and above the store on the second and third floor is the cafe. The brand sports the color green so the entire cafe is filled with beautiful plants. It’s basically a Greenhouse up there. The cafe is aesthetically pleasing for your Instagram and the tea is good too.
It’s kinda overpriced so if you have a few bucks to spare then totally check it out!

Korean Barbecue

Barbecue is pretty common in Korea but it’s also gained mass popularity worldwide over the years so you should definitely introduce your taste buds to Korean Barbecue in its homeland. According to TripAdvisor “On the Grill Myeongdong” is the place, so check ’em out!

Street Food

There is a wide range of street food in Korea and you can find them on almost every corner of popular shopping areas like Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Itaewon. If you’re a foodie like me then this will be your paradise, almost everything comes in tiny snack portions so you can try lots of foods.

Convenience Store

Live out your Korean drama dream and stop at a convenience store. There is always that one cliche scene in every drama where one of the characters is eating ramen and/or vending machine Gimpab. Sit down with your ramen, turn on your favorite OST and bask in the feels.

Karaoke

You can find one in almost every street in Seoul, that’s how popular it is. It’s usually simple to use, go with friends or alone, pay for an hour and sing your heart out, it’s the best feeling ever!

Myeongdong Underground Shopping Centre

Located inside the Myeongdong subway station, is what I like to call “Merch Heaven”. As a K-Drama and K-Pop fan, this is somewhere I really want to go. There are multiple stores that sell any and everything imaginable from posters, stickers, socks, phone cases etc. It’s literally the cheapest place ever. Due to the large supply, the prices are really low so you can be able to purchase multiple items at once, just make sure you have suitcase space because you might go crazy here!

Sauna

I know everywhere has saunas but don’t you want the full drama experience? Of course, you do! So head on over to one and sweat your worries away, wear one of those towel head things and eat a boiled egg ( unless you’re vegan than just take a snack). It’s totally different from regular American spas, you can plunge naked into a freezing cold pool, watch a movie, take a nap and even eat ribs. It’s the life man.

Go to a Concert

If you like Korean music, whether its Rap, Pop, R&B or Rock, you should definitely go see your favorite band or solo artist in Seoul. Tickets are a fraction of the cost and the concerts are longer too so you get to experience much more for less. A dream come true!

Shopping

Visit a few of the most popular shopping areas in Seoul to find cute and hip clothing. Most of the clothes are really cheap but that’s because most of them are just dupes of the original or they’re either from new designers trying to get their brand out there. If you’re looking for a Gucci jacket but you don’t have thousands lying around then you should totally check these places out. Some stores worth checking out are; Chu, Style Nanda, Gentle Monster, Kakao and Line Friends Store.

Granhand

If you’re looking for souvenirs and gifts to take back home then you should definitely stop by this shop. It’s located in Samcheongdong in one of the Hanok houses. The fragrances are homemade and named after famous authors, musicians, and public figures. Their packaging has that traditional Korean touch to it and it’s really pretty. You can also book an appointment to come in and make your own perfume, candles and oils.

That’s it for the blog, I hope you liked the ideas!