서울
My trip to Seoul was quite spontaneous. I purchased the plane ticket back in May at an incredibly low price, which included a layover in Istanbul. I realized from the outset that 5 days wouldn't be sufficient to explore this metropolis fully. Therefore, I meticulously planned almost every detail of my trip in advance to make the most of my time. Seoul is a paradise for street photography, which is why I selected it as my destination. However, I also wanted to visit the city's key attractions.
If you're curious about how I spent my layover in Istanbul, feel free to check out this post.
I used to be afraid of flying due to my fear of heights. Fortunately, I was able to overcome this fear quite quickly. Nowadays, my main concern is whether my checked baggage will arrive at my destination. Unfortunately, it didn't make it to Seoul. But, this kind of thing happens to everyone at some point, doesn't it? Regardless, this minor incident didn't dampen my spirits. I left my carry-on bag at the hotel and set off to explore the city.
Before we delve into the neighborhoods of Seoul, let me share some pictures of the Seoul subway. It's safe to say that the network of 23 metro lines is a landmark in its own right. The cleanliness and orderliness might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but you quickly get accustomed to the high standards.
If you're interested in what Fujifilm recipe I used to get the authentic film look in my images, check out this link!
Seoul metro
First, I visited the masterpiece of one of my favorite architects, artists, and designers, the renowned Iraqi-British Zaha Hadid, at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza. This neo-futuristic building is a gem in Seoul's fashion center, and its uniquely curved forms are simply stunning.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Jetlag can be quite challenging. I never expected it to affect me so profoundly; a planned 20-minute power nap turned into a three-hour deep slumber after a brief walk around the DDP. Consequently, I had to forgo half of the sights I had originally planned to see. Additionally, as my baggage had yet to arrive in Seoul, I had to purchase some clothes. Fortunately, there are numerous affordable options in the Myeong-dong area, where I managed to acquire essential items at a remarkably low cost.
The vibrant Myeong-dong shopping district is indeed a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of culinary specialties at street stalls, from red bean waffles (Bungeoppang) to hot dogs and dumplings (Mandu). Besides the delectable aromas, the continuous presence of K-pop music emanating from the shops and the neon lights illuminating the narrow alleys significantly contribute to the overall atmosphere.
Myeong-dong at night
After an eventful night, I started my day with a delightful green onion pancake (Pajeon) from the nearby Gwangjang Market. Following that, I explored the Ihwa Mural Village, an artistic landmark nestled on the hillside in Seoul - a tranquil residential area offering a splendid view of the city.
Gwangjang Market and its neighborhood
Ihwa Mural Village
I then explored the historically significant Jongmyo Shrine and Changgyeonggung Palace. Fortunately, I stumbled upon a festive celebration there. Men and women dressed in traditional attire were participating in a ceremony that bore resemblance to a graduation. I felt warmly welcomed by the participants and their families, and no one minded me taking photographs of the occasion.
Jongmyo Shrine and Changgeonggung Palace
Bukchon Hanok Village is a charming enclave hosting hundreds of traditional houses, known as hanok, dating back to the Joseon dynasty. Today, these historic structures serve various purposes, operating as restaurants, guest houses, cultural centers, and tea houses. Notably, a premium tea salon from Jeju Island, O’Sulloc, can be found here, offering an opportunity to indulge in some of the most delightful tea preparations
Bukchon Village
I wrapped up my day exploring the attractions of Ikseon-dong Hanok Village and Insa-dong with some aimless wandering. After sunset, I took a leisurely stroll along the Cheonggyecheon stream, where the scene was vibrant with young people enjoying drinks, loving couples taking a stroll, and families engaged in playful activities.
Ikseon-dong, Insa-dong and the Cheonggyecheon stream
I kicked off my third day with a visit to Gwanghwamun Square, positioned with the picturesque backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace, arguably the most beautiful among Seoul's five palaces. Situated at the center of Sejong-ro Road, the square functions as a cultural and historical space, prioritizing a people-first approach. While it may initially appear like a concrete jungle, a stroll through the plaza reveals charming little oases with gorgeous flora, thoughtfully designed for relaxation. At the square's end, you can enter Gyeongbokgung Palace by passing through its main and largest gate, where you have the chance to witness the Royal Palace Guard Changing Ceremony. Unfortunately, the weather was unkind to both us and the guards; the program was postponed due to heavy rain (and, of course, I forgot to bring an umbrella, leaving me thoroughly soaked to the skin). To my greatest surprise, the rain stopped right at the end of my visit, and the guards deemed it appropriate for a shift change. In the end, I didn't miss the ceremony.
Gwanghwamun Square and Gyeongbokgung Palace with the Royal Palace Guard Changing Ceremony
Many forums and travel blogs recommended a visit to Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, one of the biggest and most well-known seafood markets in Seoul, particularly during the live fish auction. However, since the auction typically takes place at 3:00 in the morning, I opted to explore during the day. Nevertheless, it was still fascinating to wander through the hall filled with the aroma of sea creatures and observe vendors effortlessly procuring large crabs and other marine life from the massive aquariums.
Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market
My next stop was the Starfield Coex Mall, not for shopping (although I had to buy a new memory card on the third day, I should add), but to visit the renowned Starfield Library and, of course, the Gangnam Style statue. The library is truly impressive. With a big smile on my face, I marveled at how people of all ages, from small children to young adults to the elderly, delighted in reading the books.
Starfield Library
I spent the remainder of the day in the Gangnam district. Well, that's not entirely accurate. I went to the top of N Seoul Tower late at night, but unfortunately, the view wasn't optimal due to the bad weather conditions, so I didn't capture any pictures with my camera. Anyway, the stretch between Gangnam Station and Sinnonhyeon Station along the main road, Gangnam-daero, stands out as the most popular shopping and dining area. The wide road and sidewalks were bustling with pedestrians and cars, while luxury storefronts and illuminated skyscrapers dazzled from both sides. It's an ideal location for street photography, though, when it comes to Seoul, it's challenging to pinpoint a place in the city where this isn't true.
Gangnam-daero
My last full day in Seoul was quite unpredictable in terms of weather; it would go from sunny and warm to feeling like the middle of a monsoon in a matter of 5 minutes. Naturally, I began my day at another market (Namdaemun) before heading to the Hongdae neighborhood, renowned for its urban arts and indie music culture, local shops, clubs, and entertainment. Perhaps due to the rain, I experienced a less bustling day. Apart from a few locals and tourists lounging around, the usually lively part of the city seemed surprisingly empty.
Namdaemun Market
I had a strong desire to attend at least one more cultural program during my stay. I visited the National Museum of Korea, and the architecture alone made it worth a visit. Unfortunately, it was closed that day due to a private event. Well, that's just another reason to come back to Seoul.
Hongdae
National Museum of Korea
In the evening, I embarked on a souvenir-buying tour to Ssamzigil, admired the Jogyesa Buddhist temple resplendent in the evening lights, and, being my last night in Seoul, ventured to the famous (or rather infamous) Itaewon party district (no photos attached for obvious reasons).
I didn't have a special plan for my last day, considering I had checked almost everything off my list, and the previous night's party had taken its toll. So, I decided to take a leisurely stroll around the area. The extreme weather from the day before had ushered in the real autumn – biting cold. Luckily, the sun made an appearance, making the walk along the Cheonggyecheon stream and public place quite pleasant. Following that, I ventured to Eulji-ro, where I stumbled upon a cozy restaurant. My eyes lit up at the sight of the so-called hangover soup on the menu, but luck was not on my side again – the place was closed. Instead, I enjoyed a hot green tea and a hot dog at a lovely café, gathered my belongings at the hotel, and hopped on the express train to the airport.
Cheonggyecheon
Somewhere near Cheonggyecheon and Eulji-ro
Thanks, Seoul; you've been great. Until next time!
감사합니다. 안녕!
