Seoul, the City of Adventure
Close your eyes and Imagine stepping into a world where ancient palaces stand alongside big skyscrapers, where street markets are buzzing with life and where every corner seems to hold a surprise for you to discover. This is exactly what I picture when I think of Seoul. I can remember wandering through the grand gates of Gyeongbokgung Palace, watching the changing of the guards, and later getting lost in the neon-lit streets.
About Seoul
Seoul is the capital of the Republic of Korea and has a population of 9,619,861 people. The Hangang river flows across the city, dividing it into two sections.
Korea has four distinct seasons, which means that the landscape in Seoul really changes throughout the year. During spring, the cherry blossom season attracts many tourists but also the fall foliage has its own fans. Summers in Seoul are long, (way too) hot, and humid with monsoon season between June and July. Winters on the other hand are freezingly cold. If you would ask me, I would definitely recommend visiting Seoul in spring or fall time!
What is it about Seoul for me?
After my exchange semester in Korea last spring, Seoul feels like the place to be. Also due to the global rise of Korean cuture, K-pop and K-dramas, Seoul is the center excitement. To add a cliché, beyond all those things I’m drawn to its soul. There is just something about the contrast between the fast-paced urban life and the quiet moments found in its temples, parks and mountains.
What to do in Seoul?
Like said, Seoul is a city of endless opportunities and it can be hard do choose between different activies. To help you out, here are some of my personal favourites:
- Visit the palaces
- Stroll through Bukchon & Eunpyeong Hanok Villages
- Shop and eat in Myeondong
- Hike to Namsan Seoul Tower
- Explore Hongdae
- Walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream
- Rent bikes & ride them along Han river, later stop for a picnic
- Hike in Bukhansan National Park
- Go to K-pop concerts
- Explore areas such as Euljiro, Insadong & Seongsu-dong
- Visit the markets & try out new cuisines
For me, Seoul is a destination waiting to be explored further. I really hope to return there one day to exprerience all its wonders again and again.