If you're looking for a destination where you can fully immerse yourself in Kpop and Kdrama culture, enjoy the beautiful coastline and explore fascinating beaches, then Seoul, the capital of South Korea is the place for you. Many K-drama fans who have visited the city will affirm this statement - with countless backdrops combined with romantic scenes that will make you want to explore further. When you choose to explore this captivating city, one of the prime locations to stay is Mapo-Gu, a popular district celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and cultural activities. To find the most suitable accommodation in this area, you can browse the Seoul hotels in Mapo-Gu on www.seoulhotelspage.com. With many options available, you're sure to find something that matches your preferences and budget, enhancing your overall experience in the city of Seoul.
But where to start? Let us give you a head start with these hidden gems of Seoul.
Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market in Seoul's Jongno-gu district was established in 1905, making it one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea. Food bloggers and travel guides have written extensively about this place, making this market a must-see for those on a gastronomic trip. Home to some 5,000 shops selling everything from clothes to a variety of foods, it's best to arrive early and take half a day to explore the plethora of items available in depth.
Seochon Village
Seochon Village which translates directly as West Village is also located in the Jongno-gu district. If you want to get a feel for the traditional Korean hanok stay, this is the place to be. Its many narrow streets are lined with hanoks (traditional Korean houses), taking you back to the days of old Seoul. Over the years, boutiques, stunning cafés and art galleries have blended into the surrounding area, making this a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon.
Sky Bridge Tower @ Lotte World Tower
Rising to a height of 555m with 123 floors, the Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in Seoul and the fifth tallest building in the world. Thrill-seekers can start their journey on the 117th floor of the building. From there, they can climb a further 7 floors to reach the 123rd floor of the Sky Bridge Tower. Recently opened in 2017, the Sky Bridge Tour is the place to be for 360-degree panoramic views of the breathtaking city of Seoul. An 11-metre bridge linking the same building is not for the faint of heart, but in our opinion, the experience is well worth it.
Naksan Park
Open to the public 24 hours a day, Naksan Park is a great place for visitors to exercise in the morning along the accessible exercise trails or simply watch the face of the city go from light to dark in the evening. The atmosphere here will leave you feeling refreshed, calm and serene while surrounded by Mother Nature. With many K-dramas previously filmed here, combined with its dreamy backdrop, pose for a photo and re-enact your favourite Kdrama scene.
10th floor of the express bus station
You might be wondering... the 10th floor of the express bus terminal in Seoul? What's there to see here? Only those who frequent the area would know the secret of this spot in the building. Take the lift up to the 10th floor to find a pleasant surprise waiting for you. Not only is this floor home to two Korean barbecue restaurants and a church, but it also opens onto a magnificent garden that surrounds the building. Although there aren't many photos of this place available to the public, that's exactly why it falls into the category of Seoul's hidden gems.
This list only scratches the surface of the hidden gems that Seoul awaits you when the journey begins again. There's so much to see, discover and explore in Seoul before expanding to the rest of South Korea. We encourage you to put at least a few of these places on your itinerary to Seoul.
