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Things to Do in Seoul

Things to Do in Seoul

Seoul South Korea Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Seoul's natural side with various outdoor activities, from mountain hikes to river sports.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Bukhansan National Park

Offers diverse trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs (Baegundae Peak or Uiam). Proper hiking gear is suggested for more difficult routes.

Namsan Park

Features easier surfaced trails and wooded trails, suitable for all fitness levels.

Seoul City Wall Trail

Different sections feature varying lengths and difficulty, from leisurely strolls to moderate climbs, historical context with views.

Water Sports & Adventure

  • Hangang River: During warmer months, the Han River features kayaking, paddleboarding, duck boats, and personal watercraft riding.
  • Indoor/Outdoor Water Parks: Lotte World Water Park (outside Seoul) and Onemount Water Park (in Gyeonggi-do) provide water-based fun.
  • Adventure Sports: Zip-lining opportunities at Gapyeong Rail Park (a popular day trip). Indoor cliff scaling facilities exist in Seoul.
  • Amusement Parks: Lotte World Adventure, an indoor funfair, features thrilling rides.

Cycling Routes

  • Hangang River Cycling Routes are extensive and flat.
  • Perfect for leisurely rides.
  • Bicycle leasing is widespread.
  • Mountain biking trails exist in Bukhansan and suburban mountains.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Opportunities for wildlife encounters are limited in urban Seoul.
  • Seoul Forest features a little deer park.
  • More extensive wildlife viewing experiences need trips to national parks outside the city.

Indoor Rock Climbing

  • Several gyms in Seoul feature indoor rock climbing facilities.
  • Suitable for all skill levels.
  • A fun activity regardless of weather.

Safety Precautions

Always assess your fitness level before attempting challenging hikes or adventure sports. Respect park rules and stay on marked trails for your protection.

Cultural Immersion

Dive deep into Korean culture through hands-on workshops, classic shows, and community interactions.

Workshops & Classes

  • Hanbok (conventional Korean dress) rental and photo shoots: Popular near palaces. Renting a Hanbok often grants free entry to palaces.
  • Kimchi making classes: Learn to make the iconic Korean side dish, a fun and delicious experience.
  • Traditional handicraft classes: Explore Korean pottery, calligraphy, or traditional knot making, especially in Insadong.
  • K-pop dance classes & Taekwondo: Various studios offer K-pop dance classes. Basic Taekwondo lessons open to visitors.

Performances & Homestays

Nanta Show

A non-verbal percussion performance, highly energetic and popular with all ages. Book tickets via GetYourGuide.

Traditional Music & Dance

Enjoy performances in the National Gugak Center, Jeongdong Theater, or Namsangol Hanok Village.

Temple Stay & Royal Guard

Participate in daily temple life (meditation, tea ceremonies) at Bongeunsa (day programs). Witness the Monarch's Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung Palaces.

Community Tourism

Homestays with local families. Local market tours at Gwangjang Bazaar or Tongin Market. Find unique stays on TrustedHousesitters.

Language Learning

Short-term Korean language classes at universities (e.g., Yonsei, Sogang) or private academies. Language exchange meetups for practice.

Cultural Festivals

Seoul International Fireworks Festival (October, Yeouido Hangang Park). Hwaseong Fortress Cultural Festival (Suwon, October). Check local listings.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find moments of calm and rejuvenation amidst Seoul's bustling energy.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Jjimjilbang (Korean bathhouse/spa): Popular communal bathhouses featuring saunas, hot and cold pools, massage treatments, and relaxation areas. Examples: Dragon Hill Spa & Resort, Silloam Sauna.
  • High-end hotel spas: These feature luxurious treatments and calm environments.
  • Hot springs and natural therapy: Not directly in Seoul. These need day trips to areas like Icheon or Suanbo for natural hot springs.
  • Traditional healing practices (Hanbang): Korean Traditional Medicine clinics offer acupuncture, herbal medicine, and traditional diagnostics.

Yoga, Meditation & Recreation

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Yoga studios are frequently found in Seoul. Meditation: Temple stay programs at Buddhist temples feature meditation sessions.

Beach & Pool Clubs

No sandy shores exist in Seoul. Public swimming pools are available, like the outdoor pools at Hangang Parks during summer. Hotel pools and some exclusive clubs also provide swimming options.

Wellness Insights & Tips

Jjimjilbang Etiquette

Be mindful of local customs and modesty; separate male/female areas for bathing. Booking hotel spas in advance is advisable; Jjimjilbangs are usually walk-in.

Hanbang Consultation

Consider clinics with English-staff who speak for traditional medicine consultations. Some health and activities for wellness can be booked through GetYourGuide.

Seasonal Activities

Summer features water activities at Hangang Parks. Cooler months are ideal for indoor spas and cultural retreats.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Seoul comes alive after dark, featuring a diverse range of entertainment for every taste.

Live Music & Performances

  • Hongdae: A hub for indie music clubs, live rock, jazz, and hip-hop.
  • Itaewon: Diverse bars and pubs have live music, often catering to an international crowd.
  • Daehangno (University Street): This theater district hosts numerous small plays, musicals, and experimental performances.
  • Major Performance Venues: Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, Blue Square, LG Cultural Center for large-scale musicals and concerts. Book tickets via GetYourGuide.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Gangnam Nightclubs

Known for high-energy clubs, often playing electronic dance music (EDM), like Octagon and Arena.

Hongdae Nightlife

Offers more assorted music genres, attracting a younger crowd to its smaller clubs and hip-hop bars.

Itaewon Clubs & Bars

Features international clubs and LGBTQ+ friendly venues.

Bar Districts

  • Hongdae, Itaewon, and Gangnam all include comprehensive bar districts.
  • Various organized pub crawls cater to tourists.
  • Try local craft beer breweries.
  • Explore themed bars and lounges.

Noraebang Karaoke

  • Private singing rooms are widely popular for groups.
  • Often include food and drink service.
  • Available throughout the city.
  • A must-do for social gatherings.

PC Bang PC Room

  • Internet cafes with high-speed gaming and internet access.
  • Usually open 24/7.
  • Popular for gamers and for quick internet needs.
  • Offer snacks and drinks.

Nightlife Tips

Safety & Transport
  • Subway operates until midnight; taxis are widespread after hours.
  • Basic precautions against petty theft advisable in crowded areas.
  • Drink responsibly.
Local Customs
  • Carry ID (passport copy) for clubs and bars.
  • Tipping is not customary in Korea.
  • Nightlife frequently includes group activities.

Nightlife Highlight

Hongdae and Gangnam districts come alive after dark, each with an unique vibe.

Shopping & Markets

Seoul a shopper's paradise, ranging ranging from traditional markets to luxury boutiques.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Namdaemun Market: Oldest and largest traditional market, selling everything from clothes and kitchenware to street food.
  • Gwangjang Market: Famous for its street food and classic Korean goods.
  • Insadong: A lot of shops sell classic Korean crafts, ceramics, stationery, and art. Samcheong-dong also includes small boutiques.
  • Dongdaemun Market: A very large fashion market (wholesale and retail), often open late into the night.

Souvenirs & Luxury Shopping

Souvenir Recommendations

Korean cosmetics (locate these in Myeongdong or Olive Young stores). K-pop merchandise (available in Hongdae or Gangnam). Traditional crafts (Insadong features ceramics, Hanji paper, calligraphy items).

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Myeongdong hosts high-end big stores (Lotte, Shinsegae) and international brands. Gangnam (Apgujeong, Cheongdam-dong) features luxury boutiques and designer brands. Garosu-gil (Sinsa-dong) a trendy street with separate boutiques.

Food Souvenirs

Kimchi, Korean snacks, instant noodles, and tea.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans and businesses directly in markets.
  • Look for products made in Korea.
  • Seek out green brands.
  • Consider cultural significance.

Shipping & Customs

  • Shipping services available at major post offices or international carriers.
  • Be aware of customs regulations and duties for your home country.
  • VAT refund: Claim VAT refunds on purchases over ₩30,000.
  • Look for "Tax Free" signs at participating stores.

VAT Refund Process

  • Process refunds at airports or designated city refund centers.
  • Keep all receipts from "Without Tax" stores.
  • Present passport and purchased items.

Shopping Districts Quick Guide

Myeongdong
  • Cosmetics and fashion.
  • Big stores (Lotte, Shinsegae).
  • street shopping.
Gangnam
  • Luxury boutiques, designer brands.
  • Garosu-gil for independent fashion.
  • K-pop merchandise stores.

Shopping Recommendation

Explore Gwangjang Market for delicious street food and unique traditional goods.

Activity Planning Summary

Top Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking in Bukhansan National Park.
  • Cycling along Hangang River paths.
  • Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Han River.
  • Strolling the Seoul City Wall Trail.

Top Cultural Experiences

  • Hanbok rental and palace photos.
  • Kimchi making class.
  • Nanta Show or traditional music/dance performance.
  • Gwangjang Market food tour.