The warm glow of sunset paints Seoul’s skyscrapers in hues of gold and pink, while thousands of fans gather outside HYBE’s headquarters, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite K-pop idols. This is modern Seoul – a city where ancient palace roofs share the skyline with sleek entertainment companies, and where traditional tea houses sit comfortably beside sidewalk cafes blasting the latest BTS hits. Welcome to South Korea’s captivating capital, where the past doesn’t just coexist with the present – it helps create the future.
A City That Never Stops
As one of the top two cities that are most popular with Thai’s and expats living in Thailand, we suggest you begin your Seoul journey in Myeongdong, where the pulse of modern Korea beats strongest. By day, beauty enthusiasts flood its cosmetics emporia, testing the latest K-beauty innovations that have revolutionized skincare routines worldwide. As night falls, the district transforms into a street food paradise. Here’s an insider tip: follow the longest lines of locals – they’ll lead you to the crispiest hotteok (sweet filled pancakes) and most perfectly grilled odeng (fish cakes).
Time-Travel Through Neighborhoods
Just a short subway ride away, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a dramatic change of pace. Walking these narrow alleyways lined with traditional Korean houses feels like stepping into a historical drama – and often, you are. Many Korean period pieces film here, and it’s common to spot camera crews capturing the next big streaming series. Book a stay in one of the converted hanok guesthouses – there’s nothing quite like waking up on a heated ondol floor as morning light filters through paper windows.
The Royal Treatment
Gyeongbokgung Palace isn’t just another tourist stop – it’s your window into the soul of Korean culture. Time your visit for the 11 AM changing of the guard ceremony, when guards in vibrant Joseon-era uniforms march through the main gate. The photo opportunities are endless, but the real magic happens in the late afternoon when the setting sun casts long shadows across the courtyard, and the palace seems to glow from within.
Seoul After Dark
When sunset approaches, join the crowds heading to Namsan Seoul Tower. Yes, it’s touristy, but watching the city transform into a galaxy of lights while dining at N.Grill (the rotating restaurant at the top) is an unforgettable experience. Pro tip: skip the cable car lines and take the newly renovated hiking trail – it’s a surprisingly peaceful 30-minute walk through pine forests, offering spectacular photo opportunities of the city below.
The K-Pop Revolution
No story about contemporary Seoul is complete without diving into its role as the epicenter of the Korean Wave (Hallyu). K-pop, or Korean pop music, has skyrocketed in popularity over the past two decades, evolving into a global phenomenon that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. Its origins can be traced back to the early 1990s, when the genre began to take shape with the debut of groups like Seo Taiji and Boys, who blended Western musical styles with Korean lyrics and themes. This innovative approach laid the groundwork for what would become the Hallyu Wave, or Korean Wave, which refers to the growing global interest in South Korean culture, including music, television dramas, and fashion.
Today, K-pop boasts a massive following around the world, with over 90.4 billion on-demand audio and video streams recorded in just one year alone. The genre’s appeal is particularly strong among younger audiences, driven by its catchy melodies, high-energy performances, and visually stunning music videos. Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube have played a crucial role in amplifying K-pop’s reach, allowing fans to engage with their favorite artists and discover new music effortlessly. Notably, groups such as BTS and BLACKPINK have become household names globally, breaking records and achieving unprecedented success on international charts.
Among the most recognized K-pop stars is Lisa from BLACKPINK, who has garnered immense popularity not only in South Korea but also internationally. As a Thai artist, her influence extends beyond borders, making her a symbol of K-pop’s global appeal. Lisa’s solo projects have further solidified her status as a leading figure in the industry, showcasing her talent as both a performer and a fashion icon. Other notable K-pop stars include Jungkook from BTS, known for his powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, as well as groups like TWICE and Stray Kids, who continue to push the boundaries of the genre.
The Gangnam district, made globally famous by Psy’s viral hit, has become a pilgrimage site for K-pop enthusiasts. Visit the HYBE Insight museum, where interactive exhibits showcase the journey of groups like BTS and SEVENTEEN, or explore the SM Entertainment COEX Artium, where K-pop memorabilia and holographic concerts bring fans closer to their idols.
For the ultimate K-pop experience, time your visit around music shows like “M Countdown” at Mnet’s studio. With luck and planning, you might witness a live recording – just be prepared to join enthusiastic fans who’ve mastered complex fan chants. The nearby Starfield COEX Mall’s K-pop Square features a massive LED screen constantly streaming music videos, creating an impromptu dance party atmosphere at all hours
Feast Your Way Through History
Don’t leave Seoul without visiting Gwangjang Market, Korea’s oldest remaining market. Unlike tourist-oriented markets, this is where real Seoulites come to eat. Pull up a plastic stool at a bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) stall and watch as grandmothers who’ve been making the same dish for decades work their magic. The crispy-chewy texture and rich flavor will ruin you for all other pancakes. Don’t miss the mayak gimbap (addictively good seaweed rice rolls) – they’re small enough that you can try several varieties.
Modern Moments
End your trip at Dongdaemun Design Plaza, where Korea’s future takes shape. This UFO-like structure, designed by Zaha Hadid, hosts everything from fashion shows to art installations. The late-night shopping in surrounding markets (open until 5 AM!) proves Seoul truly never sleeps. The rooftop garden, illuminated by LED roses at night, has become a favorite spot for both romantic evenings and Instagram photos.
When to Go
While cherry blossoms make spring (April-May) Instagram-worthy, autumn (September-October) is Seoul’s best-kept secret. The weather is perfect for exploring, and the fall foliage at Bukhansan National Park creates a stunning backdrop for urban adventures. Winter brings magical snow scenes and the opportunity to ice skate at the City Hall Plaza rink, while summer offers exciting festivals and outdoor concerts in parks along the Han River.
Hidden Gems
Venture beyond the tourist trails to Ikseondong, a recently revitalized historical district where traditional hanok houses have been transformed into boutique cafes, craft workshops, and indie design stores. The narrow alleys here are less crowded than Bukchon, and the fusion of old and new feels organic rather than contrived.
For a taste of Seoul’s creative spirit, explore the Hongdae area near Hongik University. Street performers entertain crowds well into the night, and underground clubs pulse with everything from K-pop dance parties to indie rock shows. The area’s energy is infectious, and the abundance of quirky cafes (cat cafes, board game cafes, and even sheep cafes) makes it a perfect spot for people-watching.
Seoul isn’t just a destination; it’s a masterclass in harmonious contradictions. Where else can you meditate in a 14th-century temple, shop in the world’s largest underground mall, and feast on royal court cuisine – all before attending a holographic K-pop concert? This is a city that doesn’t make you choose between old and new, traditional and modern. Instead, it invites you to embrace both, creating memories that span centuries in a single trip.
Whether you’re a K-pop fan tracing your idols’ footsteps, a food enthusiast exploring evolving culinary traditions, or a culture seeker wanting to understand how a society can honor its past while racing toward the future, Seoul promises an adventure that will exceed your expectations.