South Korea City Guide: Seoul
What To Eat
Bibimbap
An authentic Korean dish popular among Seoul locals and tourists alike, Bibimbap is a colourful and nutritious rice bowl topped with a variety of vegetables, protein of your choice (such as beef, chicken or tofu), fried egg and a generous dollop of spicy gochujang sauce! The name “bibimbap” directly translates to “mixed rice,” and that’s exactly what you do—mix everything together, enjoying the harmonious blend of traditional flavours and textures.
Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal)
Crowning grilled pork belly as hero, Samgyeopsal is a unique communal dining experience, and a must-do when in Seoul. Restaurants specialising in this Korean BBQ provide a grill at your table where you can indulge in charring your own meat to perfection, accompanied by a variety of banchan (side dishes) like kimchi, pickled radishes and marinated vegetables.
Cafe Culture
Seoul’s cafe culture is a unique and integral part of its food scene. The city boasts an incredible variety of cafes, each with its own distinct theme and specialty (think: cat cafes to vintage bookshops!). From traditional tea houses serving Korean teas and sweets to modern cafes offering artisanal coffee and showstopping desserts, Seoul’s vibrant cafe culture is a testament to the city’s modern lifestyle and creative spirit.
Historical Sites
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace poses a profound representation of Korea’s royal heritage. Constructed in 1395, this ancient kingdom served as the main royal residence and the seat of government. Transcend time as you explore the palace’s National Palace Museum of Korea, home to fascinating Joseon artifacts.
Jongmyo Shrine
The oldest and most authentic of the Confucian royal shrines, Jongmyo Shrine is dedicated to deceased kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. Reflecting Confucian traditions deeply embedded in Korean culture, the annual Jongmyo Jerye ritual (ceremony honouring royal ancestors) is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Affording unique insight into historical Korean architecture and lifestyle, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional hanoks, previously inhabited by Seoul’s nobles. While many have been transformed into cultural centres, guesthouses, tea houses and restaurants, charming Bukchon Hanok Village is still a residential neighbourhood.
Shopping
Jongmyo Shrine
The oldest and most authentic of the Confucian royal shrines, Jongmyo Shrine is dedicated to deceased kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. Reflecting Confucian traditions deeply embedded in Korean culture, the annual Jongmyo Jerye ritual (ceremony honouring royal ancestors) is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Bukchon Hanok Village – Affording unique insight into historical Korean architecture and lifestyle, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional hanoks, previously inhabited by Seoul’s nobles. While many have been transformed into cultural centres, guesthouses, tea houses and restaurants, charming Bukchon Hanok Village is still a residential neighbourhood.
Beauty Culture
A skincare and cosmetics wonderland, Seoul is the epicentre of the worldwide phenomenon that is Korea’s beauty industry (revered as ‘K-Beauty’). Beauty enthusiasts will find an endless array of skincare and cosmetic products harnessing innovative ingredients and groundbreaking technology. Famed shopping areas Myeongdong and Hongdae are lined with stores such as Innisfree, Etude House and Laneige, offering an unparalleled range of products from revolutionary face masks to distinctive makeup, and everything in between.
Savvy Spending
An extra perk, shopping in Seoul is made even sweeter by the favourable exchange rate for many international visitors. It’s important to check the current exchange rates before you travel and consider exchanging a portion of your currency in advance. Additionally, many stores in Seoul offer tax-free shopping for tourists, allowing you to save even more on your purchases. Look for stores with the ‘Tax Free’ logo and remember to bring your passport for verification. Happy shopping!
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