3. Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Another location popularized by a KDrama My Love From the Star is Dongdaemun Design Plaza, also known as DDP. It is one of Seoul’s most state-of-the-art facilities, which turns into a galaxy-like attraction at night with its display of lights. Another beautiful sight at night is the bed of over 20,000 LED roses.
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
If you want to explore the Korean culture more, the Bukchon Hanok Village is the place to visit. Home to probably hundreds of traditional Korean houses, the village is more than just a tourist attraction. It is home to South Korean families, as well, which is why silence is strictly observed within the area.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun Square
No trip to South Korea is complete without a visit to one of South Korea’s grand palaces, Gyeongbokgung. Furthermore, no visit to the palace is complete without witnessing the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at 11 o’clock every morning.
Entrance to the palace itself costs about 8,000 won, but you won’t have to pay a single coin just to roam around the grounds. Also, the ceremony is open for everyone to watch.
The Gwanghwamun Square houses the statue of one of Korea’s greatest leaders, King Sejong, the inventor or Hangeul. It is located right in front of the Gwanghwamun Gate.
It is great to see that the statue is built within the heart of the city of Seoul, which shows that even though times are changing, South Koreans still pay respect to their history and culture.
A trip to Seoul doesn’t have to hurt your wallet. There are more than a couple of free things to do during your trip that will make your visit worthwhile.
If you’re planning on visiting South Korea in 2018, this blog post on securing a Visa might help.
To assist you further on your future trips, here’s how you can get to the places mentioned above:
Gyeongbokgung Palace – via Subway, Orange Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Sta Exit 5
Bukchon Hanok Village – Orange Line 3, Anguk Sta Exit 1 or 2
Ewha Women’s University – Green Line 2, Ewha Women’s University Sta Exit 2 or 3
Myeongdong – Light Blue Line 4, Myeongdong Sta Exit 6 or 7
Haneul Park – Light Orange Line 6, World Cup Stadium Sta Exit 1
N Seoul Tower – From Myeongdong Sta Exit 3, take Bus no. 5 (Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle)
DDP – Light blue Line 4, Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Sta
Star Park – From Seoul Sta, take Airport Railroad line and get off at Digital Media City Sta Exit 9
One more thing: I went to South Korea with my friends during the last week of November and it was already snowing. You might want to read this article to help you survive during your winter trip.