It might be a disgrace to put in writing off Seoul as merely one other Asian mega metropolis. Whereas it’s true the South Korean capital has traditionally been influenced by neighbors China and Japan, the Seoul that exists at present is a novel cultural powerhouse that has embraced its previous even whereas it seems in direction of the long run.

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Purchasing

A nexus of vogue and know-how, procuring in Seoul appears like making a fast journey to a not-too-distant future. In reality, your first buy may happen earlier than you really attain the procuring areas correct: Pocket Wi-Fi is on the market for beneath US$5 a day, permitting you to maintain observe of the perfect offers when you make your method across the metropolis. 

The place you store will depend on what you’re out there for. Insadong is a superb district for conventional wares, whereas Namdaemun Market is a superb place to go for just about the whole lot else. These wanting extra for the expertise of procuring reasonably than precise gadgets have a couple of locations to move to as properly. Seoul has a number of underground markets to discover, together with Gangnam Underground Purchasing Heart. From 10PM to 5AM, there’s all evening procuring at Dongdaemun for these fashionistas on the market. Lastly, Myeongdong is nice for make-up, skincare, and extra worldwide merchandise. 

In fact, no procuring journey is full with out snacks. Fortuitously, most procuring districts both characteristic Korean avenue meals or are in shut proximity to it. Attempt some favorites resembling kimbap, bibimbap, rooster skewers, or spicy rice muffins. 

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Sightseeing

When you arrive, there are numerous issues to do in Seoul. Whether or not your itinerary is stuffed with historic points of interest or extra trendy diversions, the town can ship in spades. Begin your go to out proper by heading to Namsam N Seoul Tower, arguably probably the most well-known landmark within the metropolis, to get panoramic views of your complete area. From right here your itinerary diverges a bit relying in your curiosity. 

Traditionally-minded vacationers ought to head out to Bukchon Village, a district dwelling to conventional Korean homes and delightful alleyways. Make sure, additionally, to cease by Gyeongbokgung, the ancestral palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Not solely do you get to discover the attractive structure, however you additionally get to see folks strolling round in conventional clothes. As you may think, this makes for excellent picture ops.

Those that choose to see the extra trendy facet of Seoul ought to focus much less on landmarks and extra on the varied metropolis districts. Gangnam district is legendary for its flashy fashion and is actually value a go to, however when you’re searching for one thing equally inventive however only a bit extra subdued, head to Hongdae. This space surrounding Hongik College is stylish and hip in all the proper methods. Lastly, these with households ought to try Lotte World, a procuring and leisure district that’s the Korean equal of Disneyland – full with its personal citadel!

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Nightlife

Sure, Seoul has its justifiable share of nightclubs, bars, and different mainstays, and lots of of them are even value your time. These seeking to actually lose themselves within the metropolis’s tradition, nevertheless, ought to try a few of these distinctive choices.

Surprisingly, many theater reveals are definitely worth the admission worth even when you don’t converse a phrase of Korean. Seoul’s iconic NANTA reveals characteristic non-verbal comedy in more and more hilarious conditions; the present present focuses on kitchen hijinks. Although it closes a bit earlier within the night, the Operating Man Thematic Expertise Heart provides to place you in the midst of a Korean sport present expertise the place you possibly can trigger some hijinks your self. 

Those that choose digital actions ought to think about dropping into one among Seoul’s many arcades or PC cafes (domestically often called bangs). Whether or not you wish to play or just watch the professionals at work, there’s one thing decidedly distinctive about spending the night in such an electrical setting. 

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