Established in 1395, Gyeongbok Palace is also called “Northern Palace” because it is located more toward the north compared to Changdeok Palace (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghee Palace (Western Palace). Gyeongbok Palace (No.117 Historical Number) prides itself for having the largest magnitude and being the most beautiful among the 5 other palaces.  

It was destroyed by a fire during the Japanese Invasion of Korea (1592-1598) but the Palace (7.700 rooms) was later restored under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun in the years of King Gojong (1852~1919) .

In the Gyeongbok Palace, the most representative edifices of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoe-ru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond still remain. Woldae and sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) represent the past sculpture art which was the trend back then.

The National Palace Museum of Korea is located south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is located east within Hyangwonjeong.

Myeong-dong resembles a massive shopping city.  Myeong-dong Street spreads about 1km from Myeong-dong Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line No. 4) to Lotte Department Store at Euljiro. All kinds of brand name shops and department stores are clustered on the streets and alleyways. You can purchase various products such as clothes, shoes, and accessories. Compared to Namdaemun or Dongdaemun, many good-quality brands are sold in Myeong-dong. Such stores include Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae Department Store, U-too Zone, Myeong-dong Migliore and Avatar. You can purchase good-quality products at the department stores or other fashionable products at reasonable prices at Migliore or Avatar.  Moreover, all kinds of brand shops are densely located along the main street and lanes.
Myeong-dong also has family restaurants, fast food, Korean, Western and Japanese food. Among many restaurants, Myeong-dong are specializes in pork cutlet and kalguksu(noodles). Other than restaurants, there are many convenient facilities such as hair shops, banks and theaters.  Myeong-dong Catholic Church is also a famous tourist attraction.  It is the first and main church of Catholics in Korea and built in the Gothic style.  Behind the church is a space where you can relax from long touring hours.

Lotte World

Lotte World is the perfect spot for entertainment and sightseeing in the heart of the city. It is a theme park filled with the most thrilling rides, an ice rink, and different kinds of parades as well as a folk museum, a lake, and much more. About 6,000,000 visitors are welcomed every year, and about 10% of the visitors are foreigners. The structure inside makes use of the natural sunlight, and it is open for visitors all throughout the year, regardless of the weather.
Lotte World is divided into 'Adventure’ inside the building, and ‘Magic Island’ outdoors, beside Seokchonhosu Lake. Lotte World Adventure has certain districts representing different countries, with various kinds of facilities and souvenir shops. You can enjoy watching parades, numerous films, laser shows, and international cuisine even during the holidays. Magic Island is situated outdoors, where the dazzling Magic Castle is located as well as thrilling high-altitude rides that you can't experience elsewhere, and there is also a peaceful trail around the lake. One of the major reasons tourists are attracted to Lotte World is the amusement rides. The Gyro Drop and Gyro Swing are the top pleasers– fall an altitude of 70 meters, or taste the thrilling sensation of being inside a tornado. You may need to take your shoes off before you get on as they may come off during the ride. The Flume Ride is a long boat with a high-altitude wave, and the Spanish Pirate Ship swings at an electrifying 75 degrees.  Besides the excitement of these rides, Lotte World also contains a variety of parades and laser shows. The 200 performers bring World Carnival Parade (music, singing, and dancing) which adds excitement to the theme park. The parade takes place at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m, and the laser show is held in the late evening at 9:30p.m.

After enjoying the rides, don't miss skating on the ice rink and visiting the museum. The ice rink is situated indoors on the B3 floor, and is opened throughout the year. Its pleasant atmosphere is perfect for family and couples to enjoy. The hours are from 10:30a.m. to 10:30p.m., and runs even during the holidays. Its facilities include a restaurant, ticket booth, snack bar, sports shop, skate rental service, and changing room. On the other hand, The Folk Museum is the most popular museum for foreign tourists. Folk cultural items are displayed and the items go back 5,000 years in Korean history, as well as miniature villages, and a playground. The museum layout was arranged to attract the visitors' attention and the displays are easily understandable. In addition, audio-visual devices and miniature models are available.

Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon

Changdeokgung Palace is composed of public official buildings, king’s residence and a backyard garden.  Changdeokgung Palace is the only palace in Korea that preserves the architectural style of the Joseon Dynasty.  The garden used to be the king’s resting area where 300-year-old trees, pond and pavilion are harmoniously situated.
Past Donhwa Gate and into the palace, Geumcheon Bridge appears at the right.  Constructed during the 11th year of King Tae-Jong’s (1411) reign, this stone bridge is the oldest of its kind that remains in Seoul.  The entrance of Injeongjeon (the royal audience chamber) is at the end of the bridge and the ridge of this chamber’s roof is unusually decorated with flower patterns.  These patterns were attached by the Japanese to disgrace the royal family and cannot be found at any other ridges.  There are nine statues each on the eves of Injeongjeon.  These statues prevent evil spirits from entering, and the number of statues differ – five statues for each eve at Jinseonmun, and seven for Donhwamun.  Behind the right door of Injeongjeon, there is the king’s official chamber called Seonjeongjeon.  Blue tiles were used only for the palace, which gives an explanation for the blue tiles of the Presidential Residence of Korea.  The paved road between the walls of Changdeokgung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace leads to Huwon garden.  Buyongjeong and Juhamnu here frequently appear in photos introducing Korea.  The garden is formed in the shape of the Korean alphabet ‘ㄷ’ with a pond in the center.  Also, one must pass Bulo gate made of a big stone into the ‘ㄷ’ shape to step out of the palace and reach Yeongeongdang, the 99-room house of the highest ranking nobleman.

Insa-dong

Insa-dong, located in the middle of the city, is an important place where old but precious and traditional goods are on display.  There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side.  Within these alleys are galleries, traditional restaurants, traditional teahouses, and cafes.  The shops in Insa-dong are very popular among all age groups, because each store is unique.  The galleries are the heartbeat of Insa-dong.  There are about 100 galleries in the area and you can see every example of Korean traditional fine art from paintings to sculptures.  The most famous galleries are Hakgojae Gallery, which functions as the center of folk art, Gana Art Gallery, which promotes many promising artists, and Gana Art Center.  The best way to visit these galleries is to use the “Art Center Bus.”  It will take you over 10 of the most famous galleries at a very reasonable price.  
The teahouses and restaurants are the perfect compliments to the galleries.  At first they might be hard to find, but if you take the time to stroll around the twisting alleyways, the window shopping in itself can be very entertaining.  If you had to choose just one teahouse from the hundreds that are here, Gwicheon would be the place to go.  Poet Cheon Sang-Byeong’s wife is the proprietor of the tea house.  The shop isn’t very big, but you can see pictures and books of famous poets.  You might even run into one.  Mokwacha is their best tea and it is famous for its fragrance.  
Every Sunday from 10:00 – 22:00, some streets are blocked off from traffic and it becomes a place cultural space.  This is when the stores will set up booths outside.  Not only the stores that are here, but all kinds of people come here during this time and set up shop, such as Korean candy merchants and old fortune tellers.  There are traditional performances and exhibits as well.  Insa-dong is especially popular with foreign tourists.  This is where they can experience and see Korean traditional culture firsthand, and also purchase pieces of fine art.  On the street you can eat Korean taffy and traditional pajeon (Korean pancake), and see many foreigners lost in all the joyous festivities of the street.

Namsangol Hanok Village

If you get off at Chungmuro Subway Station, you are right in front of Namsangol Hanok Village(traditional Korean village).  You may consider it interesting to find this area standing between the tall buildings. This village has restored five traditional Korean houses, with a pavilion, a pond and a time capsule which makes it a perfect spot to take a walk.
When you enter the front gate, you will see the vast valley and the Chunugak to the left of the pond. Along with the pond, it is a splendid place where performances are held.  On the side you will see five traditional houses. These houses were rebuilt after the traditional houses of Joseon Dynasty. The houses belong to various social ranks of the society from peasant to king.  The furniture in the house are situated to help guests understand the daily life of the past.  The clean traditional houses and used home equipments are great to take pictures. If you would like to see souvenirs, stop at the traditional craftwork exhibit where you can buy small dishes and souvenirs.  You can also have traditional tea and refreshments.  On the grounds, there are traditional games you may want to try such as 'neolttwigi' (sea-saw jumping), 'tuho'(arrow throwing) and 'yunnori' (traditional game of throwing wooden yut sticks).  In addition, you may not want to miss traditional marriage ceremony.  During the weekends, traditional marriages are shown at Bak Yeong Hyo's Residence. The traditional marriage ceremony is an interesting event for both Koreans and foreigners and many gather to watch although it is not shown at certain hours.  During the winter season (November to February), there are not many weddingceremonies held, as it is frequently held in Spring and Fall.  Hours for the ceremony are held around noon or 1 p.m.  Visitors can take pictures with husband and wife wearing traditional wedding costumes.  Furthermore, there is also a time capsule in remembrance of Seoul’s 600 Year Anniversary. Buried in 1994, it is anticipated to open four hundred years later.

Deoksugung Palace

Located at the corner of the busiest intersection of downtown Seoul, Deoksugung Palace is famous for its elegant stone-wall road.  It is the only one that has western buildings beside it, and it adds to the uniqueness of the scenery.  Deoksugung Palace originally belonged to Wolsandaegun (1454~1488), the older brother of King Seongjong (1469~1494) of the Joseon Dynasty.  It became a proper palace when Gwanghaegun (1575~1641) ascended the throne and gave the palace the name Gyeongungung in 1611.  Afterwards, the name was changed to Deoksugung.
Enter Deoksugung Palace and Daehanmun, and Geumcheon appears, with the Geumcheon bridge, wide enough for the king’s carriage to pass.  The Beopjeon Building Junghwajeon is very stately, revealing of its long history. The Jeukjodang Building received its name from Gwanghaegun and In-Jo both ascended to the throne here.  The front sign on Jeukjodang was written personally by Go Jong in 1905 after he became king.  Hamnyeongjeon was where Go Jong slept, and Hamnyeong was named so to wish Go Jong lasting peace.  The East Wing served as the King’s room, and the west wing was for the Queen.  Jeonggwanheon was the first western style building built in the palace in 1900.  Go Jong enjoyed drinking coffee and spending his free time here.  The back of the building had secret passageways to the Russian Emissary, which still exist today.
Seokjojeon is the other western-style building that still remains in Gyeongwungung, and it was in the process of being built by a British man for his company when in 1905 the property rights became that of Japan.  It was finally completed in 1910.  After Gojong’s death, Seokjojeon became a Japanese art gallery and open to public, and after Korean Independence, the American-Russian joint commission was held here as well in May 1946.  The east wing of Seokjogwan building now serves as a Palace Treasure exhibition, and the west wing is used as part of National Modern Arts Center.

Namsan Park

Mt. Namsan (265m above sea level) is a symbolic mountain located at the center of Seoul.  Although not so high, Mt. Namsan is a very popular as a resting site. At the top of Mt. Namsan, there are various facilities such as Palgakjeong (octagonal hall), Seoul Tower, Maritime Aquarium, fountains, and Namsan Library.  You may take a cable car to the top or walk up the stairway path.  Other than this path, there are many other walkways to Namdaemun, Hoehyun-dong, Taegyero 3(sam)-ga, Jangchung Park, Itaewon, Huam-dong and much more. The driving courses here are also popular for couples.
Namsan Park is a historical site.  You will find Bonghwadae (beacon mound) at the top as it was once the center of capital defense. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) the capital was changed to Hanyang,(current Seoul) and to protect the city from invasions, castle walls were built on the 4 major mountains like Mt. Bukaksan, Mt. Inwangsan, Mt. Naksan and Mt. Namsan.  On Namsan peak, five beacons were built to report the news from local governments to the central government with a five-signal system.  
Also on the top of Mt. Namsan, there is the Palgakjeong Pavilion, which has a fantastic view. At Seoul Tower (479.7m), you can view the whole landscape of Seoul and the West Sea beyond Incheon.  The rotating restaurant in the Seoul Tower has an excellent view of Seoul. With excellent night view, you should try having dinner at the tower.  It would be a great experience to visit Namsangol Traditional Korean Village which is a village of 5 traditional Korean houses.

Korea House

The Korea House was opened in 1981.  It is a traditional Korean building that introduces the culture and lifestyle of Koreans where you can experience the traditional architecture and the classical atmosphere.  The building was built after the Jagyeong-jeon building of Gyeongbok palace of the Joseon dynasty.  It is the only building built in the traditional architecture style.  You will feel the antiquity as you enter the building.  It is divided into the Haerin-gwan (a space for people to get acquainted with each other), the folk theater, and the three annex buildings (Munhyang-ru, Nokeum-jeong and Cheongwu-jeong).  At Haerin-gwan you can enjoy traditional music at Garak-dang and try traditional foods at Sohwa-dang.  Especially in the square of Garak-dang you can view the traditional weddings or people playing folk games.  If you visit on weekends, you will be able to see the traditional wedding ceremony.  Also, at the Folk Theater, about 100 seats are ready and in the afternoons Human cultural Assets or members of the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts and the National Corps members present traditional music and dances.  Sinayui, Salpuri, Pansori, the Drum dance and the Bongsan Mask Dance are the most popular programs for foreigners.  The programs are all explained in English and Japanese.  In the Cultural Gift Shop you can view various crafts made by traditional craftsmen.  It is always open and they are for sale as well.  There are potteries, ceramics, golden crafts, knots and embroidery etc, approximately 500 pieces of artwork made by craftsmen from 20 different fields.  Next to the House of Korea is the Namsan-gol Hanok village.  You can view traditional houses there also.

Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House)

The symbol of Cheong Wa Dae (known to westerners as the Blue House or the presidential residence), is the blue tiles.
The first thing that catches your eye when you arrive at Cheong Wa Dae are the blue tiles of the main building.  The blue tiles and the smooth roof are in beautiful harmony with Mt. Bugaksan behind it.  As the Blue House represents Korea, the blue tiles and the smooth curve of the roof represents the beauty of Korea.

The unique buildings Cheong Wa Dae are comprised of the Main Office, Yeongbingwan (Guest House), Chunchugwan (Spring and Autumn Pavilion), Nokjiwon (Green grass), the Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) Valley, and the Seven Palaces.  It is interesting to see that these buildings have special shapes. They are unique and beautifully designed, built in the Korean traditional style. The blue tiles and the smooth curve shape of the main office roofs are elegantly built. Approximately 150 thousand tiles compose the roof of the Blue House. Each were baked individually which make them strong enough to be used for hundreds of years.  If you turn to the right you will see Chunchugwan. The roof of Chunchugwan was made of earthen tiles.  This is where the president's press conferences are held.  On the left side of the main office, there is the Yeongbingwan.  It was designed to hold large conferences and official events for foreign guests. It looks luxurious with 18 pillars.

You can walk along the Nokjiwon and the Mugunghwa Valley. At Nokjiwon a succession of presidents planted trees on memorial occasions. There is one famous tree which is 310 years old.
The Mugunghwa Valley has the flowers, a fountain, and a phoenix statue, which makes it perfect for taking pictures.  It is best to visit here between July and October when the Mugunghwa flowers bloom.  There are many places to go to in Hyoja-dong Sarangbang.  Presents given from around the world to the president are displayed here.  You can tour for free and buy Cheong Wa Dae  souvenirs. One place you should not miss is "the Seven Palaces." The area has seven palaces with traditional houses and yards from the Joseon Dynasty. After opening in November 2001, many tourists have visited.

A walk around the paths just outside the the Blue House grounds is a pleasure as the surroundings are peaceful and beautiful. The paths follow Gyeongbokgung Palace to Blue House and to Samcheong-dong Park.  The walk from the East Gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the Blue House is the most beautiful part.  With the road in the middle, there is the Gyeongbokgung Palace stone wall on the left and galleries and old buildings on the right.  The stone wall of Gyeongbokgung Palace is scattered with beautiful old trees that will comfort you.  With their colorful leaves, the path is a romantic course to walk through during the fall season.  Across the street are Hyundai Gallery, Geumho Gallery and other famous galleries and stylish cafes.  Of the many nice cafes and restaurants, there is "The Restaurant." Its interior is modern and one side of the building is a glass wall where you can enjoy viewing the scenery and the stonewall alley while dining.  After you pass this area, and before you reach the Blue House, turn to the right and you will reach Samcheong-dong Park.  There are many famous restaurants and galleries.  In particular, on the way to Samcheong Park, there is a restaurant called 'Sancheong-dong Sujaebi' which is the most renowned in Samcheong-dong.  If you walk pass the restaurant, you will find Samcheong-dong Park at the end of the road.  There are many trees, a mineral spring, and another famous walking path.  When you visit the Blue House, don't forget to take a stroll on the quaint and narrow Samcheong-dong street.  It is much quieter than Insa-dong and is popular among foreigners.

COEX Mall

COEX Mall is a novel entertainment facility in the heart of the city.  With over 250 large commercial stores and over 100,000 visitors on weekdays, it is generally considered to be the best entertainment complex around.  There are over 800 restaurants to dine in, and various places to shop, eat and play, such as night clubs, theaters, book stores, record stores, and a grand aquarium.  There are also banks, post offices and other facilities for daily living.  First time visitors may get lost and confused. The best places to visit in COEX Mall are the Megabox Cineplex, Kimchi Museum, Food Court, and Bandi & Lunis Bookstore.  The unique, fancy and beautifully lit interior of Megabox Cineplex resembles a space-station, and is a favorite with teenagers.  With a total of 17 screens, you can pick from a wide selection of movies.  The aquarium has a water-tunnel where you can see sharks and tropical fishes swim over your head, and is a place sought out by many couples.  There are about 40,000 aquatic creatures, which you can view just as if you were actually in the ocean.  The Kimchi Museum is a popular place for foreigners; it exhibits about 70 different types of Kimchi, pictures, Kimchi jars from different districts, and other historical exhibits about kimchi.  The Food Court has a cozy atmosphere, with natural sunlight filtering through the pyramid-shaped glass roof.  With its cross-marked glass floor, the water flowing underneath it, great prices and great atmosphere, it is simply one of the finest places to eat.  There is also the huge Bandi & Lunis Bookstore, Game Park, Young Fashion Plaza and many other great places to visit.

Nanta Theater

Nanta Theater is the permanent home of the first Korean non-verbal performance called 'Nanta'.  Nanta is a hybrid artwork, a combination of traditional Korean folk performance called 'Samulnori' and western form of performance.  On the stage is a giant kitchen, and four cooks appear and start cooking dishes for a wedding reception.  In the process, they perform Samulnori using the various cooking utensils, such as pots, pans, and plates, etc.  It was a big hit from the moment it opened, due to the power and speed of the performance.  Though mainly consisting of rhythm and beats, its clever plot makes it enjoyable for people of all ages and backgrounds.  It received high praise for its performances in other countries, and now has about 70-80% of its audience from foreign countries.  A theater was built exclusively for Nanta in Gangbuk in 2000, but a second one was built in Gangnam due to the overwhelming number of patrons.  The Gangnam Theater was opened on April of 2002.  The Gangbuk Theater has a capacity of 291, while the Gangnam Theater has a capacity of 293.

Jongmyo Royal Shrine

Jongmyo Royal Shrine is the worshiping place for the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. It was built when the first King of the Joseon Dynasty, Lee Sung-Gye(1335-1408) founded the Joseon Dynasty.  Jongmyo Royal Shrine is registered as World Cultural Heritage because the tradition and customs such as the memorial services and traditional music are very well preserved.
There is a trifurcated paths in front of the main gate of Jongmyo Royal Shrine. The middle path between the slightly raised roads is for the dead kings, the east road for the king and the west road for the prince. The road in the middle is connected to Jeongjeon, and the roads on both sides are linked to a room for preparing a memorial service after performing their ablutions. After properly preparing the body and mind, the king and the prince move to Jeonsacheong. Jeonsacheong is where foods for the memorial ceremony are prepared. With the yard in the center, the buildings of Jeonsacheong are square shaped. The main building, Jeongjeon is where mortuary tablets of kings are preserved and the memorial services are held.  Only this place has maintained its tradition so far, even though enshrining successive kings was originally handed down from China. Jeongjeon has 19 rooms where each room worships each king.  There is Gongshinjeon within a wall of Jeongjeon which enshrines the sincere lieges.
The music of Jongmyo Royal Shrine memorial services are produced by instruments, singing, and dances from 500 years ago.  The melody is handed down in the same way as it was 500 years ago.  This ceremony is the oldest complete ceremony in the world and is held on the first Sunday of May, yearly.  It is a great chance to see the grandeur of a traditional ceremony.

Dongdaemun Gate (East Main Gate)

Dongdaemun Gate (East Main Gate)is National Treasure No.1, originally called Heunginjimun. Dongdaemun Gate was built by King Taejo in 1396, renovated by King Danjong in 1453, and its present structure was built by King Gojong in 1869.  Apparently people started calling the gate Heunginjimun from King Sejo’s (1455~1468) reign. Although the gate is generally known as Dongdaemun Gate, many people still call it Heunginjimun with the intention of preserving its old heritage.
The most interesting characteristic of Dongdaemun Gate is that it has a specially built outer wall, usually a half-moon shape, that surrounds a city wall.  The area where Seoul Palace was built was a low region, and difficult to defend from invaders, so they built this wall to counter such disadvantages.  You can see that the gate was made with considerable consideration to the surrounding geography.  The ongseong rocks have different colors, and these are from the many renovations the gate went through.  
At the center of the stone reinforcement wall is the Hongyemun, above it is a middle floor composed of five sections at the front and two sections on each side, and the roof is in the Ujingak style.  On the eaves of the roof there are Japsang statues, which resemble animals and are said to drive away evil spirits.  The structure of Dongdaemun Gate has a very intricate and effeminate side to it, and there is strong emphasis on decoration, which show the architectural style of the latter day Joseon Period very well.

63 CITY

About 63 City: 63 City first opened its doors in July of 1985, and has established itself as a major tour site in Seoul, located by the banks of the Hangang River, it is one of the most popular places to enjoy a magnificent view of Seoul City.  As its name implies, 63 City is made up of 63 floors, with its Observatory located on the 60th floor where visitors can see all the way out to Incheon coast on clear days.  63 City is also a complex entertainment building offering an IMAX Theater, an aquarium, a shopping mall, and 11 restaurants.

The 63 City’s exterior is made up of a golden reflective glass, hence coined as the “Golden Tower.”  The 63 City remodeled its Underground Level 1 facilities until February 20, 2006, and has revealed its new look to the public.  The Observatory on the 60th floor is currently being remodeled, which is expected to be completed by July 2006.

Itaewon is a popular tourist and shopping destination for foreigners who visit Korea. There are over 2,000 stores clustered together with shopping centers, shops selling clothes, shoes, and bags, restaurants, recreation facilities, trading companies, travel agencies, and tourist hotels. The many English signs and many foreigners will make you feel as if you are in not in Korea.
Small-scale shops selling souvenirs were opened to the American army after the independence of Korea.  Since then, shopping centers appeared to residing foreigners and tourists and with Seoul Olympics in 1988, Itaewon rapidly grew as the representative shopping town in South Korea.  From the middle of 1990s, it changed from the American army centered street to global citizens’ street when more tourists came from Japan, Hong Kong, China, South-east Asia, Africa and Middle east region.  In 1997, it was designated as a special tourist zone. Japanese and Chinese, as well as English, are available at most shops due to the fact that costumers are mostly foreigners, and all kinds of requests are made.  Moreover, there are special restaurants to taste the unique foods of the world.  There are Turkish, Indian, Pakistani, Swiss, and Thai, and of course, authentic American food as well.  
Born again as one of world’s best tourist spots, Itaewon provides not only shopping opportunities but also the opportunity to see exotic and traditional Korean fashion and culture. There are many festivals held in Itaewon, such as “The World Festival”, in which shows off Korean culture as well as traditional cultures from around the world.

Changgyeonggung Palace

Changgyeonggung Palace in Seoul, is one of the special palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.  After King Sejong (1397-1450) was inaugurated in 1418, Suganggung Palace was built for the former king, King Taejong (1367-1422). Changgyeonggung was belittled during the Japanese occupation period, into a resort with a zoo and botanic gardens.  The zoo was removed in 1983, the palace was completely restored and called Chaggyeonggung once again.
Past the entrance of Changgyeonggung Palace, the Honghwa Gate, you will find Okcheon Bridge.  All palaces of the Joseon Dynasty have ponds with an arch bridge over them, just like Okcheon Bridge.  Cross Okcheongyo Birdge, pass the Myeongjeong Gate, and you will find Myeonjeongjeon.  This is the office of the King, and Myeongjeongjeon is the oldest of the Joseon Dynasty palaces.  The houses face southwards, but Myeongjeongjeon faces the east. Because the ancestral shrine of the royal family are located in the South,the gate couldn't face the south as the Confucian custom. There are stones with the status of the officials carved on the yard.  Behind Myeongjeongjeon on the upper left side there is Sungmundang.  This building utilizes the slope of the mountain.  If you look at Myeongjeongjeon and Munjeongjeon, the combination of the high and low roofs offers a beautiful view.

Tongmyeongjeon was built for the queen.  It is the biggest building in Changgyeonggung Palace, and you can recognize the delicate details of its structure in various parts of the building.  Walk up the stones past Tongmyeongjeon and there you will find Jagyeongjeon.  On the southeast direction of the Jagyeongjeon is the Punggidae.  This Punggidae is a measuring instrument.  It is a long pole with a cloth hung at the end, used to check the speed and direction of the wind.  If you head north there is a large pond called Chundangji.  Half of the pond was originally a rice field that the King took care of.  But during the Japanese Occupation the rice field was changed to a pond with little ships floating on it.  And the botanic garden built above the pond still remain today.

Seoul World Cup Stadium

Seoul World Cup Stadium is shaped like a traditional Korean kite, and seen from above, it looks as if a rectangular shield is being flown like a kite.  The shape of the stadium represents flight towards victory, and it combines the hopes of the World Cup games and spirit and traditional culture of the Korean people.
The very first impression the stadium gives is that it is very large.  It provides over 60,000 seats, and in fact, in terms of area and facility, it is the best in Asia.  There are large screens on either side of the stadium for people wanting close-up view of the games, and the grass on the field stays green during winter.  Nearby the stadium there are a variety of parks, ideal for leisurely walks. There are also five theme parks around the stadium – Peace Park, Nanjicheon Park, and Noeul Park among them.  Thick groves of trees, modern street lights, and magnificent fountains make the parks ideal walking areas in the morning and evening. In the evenings, many in-line skaters come and hang out as well.  The stadium is open from 9 to 5 pm, and many interpreters are always on duty.

After the successful completion of the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan, the Seoul World Cup Stadium has been leading the campaign to promote soccer culture, and is also a frontrunner in hosting various cultural events. Located within the facilities are also places to shop and enjoy cultural activities- providing all visitors with much to see and do. In Seoul, it is rising as a popular tourist spot.

Apgujeong Rodeo Street

Apgujeong Rodeo Street is the leading fashion mecca, formed as a cultural zone with a high propensity of consumption. It creates leading fashion trends, customer friendly shops, foreign brand name shops with high quality goods, reasonably priced hip hop fashion shops, and accessory shops. There are many cafes with unique interior design, as well as many Korean, Thai and Japanese restaurants.  Beauty clinics are clustered on the streets and due to this atmosphere, Rodeo Street attracts many youngsters.
Recently, many theaters have moved from Chungmuro to the vicinity of ‘Rodeo Street’, and is emerging into a new theater space as well.  Along with the opening of Multi-Plex Cine-City, more theaters such as Cinehouse, Cineplus, and Nanta Theater (non-speaking performances) have moved into the area, and it is now a full-blown cultural zone for youngsters.  If you get lucky, you may meet famous Korean celebrities here as they make frequent visits here.

Paradise Walker Hill Casino

Paradise Walker Hill Casino is a foreigners only casino, operating inside the Sheraton Walker Hill Hotel, from where you can enjoy a fine view of the Han river nearby.  This casino offers Baccarat, Black Jack, Roulette, Tai-Sai among others, and a variety of table games as well.  The game tables are equipped Las Vegas style, and are the finest quality in Korea.  It operates 24 hours a day, and about 400,000 foreign tourists come to enjoy casino games here.  It is perhaps more famous outside the country than within it, and it has staff members who are fluent in many languages to serve the customers’ needs.

Sungnyemun (Namdaemun)

Sungnyemun is National Treasure No. 1, often called Namdaemun.  As the biggest gate in Korea, Namdaemun has an arch-shaped entrance at the center of a stony platform.  The pillar and the roof on the platform divide into an upper layer and a lower layer.  There is a door to pass each gate in the east and west.  The green grass surrounding the platform shows the traces of a castle wall.
When the first king of Joseon Dynasty, Lee Seong-Gye (reign 1335-1408), had constructed the capital city, he believed that fire will reach to Gyeongbokgung Palace as well as the capital city as Mt. Gwanaksan of Seoul is shaped like fire according to feng-shui principles.  Therefore, the tablet in Sungnyemun was written vertically to protect the city from fire as the Chinese characters written horizontally resembles fire.
The ideograph of tablet in Sungnyemun is solemn, elegant, powerful and decent. The ideograph is famous for the character of King Yang-Nyeong (1394~1462), the first son of King Tae-Jong (1367-1422) of the Joseon Dynasty.
Because it is located in the center of a highroad it is hard to view Sungnyemun at a close range but it is quite visible when passing by when you ride a bus or walking on a street near it.  The mercury lamp under the gate Namdaemun at night adds to its natural beauty.

Chongdong A&C

Chongdong A&C is located on the old, romantic Jeongdong Street. It is usually used for performances and movie premieres.  The inside is one big hall furnished with seats on the 1st and 2nd floor, with a capacity of 600 seats.  The beveled seats have large gaps between the rows, making it spacious and convenient for better viewing of shows.  If you want to see the performers, it is best to sit in the front rows on the 1st floor.  If you are more interested in viewing the stage atmosphere, sit in the front rows on the 2nd floor.  Though not spectacular, it is a tranquil and comfortable space.  Even if you don't attend any performances, you can still visit to enjoy the unique atmosphere that exists here.  In the performance hall there is a lounge where you can enjoy music and have drinks from the vending machine.  There are other places to go outdoors.  You can prepare snacks and go to the small park next to the performance hall building.  You can relax on the green grass.  On your way to Cheongdong Cultural Art Center, it is more convenient to go from City Hall Station than Seodaemun Station.  Although Seodaemun Station is indeed closer than City Hall station, the walk along Deoksugung Palace may be more rewarding.  This famous walk is called the Deoksugung Stonewalk.  It looks especially romantic in the evening when the walls are lit by the illumination facilities.  From City Hall, Deoksugung Stonewall walk ends right in front of Cheongdong Cultural Art Center.

Unhyeongung (small palace)

The amazing thing about Seoul is that some of the most interesting historical sites are right in the middle of the business district. Located nearby the Jongno Police Station as well as the Japanese Cultural Center, Unhyeongung (small palace) is one such site. Unhyeongung (small palace) was the home of young Gojong who later became Emperor in the Joseon Dynasty. Under the orders of Queen Mother Jo, Unhyeongung (small palace) was renovated into a grand palace-like house with four gates. Gojong’s father, Yi Haeung, or better known as Heungseon Daewongun, continued to live at Unhyeongung (small palace). Damaged during the Japanese colonial period and the Korean War, the Unhyeongung (small palace) seen today is a much smaller version of the majestic structure that it used to be. Entering the front gate, the first noticeable structure is a small row of rooms to the right. This structure, called Sujiksa, housed the servants and guards. A little bit to the front and left of Sujiksa, there is a structure called Norakdang. Many important events such as birthday parties, ceremonies, as well as the wedding ceremony for Gojong and Myeongseong were held here. To this day, traditional wedding ceremonies are still held at Norakdang. Norakdang also served as one of the two women’s quarters. The most notable structure inside Norakdang is the kitchen, which was most likely used for food preparation when hosting important events. Right outside Norakdang, there are several rock structures along the path to Irodang. Supposedly, the rock structures look like certain animals. To the left of Norakdang lies Irodang, the main building of Unhyeongung. This was where the wife of Heungseon Daewongun resided. Irodang is most notable because of its tall steps and square shape. It was built this way in order to help protect the women inside from intruders. Outside Irodang lays an old well on one side of the wide, open yard. To the right of Norakdang lies Noandang. Noandang served as the men’s quarters and was where Heungseon Daewongun received his guests. The word Noan means old man, comfortable and at ease. Thus, it served as the leisure quarters for the men. However, Noandang was not just a place of rest and entertainment. As the father of a young Emperor, Heungseon Daewongun carried out all his business from Noandang. Upon exiting Noandang, there lies an Exhibition Hall to the far right. The Exhibition Hall houses a small collection of interesting artifacts and information. Items such as a scale model ofUnhyeongung (small palace), writing tools, traditional wedding garments, and more can be seen there. Next to the Exhibition Hall, there is also a small café and a tea room where visitors can enjoy a nice cold beverage while taking in the sights of Unhyeongung (small palace).

Daehakno (University Street)

Daehakno, known as the street for young people, is the former location of Seoul National University.  Since the 1980s, many play theaters started moving to Daehakno, and it started developing into a cultural center.  Soon live-cafes, movie theaters, regular cafes and pubs came as well, and it grew into an entertainment district. Its popularity is still maintained by famous small theaters such as Parangsae (Blue Bird) Theater and Hakjeong Theater, and some 30 additional theaters concentrated here contribute to Daehakno remaining as the root-center of performance art in Korea.  The center of Daehakno, Marronnier Park, has frequent live performances or dance performances by young people.  This is the reason Daehakno is called the “Play Mecca” or “Young Street” as well.  Another reason Daehakno became so popular with young people are the various interesting sights and foods to be found here.  Many restaurants, fast food joints, cafes, and bars are concentrated here, making it convenient for people to find something to do after plays and live-performances.  Its unique atmosphere and space continues to be beloved by many young people.

Bukhansan National Park

"Procession of Large Granite Rocks Create a Superb View"

Mt. Bukhansan is situated in the northern part of Seoul.  Designated as a national park in 1983, the mountain is 78.45km wide, has 6 districts and extends out into Gyeonggi-do.  The name Bukhansan means "big mountain" in the north, and it is also called Mt. Samgaksan.  
Mt. Bukhansan has such smooth curves that the large granite rocks sometimes look as if they would slide down the mountain, and the sharp peaks provide contrast to the dozens of valleys and rivers flowing below. The mountain's main peak is Baekunbong, and it has many different kinds of peaks. The granite peaks blend in well with trees, and there are about 1,300 kinds of animal and plant life living on the mountain.  Among the granite peaks, the best one is Insubong Peak's Giam. The world famous granite rock peak Insubong is over 200m above sea level, and there are about 100 mountain paths leading to the rock.  When you stand on Baekundae and look down, sometimes you can Seoul and the Hangang River.  
Bukhansan has a rich history as well, not lacking in the cultural treasures it possesses.
From the King Jinheung's Sunsubi on Bibong Peak, the Bukhansan seong Fortress built along the mountain's ridges, Sangunsa Temple built by the monk Won-Hyo, and numerous other temples occupy the mountain areas.  Bukhansan seong Fortress is also a must-see tour site if you are visiting the mountain.  Bukhansan seong Fortress was built with about a 8,500m long wall, built specifically to stop foreign invasion, and is one of the representative mountain fortresses of the Joseon Era.  In the fall, especially, the view you can get from the fortress of the mountain is exquisite. Temples also are representative of Bukhansan the many of them, Seungasa Temple on the east Bibong Peak, where Seokgayeorae Ma-aebuls are carved onto 5m granite rock, and Munsusa Temple, located halfway up the Munsubong peak, have famous mountain water dripping from the ceiling of Munsugul Cave.  Thus, Bukhansan, with its granite rocks, and Bukhansanseong fortress, is perfect for hiking in all seasons.  In the spring, all kinds of flowers bloom, and in the summer, thick forest and valleys spread out. The hiking path along the valley is perhaps the best summer mountain climbing course there is.  The fall is an especially fit time for visiting the temples and the pavilions in their autumn colors.  In the winter, the snow-covered mountain scenery is very beautiful.
Bukhansan National Park has many mountain tour attractions and beautiful sceneries, and near enough to the city, that many come to visit. The average number of visitors to this place is about five million which has the honor of being on the Guinness Book of World Records for being the national park with the highest number of visitors per square foot.  It is especially crowded during the weekends.

N Seoul Tower

Opened to the public on October 15, 1980, Seoul Tower has been designated as a major tourist attraction where the beautiful panoramic view of Seoul can been seen. The 236.7 meter high Seoul Tower built on the 243m Mt. Namsan has been known as the best tower in Asia. After 30 years of devoted support from tourists, it was remodeled on December 9, 2005 with magnificent new look.
The alphabet N holds the meaning of being new and a total construction investment of 15 billion won in the grand scale remodeling of N Seoul Tower. With the construction of the new lighting system, the appearance, color and pattern of the tower brings change to each season or event. In addition, with the theme of ‘Flower of Seoul,’ lighting with the use of 6 different searchlights from different angles will take place from 7p.m. to midnight.  
The lobby is prepared with Media Zone, Pavilion Experience Hall, exhibitions and performances. The N Grill western-style restaurant that revolves 360 degrees every 48 minutes, and Sky Restroom offering comfort and scenic view of Seoul are high recommended places to visit. Furthermore, N Seoul Tower has resuscitated as a complex cultural are from a mere observatory. 

Hangang River Ferry Cruise

“The Night Lights Of Seoul”

Hangang River Ferry Cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery around Hangang River that flows through Seoul.  Cool wind from the river, the surrounding scenery, which get more beautiful in the evenings, are the rewards the ferry cruise can offer you.  Currently there are 6 ferry cruises, going from Yanghwa to Jamsil, and they operate all through the year. There are 4 places to get on or get off the ferries, at the Yeouido, Jamsil, Nanji, and Yanghwa docks, and there are two kinds of cruise schedules.  One cruise leaves the dock, goes on the Hangang River cruise course, and comes back, and the other course starts from either Yeouido, makes a stop at Ttukseom Island, then end at Jamsil, or start from Jamsil, make a stop at Ttukseom Island, and finish at Yeouido.  On the cruise, you can see Hangang River’s beautiful scenery, the surrounding islands, Jeoldusan Park, the 63 Building, Namsan Tower, Jamsil’s Multi Sports Complex, and other famous tourist spots. The cruise is often used for weddings, birthday parties, music performances and other events.  The live concerts connect piano playing with singing voices, and will live on in memories.  During the summer, the docks also offer motor boat rentals.

Hangang Park

Hangang River Citizen’s Park is a representative people’s park located by Hangang River.  It was created through the “Hangang River Comprehensive Development Project” in the 1980s, covering a huge area that is dedicated to the citizens, providing areas for sports and relaxation.  You can see many people strolling or jogging along the trail paths, in-line skaters, bicyclers, and  soccer fields or basketball courts.
The Citizen’s Park is composed of Gwangnaru, Jamsil, Ttukseom, Jamwon, Banpo, Ichon, Yeouido, Yanghwa, Mangwon, Seonyudo, Nanji, and Gangseojigu – a total of 12 districts.  Each park has its unique characteristics that fit the district, and especially Yeouido, Jamsil, and Ttukseom districts are very popular because of the ferry cruise services on Hangang River.  The most popular are the ones in Yeouido and Ttukseom.  Because the Yeouido area is where all the major TV Studios are located, countless dramas use this park for their shoots.  Here you can also observe the birds of Bam Isle, a designated ecological preservation area.  On the other hand, Ttukseom district is called the windsurfing and water-skiing mecca, and you can experience all sorts of leisure sports here.  It is a sports heaven.
Hangang River Citizen’s Park is beautiful in the evenings as well, filled with the lights from Hangang River, the surrounding city buildings, streets, and the traffic.  The sound of the river waves blend well with the city’s nightscape.  It is especially good to use the ferry cruise in the evening as well, viewing the river area and scenery in the pleasant river breeze.

National Museum of Korea

The National Museum of Korea holds a collection of approximately 150,000 works of art.  The museum holds permanent collections of ancient artifacts, historical artifacts, works of art, donations, and Asia related cultural artifacts.  Further, the museum also offers exhibition space to feature various cultural works, and an exhibition hall dedicated to children’s learning through exploration activities.  The garden outside the museum offers an outdoor exhibition of stone pagodas and a variety of stone constructed relics from history.

The National Museum of Korea offers more than national and international galleries.  The museum functions as a cultural complex to hold events and activities related to relics collection and preservation, research and analysis, social training, publishing academic journals, international cultural exchange programs, concerts, and more.  Moreover, in addition to educational events and activities, the museum offers environmental friendly space and rest areas, including quality cultural programs to provide entertainment and relaxation for both the young and the old.

National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts

The National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts is the governing body established to preserve and promote traditional Korean performing arts.  It consists of three performance halls.  First, the largest venue for traditional Korean performing arts is the Reservation Hall.  The outward appearance of this theatre is based on the Suwon Castle.  The interior is built to accentuate all the features of the performing platform for traditional performing arts, and can accommodate every single type of the traditional performing arts, such as Palace Music, Court Music, and all other genres including major productions of Changguek (Korean Musical Drama).  The structure of the stage and seats are reminiscent of a Korean yard.

Long ago in Korea, traditional arts were performed in the yard.  The audience was separated into an area in the shape of an earthen wall, and the ceiling had a shield-kite shaped emanating plate.  The theatre gives the illusion of being in an ancient Korean household.  On the 2nd floor of the Reservation Hall, there is a separate children's playground, which allows for a quiet enjoyment of the music in the performance hall.  Umyeondang (small hall) was designed to accommodate performances which were held outdoors.  The performing space can be adjusted to fit the needs of the production.

The National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts Outdoor Performance Stage is also called the "Star Welcoming Stage".  You can watch many traditional performances that are usually held on traditional holidays.  You can listen to traditional music, and if you want more information on the music try going to the Gukak Museum. Videos on Korea's traditional instruments and other Gukak related videos are always exhibited here.  Also at the shop you can buy various Gukak related souvenirs.  Having a Gukak CD or a cassette will be a great souvenir to remember the inspiration of Gukak for a long time.  At the Front courtyard of the museum you can you try and play traditional games and instruments from 10am to 5pm.  You can play traditional games like neol ttwigi (seesaw jumping) or jegi chagi (Korean hacky sack) and try playing traditional instruments like the jing (gong), janggu (drum), kkwaenggwari (cymbal) and buk (drum).

Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple is the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea, and is famous for being located in the city.  From the busy streets of Jongno, follow the road towards Anguk Subway Station, and you will see Jogyesa Temple.  The first thing you will notice at the temple are the lovely trees.  These locust trees and baeksong trees in front of the Daeungjeon, the main temple building, are about 500 years old.  One locust tree is about 26-meter high, and in the summer, provides a large amount of shade to enhance the mood of the temple. The baeksong tree is designated as a Natural Monument.  The Daeungjeon building is a stately building built in 1938.  The Dancheong is particularly beautiful with all the different colors painted on it, and inside the building is the Seokgamoni statue.  In front of the Daeungjeon building, you can also see a 7-story stone pagoda containing Jinsinsari.
Jogyesa Temple does not give off the solemn and traditional air of the other temples located deep in the mountains, or offer the seasonal scenery of the mountains and the sea.  But because it is located in the middle of the city, the transportation is convenient, and is well connected to the surrounding areas.  It is good for tourists on a tight schedule.  Along the street around Jogyesa Temple are many Buddhist specialty shops, selling such things as prayer beads, Buddhist writings, incense, as well as souvenirs such as dolls and key chains.  If you are interested in Buddhism, these stores may be worth looking around.

Myeongdong Cathedral

Myeong-dong Cathedral is the main Catholic church in Korea and is also considered the symbol of Myeong-dong.
Because of the grand, magnificent building and its municipal location many visitors are tourists come here.  The beautiful interior of this Gothic church attracts many visitors.  The construction started in 1892 and was completed in May 1898.  The acute tower, which is 45 meters, makes itself stand out between the other buildings.  The church buildings were built with bricks, but the color and shapes are all different. If you pass the figure of Christ standing in front of the church and go inside, you can see the magnificent inner pillars, the stained glass windows and the luxurious altar.  If you turn around you will see the choir seats and the pipe organ on the 2nd floor. On the basement floor there is a small sanctuary and at the basement graveyard the remains of the martyrs are enshrined. On Christmas Eve, a solemn midnight mass is held at the Myeong-dong Cathedral.

Sejong Center

Sejong Cultural Center was built in Gwanghwamun in 1978. It has a large theater, a small theater, an art gallery, and other spaces to accommodate various kinds of performances and exhibitions.  The large theater of Sejong Center, its main showcase, has the largest pipe organ in Asia, and a majestic stage.  It can accommodate 3,822 people, and its stage can morph to fit many different kinds of performances, such as music, play, ballet, movie, to bring out their best qualities without any hindrance. The stage lighting set and sound system fit for the largest theaters are all computer controlled for precision control.  The small theater can accommodate 442 people in its two floors, and the stage is very large, considering the size of the small theater – about 100 people can be up on the stage at one time. Sejong Center’s art gallery is actually made up of three galleries, one in the main building, and the other in the annex building, and yet another in the newly added section of the Center. All three are cutting-edge exhibition spaces. Sejong Center also has art shop, conference rooms for artists, and many spacious lounges where you can relax.  Even if you are not here to see any exhibitions, it is a place worth looking around.

Korea War Memorial

The place where the War Memorial of Korea
is built on used to be the headquarters of the Korean Infantry. When the Memorial was being built, many experts from different fields were consulted numerous times and exhaustive research done in order to complete the exhibits. This memorial is the largest of its kind, dealing with the subject of war in the world. You can visit 8 exhibits when you come to the War Memorial: the Hogukchumo Exhibit, War History Exhibit, June 25 War Exhibit, Overseas Dispatched Troops Exhibits, Military Development Exhibit, Large Equipments Exhibit, Outdoor Exhibit, etc.  The Hogukchumo Exhibit honors the spirit of those who perished fighting on the battlefront.  And you can learn all about Korea’s war history by visiting the War History Exhibit, June 25 War Exhibit, Overseas Dispatched Troops Exhibits, and the Military Development Exhibit, as well as witness how the Korean military developed over the years. Different kinds of weapons and large military equipment are exhibited as well, inside and outside the building.  The exhibit inside the building displays the equipments during the Korean War in such way as to invite comparisons between the items. Large weapons and equipments used by different countries during World War II and Vietnam War are also displayed. In the Large Equipments Exhibit on the second floor, many kinds of defense industry equipments and both real and model weapons are displayed. In the Bangsan Equipment Exhibit, you can look at weapons and war equipments produced in Korea. In the War Memorial’s Storage Room, 17,800 files and artifacts of war are preserved. Modern damage control and prevention devices have been installed to keep these materials safe from harm. Besides these, you can also visit the Miniature Exhibit or the Peace Hall. There is a lecture hall at the memorial, and many lectures to do with war are held here as well. If there are books you want to read on war matters, you can head over to the bookstore in the memorial. You can find military books and pamphlets there. They also sell military souvenirs as well, so if you are interested, be sure to visit.  The memorial also has fast food restaurant and stores outside the building.  

COEX Aquarium

The COEX Aquarium is the only theme-oriented aquarium in Korea.  There are 90 exhibition water tanks and 140 tanks used for breeding.  There are about 600 species and 40,000 oceanic fish altogether.  The tanks are divided into six different sections and are viewed in a tunnel like atmosphere.  The first exhibit is the 'The Inca Empire'.  This exhibit displays the origins and relics from the Incan Empire.  At the end of the Incan Empire, the 'Amazonian World' awaits.  In this exhibit tropical fish and cute otters can be seen.  In the seashore section of the 'Amazonian World’, sharks and stingrays can be viewed.  The end of the 'Amazonian World’ leads to 'Seven Seas'.  In romantic settings, fishes from the Mediterranean to the North and South Poles can be seen.  After that, you can experience the ‘Ocean Kingdom’ in which displays dozens of sharks, polar bears, and numerous fish.  You can see different types of fish swimming above you in the ceiling.  The next exhibit 'Marine Touch' allows visitors to pet and play with baby sharks.

Sungkyunkwan University

Sungkyunkwan University was established in 1398.  The history of this university dates back to the time of the Joseon Dynasty (1398~1910); prior to becoming a university the school was originally the oldest national high school in the country.  During 500 years of the Joseon Dynasty, Sungkyunkwan University produced many top government officials and intellectuals.  In 1895, during the last days of the Joseon Dynasty, modernization’s influence made its mark on the school and Sungkyunkwan University developed a Confucian Studies department.  At the heart of this department is the study of history, geography and mathematics.  Modern subjects like these and many others were added to the curriculum.  After 1910 and during the occupation of the Japanese in Korea, the study of Confucianism began to deteriorate.  On August 15, 1945 Korea gained its independence from Japan and in 1946 the university experienced a rebirth Sungkyunkwan University was known as a college until 1953, when it became recognized as a university.  The university hasn’t stopped growing since.  In 1979, the campus expanded to Suwon where the Natural Science Campus was opened.  On the main campus, many old buildings can be found as well as Munmyo (Confucian shrine).  Keeping to its 600 years of history, the Anniversary Memorial Hall houses a museum containing Confucian artifacts from the Joseon Dynasty.

Rakgojae

Rakgojae is a traditional Korean-style guesthouse offering Korean food, Korean folk music and Korean folk dance.  Visitors can experience the tasteful life of a nobleman of old Korea. The tiled roves, pavilions, ponds and jar stand as well as pine tree and bamboos harmonize well with the Korean-style house. Tea- making, watching Korean folk music performances are available here. Lodging fee is similar to five-star hotels.

Marronnier Park

Marronnier Park has at its center a symbolic marronnier (horse chestnut) tree, and all kinds of outdoor cultural event centers, sculpture exhibitions, and art centers are congregated in the area.  The area began to develop in 1975 when Seoul National University was relocated away from here, and some 50 small theaters and 500 cafes concentrated in the area make this place a greatly beloved meeting and relaxation place for young and old alike.  The park gets especially busy on the weekends when crowds gather to share cultural events.  Bands and singers, as well as dance groups and comedians gather here and give on-the-spot performances. Fortunetellers and street artists also sit here and tell your fortunes or draw portraits of you.  The park has many trees and benches to sit and relax on, making it an ideal place for relaxation and leisurely walks.
Marronnier Park is a part of Daehakno, the famous street known as the ‘mecca of plays’.  Beside plays, there are many cultural performances here, and interesting restaurants and cafes that make this place a favorite hangout destination for many young people.

Seoul Arts Center

The Seoul Arts Center is the representative Art complex of Korea.  It is comprised of the Opera House, the Concert Hall, the Art Gallery, the Art Morgue, the Calligraphy Hall and the Performance Theater which is exclusively for plays.  You can enjoy various performances and exhibitions at this one site.  One of the prominent aspects of the Seoul Arts Center is that it was built to the quality of the world's ten best art centers.  The Opera House that stands in the middle of the complex, represents the Gat - a traditional Korean hat made of bamboo.  You will notice that the roof of the building is the shape of the Gat.  Since it is the only place in the world that has a well-preserved collection of written Chinese Characters, the Calligraphy Hall will be a nice place for foreigners to go to.  You can watch movies and videos at the Art Morgue.  The plot of this complex is approximately 276,800 square yards.  Even if you do not enter the buildings of the complex, you will be surprised at the facilities.  The outdoor space is fit for the citizens and tourists to rest and relax.  Behind the complex you will see the mountains.  Follow the trail up the mountains and you will reach Daesungsa temple, a Buddhist temple in the mountain.  You will find a mineral spring with exercising equipment around the area, because it is a popular place to exercise in the mornings.  You can breathe the fresh air and listen to birds singing.  Because you can enjoy and relax without entering the buildings, the Seoul Arts Center is also famous for its free, relaxing outdoor space.  At the 'Jangteo' (meaning 'market') there are many events and shows.  There is an outdoor theater, which has a half-moon shaped stage along with a square where many performances are held.  You can also rest by Umyeonji, the Korean style pond. You can find further information about the Seoul Art Center, the programs and events held here, on the online English homepage.

Kimchi Field Museum - All about Kimchi

Since its foundation in 1986, the Kimchi Museum has displayed historical relics related to kimchi, different types of kimchi, mock-ups of kimchi-making processes, and information about the efficacy derived from the kimchi fermentation process. Visitors will learn about the origin and history of kimchi through old books about it, old paintings and writings, and various types of kimchi crocks along with traditional kitchen utensils that were used to prepare it . Also various models show specific types of kimchi that developed in regions all over Korea. The Kimchi Museum also holds reference rooms, kimchi-tasting rooms (two different kinds of kimchi each month), and you can purchase good kimchi here, too. Nearby attractions, that are worth visiting, are COEX (Convention & Exhibition Center) and the COEX Aquarium, the Korea World Trade Center Observatory, and Bongeunsa Temple.

Samcheonggak

Samcheonggak, established in 1972, was the place of important government negations and dinners in the 1970s and 1980s.  In 1990, Samcheonggak changed its name and became a restaurant, until management closed it down in December of 1999.

As of the year 2000, the site of Samcheonggak was designated a cultural facility.  Samcheonggak was no longer known as a place only used by exclusive groups, it was now open to the public.  In October of 2001, Samcheonggak started its new calling as a traditional cultural performance center.   The Sejong Center for Performing Arts currently operates Samcheonggak’s 6 buildings that are designed in a traditional style of Korean Architecture known as ‘hanok.’  The six buildings are comprised of a performance hall, Korean restaurant, tea house, and guest accommodations.

Samcheonggak is one of the most famous places in Seoul where one can enjoy traditional performances and fine dining.

Seoul Plaza (in front of Seoul City Hall)

Founded in 1926, Seoul City Hall is a Renaissance-style stone building. Seoul Square in front of City Hall is a historic site where the 1919 (Samil) Independence Movement and the pro-democracy movement in June 1987 were held. It is also a well-known place where tens of thousands of Korean soccer fans came to cheer at during the 2002 World Cup Games.  

This oval grass square in front of Seoul City Hall, re-established in 2004, is used as a place to hold various events and cultural festivals like “Hi! Seoul Festival”, and is enjoyed by many Seoulites as a place to rest. As one of attractions of Seoul Plaza, the Floor Water Fountain, which looks like a normal sidewalk that spurts up water very high from the floor holes when you walk across it. The 48 floor lights along the grass square and Fala- a round type outer wall clock- are another attractive features of the Square.

The Fala, in particular, is designed to ring the Boshingak Belfry sound at high noon everyday. The Floor Water Fountain presents a grand sight with 35 underwater lights.

Naksan Park

Naksan Park gets its name from its camel hump-like appearance.  In Korean ‘nakta’ means camel and ‘san’ means mountain.  So people refer to the park as Nakta Park or Naksan Park.   The mountain is solid granite bedrock.  The Joseon royal family enjoyed the natural beauty of the granite mountain, but during the Japanese Colonial Period a hasty manner of urban planning resulted in the demolition of most of the mountain.  In an effort to save the remaining green belts, Naksan was designated a park on June 10, 2002.  Located in the center of the Seoul, this historical and beautiful park allows its visitors to view the magnificence of the entire city.