Seoul(Jung-gu) , Seoul City Hall・Gwanghwamun

Located at the corner of Seoul's busiest downtown intersection, Deoksugung Palace is famous for its elegant stone-wall road. It is also the only palace that sits alongside a series of western style buildings that add to the uniqueness of the surrounding 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 to the throne and gave the palace the name Gyeongungung in 1611. Afterwards, the name was then changed back to its orginal title of Deoksugung. Upon entering Deoksugung Palace and Daehanmun, visitors will cross the wide bridge of Geumcheon. The king's carriage would pass over this bridge during ancient times. The Beopjeon Building Junghwajeon is very stately, revealing its long history. The Jeukjodang Building received its name from Gwanghaegun and In-Jo, who 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, completed 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 Deoksugung, and it was in the process of being built by a British man for his company, when in 1905 the property rights were transferred to Japan. It was finally completed in 1910. After Gojong’s death, Seokjojeon became a Japanese art gallery open to the public. After the Korean Declaration of 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 the National Modern Art Center. The Junghwajeon (Junghwa Hall) was the center of politics during the period of Daehanjeguk (the Great Korean Empire) and served as the backdrop to critical discussions on national affairs among the country’s leaders. The elaborateness of the hall’s interior is said to reflect the confidence of King Gojong (26th king of the Joseon Dynasty, r. 1863-1907) in his ability to effectively lead the country into the 20th century. One of the most striking parts of the building is the pair of dragons that decorates the canopy above the throne of the king. These dragons can also be seen on the ceiling of Junghwajeon and were representative designs of Deoksugung Palace, the imperial palace at that time. Though the Junghwajeon was originally built in 1902 as a multi-roofed building, it was redesigned as a single-roofed building in 1906 after it caught on fire in 1904. In 1592, the Japanese army landed in Busan and marched to the capital of Seoul. Prior to their arrival, King Seonjo fled to Uiju, where he stayed for one and a half years. When he returned to Seoul, he had no place to stay because all of the places had been burned down during the war. So, he used this place, which was originally the residence of one of his relative’s families, as a temporary palace. Prince Gwanghaegun succeeded King Seonjo and then renamed this palace Gyeongungung. After King Gojong returned from the refuge with a Russian delegation, he chose to reside in this place. He remained at the palace even after he had been forced to hand over the throne to his son, Emperor Sunjong. The name of the palace was changed at this time to Deoksugung Palace, meaning the “palace of virtuous longevity.” The Junghwa Hall is one of the historical centers of Deoksugung Palace, which stands proudly alongside other notable buildings at the palace, such as Seokeodang, Junmyeongdang, Jeukjodang, Jeonggwanheon, Deokhongjeon, Borugak, and Jagyeokru.  


Seoul(Yeongdeungpo-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo

With 63 floors measuring a total x_height of 264 meters, 63 Building is Korea’s tallest and most recognized building. 63 Building boasts spectacular views of the Hangang River and the surrounding Bugaksan, Namsan and Gwanaksan Mountains. 63 Building has undergone considerable renovation and the basement floor boasts convenience facilities including 63 Sea World, 63 IMAX theater, the nation's largest buffet restaurant “Buffet Pavilion,” and a host of other restaurants.


Seoul(Songpa-gu) , Jamsil(Lotte World)

Lotte Department Store Jamsil Branch opened the same year that the 1988 Seoul Olympics were held. Today, the Lotte Department Store chain is known as one of the largest department store chains in Korea. At the Jamsil Branch, many nearby tourist attractions await visitors, such as Lotte Hotel, Lotte World Theme Park, an ice skating rink, a duty free shop, an outlet, the Lotte Folk Museum, and Jamsil Station Shopping Mall. The area acts as an all-encompassing tourist zone. You can shop at Lotte Department Store, stay overnight at Lotte Hotel, and enjoy a cultural experience at the Lotte Folk Museum for a fulfilling day. Lotte Department Store in Jamsil has transformed itself into a center of lifestyle, shopping, and leisure in this previously quiet suburban area of Seoul. It has now become a hub of tourism and shopping that can satisfy the various needs of all customers! Lotte Department Store is working in conjunction with Lotte Hotel and Lotte World, the shopping mall, a wedding hall, and Lotte Mart in order to prepare for a new era of luxurious lifestyles.


Seoul(Yongsan-gu) , Itaewon・Yongsan

The grounds of the War Memorial of Korea were once the headquarters of the Korean Infantry. Many experts from different fields were consulted numerous times and exhaustive research was done in order to complete the exhibits. This memorial is the largest of its kind in the world.There are 8 main exhibits at the War Memorial: the Hogukchumo Exhibit, War History Exhibit, June 25th War Exhibit, Overseas Dispatched Troops Exhibits, Military Development Exhibit, Large Equipment Exhibit, and the Outdoor Exhibit. The Hogukchumo Exhibit honors the spirit of those who perished fighting on the battlefield. Visitors 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 military equipment are exhibited as well, inside and outside the building.Exhibits inside the building display equipment used during the Korean War in such a way as to invite comparison between the items. Large weapontry and equipment used by different countries during World War II and the Vietnam War are also on display. In the Large Equipment Exhibit on the second floor, many kinds of defense industry equipment and both real and model weapons are displayed. In the Bangsan Equipment Exhibit, you can look at weapons and war equipment 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 presentations are held here. If you want to learn more about any specific aspect of war, you can head over to the bookstore to pick up a book or a pamphlet. The shop also sells a variety of military souvenirs that will not only help you remember your time at the memorial but will also remind you of the significant role war has played in world history. The memorial also has a fast food restaurant and stores located outside the building. 


Seoul(Yongsan-gu) , Itaewon・Yongsan

The National Museum of Korea is located about 1.5 km away from Yongsan Station. It is the largest museum in Korea and houses precious Korean cultural assets that tell the story of Korea’s fascinating history, from ancient times to the modern era.The museum is also close to Yongsan Family Park, a grassy wooded park with a pond that serves as a natural habitat for various species of birds, as well as over 80 different kinds of trees. The War Memorial of Korea, also nearby, is located next to Samgakji Station, and 1 km from Yongsan Station. It displays a vast collection of wartime relics.In addition to galleries with a wide array of national and international pieces, the National Museum of Korea is the stage for a number of cultural activities related to collection, preservation, research and analysis, social training, academic publications, intercultural exchange programs, concerts, and more.Visitors of all ages get the opportunity to participate in a number of educational events and quality cultural programs. For those who prefer to tour at a leisurely pace, the museum grounds have a number of environmentally friendly spaces and rest areas. * Mobile ServicesThe National Museum of Korea offers a state-of-the-art digital guide service to provide a more enjoyable tour of the museum. The digital guide service has a bookmark function and a search function that can be used to obtain more detailed information on specific pieces.1. Digital Guides are available to visitors aged 14 and over who are able to present a valid ID.2. Rental Fees: PDA - 3,000 won / MP3 - 1,000 won3. Rental reservations must be made online 1 day prior to visit (maximum 5 rentals allowed per person).※ Rentals are provided on the day of visit, only after applying for membership.* Size of Facilities6 ground floors / 1 underground floor* Galleries Approximately 15,000 Pieces- 3rd Floor: Sculpture and Crafts Gallery(Buddhist Sculpture, Metal Arts, Celadon, Buncheong Ware, White Porcelain)Asia Gallery(Indonesian Art, Central Asian Art, Chinese Art, Nangnang Remains, Relics from Sinan Seabed, Japanese Art)- 2nd Floor : Calligraphy and Painting Gallery(Calligraphy, Paintings, Buddhist Paintings, Woodworking),Donations Gallery (Iuchi Isao Collection, Hachiuma Tadasu Collection, Yoo Chang-jong Collection, Kaneko Kazushige Collection, Choi Young-do & Park Byong-rae Collection, Yu Kang-yul & Park Young-sook Collection, Kim Chong-hak Collection, Lee Hong-kun Collection, Other Collections)- 1st Floor : Prehistoric and Ancient History Gallery (Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age & Early Iron Age, Proto Three Kingdoms, Goguryeo, Baekje, Gaya, Silla, Unified Silla, Balhae)Medieval and Early Modern History Gallery (Hangeul, Prints, Inscriptions, Maps, Documents, Kings and their reign, Socio-Economic Life, Traditional Thought, Foreign Relations)※ This is one of the places that was visited by the "first ladies" of the G20 Summit in Seoul in November of 2010.


Seoul(Gangbuk-gu) , The Eastern Part of the Seoul

Mt. Bukhansan is situated in the northern part of Seoul. Designated as a national park in 1983, the mountain is 78.45km wide and has 6 districts and extends out into Gyeonggi-do Province. 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. The sharp peaks provide contrast to the dozens of valleys and rivers flowing below. The mountain has many different kinds of peaks but its main peak is Baegunbong. The granite peaks blend well with trees, and there are about 1,300 kinds of animals and plants living on the mountain. Among the granite peaks, the best known is Insubong Peak's Giam rocks. 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 Baegundae and look down, sometimes you can see as far as Seoul City and the Hangang River. Bukhansan has a rich history as well. Silla's King Jinheung Sunsubi Monument on Bibong Peak, the Bukhansanseong Fortress built along the mountain's ridges, Sangunsa Temple built by the monk Won-Hyo, and numerous other temples occupy the mountain areas. Especially, Bukhansanseong Fortress is a must-see tour site if you are visiting the mountain. The fortress was built with a wall spanning about 8,500m, built specifically to stop foreign invasion. It is one of the representative mountain fortresses of the Joseon Era. In the fall, the view you can get from the fortress of the mountain is spectacular. Temples are also representative of rich culture that flourished on Bukhansan. The Seungasa Temple on the east Bibong Peak, with Maaeseokgayeoraejwasang (seated rock-carved Buddhas) carved into a 5m granite rock, and the Munsusa Temple located halfway up the Musubong Peak, with purified mountain water dropping from the ceiling of Munsugol Cave, are indicative of both Bukhansan's history and culture. With its granite peaks and Bukhansanseong Fortress, Bukhansan is perfect for hiking in all seasons. In the spring, all kinds of flowers bloom, and in the summer, lush forests carpet the numerous valleys. The hiking path along the valley is perhaps the best summer mountain climbing course. And the fall is the perfect time to visit the temples and pavilions in their autumn colors. In the winter, the snow-covered mountain scenery is very beautiful. The park averages 5 million visitors and has received the Honor of being in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the national park with the highest number of visitors per square foot.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Seoul City Hall・Gwanghwamun

Kyobo Bookstore is Korea's largest chain of bookstores. Approximately 2.3 million books are categorized electronically so you can easily find whatever selection you are looking for. It is always crowded with people, especially on weekends with readers both young and old enjoying a good book. Kyobo also hosts a variety of events, including a book of the month event where authors come and meet with readers to discuss their work. There's also a character shop, a stationery store and a music store where you can listen to your favorite album. The foreign book corner is popular among foreigners because there are numerous books written in various languages. Those unable to find specific titles can order them for delivery at the counter. [ Branches in Seoul ] Jongno There are many streets around Kyobo Bookstore famous for delicious food. If it's traditional spirits and tasty side dishes you're after then head straight to Pimatgol. There are many different dishes to enjoy in a comfortable atmosphere. The Chungjin-dong haejang-guk (broth to relieve hangover) street and the Mukyo-dong octopus restaurants nearby are also very famous. Gangnam Carrying numerous national and international bestsellers and just about every other book imaginable, Gangnam's Kyobo Bookstore is a popular meeting point for people of all ages. It was also the filming location for the drama, "Yeongae Sidae (Alone In Love)."    


Seoul(Jung-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Chenggyecheon StreamUntil it was restored in 2005, Cheonggyecheon Stream existed only as a neglected waterway hidden by an overpass. Today, it has been transformed into a haven of natural beauty amidst the bustle of city life. Narae Bridge, representing a butterfly in flight, and Gwanggyo Bridge, symbolizing the harmony of the past and future, are just two of the more than twenty beautiful bridges that cross the stream. The Rhythmic Wall Stream, lined with fine marble and sculptures, and Palseokdam adorn Cheonggyecheon Stream. Cheonggyecheon Stream passes close to Deoksugung Palace, Seoul Plaza, the Sejong Center, Insa-dong Street, Changdeokgung Palace, and Changgyeonggung Palace, allowing visitors to easily visit major tourist sites after a leisure stroll along the stream. Cheonggye Plaza Cheonggye Plaza roughly covers an area of 2,500 square meters, and is located at the starting point of Cheonggyecheon Stream. The square, created based on the design of traditional Korean bojagi (a colorful wrapping cloth), features the elegant beauty of traditional stonework that is colorful yet refined. The plaza also includes a model of Cheonggyecheon that provides visitors with a bird's-eye view of the formerly restored Cheonggyecheon Stream. At the plaza, there are plaques that provide detailed commentaries on the 22 bridges that span the stream, as well as a number of graceful fountains that add to the ambience of the area. The area commemorates the Cheonggyecheon Stream Restoration Project, and also symbolizes gathering, harmony, peace, and unity. After the completion of Cheonggye Plaza, Seoul Metropolitan Government designated the area as a vehicle-free zone on holidays, providing more leisure space for pedestrians. Since then, the waterfront areas of Cheonggyecheon Stream, and the surrounding streets have become popular places for those seeking refreshment and a variety of cultural experiences. A favorite of many is the Candle Fountain, which features the magnificent synchronicity of three different lighting fixtures and a 4m high, two-tiered waterfall. Along the two sides of the waterfall are the Palseokdam wishing wells, made of 8 different stones from each of the nation's 8 provinces. Cheonggye Plaza never goes to sleep; visitors can enjoy the fantastic display of light and water even at night. 


Seoul(Yeongdeungpo-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo

Times Square is a large, comprehensive lifestyle complex equipped with various leisure, entertainment, accommodation, and dining establishments. The complex houses Shinsegae Department Store, which features a number of luxury brands and high-end local products, CGV Starium, which houses 12 movie theaters, including the world's largest screen, a multi-purpose performance center, Kyobo Book Center, E-Mart Discount Supermarket, Courtyard by Marriott, which features 273 rooms, Kolon Sporex Luxury Fitness Center, Amoris Banquet and Convention Center, I Like Dalgi Children's Theme Park, various dining establishments, and many more. In addition, several large outdoor spaces, which collectively span over near 14,850 ㎡, provide perfect spots for relaxation and enjoying the nature inside the metropolitan complex.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Jongmyo Shrine was a primary place of worship for kings throughout Joseon Dynasty. The memorial service, called Jongmyo Jaerye, is said to be the oldest complete ceremony in the world, and was carried out in obedience to the king’s order. The ceremony was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in December 9, 1995, for its well-preserved ancient customs, such as memorial services and traditional music, which is Important Intangible Cultural Asset No.56. During the Joseon Dynasty, it was held when the season changes and the twelfth month of the lunar year, but was stopped during the Japanese colonial period. Now, it is annually reenacted on the first Sunday of May. Jongmyo Jaeryeak, the musical part of the ceremony, is produced by instruments, songs, and dances that originated over 500 years ago. In May, the Korean Royal Palace Culture Festival is to be held with a variety of other cultural heritage festivals.