Hey everyone 🤗

Welcome to my blog page! Just because we might not have the chance to travel right now doesn’t mean we can’t explore new places. We can use our imagination, feel the vibes, and read our way to discovering new corners of the world from the comfort of our homes. ✈

So, if you’re ready, in this post, we’re in Seoul, the enchanting capital on the Korean Peninsula. I’m so excited! I think Korea has a truly colorful culture. Honestly, I’d love to sit down with the older generation there and have a nice chat about Korean history and traditions. Come on, let’s explore the must-see places in Seoul together.

Gyeongbokgung Palace: A Glimpse into the Joseon Dynasty

First up, let’s start with the very famous Gyeongbokgung Palace. Built in 1395, it’s known as the city’s first palace and the heart of the Joseon Dynasty. When I saw the size of the palace in a video, my jaw dropped. It covers an area of 40 hectares and welcomes visitors with a grand courtyard.

Inside the palace, there are various pavilions used for different purposes. One that particularly caught my eye was the magnificent Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, which sits right over a pond. It’s a famous pavilion that everyone visiting the palace checks out.

The palace stands out with its massive wooden gates and stone floors. The local name of the palace, “shining happiness,” makes you wonder what kind of stories its ancient walls hold.

Bukchon Hanok Village: Stepping Back in Time

Our second stop is Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can truly say, “I’m completely immersed in Korean culture right now.” This authentic neighborhood is filled with traditional Korean houses, called hanoks. This village’s history spans over 600 years.

Although you’ll find traces of the modern world, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve stepped back in time with the magnificent sight of those hanoks lined up side by side.

Gangnam: The Modern Heart of Seoul

Next on the list is Gangnam. In the 1970s, it was a large agricultural area, but today it is the heart of business and shopping. It’s one of Seoul’s busiest and most popular districts, full of classic high-rise buildings and heavy traffic.

In the square, you’ll find the Gangnam Style Statue. This statue represents the “Gangnam Style” song that made the district known worldwide.

N Seoul Tower: A Panoramic View of the City

For those who want to see a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city from one of Seoul’s highest points, you can go up the N Seoul Tower. This tower opened in 1980 and is now an observation point. At about 236 meters high, it’s a place I would definitely visit if I went to Korea.

From my research, I learned that the N Seoul Tower is very famous for its love locks. Couples write their names or a message on heart-shaped locks and attach them to the railings to symbolize their love. They usually throw away the key afterward. Isn’t that sweet?

Namdaemun Market: Seoul’s Oldest Treasure

And now, we have Namdaemun Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most traditional markets. Established in 1398, this market blends traditional Korean shops. Inside, you can find everything from handmade jewelry and Korean food to clothing and electronics.

Changgyeonggung Palace: Where Nature Meets Royalty

Our last stop is the famous Changgyeonggung Palace, which features peaceful gardens. Although it reflects the typical characteristics of Korean palace architecture, it has a different atmosphere because the buildings harmonize with the natural environment.

As a nature lover, I would have loved to wake up in this palace if I had lived in that era.

So, there you have it, folks! We’ve explored Seoul from the comfort of our seats. I had a lot of fun writing this. To be honest, going and seeing it in person is a completely different feeling, but I felt like I traveled while researching and writing. The important thing is imagination. If I ever walk these streets one day, I won’t feel like a stranger at all. Thank you for exploring Seoul with me. See you on the next trip. Stay curious!

I’ve researched and curated some fun products related to Korea that I think you’ll love. Feel free to check them out! 🌻

If you want to make a detailed model of the Hyangwonjeong Pavilion inside the palace, this product is perfect for you: https://amzn.to/46NWQbf

A thousand-piece puzzle that captures the vibrant nightlife of Seoul: https://amzn.to/46FBZpq

A love lock, just like the ones on N Seoul Tower: https://amzn.to/4nltret

If you’re interested in Korea history, I’m leaving a link here for a highly respected book based on my research: Korea’s Place in the Sun: A Modern History: https://amzn.to/3W9jVik