Seoul, formerly known as “Hanyang,” served as the capital of the Joseon Dynasty for 500 years. Thanks to this, especially within the inner walls of Hanyang Fortress, you can encounter the palaces of the Joseon era. Among the five grand palaces of Joseon – Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Gyeonghuigung, and Deoksugung – it’s impossible not to mention Gyeongbokgung, which stood at ...

In Seoul, you can find several hanok villages. Among them, the most famous is “Bukchon Hanok Village,” situated to the east of Gyeongbokgung Palace. This area was known for being heavily inhabited by high-ranking officials in the past. To the west of Gyeongbokgung lies “Seochon Hanok Village,” which can be described as a bit more modest and tranquil compared to ...

A hostel, in contrast to a hotel, offers a different type of accommodation. While commonly referred to as a youth hostel, they are now also simply called hostels. This shift is due to the fact that these spaces are not only meant for young individuals, but also cater to adults. The most distinctive difference between a hotel and a hostel ...

While pork rice soup is typically known for its unclear broth, these days you can find versions with a more transparent broth in various places. Located in a small alley near Hapjeong Station in a residential area, “Okdong Sik” is a restaurant that, despite its small size, has gained popularity for its specialty – pork rice soup. “Seoul Hapjeong Pork ...

When it comes to Kalguksu (hand-cut noodles) in Myeongdong, the first restaurant that comes to mind is undoubtedly “Myeongdong Gyoja.” Myeongdong Gyoja originated from “Jangsu Jang,” a hanok (traditional Korean house) converted into a Kalguksu restaurant in Sooha-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, in 1966. At that time, Myeongdong Gyoja developed its own style of Kalguksu, featuring a broth made from chicken and ...

Seokchon Lake in Jamsil, Seoul can be considered one of the representative lakeside parks in Seoul. While in terms of scale, parks like Ilsan Lake Park or Gwanggyo Lake Park may surpass it due to the emergence of new towns in Gyeonggi Province, Seokchon Lake stands as a landmark representing Jamsil, alongside Lotte World and Lotte World Tower. “Once a ...

In the vicinity of Mapo and Gongdeok stations, one can find many restaurants steeped in history. Eulmildae, which opened its doors in 1971, is one such establishment. This restaurant prides itself on a straightforward menu featuring dishes like ‘Pyongyang Cold Noodles,’ boiled pork slices, and mung bean pancakes. With just one specialty, Pyongyang Cold Noodles, it has gained nationwide recognition. ...

Around Mapo and Gongdeok stations, you can find many restaurants steeped in history. Yukjeon Hoegwan is one such restaurant with a rich heritage. Originally a small traditional Korean restaurant across from Yongsan Station, it later relocated near Gongdeok Station. This move was prompted by redevelopment around Yongsan Station, marking a transition for the restaurant. It has been operated continuously for ...

Asojeong served as the retreat for Heungseon Daewongun. Located in what is now Yeomni-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, at the current site of Dongdo Middle School and Seoul Design High School. Asodang, a mansion with seventy-nine rooms, including Aso Hall, was partially relocated to Bongwonsa in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (near Yonsei University) due to the expansion of Dongdo Middle and Industrial High School ...

Around Seoul’s Mapo and Gongdeok stations, you can find various renowned eateries. The Mapo and Gongdeok areas are representative office-dense areas of Seoul, and Gongdeok Market is known for its diverse range of eateries. It’s easy to find well-known restaurants nearby. Particularly in Mapo, there’s a place famous for being one of the top three seolleongtang (ox bone soup) restaurants: ...

A “dabang” (茶房) refers to a place where people can gather and relax, selling tea (茶) and beverages, providing a space for conversation. In the past, dabangs could be found all around, but with the emergence of “cafes” in modern times, most dabangs have faded into the background of history. However, in University Road, you can still find a “dabang”. ...

The area around Gwanghwamun in Seoul is a densely populated office district and can be considered a place symbolizing the history of Seoul. From Gyeongbokgung, which symbolizes 600 years of the Joseon Dynasty, to the Six-Intersection Square formed in front of Gwanghwamun, it preserves various historical traces. “Gwanghwamun Hammering Man” In Gwanghwamun Square, you can find various public sculptures. One ...