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Home > Local & Travel Information > About Seoul
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 About Seoul |
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In the center of this wonderfully dynamic and contemporary segment of the world rests the capital city of Seoul. Over 10 million people call it their home while still more live in surrounding suburbs and satellite cities, making Seoul a sprawling megalopolis. Among its numerous skyscrapers and glass towers, Seoul presents a number of beautiful palaces and ancient gates in different parts of its downtown. Attractions such as traditional markets, trendy shopping centers, quaint museums, and whimsical amusement parks also delight visitors and as well as local residents. We invite you to experience charming and unique Korea!
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| Origin & History |
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While the Hangang (River) valley in Seoul has always been inhabited, and remains of an ancient city can be still seen in the Olympic Park, it was not until 1392-exactly one hundred years before Columbus discovered America that the city really sprang up. It was then that the newly established Joseon Dynasty (10) chose the area as its capital. Seoul City grew steadily, becoming the nation’s seat of government as well as its center of business and culture. However, its history has been tumultuous. The city has been visited by sword and fire, being captured by invading Mongols, Manchus and Japanese. The most destructive attacks were during the Japanese invasion in 1592 and the Korean War in 1950. Even so, the city has always managed to rebuild itself. As the center of Korea’s last royal dynasty, Seoul’s architecture preserves its history: The palaces and the great gates of the capital remain standing as they have for centuries, while Buddhist temples, Confucian shrines and ancient houses sit in peaceful coexistence with the 21st century city around them.
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| Population & Other Statistics |
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“Even if walk sideways, it is okay as long as you reach Seoul” goes a popular saying epitomizing the importance of Seoul to all modern Koreans. The capital is Korea’s economic, governmental, educational and cultural heart. Although it only had a population of 900,000 in 1945, today 10.5 million people call Seoul home. Seoul citizens today enjoy quality of life comparable to that of Western European capitals.
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| Cost of Living |
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| Seoul is as expensive or as cheap as you want to make it. It is possible to eat at small local restaurants (a basic meal costs around KW 4,000), use public transports (a subway ride costs KW 1,000), and sleep in a yeogwan (inn), for as little as KW 20,000 per night. On the other hand, Seoul offers a wide range of fancy facilities, including luxurious hotels, restaurants of international cuisines, bars, and others. |
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| Tourist Attractions |
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Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace was built in 1395, the fourth year of the reign of King Taejo. The palace, named ‘Gyeongbok' or ‘shining happiness' was built as a tribute to the permanent happiness and prosperity of Korea’s kings, their children and the people of the nation. On the site stand Geunjeongjeon, Gyeonghoeru, Hyangwonjeong, and Amisan Chimney, all in their original states. They provide glimpses of the culture and heritage of long ago. |
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Changdeokgung Palace
The capital of the Joseon kingdom was moved from Gaeseong in the north to Hanyang (today's Seoul) in 1392, but construction on the palace actually began in October of 1404 during the 4th year of the reign of King Taejong. Construction of the main building Jeongjeon began in February of 1405 and was completed in October of the same year. From then on, the palace was called Changdeokgung or "Palace of Prospering Virtue." Since the palace was east of the existing palace, Gyeongbokgung, it was often referred to as the "East Palace."
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National Museum of Korea
As a center of Korea’s 5000-year history and cultural heritage, the National Museum of Korea serve various important functions, including exhibitions, historical and cultural research, and public education. As a full-scale museum of international standards, it houses about 130,000 art and archaeological objects. |
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Han River Cruise
The Hangang River divides Seoul into two halves, Gangbuk and Gangnam. The river played a key role in the rapid industrialization of Seoul, once called “the Miracle of the Hangang River" Splitting the crashing waves coming down the Hangang River, the sightseeing boats offer leisurely rides with fresh air. |
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Insa-dong
Insa-dong is the ideal place for visitors who want to experience the true character of Korean art, with its subtle, enduring beauty. Once you are in Insa-dong, you will immediately be drawn to the small alleys lined with numerous shops and galleries, both tiny and spacious: antique shops, bookstores and painting studio, and art supply stores. In addition, restaurants and cafes serve traditional food and teas. |
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Dongdaemun Market
Ever since its opening in 1905, Dongdaemun Market has been one of the major markets in Korea. Specializing in wholesale clothing, the market has grown large, having more than 20 shopping malls. A full range of fasion items that cover from head to toe, are found in Dongdaemun Market at inexpensive prices. Just name it and you shall find it! No wonder that the market is always crowded with retailers, foreigners, customers and tourists.
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Seoul City Tour Bus
Discover the beauty of Seoul in the comfort of luxury buses specially designed for Seoul City Tour.
If you are visiting Korea for the first time whether on business or at your own leisure, don’t miss the tremendous opportunities to experience Seoul, the great city where the past and present co-exist in harmony. |
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