12 Soulful Facts about Seoul
If you ask people what their bucket list destinations are, we’re guessing that a lot of them will mention Seoul. This stunning city in South Korea is known for its captivating culture, stunning scenery, and endless entertainment! But, just in case you can’t make it to Seoul right now, we have all of the information that will make you want to book your next flight there! Here are some fun facts about Seoul to inspire your next Eastern vacation.
1. It is located on the Han River.
Seoul is indeed situated on the Han River in the northwest part of South Korea. It is near the country’s border with North Korea. The Han River flows through this city and provides a picturesque setting for activities such as biking, picnicking, river cruises, and more!
2. It has a very dense population!
With nearly 10 million residents, Seoul is one of the most populated cities in the world! It falls just behind other squeezed destinations such as Chongqing, Shanghai, Dhaka, Tokyo, Mumbai, and Moscow.
3. It has a rich history dating back centuries.
Seoul’s history dates back more than 2,000 years. The city has served as the capital of Korea for most of its history –making it a fantastic trip abroad for history-loving jetsetters!
4. You can see Gyeongbokgung Palace here.
Gyeongbokgung Palace was the main royal domain during the Joseon Dynasty. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction thanks to its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens. You can also see the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony at the palace, which showcases colorful costumes and traditional music.
5. The city has a wild side worth exploring.
Although many people tend to mostly think of Seoul as being a very built-up city, it also has its wild side. If you’re looking for a more natural area, you can explore Bukhansan, a stunning national park with scenic hiking trails and ancient temples.
6. You can see the whole city from N Seoul Tower.
Located on top of Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower offers panoramic views of the city. The tower has become an important symbol of Seoul. If you’re comfortable with lofty heights, be sure to check it all out from above!
7. Seoul is a major cultural hub for Korea.
Beyond its history, Seoul is also a global hub for the entertainment industry. It is particularly important for K-pop music and Korean dramas, which have gained immense popularity worldwide.
8. You can visit the Gangnam District.
We are sure you know the word “Gangnam” from elsewhere, as it was made famous by the viral song “Gangnam Style” a few years ago. However, Gangnam is also a wealthy and trendy district known for its upscale shopping and entertainment.
9. It’s easy to take in some artwork and antiques.
If you’re looking for more of a cultural destination to tour than a wealthy area, then Insadong is the place to go. It is a cultural and artistic neighborhood known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and antique shops.
10. The city is also a major technology hub.
Beyond entertainment, Seoul is also very big on technology! It is home to tech giants like Samsung and LG, contributing to its status as a leading global city.
11. It has incredible food, too.
Seoul is also known for its cuisine. It offers a diverse and delicious food scene, with popular dishes such as bibimbap, kimchi, bulgogi, and, of course, Korean barbecue.
12. It is close to the DMZ.
As mentioned above, Seoul is close to the North Korean border which makes it close to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The area is a heavily fortified border between North and South Korea. It’s a good idea to keep clear.
FAQs about Seoul
Can I speak English in Seoul?
While Seoul gets many English-speaking tourists, most of the locals are not fluent in English. Therefore, it is best to learn as much Korean as you can before visiting or make sure to book a guide who speaks English.
Is Seoul expensive?
Generally speaking, yes, Seoul is both an expensive city to visit and to live in. In fact, it was ranked as one of the world’s most expensive cities!
What is special about Seoul?
Seoul’s popularity has certainly grown over the years – partly because of its balance of natural and metropolitan sights, but also because of its much-loved music and drama scenes.
Further reading
https://factcity.com/tag/Asia
https://english.seoul.go.kr/
https://english.visitseoul.net/index
Do you know any interesting facts about Seoul? Share them in the comments section below!
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This page was last modified on January 12, 2024. Suggest an edit
