Seoul is the burgeoning capital of South Korea. This huge megacity is fitted with towering skyscrapers, a comprehensive subway system along with an array of influences from K-pop to Buddhist temples. I lived in Seoul for over a year and had many friends visit during my time there. After taking my guests to many famous attractions, I believe the best places to visit in Seoul are the N Seoul Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Myeongdong Shopping Street.
In regards to districts, when I lived in Seoul, three distinct areas offered the most to expats living in Seoul and travelers alike. Whether you are planning to stay in Seoul for a week or long-term, these are the best areas to live in or visit during your time in Seoul.
1. Itaewon
Itaewon was my favorite district to go out in when I lived in Seoul. The area just felt different from the rest of the metropolis. This was mainly due to the US military having a base smack dab in the middle of the neighborhood. I heard the base has since moved to another area in South Korea, but the remnants of the military’s time there can still be felt.
Friends have told me that locals have begun to frequent the area more often in recent years, but this is still the central meetup location for foreigners in the city. Itaewon has the best bars and restaurants to satisfy your desire for a taste of home with a Korean twist. With hundreds of Korean BBQ restaurants, numerous quaint bistros, nightclubs playing the latest hip-hop tunes from around the globe, and its central location, Itaewon ranks as the number one place to visit or stay in Seoul.
2. Gangnam
Gangnam (or Kangnam), made famous by PSY in his song “Gangnam Style,” is one of the most affluent districts in Seoul. This area posses towering skyscrapers, numerous upscale restaurants, and some of the best nightclubs in the city. I spent my first two weeks in Seoul in Gangnam while looking for an apartment, and I was mesmerized by the vibe of the place. Up until that point in my life, Seoul was the largest city I had ever lived in, and I was surprised by the number of people along with the fast-paced nature of the district.
Most of the multi-national companies doing business in South Korea are located in this area, and the streets are filled with luxury brand stores from Gucci to Louis Vuitton. Some of the largest shopping malls in the city are in Gangnam, so if you live or visit there, you’ll be able to get whatever you need during your stay. It is located in the southern part of the city, which is why I ranked Itaewon ahead of it. If you are going to the next place on my list, even though Seoul has one of the best metro systems I have ever experienced, it will take a while.
3. Hongdae
Hongdae is the area I frequented the most while living in Seoul because it was the area closest to where I lived among the three places I am discussing for this post. My friends and I had many unforgettable nights there. As the rapper, Common says, “Drunk nights get remembered more than sober ones.” These lyrics encapsulate my evenings, which turned into nights, and then into mornings in Hongdae. I lived in Sinchon, another great area to stay (it would have made number four on my list), which was within walking distance of Hongdae.
This area is one of the cultural centers of the city and is close to many of the best universities in the country. It is located in the north-western part of the town and is renowned for its nightlife. Before arriving in Seoul, I had never seen as many bars in such close proximity in my life! This area caters to the 20 to 25-year-old crowd, but there are also many great restaurants and other activities for older people. With Hongik Unversity, one of the most prestigious art institutions in the country, being the centerpiece of the area, there is no shortage of graffiti and murals lining the streets. One of my most exciting experiences in Hongdae was when I was stopped and put in a Korean music video! See if you catch see me from the beginning to the one-minute mark.
Those are my top three places to visit or live in Seoul. Do you disagree? Leave a comment below.