General Information
Visit Seoul
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Seoul
Originating back more than 5,000 years, Korea is one of the oldest countries in the world, and also one of the most unique. The capital, Seoul, is steeped in a rich history of over 600 years of culture and tradition but is also an exciting futuristic city featuring the latest state-of-the-art technology.
Culture & History
Seoul is a city that embraces the beauty of both tradition and modernity. With five ancient palaces and five World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO, Seoul is living history of 600 years as the capital of the Choseon Dynasty. You can experience how life was like in the past at hanok villages (traditional Korean houses), learn to make Kimchi and traditional Handicrafts, learn Taekwondo, try making Makgeolli (Korean rice wine), and try a temple stay. Many exciting and unique experiences await you in Seoul.
Food
Seoul’s food does wonders in attracting people to the city. Whatever you have, wherever you are, the food will never fail to satisfy you. From fine dining to casual street food, you will find traditional Korean food, a variety of western cuisine, and fusion cuisine served all throughout the city at restaurants that make you feel like eating at home.
Shopping & Entertainment
Seoul is a shopper’s heaven. The city has numerous shopping malls, department stores, duty free shops, and traditional markets, making shopping available 24/7 all year-round. The streets of Gangnam, Cheongdam, and Shinsadong offer world famous brands and designer shops; Insadong and Namdaemun sell traditional handmade crafts and affordable products; and the COEX Mall, Myeongdong and Dongdaemun areas are among the most popular shopping spots in the city. Seoul also offers a variety of cultural entertainment such as performances, movies, plays, and musicals that run until late in the evening, which is a convenience for travelers who have time constraints. You can enjoy a wide range of performances from traditional Korean ones to non-verbal and dance performances.
Green & Hi-Tech
Seoul is a modern metropolis surrounded by mountains and divided by the Hangang. The city has several parks and trails, and pursues various policies to preserve the environment such as using eco-friendly fuel and vehicles, hosting green international conferences, and operating environment-friendly convention centers. Such policies are also reflected in the city’s administration as it purifies rain water and has water recycling centers and Arisu (brand name of Seoul’s water supply) purification centers. Seoul also boasts a strong foundation for information technology, providing access to the Internet from any location and various applications in people’s daily lives. The city features ubiquitous-based services, digital pavilions, and an exhibition space at Samsung Electronics, offering new and futuristic experiences in high-tech IT.
