If Seoul isn’t a city high on your bucket list, it absolutely should be. A rapidly expanding metropolis with an eclectic mix of old and new, Seoul combines towering skyscrapers with ancient palaces, and buzzing neon lights with traditional markets. Korea’s pop culture has now infiltrated almost every corner of the globe – the Korean Wave and Korea’s explosion as a global economy have solidified its place as a popular tourist destination. In fact, more people visited Seoul in 2018 than Barcelona, with a whopping 10 million visitors flocking to the Korean capital.
So where do they go when they’re there? What do Seoulites do on their downtime? We’ve compiled a list of the most instagrammed spots in Seoul so you can start planning your trip to one of the world’s most exciting cities – you’ll be itching to check out these top trends!
1. Hongdae | #hongdae: 898,035 posts
Hongdae is one of the city’s many university areas, and in Seoul, wherever there’s a university, there’s life on the streets! Hongdae really comes alive at night, but it’s great to visit at any time of day, with cute boutique stores, fashion galore, amazing theme cafés, street art and performances to feast your eyes on. You’ll fall in love instantly!
2. Gangnam | #gangnam: 676,451 posts
Of all the places in Seoul, Gangnam hardly needs its own introduction. We’re still surprised it’s only the second on the list of the most instagrammed spots in Seoul! What is #gangnamstyle though? Gangnam is home to the high earners in the city, so if you’re living ‘Gangnam style’, you’re living a pretty cushy life! Home to luxury shops, elaborate spas, and even a handbag museum, Gangnam is the place to visit for that K-pop star lifestyle.
3. Myeongdong | #myeongdong: 424,918 posts
We’re sensing a theme here – Korea’s shopping hotspots are a popular choice for travellers! While Myeongdong is certainly a shoppers’ paradise (especially for K-beauty deals), it has other delights to discover, usually hidden round the back alleys away from the main shopping streets. Explore the restaurants in the areas away from the crowds and head to the Cheonggyecheon Stream bordering the north of the Myeongdong district for a slice of peace and greenery in the centre of the city.
4. COEX Mall | #coex: 362,868 posts
The COEX Mall is Asia’s largest underground shopping centre, and even if you don’t like shopping, it’s a sight to behold. It’s home to the Starfield Library, which is possibly the most Instagrammable library in the history of the universe. If you’re tired of shopping, right outside the mall you’ll find the Bongeunsa Temple, a beautiful retreat in the heart of Gangnam.
5. Lotte World | #lotteworld: 243,913 posts
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Lotte World is the place for you. Sitting right at the foot of Seoul Sky (the tallest building in Korea, at 555m), it’s the largest indoor theme park in the world, and an Insta-snap at the Lotte World Castle is an absolute must! Lotte World is also one of the most instagrammed spots in Seoul for local teens – try go on a weekday if you can to avoid the crowds!
6. Dongdaemun | #dongdaemun: 242,293 posts
With a market, an ancient gate and city walls to explore, and a stunning design plaza to feast your eyes on, Dongdaemun has a lot going for it! If you’re looking for a real market experience, Dongdaemun is the place to be. Haggle in the 30,000+ shops and market stands, or sample street food from vendors who’ve set up shop on every corner.
7. Common Ground | #commonground: 190,792 posts
Common Ground was pretty much conceived with Instagram in mind. A market made from shipping containers, it has food and fashion under one roof, hosting home-grown designers and the latest fashions from across the world. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, you absolutely have to join the hosts of would-be fashion models striking a pose against a cool container background!
8. Namsan / N Seoul Tower | #namsan: 170,233 posts #nseoultower: 105,997posts
Namsan, or Nam Mountain, is right in the middle of the city, and is where you’ll find one of Seoul’s most iconic skyline features. The N Seoul Tower is almost 480m above sea level, so you’re guaranteed incredible views from the top! The N Seoul Tower is also a popular date location for locals, and is now the site of a romantic shrine in the form of love locks plastered around the fences. Write your message of love on a padlock and leave your lasting impact!
9. Insadong | #insadong: 140,664 posts
If you’re the arty type, Insadong is not to be missed! Insadong is perfect for a stroll, with art galleries lining the main street, traditional tea houses, and cultural spaces galore. Wander around the twisting alleyways, and take in some of Korea’s traditional folk art.
10. Bukchon Hanok Village | #bukchon: 90,005 posts
The streets of Bukchon Hanok Village look like they belong on a film set, with picturesque traditional houses lining the roads and enchanting you at every turn. Protip: if you really want to avoid the crowds, head to the village early in the morning. The workshops and cultural activities won’t be open, but you’ll be sure to walk away with that insta-perfect shot.
Is your mobile ready for the challenge? Get ready to discover some of the most instagrammed spots in Seoul first-hand!
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