Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that has something to offer for everyone. From historical landmarks, cultural attractions, to mouth-watering street food and shopping centers, Seoul has plenty of things to keep you occupied during your stay. If you are a shopping enthusiast looking for unique and affordable items to add to your collection, Hongdae Free Market is the perfect place to go.
Location and Opening Hours
Hongdae Free Market is located in Hongdae area, which is famous for its indie culture, street performances, and art galleries. The market is open every Saturday from March to November, from 1 PM to 6 PM.
What to Expect
As the name suggests, Hongdae Free Market is a place where vendors can sell their handmade and unique products without rent. You will find a variety of items for sale, including clothing, accessories, hand-crafted jewelry, stationery, skincare products, and more. The market is also a hub for local artists and musicians who showcase their talents by performing live. One of the most special features of Hongdae Free Market is that you can meet and talk to the vendors who created the items, making your shopping experience more meaningful and personal.
Tips and Tricks
- Come early if you want to avoid crowds and get first dibs on the items you like.
- Don’t hesitate to bargain if you feel the price is too high. Most of the vendors are open to negotiate.
- Bring cash with you, as not all of the vendors accept credit cards.
- Bring a reusable tote bag to reduce plastic waste.
Ewha Womans University: a Photographer’s Dream
If you are looking for a photo-worthy spot in Seoul, Ewha Womans University is a must-visit destination. This prestigious private women’s university is famous for its beautiful architecture, picturesque campus, and popular photo spots.
Location and Opening Hours
The university is located in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, and the nearest subway station is Ewha Woman’s University Station (Line 2). Visitors are allowed to enter the campus, except for some restricted areas.
Photo Spots
- Ewha Campus Complex: a futuristic-looking building with a curved facade that has become the most iconic spot on campus. You can take photos outside or inside the building (make sure to check the visiting hours, as it operates differently from the rest of the campus).
- Apple Tree Alley: a romantic pathway lined with apple trees that turn pink in the spring and orange in the autumn.
- Chapel: a historic chapel that features stained glass windows and a simple but elegant design.
- Stone Wall Stairs: a grand staircase with wide stone steps that lead to the main entrance of Ewha Womans University.
Tips and Tricks
- Visit during the weekdays if you want to avoid crowds.
- Be respectful of the students and staff who study and work there.
- Dress modestly, avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing.
Good Price Shopping at Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong is a shopping district in downtown Seoul that attracts both locals and tourists alike. It is known for its trendy fashion boutiques, cosmetic shops, and street vendors selling delicious snacks.
Location and Opening Hours
Myeong-dong covers a vast area, but the most popular shopping streets are Myeong-dong Main Street and Namdaemun Market, both accessible via subway line 4. Shops are open from 9:30 AM to 11 PM, while street food vendors operate until around midnight.
What to Buy
- Korean cosmetic products: Myeong-dong is a paradise for beauty fans, with numerous cosmetic shops and multi-brand stores that offer the latest Korean skincare and makeup products at reasonable prices.
- Fashion items: Myeong-dong is home to both international and local fast-fashion brands, making it an ideal place to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
- K-pop merchandise: if you are a fan of Korean pop music, you can find various K-pop merchandise shops in Myeong-dong.
Tips and Tricks
- Compare prices between different shops before making a purchase. Prices can vary significantly for the same item.
- Look for street food stalls that have longer lines since it typically indicates that the food is popular and delicious.
- Be prepared to haggle with street vendors if you can speak Korean, as they often give discounts to locals.
Gyeongbokgung Palace: Immerse Yourself in Korean Culture
Gyeongbokgung Palace is a historical landmark that reflects the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty, which ruled Korea from the 14th to the 19th century. It is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul, and it offers a glimpse into Korean history, art, and architecture.
Location and Opening Hours
Gyeongbokgung Palace is located in Jongno-gu, Seoul, and can be reached by subway (Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station). The palace is open every day except Tuesdays, from 9 AM to 6 PM (last entry at 5 PM).
Traditional Clothing Rental
For an immersive cultural experience, you can rent Hanbok, a traditional Korean clothing style, at a rental shop near the palace entrance. By wearing Hanbok, you can blend in with the historical surroundings and take memorable photos.
What to See
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: the palace complex consists of over 300 buildings, including the Geunjeongjeon, the throne hall where the king held official ceremonies and greeted foreign diplomats.
- National Palace Museum of Korea: located within the palace grounds, this museum has over 40,000 artifacts and artworks that showcase Korean history and culture.
- Changing of the Guard Ceremony: this ceremonial ritual takes place twice a day (except Tuesdays) in front of the main gate of the palace, and it features the guards wearing traditional costumes and performing various dance moves.
Tips and Tricks
- Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the palace grounds are extensive, and you need to walk a lot.
- Have patience when taking photos, as the palace can get crowded with other tourists.
Eating Street Food in Seoul
Popular Street Food
- Tteokbokki: a spicy and chewy rice cake dish that is popular among locals and tourists alike.
- Kimbap: a Korean version of sushi that is made of rice, seaweed, and various fillings such as tuna, spam, and vegetables.
- Hotteok: a sweet pancake stuffed with brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and seeds.
- Mandu: a Korean-style dumpling that comes with various fillings such as pork, beef, vegetables, and kimchi.
- Odeng: fish cakes that are served on a skewer and boiled in a hot broth.
Where to Find Street Food
- Gwangjang Market: one of the oldest and most famous traditional markets in Seoul, where you can find hundreds of street vendors selling different kinds of Korean food.
- Myeong-dong Street: this bustling shopping street is also a hub for street food vendors that sell snacks such as tteokbokki, chicken skewers, and cotton candy.
- Hongdae Free Market: in addition to the handmade products sold by vendors, you can also find various street food stalls that offer unique and creative food options.
Tips and Tricks
- Be adventurous and try out new food items that you might not be familiar with.
- Choose street vendors that use fresh and quality ingredients, and avoid those that look unhygienic.
- Carry wet wipes or hand sanitizer with you, as street food can get messy.
Stay at MAKERS HOTEL
If you’re looking for a unique and stylish place to stay during your visit to Seoul, look no further than the Stay at MAKERS HOTEL. This boutique hotel offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its beautifully designed spaces and comfortable accommodations. Located in the heart of Seoul, you’ll be able to explore the city with ease and have a comfortable and relaxing place to return to at the end of the day. With amenities like free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and 24-hour front desk service, you’ll have everything you need to make your stay in Seoul unforgettable.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Seoul?
A: The best time to visit Seoul depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant seasons in terms of weather and scenery. Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December to February) can be very cold.
Q: Is it easy to use public transportation in Seoul?
A: Yes, Seoul has an excellent public transportation system that includes subways, buses, and taxis. The subway system is affordable, safe, and user-friendly, with signs and announcements in English.
Q: Can I use credit cards in Seoul?
A: Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, especially in shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially when visiting street markets or smaller stores.
Q: What are some must-see attractions in Seoul?
A: Some must-see attractions in Seoul include Namsan Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, Lotte World, Changdeokgung Palace, and Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show.
Q: Is Seoul safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Seoul is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, like any other big city, it’s essential to take basic precautions such as avoiding unlit and deserted areas at night and keeping your valuables close.
