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Once you visit Seoul, you will fall in love
The city of Seoul offers plenty of places worth visiting, and will once you have visited, make you fall in love with it. The following paragraphs will give you a small taste of places you can visit but aren´t even close to what you will experience in this beautiful city.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
One of the first things you must see in Seoul is the Gyeongbokgung Palace. The Palace was first built in 1395 but destroyed in 1592. In 1868 it was re-build by King Gojong and is since then one of the most visited places in Seoul. Being there will take you back to the ancient times of South Korea and if you are lucky you will see locals, and tourist, wearing the traditional Korean costume called Hanbok. When you are there you should also stay for the change of the guard’s ceremony, held at 10:00 and 14:00 o’clock, which is a must-see for everyone.
2. Seoul Tower
Seoul Tower will give you the best view over Seoul and its surroundings in all of the city. The tower is located on a big hill, which is surrounded by the city, and to get there you can either walk or take a very adventurous cable car to get on top. From the top, you can see the whole city including the suburban areas and enjoy the beauty of Seoul. Should you feel the need of letting your family and friends know how happy you are to experience or study in Seoul, you can even use the Post office at the top of the Tower and send your friends Postcards, which they will love for sure.
3. Drink soju
Soju is a traditional Korean drink, which everyone who has visited Korea should’ve tried. Usually, Soju is consumed after having dinner or lunch together with others. The oldest person starts to pour the glasses of the others and will hand over to the second oldest to poor his/her own glass. Always remember, to use both hands when someone fills the liquor in your glass and when you “cheers” hold your glass lower than the people older than you. With these tips, you will for sure leave a good impression. Pro tip: always be aware of the power of soju, it is a very strong liquor.
4. Enjoy a traditional Sauna called Jjimjil-Bang
Jimjilbang is a is a large, gender-segregated public bathhouse in Korea, furnished with hot tubs, showers, Korean traditional kiln saunas and massage tables. The saunas are open 24 hours 7 days a week and are a great place to forget the hectic day to day business and relax in a great atmosphere.
You might also be interested in: Korean Barbecue – Getting a Taste of Seoul
5. Visit the traditional Bukchon Hanok-Village
One of my favorite areas in Seoul is the Bukchon Hanok-Village with all its beautiful houses and alleys. Bukchon Hanok Village is located on a small hill and can be reached by bus easily. The village locates beautiful traditional houses and a great view over the city of Seoul. When you are there, try to find the View Point on top of one of the houses, which is operated by a lovely old man who will offer you free Orange Juice. Entry 3000 WON.
Seoul might not have been on your list of places you want to visit. Maybe that changed after you have read this blog. If you’re interested in spending some time in Seoul, or even a whole semester then check out HUFS one of the many Universities we offer in our program.
You can find more information in Asia Exchange’s Destination Guide Seoul
Find out more about studying abroad in Seoul
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This article was written by our former intern, Valentin.
