Insadong (인사동), Where The Tradition Meets The Modern
This area is crowded with traditional-style tea houses steeped in a refreshing herbal aroma, restaurants that serve unique Korean dishes, which can be pleasantly spicy to non-Korean visitors' palate.
In Insadong, you would also be amused to check out many galleries that show off oriental space aesthetics as well as shops that sell colorful traditional crafts and artistic articles.
There are many stands that sell sweet pancakes and candies that have thousands of threadlike layers of honey, both of which you can relish while strolling on the street.
Samcheongdong (삼천동), Where Korean Design and Architecture Flourishes
Palaces builty during Joseon Dynasty surround this town; there are great numbers of Korean traditional houses known as Hanok (한옥)While walking through labyrinth-like alleyways, you will find worn walls and generations-old stores welcoming you.
Laid with stonewalls, the streets also have stylish and unique cafes from corner to corner for you to enjoy coffee.
Traditional houses have been modified into workshops by many famous architects. Galleries with unique works are plentiful here for you to visit.
It might come as a surprise that this entire environment actually is in the central region of a city with over 10 million people living in it.
Gwanghwamun Square (광화문), Established Together with the Joseon Dynasty
This has been the avenue of governmental and political affairs since the founding king of Joseon Dynasty designated it as a governmental complex are. Now it is still filled with various government offices and news companies.
Cheonggyechen creek that crosses the center of Seoul and Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁), the largest one built during the Joseon Dynasty, meet in this square.
At a distance, you will also see high hills surrounding the square that have witnessed Korea's history and culture right on this place.
Shinchon (신천), The District Of Korea's Best Colleges
Korea's top-notch colleges - Yonsei University, Ewha Women's University, Sogang University and Hongik University - are within a few kilometers distance from each other in Shinchon.
College students busy themselves with writing papers and chattering in the cafes, which are found on every street in this district. A lot of students proudly wear their college shirts, although most Korean colleges do not have uniforms.
They will be the leaders of Korea tomorrow, so it wouldn't be a bad experience socializing with them.
Hongdae (홍대), Seoul's Mecca of Underground Culture
Korea's underground culture has found its home in the are surrounding Hongik University, which has Korea's best fine arts department.
Flashy graffiti artists have decorated most street walls, and there are literally dozens and dozens of clubs and cafes along these streets.
Each of them has a unique atmosphere that attracts young men and women seeking rebellion.
There are always performances, big and small on the streets of Hongdae.
On weekends, when it does not rain, a flea market and "Hope Market" that let you glimpses of the unique artistic culture of this area is held.
The last Friday of each month is called "A Club Day", whereby with a ticket, you can hop from club to club to enjoy various genres of dance and music. However, it has been cancelled as of recently because of high level of violence and disturbances.
"Sound Day" is the independent music version of "A Club Day" that happens on every 2nd Friday.
Yeouido (여의도), The Epicenter Of The Korean Wave
If you have been wondering where the epicenter of Hallyu (the Korean Wave), then this is where you should visit: Yeouido.
This small island in the middle of the Han River, just like Manhanttan Island in New York has all the broadcasting companies in it, and of course, all the TV and radio stars naturally commute to this district.
You could catch teams of movie makers taking shots here all year round.
You'll be extremely lucky if you happen to be visiting in the early spring, because Yeouido has streets filled with cherry blossom trees that blossom like magic.
You never know, you might bump into one of the celebrities while taking a walk here.
Itaewon (이태원), A Global Village in Seoul
People from all over the world have settled in Itaewon in one way or another.
You could see various cultural elements from Asia, America, Europe, Middle East and Africa.
Renowned in the world as a shopping avenue, Itaewon is generally recognized among Koreans as the most culturally diverse district in Seoul.
Korea's largest Islamic temple sits at the top of the hill overlooking the Itaewon area, making itself a jewel of diversity in Seoul.
Apgujeong (압구정), The Place Where Luxurious Lifestyle and Celebrities Mix
You will probably bump into celebrities in Apgujeong, where luxury shops and fancy restaurants thrive. Koreans who love to follow the latest fashion take walks here, and these include celebrities, who oftentimes are regular customers to the luxurious restaurants and bars in this district.
This region is also the center of art and entertainment - Korea's high-end wedding shops, celebrity agency offices, movie makers and music production offices are located in Apgujeong.
There are also many aesthetics shops that attract girls who wish to improve their looks. Aren't you already tempted to take a leisurely walk in this district of Korean celebrities?
Daehangno (대학로), Avenue Of Play Performance
It would not be an exaggeration to state that Korea's modern play theater culture was born in Daehangno. Here breathe young musical actors' dreams and passion.
You can enjoy street performances held everyday in the Maronie Park in Daehangno. It is safe to assume that half the pedestrians you see in Daehangno are actors.
Come and enjoy witnessing passionate actors and actresses at small theaters in Daehangno.
Namdaemun Market (남대문), Korea's largest Traditional Market
Namdaemun Market is Korea's largest and most comprehensive traditional marketplace. All sorts of clothes, food, electronics and local produce are laid under colorful awnings.
One thing to remember is to try "ttokbokgi (떡볶이)", or rice cake bar dipped in spicy sauce. The fiery taste will tempt you to bite some more.
There are also much more attractions such as Namsan, where N Seoul Tower is located. Here, its cable car is famously known for it's filming of MBC's drama, My Name is Kim Sam Soon, starring Hyun Bin and Kim Sun Ah. Also, the other shopping paradise would be Dongdaemun where you'll find all kinds of clothes, from sweaters, to jeans, to exclusive duty-free designer wears and bags.
Seoul has much to offer and it isn't only limited to those city tours where vacation packages has arranged. Of course, to those who know none to little Korean, it would still be advisable to follow tours to get to know the place firsthand instead of backpacking. Those who would like more of a challenge can try backpacking on your own as the experience will prove to be very fulfilling.
This is what I have so far to offer on this page. When I do come across more interesting places to update, you'll definitely be the first one to see it. :)
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