South Korea is home to many cultural staples such as Korean dramas, Korean beauty, and most popularly K-pop. The capital of South Korea is Seoul, the fifth largest city in the world. It is also a huge spot that tourists love to visit time and time again due to its unique cafés, historical monuments, and lively street markets. Here are the top six things to do during your stay in Seoul. 

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace 

Located in the middle of Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is surely a place to visit. Its architecture dates back to the beginning of the Joseph Dynasty, which is around 1395. Upon purchasing a ticket–which is fairly cheap–a guest can tour the inside of the palace and its multiple rooms. There is also a park and lake on the outskirts of the palace that many people enjoy. Not to mention, there is also a daily guard changing ceremony at 10 am and 2 pm. 

Eat street food from Myeongdong 

Myeongdong is known for its street food, bustling crowds, and shopping center. However, it is a saying in Korea that “if you have been to Myeongdong but have never eaten the street food, then you can’t say you’ve been to Myeongdong”. Food sold there ranges from traditional Korean snacks to something as American as a hot dog. All the food is also very cheap, so tourists can feel free to try one of everything! It is definitely a unique and fun experience. Freshman Amelie Park says that “The place is very crowded and since it’s so focused on food it is a very touristy location.” 

Shop at Hongdae 

Hongdae, short for Hongik-daehakgo, translates to Hongik University. The street along Hongik University has become famous for having cheap clothing, beauty supplies, and food. Because the street is so close to the university campus, many people describe the atmosphere as “young” and “vibrant”. At night, tourists can catch a “Hongdae busking show” put on by “buskers”, which are people who do street shows to earn a little money. Hongdae is a one-of-a-kind place that makes people want to go a second time. Freshman Amelie Park has stated that “this place is also very crowded like Myoengdong. It is very focused on shopping so it attracts tourists and locals.” 

Eat fried chicken at the Han River 

As weird as it sounds, fried chicken is just as Korean as kimchi. It has become a staple within the culture that both younger and older generations enjoy. A common trend that college students like on their weekends off is grabbing a few friends and hanging out by the Han River. On top of that, they can deliver fried chicken to their exact location at the park! No need to get up! Just order online or through a phone call, and fried chicken can be delivered to you ASAP. It may seem boring compared to other things on this list, but sometimes you just gotta sit back, eat fried chicken, and enjoy the scenery of the river. 

Visit the COEX Library

I know what you’re thinking. “A library? Why would I visit a library when I’m on vacation?” However, the COEX library located next to the Samsung station is a library that will leave any visitor stunned. Its intricate design and large selection of books make this library stand out compared to any other. It is also located right in the middle of Asia’s largest underground shopping center, so it is a must-see. 

Visit the Namsan Tower

Located near Myeongdong, visitors can go up the Nam Mountain via cable car. At the top are shopping centers, restaurants, and the N Seoul Tower. The N Seoul Tower stands at whopping 775 feet high. Once at the top, tourists can see the entire city and take amazing pictures. Not only that, but the Nam Mountain is also a hot spot for couples, as they can purchase locks and lock them on the mountains rails, signifying everlasting love. Namsan and N Seoul Tower are both very iconic landmarks in Seoul and also busy tourist destinations.

Seoul is such a huge city—there is almost an infinite number of things to do. It has much more to offer than just these six activities, but these can help start off an incredible trip.