Killer cuisine, K-pop sensations and a thriving movie industry. Seoul is the beating heart of a Korean cultural scene that dazzles the world. With a metro population of more than 26 million, the sheer volume of activities on offer means you can't turn a corner without being inspired. Luckily, Seoulites are a welcoming bunch who are happy to show visitors a good time. Here is a short list of great things to do and see when adventuring through South Korea's capital.
Go interstellar at the Lotte World Tower
Those flying out of Toronto will be well versed in super-tall buildings with vertigo-inspiring amenities. But the Lotte World Tower is something else. The sixth-tallest building on the planet and roughly the same height as the CN Tower, it contains 123 storeys within its elegantly tapered, almost crystalline form. At its peak hangs the Sky Bridge, a bucket-list stunt for thrillseekers that is suspended 541 metres in the air. Less adventurous tourists can instead sip a cocktail at the 123rd-floor lounge while appreciating the mesmerizing skyline view.
Blow your mind at Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Prepare to walk into the future. Visiting Dongdaemun Design Plaza is like coming upon a spaceship full of art exhibitions, a library, conference halls, classrooms and lounges. The plaza features breathtaking curved architecture that captures the spirit of the surrounding Dongdaemun district, a 24-hour hub always bursting with energy. Plus, it's easily accessible by transit and steps from every form of shopping imaginable.
Party the night away in Hongdae
When the sun goes down, people flock to the neighbourhood of Hongdae. Famous for its neon-lined streets packed with bars, restaurants, indie music venues, buskers, fashion and urban buzz, Hongdae is the centre of Seoul's nightlife and keeps the party going until the small hours. The area is also anchored by the arts-focused Hongik University, consistently ranked one of the best in the world.
Satiate the senses at Noryangjin Fish Market
You'll never fully understand Seoul until you dive head first into the seafood scene. The world has caught up to Korean cuisine and its devotion to immense flavour, tingling spice and natural ingredients. Noryangjin Fish Market is a bustling expression of how Seoulites like to eat. It is an endless fish fantasy with stall after stall of the freshest and most delicious fare a foodie could want. A few years ago, the market, which opened in 1927, moved into a more customer-friendly new building, making gawking and hawking even more pleasant.