Best Things to do in Seoul | Must-see attractions 2025

War Memorial of Korea

Tu-Su 09:00-18:00

Museum

29 Itaewon-ro

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The War Memorial of Korea in Seoul features extensive exhibits on Korea's military history, from the Korean War to peacekeeping roles globally.

Duration: Around 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

10:30 AM–9:00 PM

Museum

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Leeum Samsung Museum of Art in Seoul showcases classic and contemporary Korean art, featuring works from renowned artists in a stunning architectural setting.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Adults: 10,000 KRW; Students: 7,000 KRW; Children under 7: Free.

National Museum of Korea

We,Sa 10:00-21:00; Su-Tu,Th-Fr 10:00-18:00

Museum

137 Seobinggo-ro

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National Museum of Korea in Seoul houses over 220,000 artifacts, showcasing Korean history from prehistory to the modern era. Free admission to permanent exhibits.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free for permanent exhibitions and the Children's Museum; special exhibitions may charge around ₩10,000.

Bukhansan National Park

Open 24 hours

Park

262

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Bukhansan National Park in Seoul features mountains, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, offering visitors an escape into nature with stunning views and historic temples.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Free. Some guided tours might charge a fee.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Jan-Feb,Nov-Dec 09:00-17:00; Mar-May,Sep-Oct 09:00-18:00; Jun-Aug 09:00-18:30

Museum

Cheong un hyo ja dong

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Palace Gyeongbokgung, built in 1395, is the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty in Seoul, featuring museums, gardens, and free guided tours.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special events and nighttime tours may require a paid ticket.

Trickeye Museum Seoul

Mo-Su 09:00-21:00

Museum

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Trickeye Museum Seoul features interactive 3D art and augmented reality experiences, perfect for immersive photos and fun for all ages.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. One ticket includes access to both Trickeye Museum and Ice Museum.

Jogyesa Temple

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Monument

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Jogyesa Temple in Seoul is the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea, featuring a grand wooden hall, vibrant lanterns, and ancient trees over 500 years old.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. The Temple Life program costs ₩30,000.

Seoul Museum of Art

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Museum

61 Deoksugung-gil

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Seoul Museum of Art hosts world-class exhibitions within a 1928 Supreme Court building. Enjoy ultramodern galleries and a gift shop with designer items.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Olympic Park

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

424 Olympic-ro

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Olympic Park in Seoul, South Korea, was the main venue for the 1988 Olympics, featuring vast green spaces, sports venues, sculptures, and museums.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Some sports events and special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Seoul World Cup Stadium

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Stadium

Seongsan-dong

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Seoul World Cup Stadium, built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, is a premier 66,000-seat venue for sports and events in Seoul, South Korea.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free access to the stadium. Some events may require paid entry.

Yeouido Park

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

68

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Yeouido Park in Seoul is a spacious urban park ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities, featuring walking paths, gardens, and cultural areas.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Coex Aquarium

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Aquarium

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COEX Aquarium in Seoul features over 600 species and 40,000 fish, showcasing exhibits from the Amazon to the marine touch zone.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Adult: 30,000 KRW, Child: 24,000 KRW. Discounts for groups and families may apply.

Lotte World

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Theme Park

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Lotte World in Seoul, South Korea features a vast indoor amusement park, outdoor rides, and an aquarium, perfect for family fun and adventure.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Adult: ₩59,000; Child: ₩53,000. Discounts apply after 4 PM and further after 7 PM.

Unhyeongung

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

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Unhyeongung is a former royal residence in Seoul, showcasing traditional architecture and royal artifacts, reflecting the austere tastes of the Joseon Dynasty's Heungseon Daewongun.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some rental services, like hanbok, may incur a minor fee.

Blue House

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

1 Cheongwadae-ro

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The Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae) is the official residence and executive office of the President of South Korea, located near Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Tours must be booked online at least three weeks in advance.

Hongneung Arboretum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

57 Hoegi-ro Dongdaemun-gu

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Hongneung Arboretum in Seoul offers serene pathways amidst rare trees and herb gardens, showcasing South Korea's diverse flora and historical significance. Open on weekends.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Open to the public only on weekends.

Seoul Children's Grand Park

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

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Seoul Children's Grand Park features amusement rides, a zoo, a botanical garden, and a concert hall, ideal for family outings in Seoul, South Korea.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Seoul Museum of History

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

55 Saemunan-ro

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Seoul Museum of History presents exhibits tracing the city's evolution since the Joseon dynasty, featuring tram cars, model displays, crafts, and photographs.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

National Palace Museum of Korea

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

12 Hyoja-ro

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The National Palace Museum of Korea in Seoul exhibits Joseon Dynasty artifacts, including royal seals, hanbok, and court ceremony illustrations in a modern facility.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Jingwangsa Temple

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

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Jingwangsa Temple, located in Seoul, South Korea, features traditional architecture and rich history, serving as a tranquil retreat for visitors and Buddhist practitioners alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated costs.

Yongsan Family Park

24 hours

Park

68-87 Yongsan-dong 6-ga

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Yongsan Family Park in Seoul offers 230,000 square meters of green space, catering to families and outdoor enthusiasts with walking paths, playgrounds, and cultural sites.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Gyeonghuigung Palace

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Sights

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Gyeonghuigung, a historic palace in Seoul, South Korea, was built in the 17th century by the Joseon dynasty and features an adjacent museum of art.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

T'apkol-gongwon

Open 24 hours

Park

99 Jong-ro

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Pagoda Park in Seoul features a 15th-century marble pagoda, significant historical murals, and serves as a symbol of Korean independence movements.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. No charges apply for park entry; some special events may incur fees.

Museum of Korean Embroidery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

34 Nonhyeon-ro 132-gil

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The Museum of Korean Embroidery in Seoul showcases intricate traditional handicrafts, reflecting Korea's rich textile heritage and offerings of diverse exhibits.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special workshops may require a fee.

Dosan Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

20 Dosan-daero 45-gil

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Dosan Park in Seoul, South Korea, is a tranquil urban park dedicated to the renowned independence activist Ahn Chang-ho, featuring walking paths, gardens, and cultural sites.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special programs may require registration or fees.

Namsan Park

Open 24 hours

Park

100-177 Hoehyeon-dong 1-ga

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Namsan Park in Seoul offers 2.8 square kilometers of scenic nature trails, historical sites, and panoramic city views from its summit, attracting both locals and visitors.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free.

Waryong Park

Open 24 hours

Park

192

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Waryong Park in Seoul is a serene urban oasis featuring lush greenery, walking trails, and scenic views, ideal for relaxation and recreation.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Seodaemun Museum of Natural History

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

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Seodaemun Museum of Natural History in Seoul showcases diverse natural specimens, offering educational exhibits on geology, biology, and ecology in an immersive environment.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have separate fees.

Hwagyesa Temple

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

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Hwagyesa Temple in Seoul, founded in 1522, is a significant Buddhist temple known for its serene architecture and beautiful natural surroundings.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and programs.

Bongwonsa Temple

5:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

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Bongwonsa Temple, established in 1911, offers serene Buddhist architecture and lush greenery in Seoul. A tranquil spot for reflection and cultural immersion.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not mandatory.

Total Museum of Contemporary Art

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

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Total Museum of Contemporary Art in Seoul features cutting-edge exhibitions by emerging and established artists, housed in an architecturally striking space.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

General admission: 10,000 KRW; discounts for students and seniors.

The National Folk Museum of Korea

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

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The National Folk Museum of Korea in Seoul displays the cultural history and daily lives of Korean people since its establishment in 1946, set within Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Gansong Art Museum

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

Seoul-si Seongbuk-gu Seongbuk-dong

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Gansong Art Museum in Seoul specializes in Korean traditional art, featuring a rich collection including ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. An essential visit for art enthusiasts.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Paid. General admission fees apply; discounts for students and seniors available.

War and Women's Human Rights Museum

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

20 World Cup Buk-ro 11-gil

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The War and Women's Human Rights Museum in Seoul presents the history of 'comfort women' during WWII, focusing on survivors and broader women's rights issues in conflict.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Ttukseom Hangang Park

Open 24 hours

Park

56-10

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Ttukseom Hangang Park in Seoul offers 6.7 km of riverside activities, green spaces, and facilities for picnicking, cycling, and water sports along the Han River.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some activities may require a fee for rentals and events.

Nakseongdae

5:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

228

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Nakseongdae Park in Seoul, South Korea, is a historically significant area known for its serene nature and cultural landmarks, including a memorial for General Gang Gam-chan.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required.

Jangchungdan Park

Open 24 hours

Park

197

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Jangchungdan Park in Seoul, South Korea, features a memorial site dedicated to Korean independence fighters and serves as a peaceful urban escape with landscaped gardens.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fees are required to enter the park.

Haneul Park

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

95

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Haneul Park is a spacious park in Seoul featuring tall grasses, walking trails, and panoramic views of the city. It is part of the World Cup Park, built on a former landfill.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Seoul Land

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Theme Park

181 Gwangmyeong-ro

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Seoul Land, opened in 1988, is Korea's first theme park featuring five themed zones, rides, and family-friendly attractions located in Gwacheon, South Korea.

Duration: 3-5 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets (₩10,000), Child tickets (₩7,000). Discounts available for groups.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Open all day

Park

Bukchon-ro

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Bukchon Hanok Village is a historic residential area in Seoul, featuring over 900 traditional Korean hanok houses from the 14th century, amidst modern urban surroundings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a fee.

Banpo Bridge

24 hours

Bridge

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Banpo Bridge in Seoul features a two-tiered traffic design and a vibrant rainbow fountain with 380 jets, drawing visitors with its nighttime illumination.

Duration: 1-2 hours is recommended to enjoy the fountain and views.

Free. No entry fee is required to visit the bridge.

Korea Military Academy

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

574 Hwarang-ro

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Korea Military Academy in Guri trains future leaders of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces. Founded in 1946, it combines military education with physical training.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free access for visitors. Special events may have a fee.

I'Park Mall

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

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I'Park Mall in Seoul features brand-name shopping, dining, and a unique wedding concourse, sprawled around the Yongsan station for a convenient visit.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Certain special events may require a paid ticket.

KUKJE Gallery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

54 Samcheong-ro

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KUKJE Gallery in Seoul hosts exhibitions by notable international artists like Damien Hirst and Anish Kapoor in a modern architectural space.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Admission varies. Check current exhibition listings for details.

Seosomun Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

16

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Seosomun Park is a serene urban park in Seoul, South Korea, featuring walking paths, green spaces, and historical monuments, easily accessible to the public.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a ticket.

Alive Museum Insadong

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Museum

12

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Alive Museum Insa-dong in Seoul features interactive and media art, offering a hands-on experience unlike traditional art museums.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: 15,000 KRW, Children: 10,000 KRW. Discounts available for groups.

Jamsil Sports Complex

Vars according to events

Stadium

10 Jamsil-dong

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Jamsil Sports Complex in Seoul, South Korea features Jamsil Baseball Stadium and Olympic Stadium, hosting sports events and concerts amidst vibrant atmospheres.

Duration: 2-4 hours depending on the event.

Varies by event. Regular entry for Jamsil Baseball Stadium is generally around 10,000 KRW for adults.

Seoul Forest

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

685 Seongsu 1-ga 1-dong

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Seoul Forest in Seoul, South Korea, is a large park featuring a lake, bike paths, deer, and a butterfly house, offering various family-friendly attractions.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Gocheok Sky Dome Arena

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Stadium

430

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Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul is a modern indoor baseball stadium, home to the Kiwoom Heroes, featuring three retractable roofs and seating for 16,000 spectators.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Prices vary by event. Regular baseball games typically range from 10,000 KRW to 50,000 KRW.

Bukchon Traditional Culture Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

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Bukchon Traditional Culture Center in Seoul offers insights into hanok architecture and the Bukchon area, with free resources and exhibits on cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a charge.