One of my favorite things about Seoul is that it is chock full of hidden gems, unsuspecting and obscure, that offer those that are lucky enough to discover them a real treat. Restaurants, cafes, galleries and bars are easy to find in Korea’s capital city, but it’s the ones tucked into back alleys and inconspicuous …
Once the country’s largest market for trading antiques and artwork, Insadong has over the years developed into a bustling yet quaint destination that is now recognized as one of Seoul’s most iconic neighborhoods. Fairly well preserved and organized to represent Korea’s culture of both the past and the present, Insadong is the premiere locale to …
As the familiar hues of nightfall spill across the skies, herds of tourists flood into the streets of Myeongdong. 6.8 million of them a year, to be exact. Neon starts to flash overhead, filling the streets with an instantly recognizable buzz, barely audible over the rhythmic beats of K-pop that blare from hidden speakers. Shop …
Nestled between Inwang and Bugak mountains, Buamdong is a peaceful backwater neighborhood located in the center of Seoul, shielded by nature from the neon and concrete that drench the remainder of the metropolis. Boasting only a single bus stop, Buamdong is not the most convenient place to visit. It’s this very remoteness, however, that has …
Although no longer the capital of Seoul’s art and music scene, present-day Hyehwa is a neighborhood that still bursts with creativity and youthful energy. The area is situated in the northeastern part of the capital and is also known as Daehangno, a nickname derived from dehag, or “university,” due to its close proximity to quite …
Perhaps no other neighborhood in all of Seoul embodies Korea’s youth culture as well as Hongdae. Here, the streets are alive with a youthful spirit that fosters a creativity evident in the sounds of busking musicians, in the colorful graffiti on the walls and in the unique fashion and hair styles sported by the young …
Whether browsing shoes in Edae or having a few drinks in Sinchon, the uniquely youthful spirit of this vibrant cluster of university neighborhoods is at once evident. The area’s tiny shops, restaurants and bars are seemingly always open, making it a favorite haunt of Seoul’s college women, attracting throngs of youngsters every day of the …
Seochon Village is one of the most historical neighborhoods in central Seoul. Often associated with the middle class of merchants, physicians and translators of the Joseon dynasty, it was once known as the center of Korean literature. Stretching from the western gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the base of Inwang Mountain, it is an area …
Korea may be one of the world’s leading economies and fastest developing nations, but its modern history is a turbulent one. To the outsider, it can be difficult to spot the signs of Seoul’s struggles and suffering through the glitz and glamour of the city’s sparkling facade. But if one looks in the right places, …
Who needs a guidebook when Seoul Searching gives you the most comprehensive, up-to-date guide to Seoul’s neighborhoods on the Internet?! Whether you’re looking for the perfect neighborhood to stay in during your trip, or simply want to explore a new part of town, you can find what you are looking for here. I’ll continue to …