Planning notes for Seoul

Seoul is a city with a documented history spanning over 2,000 years, established as a capital in 18 BCE by the Baekje Kingdom and later designated the capital of the Joseon Dynasty in 1394. The city's historical heritage is centered on its five royal palaces—Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung.

Must-try foods nearby

• Myeongdong Kalguksu (Knife-Cut Noodles)
  A comforting bowl of handmade, wheat-flour noodles served in a rich, velvety chicken broth.
• Ganjang Gejang (Soy-Marinated Raw Crab)
  Often called the 'Rice Thief' because the salty, umami-rich sauce compels you to eat endless bowls of rice. Fresh raw crabs are marinated in a secret soy sauce blend.
• Hanwoo Beef (Korean Native Cattle)
  Korea’s answer to Wagyu, Hanwoo is prized for its perfect balance of marbling and deep beefy flavor.
• Yukhoe Tangtangi (Beef Tartare with Live Octopus)
  An adventurous and iconic dish from Gwangjang Market. It features seasoned raw beef (yukhoe) topped with freshly chopped long-arm octopus (sannakji) that is still moving.
• Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
  The ultimate street food. Chewy, cylindrical rice cakes are simmered in a thick, sweet, and spicy gochujang sauce.

When to go: The best times to visit Seoul are during the spring (April to June) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for vibrant fall foliage and mild, clear skies. You should avoid the humid monsoon season in July and August.

Local tips

• Purchase a T-money or Climate Card for seamless public transport, as most buses and subways do not accept cash.
• Avoid tipping at restaurants and cafes, as it is not customary and can sometimes be perceived as awkward or rude.
• Use both hands when giving or receiving items like money, credit cards, or drinks to show respect.
• Press the call button on your dining table to summon a server instead of waiting for them to check on you.

What travelers are noticing

• Centre Pompidou Hanwha Seoul: A major new art landmark opening in June 2026 inside the 63 Building, featuring modern and contemporary masterpieces from the Paris collection.
• Seongsu-dong Pop-up Culture: The 'Brooklyn of Seoul' continues to trend with high-concept flagship stores like HAUS NOWHERE and weekly viral fashion and K-pop pop-up events.
• Skyview Observatories: A city-wide rollout of 12 new panoramic mountain-top decks, including the Namsan Sky Forest and Haneul Stairway, offering futuristic views of the skyline.

Extra place context

• London Bagel Museum
  Known for: K-Style Salt Bread (Sogeum-ppang). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
  food and K-Style Salt Bread (Sogeum-ppang)