The area surrounding one of the city's most renowned universities, the Ewha Womans University, is Seoul's fashion hotspot. This commercial route stretching from the university station to the institution itself is lined by numerous stores that feature trendy clothes, shoes and accessories to suit every style and aesthetic. Also on sale are stationery, cosmetics and skincare solutions. The prices are highly affordable and bargaining is the norm. Make the occasional pit stop at the laid-back eateries selling local delicacies or head to the chic salons for some TLC.
Located in the heart of Seoul city, the Lotte World Tower stands at a height of 555.7 meters (1823.16 feet). The super-tall skyscraper was opened to the public on April 3, 2017 and is one of the tallest building in South Korea and the world. The tower is home to several stores, cafes, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium and even a concert hall. In addition they have a theme park that contains an ice rink and folk museum. On the top floors of the tower they have an observation deck, a sky-walk, and a luxury hotel. The tower is very popular with locals and tourists who spend the entire day exploring and enjoying a plethora of activities under one roof.
Established in 1414, Namdaemun Market is one of the oldest and largest traditional market in Korea. There are more than 10,000 stores offering a large selection of products including clothes, accessories, silverware and much more at reasonable prices. After long hours of walking around, you are sure to get hungry. Luckily, there are many restaurants and food stands where you can try a variety of traditional Korean foods. Tourists from across the world visiting Seoul make it a point to stop by and buy something from the popular Namdaemun Market.
Established in 1905, Gwangjang Market was the nation's first traditional bazaar. This permanent mart houses over 5,000 enterprises, most of which were inherited from previous generations and bustles with the lively banter of merchants and shoppers. It features numerous vendors selling ibaji food and local specialties, foreign imports, fresh produce, vintage fashion, antiques and handcrafted items. Its main attraction remains retailers of the authentic Korean dress, hanbok, whose top-quality silk and satin varieties in vibrant colors available at bargain prices, here. The clothing has a simple silhouette and is popularly worn during festivals and special occasions. The market is also a popular dining destination, with food stalls serving up a wide variety of favorite traditional Korean foods.
The expansive Yongsan Electronics Market comprises of about 20 large shopping malls with over 5000 stores selling electronic appliances like computers, computer parts, stereos, electric equipment, spare parts, cameras, software, hardware, video games, CDs, DVDs, and so on, at discounted prices. It features a host of high-tech products and gadgets from popular brands and labels that are sold wholesale as well as retail. Some outlets have set prices and warranties while some with fluctuating ones and are open to bargain. Don't miss the opportunity to upgrade your tech quotient with a steal. Business hours for individual stores vary.
The Doosan Tower forms an integral part of Seoul's signature skyline. Over 2000 stores occupy this prestigious skyscraper. On sale are a variety of trendy and stylish menswear, women's clothing, children's wear, accessories, shoes and paraphernalia from high-end labels and luxury brands including Prada and Armani. The eighth level is the food court, lined by numerous cafes and restaurants. Also on floor is a sports center and a beauty clinic. The top tier is a grand ballroom that plays host to various cultural and private events. The establishment is a landmark in the heart of the city and its facade sees occasional live concerts by the popular bands and artists.
Caron Caron is a charming Macaron Atelier that is hidden away down a side street in the Itaewon neighborhood of Seoul. These Parisian treats have long been synonymous with luxury and are notoriously hard to perfect, yet perfection is precisely what you will find here. Choose from a selection of 15 varieties that range from the usual raspberry and chocolate, to wasabi infused varieties that are sure to please those with a more adventurous palate. A single bite is all it will take to put a smile on your face. Coffee and tea are served as well, although you won't want to wash the flavor of these scrumptious treats off your tongue. If you'd like to give macaron making a try, stop by for one of Caron Caron's very popular baking classes, held every weekend from 10a to 1p at the shop.
Silla Duty Free is a chain of shopping centers in South Korea which aim to bring you international luxury brands at no extra duty. Famous brands like Louis Viton, Jimmy Choo, Chanel, Gucci, Hermes and Mulberry can be found inside this single complex at the minimal price which needs to be payed for these products.
Exhibiting the youthful soul of Seoul's shopping scene, Aland has something for everyone. The fun and quirky collection is a mix of high-end designer wear as well as vintage finds. On sale are stylish clothes, trendy jewelry and funky accessories for women as well as men. Styles are always casual, fresh and a bit sporty. This is a great place to find that perfect summer bag or snag an easy-breeze linen dress. More than just clothes, Aland has become a true lifestyle brand offering housewares, books and even bicycles. A must-visit in the fashion forward capital of South Korea.
Royal Antique Furniture Co. is the oldest of the stores selling factory-made furniture in Itaewon, a fact that the owner is very proud of. It has been in business for more than 30 years now, and since most of the customers who shop here are foreigners, you will not have any problem with the language. All the furniture is designed and made at the shop's own factory. Especially popular are handcrafted chests of drawers, as well as low tables used in traditional Korean dining rooms.