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Must Visit Attractions in Seoul

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Gyeongbok Palace, also known as Gyeongbokgung, was constructed in 1395 by King Taejo. Largest among the Five Grand Palaces built in Seoul around this time, Gyeongbok served as the central palace during the Joseon dynasty, doubling as the official royal residence and seat of the Joseon government. The palace was designed with majestic towers, grand facades, intricate furnishings, a massive royal court, and around 7000 individual rooms. Much of the palace was restored in the 19th Century, and it is still being worked on as part of a campaign to return the site to its former glory. At once visually stunning and culturally significant, Gyeongbok Palace and its onsite museums offer excellent insight into Korean history.

The War Memorial of Korea, which opened in 1994, is one of the largest of its kind in the world. It occupies the former army headquarters and honors those who died fighting for their country during the Korean War. The memorial includes both indoor and outdoor exhibition halls that showcase a curated selection of numerous military relics, artillery, ammunition, documents, photographs, and other artefacts from the museum's vast collection pertaining to the nation's war history. Although the museum focuses primarily on the Korean War, it also delves into battles that preceded it to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the subject. The War Memorial of Korea is an evocative memorial to the cost of war as well as a testament to the nation's military prowess.

Originally named Sugang-gung, this impressive palace was constructed in 1419 by King Sejong and is one of the oldest of all existing royal palaces in South Korea. It was built in memory of King Sejong's father, Taejong. Under Japanese colonial rule, the ornate palace and its grounds served as a zoo. It was not until 1911 that the name was changed to Changyong Palace. In 1986, the building was restored to its original glory and opened to the public as a historical monument.

The Hwaseong Fortress is one of the magnificent wonders of South Korea. It was constructed towards the end of the 18th Century by the then king of the Joseon Dynasty, King Yeongjo. Initially constructed as a memorial to his father, the fortress today is one of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. Designed scientifically, the fortress consists of four gates that are interestingly constructed facing each of the four directions. Of them all, the Northern gate is a landmark in itself as it is the largest gate in all of Korea. Multiple secret gateways - to assist the army to carry out stealth operations, crenels and arrowslits built to withstand battle are signs of the formidable architecture of Hwaseong Fortress. The fortress is the center-point for the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival celebrated annually.

Located in the heart of Seoul, 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 buildings 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.

Built in 1971, the N Seoul Tower, located at the peak of Mt. Namsan, is 236.7 meters (777 feet) tall. The iconic landmark, built for transmitting signals of radio and television, is visible from nearly everywhere in the city. Now a famed tourist attraction, the tower offers stunning views from the top. One of the most romantic places in Seoul, the N Seoul Tower or Namsan Tower is a favorite for couples and as any Korean Drama fan will recognize, is the top spot to profess undying love, much like the Eiffel Tower in France. Around the roof terrace, there are locks in a colorful display, proclaiming messages of true love, as couples come here to leave a love lock as a symbol of their devotion to each other. Accessible by cable car, car or hiking, the tower has other attractions including art exhibitions, restaurants, and a cultural experience center.

This Confucian royal sanctuary is considered to be the oldest, and was built by founder of the Joseon Dynasty in the 14th Century. The original shrine was destroyed and the present one was built in the 17th Century. Nestled amid verdant hills, the Jongmyo Shrine spans across 19.4 hectares (47.94 acres) and has an oval layout. Built as an ode to the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty and to preserve their memory, ancestral tablets of the monarchy are preserved at this shrine. Featuring 19 chambers, it holds 19 commemorative tablets of kings and 30 of queens. It also showcases the accomplishments of each of these royals. A significant vestige of the Joseon Dynasty, the shrine is classified as a UNESCO site for still abiding to ancient customs like the Jongmyo Jaerye, regarded as the oldest memorial ceremony in the world.

A gateway into the complex of the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun occupies a prominent place in the annals of Korean history. One of the most well-recognized sights in the city, this impressive gate traces its origins back to the late 14th Century and has witnessed numerous decisive events that have shaped the country's cultural and political fabric. A quintessential pavilion surmounts the arched gates of the granite fixture, reflecting the grandeur of traditional Korean architecture. Owing to its historical significance, Gwanghwamun is among the most revered landmarks in Seoul.

This Korean-style village is nestled at the foot of Pukansan between Gyeongbok Palace and the secret garden. There are several buildings within, of which more than half are Korean-style houses. Most of these structures have antique tiled roofs and stone walls. The village is a fascinating walk down olden times and a welcome escape from the otherwise modern environs of the city. Some of the attractions that are incorporated in the Bukchon Hanok Village include Gahoe Museum, Han Sangsu Embroidery Museum and Rakgojae.

Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is one of the most iconic landmark structures in Seoul. The cutting-edge modernity of this mega-structure coupled with its unique design won Seoul the title of World Design Capital in 2010. The building has a fluid design, devoid of any straight lines or walls. It houses several spaces inside, including an art hall, a museum, a design lab, the Oullim square, and the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park. Visit this modern wonder at night for some truly dazzling views.

Encased in glass and glazed with gold, 63 Square or 63 Building as it is also known is a shimmering beauty that makes a prominent appearance on the city's skyline. Overlooking the Hangang River, this landmark skyscraper holds its own as its glistening form soars above the rest of the city, measuring in at a height of 249 meters (817 feet). Having opened in 1985, the building was intended as a landmark for the 1988 Summer Olympics, and is regarded today as one of the most emblematic buildings in Seoul. It is home to the popular 63 Seaworld, 63 Sky Art Gallery and 63 Wax Museum, but is most well known for its Love Elevators; these elevators offer a brief romantic escape to couples by taking them on a minute-long ride through the building.

This palace is the most preserved among major and minor palaces in Seoul, because the descendants of the royal family lived here until recent years. This is the one of the best places to observe the culture of the nobility of old Korea. This building has few restricted areas, with the southern half of this building widely open to the public. In addition, you can take various classes to learn about Korean culture, like court etiquette, tea ceremony, and general formality.

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