Seoul (South Korea). Seoul, Republic of Korea - rest, weather, reviews of tourists, photos

Seoul is the capital of the Republic of Korea and one of the ten largest cities in the world. People inhabited these places even before our era. On the site of the modern city at the end of the 14th century, a small settlement of Hanyan was founded, which later turned into main city Joseon State. It was surrounded by fortress walls, inside which the royal palace of Gyeongbokgung was erected. From 1910 to 1942, the city was called Gyeongsong. Seoul got its current name in 1945, in translation from Korean it means "capital". In European languages, including Russian, the reading of "Seoul" arose due to the mistaken syllabus of the Latin transcription Seoul - it should be read as Seo-ul, and read "in French" as Se-oul.

Since 1948, Seoul has been the capital of the Republic of Korea and the country's main economic, political and cultural center. Seoul now has the status of a separate administrative unit. The city stands on the banks of the Hangang River and is a vast agglomeration that includes, in addition to the capital, many satellite cities.

The main features of the appearance of Seoul are the central region with the towering Namsan Mountain and the Hangang River. dividing the city into the northern historical part and the modern southern region. An important landmark on the map is also the island of Yoido - the administrative center of the metropolis. Mount Namsan (265 m above sea level) is a granite rock pierced by three tunnels connecting the north and south of the city.

The Hangang River served as the city's defensive line in the past. Since the middle of the 20th century, the rapid development of the metropolis has led to the expansion of its territory to the south. Attempts to turn Hangang into one of the attractions of Seoul were crowned with success - the waters of the river were cleaned, and numerous parks and recreation areas were laid out on 20 kilometers of the coast, harmoniously fitting them into the landscape.

The old city is located on the right bank of the Han River. Most of Seoul's historic landmarks are located here.

The center of the Old City is Gyeongbokgung Palace, which became the very first palace in the capital of the state of Joseon. The construction of the palace began in 1394 and ended in 1395. Later, the palace was repeatedly burned and rebuilt; it suffered the most in the early 20th century under the Japanese, when they built the governor-general's house in its place. Restoration work in the palace began only with the proclamation of the Republic of Korea in 1948. Gyeongbokgung is considered the largest palace in the city. Its main gate is Gwanwamun, which was built in 1395. Two tiers were built over the gate, which served as an observation post. At Gwanwamun there is an honorary changing of the guard every hour. Interesting is the largest pavilion of the palace - Geunjong - with the atmosphere of the Joseon state, intended for royal receptions. The Gyeonghoru Pavilion, where the king rested, the Hyangwonjong Pavilion, as well as extensive parks with ponds and gazebos are very beautiful. There are several museums on the territory of the palace. National Folklore Museum, the construction of which is crowned with a nine-tiered pagoda. Near the museum there are samples of dwellings of ancient Korean villages, and inside there are items from everyday life of Koreans, dating back to ancient times. The Royal Relics Museum displays items that belonged to the Li Dynasty, with a total of about 20,000 pieces collected from various palaces in Seoul.

South of the Gyeongbokgung Palace is the Deoksugun Palace. The palace complex includes the Taehan Gate, throne room and audience hall. On the territory of the palace there is a Museum of Art with objects of modern fine art. At the Taehanmun Palace Gate, there is a changing of the guard three times a day.

Slightly south of Deoksugun, until recently, there were the most ancient gates of the city and the most big gate countries - Namdaemun. They were almost completely burned down in a fire in 2008, only the support pillars remained from the gate. This is where the Namdaemun Market District begins. Namdaemun Gate was part of the Gyeonghigung Palace (17th century), on the territory of which an extensive park stretches. From the ancient fortress Wall in the Old City, the Dongdaemun Gate has been preserved. They were built in 1396 and the current gate is the result of a rebuilding in 1869. Their roof is decorated with statues of animals, which, according to legend, drive out evil spirits.

East of Gyeongbokgung, you can see the most beautiful palace in Seoul - Changdeokgung (early 15th century). The entrance to the palace complex is through the two-tiered Dongwamun Gate. From the 17th to the 18th century, Changdeokgung was the main residence of the king. The last ruler of Joseon, King Sunjeong, also lived here. In Changdeokgung, there is a huge "secret" Pivon garden with small rivers, lush vegetation, pavilions, gazebos and a pond in the middle. In the garden, Pivon was secretly conducted free time King. On the territory of the palace is the oldest stone bridge in Seoul - Geumcheon. Be sure to visit Incheonjong's throne room. In front of him are nine statues that guard the entrance from evil spirits. Incheonjeon is of interest to the rich Seongjeong Royal House.

To the south of Changdeokgung Palace is Changgyeonggung Palace. The first buildings intended for the king appeared on his current territory in 1104 during the time of the Koryo state.

Moving south, bypassing the bridge, we find ourselves at the 14th century royal burial temple Jongmyo. Three parallel roads lead to the tomb. The central one is intended for the deceased kings and is lined with black stone, the other two are for the living kings and relatives of the reigning king. Every year, on the first Sunday of May, a magnificent honor ceremony is held here. Jongmyo consists of 19 rooms, each of which contains memorial slabs of the Joseon rulers and their wives.

In the northwestern part of the Old City, there is the Tonnimun Gate. They were built in 1898 in the style of the Arc de Triomphe. The gate is made of granite, and its arch is about 14 m high. In the past, this gate served as a ceremonial entrance for ambassadors of foreign states.

Not far from the Tonnimun Gate is the Seodaemun Prison Museum. At the beginning of the 20th century, a Japanese concentration camp was located in the museum building, where fighters for the independence of Korea were detained. Numerous performances of torture and basement torture rooms remind of this. The museum is located on the territory of the Independence Park. In the park you can also see the "Arch of Independence", monuments and monuments.

Also in the Old City, it is worth looking at the Bosingak building, where in ancient times there was a bell, the ringing of which opened and closed all the city gates. Nowadays, the ancient bell is kept in the National Museum, and installed on Bosingak modern bell, similar to the ancient one, he calls once a year on New Year's. In the vicinity of the Insandong district, the largest Buddhist temple in Seoul, Jogyesa, is interesting.

The new city is located on the left bank of the Han River. Here, next to the World Trade Center, stands the ancient Bonunsa monastery of the late 8th century. It is interesting because ancient Buddhist scriptures are kept here. In the western part of the New City, opposite Yoi Island, there is a huge Nyanjin fish market, which opens at 5 am and does not subside until late evening. In the market, you can see the most incredible marine life and taste all kinds of seafood dishes at a local restaurant. On the island of Yoi rises a 63-storey business center, the building of which is called "63". The business center has an Aquarium, a restaurant and an observation deck.

Fans of educational recreation can be advised by the museums of Seoul. National Museum Korea is located next to Yongsan Park. More than 11,000 exhibits are collected here, which are distributed among several collections - archaeological, historical, works of art and folk crafts. The art gallery is located between Deoksugung and Gyeonghigung palaces. Here, in 6 halls, works are presented modern masters... Interesting is the extensive exhibition of paintings by the artist Chon Kyung Ja, who worked in the 40-90s of the 20th century. To the north is the War Museum, which is dedicated to the Korean War of 1950-1953. It is the largest war museum in the world. At the entrance to the museum, there is an exhibition of military equipment used during the Korean War. The museum occupies 8 rooms, which display samples of weapons and military equipment of past wars, weapons in service in our time, as well as heavy weapons from the Second World War and the Vietnamese campaign. Seoul even has a Kimchi Museum dedicated to the most popular Korean snack. The museum is located in mall COEX. Be sure to head to the Amsadon Archaeological Park, where sites of primitive people have been discovered. The excavated ruins date back to the sixth millennium BC. Residential buildings from the Neolithic era and burial grounds from the Baekcho period have been recreated on the territory of the park.

Seoul from A to Z: map, hotels, attractions, restaurants, entertainment. Shopping, shops. Photos, videos and reviews about Seoul.

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In order to fully experience what Seoul is like, you need to climb higher - up a mountain or one of the famous skyscrapers. From there, from a bird's eye view, the city cannot be grasped with a glance. Fancy shape high-rise buildings grow upward and in breadth, helicopters soar from the rooftops, and as it gets dark, neon turns on and rages on every sign, which makes it seem that the time machine has worked, and a distant, fantastic future has come. And go down below - and old palaces, tiny, graceful temples and blooming gardens rise before your eyes.

It is this triumph of industrialization, combined with a deep respect for antiquity, and beautiful Seoul - just recently one of the most oppressed and devastated cities in the world.

The name "Seoul" is translated as "capital", this name was given to the city quite recently - in the middle of the 20th century, when the country gained independence.

How to get to Seoul

Dozens of liners depart from Moscow's Sheremetyevo in the direction of Seoul every day. Direct flights are operated by Aeroflot, Air France, Chinese Airlines and others. The journey from the Russian capital to the South Korean one takes about 9 hours. One transfer will save money, but it will also significantly delay on the road - a flight with a docking, for example, at the Shanghai airport, can last 16-20 hours.

From St. Petersburg you will have to fly by connecting flights via Moscow or Dubai. The planes depart from Pulkovo, the minimum travel time in one direction is 14 hours.

Guests of the capital of South Korea are received by the large international airport of Seoul Incheon, located 70 km west of the city.

How to get from the airport to the city

From Incheon to Seoul, there are AREX express trains, KTX high-speed trains, as well as buses and taxis. Most quick way to get to Seoul Station in Yongsan-gu District - take the express train, it takes about 40 minutes.

On the same route as the express trains, but with stops to Seoul, the “all stop train” trains follow. This is an option for those who need to transfer to the nearest metro along the way. Such a train travels a little longer than AREX, the ticket price is 6500 KRW. Prices on the page are for August 2018.

In addition, at gates 3B-6B and 10A-13A, tourists heading to Seoul are waiting for buses - ordinary, they go as city transport with all stops, and limousines - deliver only to the largest hotels in the capital. The fare, depending on the route and type of bus, is from 7,000 to 14,000 KRW.

Taxis are parked at gates 4C-8C and the trip to Seoul will cost KRW 90,000-100,000.

Search for flights to Incheon (closest airport to Seoul)

Seoul districts

Seoul is divided into two parts by the Hangam River. Historical sights and business districts are located mainly in the center and on the north bank; areas south of the river are considered to be dormitories. There are 25 counties in the city, the most expensive of which are Gangnam, Jung-gu and Jongno-gu. The last two are part of the old city; the most ancient sights of Seoul are concentrated here. Gangnam, south of the river, is considered one of the most prosperous areas, and is full of signs of luxury hotels. It is also the business center of the city.

Another not-so-cheap district of sparkling offices is Yongdeungphogu. The "golden tower" of the Yuksam Building rises above it. In the Yongsan-gu area, which is across the river, tourists rush to look at the most international street in Seoul - Itaewon.

The western and eastern neighbors of Yongsan-gu are still central, but much more budgetary in terms of living areas: Maphogu, Seodemungu, Songonggu, Dongdaemungu. The latter is known as the "Russian quarter", there are many signs that are familiar to the eye, and even some Koreans speak Russian at the very least. People go to Seonggu for the opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Seoul Forest.

Interesting are the proximity to the center of the district of Tonjakku and Seochhogu (or rather, their northern quarters), there are many attractions here: the tombs of six vassals or the Servite - an artificial island designed in the shape of a flower.

In search of inexpensive housing, it is quite possible to consider the periphery. It's a long way to go to the center, nevertheless Seoul is a metropolis. But in terms of safety in the city, everything is consistently good.

Transport

As part of the fight against traffic jams, the Seoul government has made every effort to make public transport convenient and punctual. An inexperienced tourist may be confused by the colorful traffic patterns, but there is nothing to worry about - in fact, this system is very convenient, one has only to take a ride.

Underground

Each line of the Seoul subway has its own color and number, in the lobbies in the eyes of the signs, including in English, so you will not get lost in the local subway.

Tickets can be purchased from vending machines located near the turnstiles. A single trip costs 1250 KRW. In addition to the cost of the card, the bill acceptor will "ask" for a deposit of 500 KRW. To return it at the exit, you need to insert the ticket into the device with the inscription "deposit return device".

Buses

Colorful buses are the most popular transportation in Seoul. They do not get stuck in traffic jams thanks to "dedicated lines" and deliver passengers to any corner of the city. Yellow buses run in the downtown area and surrounding areas. Green and red buses are brought to residential areas and metro stations, and the latter follow even further out of the city. Blue routes connect the suburbs to the downtown area. The ticket price varies from 800 to 1800 KRW.

Taxis and bicycles

Almost all taxi drivers in Seoul accept transportation and bank cards, many speak English

Seoul taxis stand out in bright orange in the traffic. For landing and the first kilometers there is a fee of 1800-2200 KRW, then about 600 KRW per km. At night, rates increase by 20%. Passengers are offered increased comfort in Deluxe taxis (black with a yellow stripe), where prices are twice as high, but they are stable at any time of the day.

Seoul's parks are a pleasure to cycle through. The rental hour costs 4000-6000 KRW, the whole one - 10,000-12,000 KRW.

Transport cards

It is convenient and profitable to travel around Seoul using a rechargeable t-money card worth 2500 KRW. It is sold in the metro, airport, shops and allows you to travel on the subway, bus, and even by taxi for less than cash. Unspent balance can be returned.

Another transport card is the Seoul City Pass, which entitles you to make up to 20 trips a day by any type of transport, including a taxi. The card is valid for 1, 2 or 3 days and cannot be returned. The cost of the pass is from 15,000 to 30,000 KRW.

A variation of the Seoul City Pass is the Seoul City Pass Plus rechargeable card. In public transport, it works like t-money and makes travel cheaper by 100 KRW. Plus, a Plus card holder will get good discounts on restaurants and attractions. The balance on the card can be returned.

Rent a Car

The decision to move around Seoul in a rented car will provide the tourist with freedom in choosing a route, but it will also add a headache. Despite the large-scale fight against traffic jams, which is being actively pursued by the city authorities, traffic congestion is not uncommon.

As part of the same struggle, several years ago, the number of parking lots in the central districts of the city was significantly reduced, the cost of parking increased to 2,000 KRW, and restrictions on movement were even introduced on some roads.

But the motivation to get behind the wheel in Seoul is serious - after all, just an hour's drive from the city is the Yellow Sea, and in the east there are the most picturesque mountains and waterfalls.

The international company Avis has a representative office in Seoul, and AJ rentacar and Lotte rent-a-car received decent reviews from the local ones. Daily car rental will cost 50,000-70,000 KRW. A liter of gasoline costs 1400 KRW.

Connectivity and Wi-Fi

In South Korea, communication standards differ from the usual GSM. Most smartphones will switch to the new operating mode without problems, but unpleasant surprises are not excluded. Guests of the city who are left without communication are rescued by the gadget rental service. In Seoul, you can rent a phone, a SIM card, and even a pocket Wi-Fi - Seoul WiFi Egg. The most famous mobile operators in the city are Olleh and SK Telecom.

The cost of renting gadgets and SIM cards may seem excessive - from 5,000 KRW per day only for a router and from 20,000 KRW for a week's use of the phone. If your smartphone has made friends with Korean standards, you can try to get by with Wi-Fi.

Moreover, very soon the issue of free Internet in Seoul will lose relevance - the mayor of the city promised ubiquitous Wi-Fi by 2017. Now the signal is in the subway, most restaurants and hotels, tourist places and shopping centers. Login may be required. On the streets, ipTIME and Seoul Free Wi-Fi share free internet.

In July 2016, the Seoul authorities installed compact hydroelectric power stations on the banks of the city's Jonggyecheon Stream, which runs right through the center of the capital, to charge tablets and smartphones. They are free to use.

Seoul beaches

For the joys of a beach holiday, Seoul people travel to the west of the city - to the Yellow Sea. The journey is not long - just over an hour's drive by car. Can be reached and by public transport, it will take about two hours. You need to go in the direction of Incheon Airport, and then change to buses. Routes 302, 306, 301, 111 go to the most popular Yrvanni beach. It will also deliver an excursion bus to the beach waiting for passengers on the Incheon 13 platform.

Yrvanni is famous for beautiful views tourists are especially impressed by the low tide, when the sea reveals hundreds of meters of sand dotted with crabs and shellfish.

The entrance to the water is shallow, it is shallow near the coast, so it is good to relax on the beach with children.

Or you can get off with a stop later and relax on the small and less crowded Ouansan Beach. Both recreation areas are well equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers and numerous cafes.

There is no charge for rest on the beach, for a sunbed or an umbrella you will have to pay about 25,000 KRW.

On the way of the tourist bus there is a stop "Sammok Pier". From there, ferries depart for the island cluster of Shindo, Sido and Modo. On Shindo, a very pleasant place for secluded relaxation is the sandy Sugi beach. The islands are connected by bridges, each of them has picturesque corners where you can sunbathe in silence and enjoy excellent sea views.

Treatment in Seoul

South Korea's healthcare system is considered one of the most efficient in the world. According to the Russian Association of Medical Tourism, the most demanded services among foreigners in 2015 were the treatment of gastrointestinal problems and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, Korea is famous for its achievements in the field of dermatology, surgery (including plastic surgery), and oncology.

Samsung Medical Center has an impeccable reputation in Seoul. He provides assistance in oncology, demonstrates high rates in the field of cardiovascular diseases, surgery and transplantation. The cardiac surgery center of the ASAN Medical Center has proven itself to be excellent. The Severance Clinic has an impressive history, where robotic surgery is successfully used to treat cancer.

The prices for treatment correspond to the quality of the services provided. Basic examination will cost 500,000-600,000 KRW, cancer diagnostics will cost from 1,700,000 KRW.

And a little exotic. Studies show that half of the South Korean population uses herbal medicine and acupuncture, traditional Korean treatments. It makes sense to schedule a visit to one of the specialized clinics. This will at least relieve fatigue, and may even convince you of the miraculousness of alternative medicine.

Seoul life

Seoul Accommodation

Seoul offers travelers a wide choice different ways accommodation - for every taste and budget. An economical and at the same time not a bad option - small yeogwan hotels. The set of services is minimal.

The cost of living in 3 * hotels in the central districts starts from 60,000 KRW. A standard room in a five-star hotel in the luxury areas of Jung-gu, Jongno-Gu and Gangnam will cost 100,000-150,000 KRW, for a suite they will ask for 500,000-600,000 KRW.

Some tourists choose a very exotic accommodation option, or rather, overnight stays in Korean saunas - jjimjilbang. Sleeping places are provided for everyone. In the morning you can take a shower, leave things in the storage room until the evening, or take them with you so that you can spend the next night in a different bath. Prices start from 7000 KRW per night.

When booking, we recommend that you pay attention to the availability of the hotel ... bed. Traditionally, Koreans sleep on the floor, so it's tough sleeping place in the hotel - not uncommon. If mattresses and pillows are more to your liking, it is worth discussing this issue with the administration.

Shopping

Wherever a tourist goes in Seoul, on his way there will definitely be a market or two, or even a whole shopping district abruptly than the Moroccan medina.

First of all, shopaholics rush to the Myeongdong area, where every square meter is occupied by shops. Here you can buy everything: from clothes to interior items. Myeongdong is famous for the abundance of democratic brands; high-quality Korean cosmetics are widely represented in stores.

Another multi-brand and inexpensive place in Seoul is Itaewon Street. Foreigners live and work here, so the counters are perhaps the most exotic. Itaewon is worth a look for leather and fur products, as well as men's suits.

Well, luxury shopping awaits guests of Gangnam-gu. Luxurious boutiques are proudly lined up in the Apgujeong District on Rodeo Street in the Galleria Shopping Center. Another high-end shopping area in the area is Cheongdam. Must-see shopping and entertainment center COEX.

Traditional Korean souvenirs can be found on Insadong Street. This is a pleasant place for walking, like the Moscow Arbat. Here the tourist will be offered porcelain, textiles, jewelry, handmade knick-knacks, art objects.

A visit to the Seoul market can be regarded as an excursion. It is not simple trading platforms Some, for example, "Namdaemun" and "Dongdaemun" - are quite ancient and introduce tourists to the Korean way of life and traditions. People go to the Yongsan market for famous Korean electronics.

There are sales in Seoul in December-January and summer. In August, a shopping festival is held, during which discounts on goods reach 60%. In stores with the "Global Blue TAX FREE" or "Global TAX FREE" logo, do not forget to ask for a tax refund receipt. The standard VAT rate is 10%. The seller may ask for a copy of the passport.

Seoul cuisine and restaurants

Seoul is a very tasty city. There are whole "specialized quarters" in it, in each of which they have learned to masterfully cook a certain dish. For example, Changchundong is famous for its chchokpal pork legs, and Sindandong for rice cakes in a hot pepper sauce called tteokbokki.

To all gourmets, there are excellent restaurants on the streets: Samcheongdong, Itaewon, Apgujeong, Chonro, Sinchon, Myeongdong and Ide (Ewha Women's University area). Young people should look at Gangnam Street, and for those aesthetes who pay attention not only to the taste and quality of food, but also to the style, design and interior of the institution, there is a direct road to Insadong Street.

Restaurant food prices vary depending on the type of establishment. So, the average bill in budget fast food stores, street kiosks or fast food restaurants will be from 2000 to 9000 KRW, in restaurants the average price category- from 8000 to 15000 KRW.

The best photos of Seoul

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Guides in Seoul

Seoul attractions and attractions

Seoul is a city of contrasts. Business centers have come close to the ancient temples, historical sights are surrounded by a scattering of high-rise buildings, and ultra-modern interchanges around the corner are replaced by pacifying park landscapes.

Palaces

According to legend, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, Lee Songye, could not choose a place for the construction of his residence for a long time. For some reason, he obeyed a simple plowman and went to the north of Seoul, where he built the grandiose Gyeongbokgung Palace. The main structures of the complex are the Gyeongjongjeon Hall and the Gyeonghweru Pavilion.

Gyeonghigun, which has become a "second home" for the rulers in case of emergency, is also of great historical importance. Today the historical museum is located here.

Changdeokgung competes with the residences. Having examined its rooms, tourists rush to admire the "Secret Garden" and "Jade Stream". At Changnyogun Palace Complex, it is interesting to look at Botanical Garden and the queen's pavilion. Deoksugung Palace in Seoul was built in the old days as a country villa and therefore looks modest.

The architecture of Seoul palaces may seem arbitrary, as objects are softly inscribed in the overall picture. But if you study the issue and take a closer look, it becomes clear that during the construction they not only observed a strict hierarchy, but also took into account the principles of Confucianism and even the arrangement of the stars.

Skyscrapers

Seoul's structures are impressive not only in history, but also in scale. You can evaluate them by clicking the camera, but it is much more interesting to test yourself for a phobia and climb to the sky - to the observation deck of one of the skyscrapers. The most famous high-rise in Seoul is the Yuksam Building, the elevator of which rises at a speed of 54 m / s. Take your breath away at the "Top Cloud" restaurant in Jongno Tower. A popular spot is the Seoul TV Tower, which offers stunning views of the city.

Temples

Seoul's Buddhist temples are a must-see. At least one - Jogesa. Monks offer tourists Temple Life - programs with accommodation. The most ancient of all Confucian cathedrals in Korea, Jongmyo Temple, is amazingly beautiful.It was erected in honor of the rulers of the Joseon dynasty, and its decoration is appropriate, worthy of royalty.

There are also many museums in Seoul. A visit to the War Memorial of the Republic of Korea will be unforgettable. And the most complete picture of the country is provided by the National Museum of Korea (website with an English version), which has 220,000 items in its collection.

Folklore village

The folk village, located 50 minutes from Seoul, is made up of houses typical of various Korean provinces. It regularly hosts street performances, "wedding ceremonies", "funeral processions", circus acts, launch competitions. kites, folk dances and traditional sports competitions.

8 things to do in Seoul

1. Buy red ginseng in the market to live forever.
2. Go to a monk for a couple of days, settling in a temple, and discover Buddhism as a comfortable philosophy.
3. Look into a Korean bath for a peeling procedure and rejuvenate for 10 years.
4. Spend the night on the floor at a traditional Korean hanok house in Bukchon Hanok Village.
5. Throw a coin at the "moon rainbow" on the Banpo Fountain Bridge.
6. Become a disciple of a tea master.
7. Drink local vodka soju made from sweet potatoes, forget the appetizer (only 20 °!) And be carried away to another reality.
8. Buy something incredibly cheap, fly away, and then think that you should have taken more.

Seoul for kids

Seoul is home to one of the world's largest theme parks - no more compelling reason to go on vacation with kids. Moreover, the city is always glad to young guests and ready to receive them. The transport is adapted for the movement of strollers, and even the metro has a kind of children's rooms.

So, Lotte World is a grandiose structure (you can see it from space!), Where there is fun for every taste and age. Kids are greeted by fairytale heroes, countless trains and carousels. Older children will appreciate the year-round skating rink, as well as the opportunity to soar to the very dome of the building on hot-air balloon... Exciting rides can be found on The Magic Island. The most "reckless" of them are "Gyro-Drop" and "Gyro-Swing" - a fall from a 70-meter height and an adventure inside a tornado.

Kids and adults will love Coex Aquarium - the largest oceanarium in Korea. Tens of thousands of fish and marine animals have become inhabitants of 90 survey aquariums. The most thrilling experiences await visitors to the shark and sea turtle tunnel.

There is not such a large-scale, but still an impressive aquarium in the basement of the Yuksam Building skyscraper. It hosts shows featuring seals, penguins and sea lions.

In good weather, we recommend taking a ride to the Grand Park, which is located south of Seoul - in the city of Gwacheon. Children are delighted with the huge zoo and Korean museum, while adults can enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Weather in Seoul

Average monthly temperature,

In winter, it is mostly snowless in Seoul, but cold - the proximity of the sea affects. A dry, piercing wind is blowing, so you need a jacket and preferably a winter one.

In the tourist world it is known as one of the most beautiful places in East Asia. The republic is famous for its special attitude to ancient customs and traditions, which can be traced in all spheres of activity of local residents. of this state is an amazing combination of antiquity and modernity, which becomes especially noticeable when you get to know the capital and one of the largest settlements in South Korea - the city of Seoul. Let's tell you more about it.

Where is Seoul located on the world map?

Before embarking on a virtual trip to the most interesting places of one of the largest cities world, once again we will designate the capital of which country is Seoul and where to look for it on the map. So, from school geography lessons, we remember that this huge metropolis is recognized as the official capital of the Republic of Korea ( South Korea). The city is located on the Hangang River, which literally divides it in half, in the northwest of the state, just 3 hours from the Yellow Sea.

Seoul's climate is due to its geographical location and is classified as humid continental. It is characterized by hot summers with light rainfall and cold dry winters. The warmest month of the year is August with average temperatures of +24 ... + 29 ° С, and the coldest month, respectively, is January (-4 ... 0 ° С).

In the ranking of the world's largest cities, the capital of South Korea is in 16th position, which indicates a sufficient large sizes... So, the area of ​​Seoul is just over 605 square meters. km, and the entire territory is administratively divided into 25 districts. The largest of them are Seocho-gu, Kansogu, etc. In addition, the city is considered one of the most densely populated on the planet: the population of Seoul is about 10 million people, even though the birth rate has dropped significantly over the past decade.

In terms of religion, the capital is constant: the two main religions in Seoul are Christianity and Buddhism. It is also home to one of the largest Christian congregations in the world - with more than 830,000 parishioners.

Seoul landmarks in South Korea

Photos from Seoul are the hallmark of South Korea, because it is he who is considered the cultural center of the Republic. The city is known for its unique natural and historical values, so if you are planning to go to Seoul on your own and do not know what to see, the rating of interesting places is just for you:

Seoul also enjoys considerable popularity among foreign tourists: Caribbean Bay, Sea LaLa, One Mount and COEX Aquarium. When planning your trip here, keep in mind that such an adventure can take a whole day, so plan your schedule in advance and check the public schedule. In addition to numerous sightseeing tours around the capital, a tour around the city, where you can take a lot of beautiful photos, is of great interest among vacationers.

What to buy in Seoul?

Since the capital of South Korea is considered one of the most dynamic and developed cities in the world, it is not surprising that shopping has become a favorite pastime in Seoul for many tourists. Consider, in memory of the trip and where it is more profitable to make purchases:

Hotels in Seoul

Like any other capital in the world, Seoul is full of great places to eat Catering... Depending on the budget, overseas guests can choose to stay in inexpensive Jjimjilbang (dorms) or luxurious 5-star luxury hotels. Let's consider some of the most popular accommodation options:

1. Birdsnest Hostel Hongdae is the best hostel for a budget traveler (from $ 18 per night), located 10 minutes. from and 50 min. from;
2. Hotel Myeongdong is a cozy 3-star hotel in the center of Seoul with pleasant prices (from $ 50 per person), 5 min. walking distance from Myeongdong shopping area;
3. Signiel Seoul is the most expensive 5-star hotel in the capital with magnificent views, the cost of living in which is 460-1070 USD.

Restaurants

Local food outlets also offer a wide variety of food, from traditional Korean to European and international. Street (tokpokki, sude, omuk, thwigim, etc.) is very popular with tourists, which, despite its cheapness, is very tasty. As for gourmet restaurants, the best establishments are:

• Yang Good - a cafe specializing in meat preparation in Gangnam, Seoul;
• Jungsik - national Korean cuisine;
• Tavolo 24 - Korean and European dishes;
• La Seine - fusion style cuisine;
• Jihwaja - Vegan and Vegetarian Cuisine.

Urban transport

Although transport system the capital is very well developed, there are often traffic jams, therefore, when planning a trip, calculate the time with a margin. In general, there are several ways to travel around the city:

• by taxi, which in Seoul are divided into standard (orange and gray) and luxury (black with a yellow checkered);
• by renting a car (rental offices are located in the city center and at the airport);
• by subway (note that the cost of a subway ticket in Seoul depends on the distance, the minimum price for a one-way trip is $ 1);
• on buses (an adult ticket costs about $ 1.15, a child ticket - $ 1);
• by bike (ideal transport for trips to nature, to the river or short distances).

How to get to Seoul?

So that your vacation in Seoul is not overshadowed by unpleasant events and delays, first of all, you should plan the road to the capital, including the flight and transfer to the hotel. Let's consider the main options:

1. Airplane. The vast majority stay in Seoul through international Airport Incheon, which is about 45 minutes. drive (70 km) from the capital. Another local Jimpo, located 15 km from the center of Seoul, is less busy and has flights from and within the country, so it is ideal for those who are already on the territory of the Republic.
2. Train. From almost any city in South Korea to the extreme north point(capital) can be reached by high speed train... The ticket price varies depending on the distance.
3. Bus. Seoul has 5 intercity bus terminals where travelers from other cities arrive. It is worth noting that all vehicles are very comfortable and suitable for long distance travel.

Seoul is the center of South Korea and one of the largest cities in the world. Almost 60% of all residents of the country live in this city. Let's see what are the Sights of Seoul South Korea, what is, what is interesting.

Seoul - a city of contrasts and lights

Seoul is on the list of the largest cities in the world. In terms of population density, the city ranks 8th in the world. Let's get to know the city through a few facts.

Seoul has the world's longest metro system.

They love to eat here so much that snacks are served even with beer, regardless of the feeling of hunger. At the same time, there are practically no fat Koreans. Apparently nature has awarded them with an excellent metabolism.

There are no smoking or alcohol restrictions in Seoul. In public places, signs are usually ignored.

Most Korean women have done plastic surgery... Here it is considered the norm to fix the nose, eye cut or enlarge the breasts. Local girls increasingly want to be like Europeans.

The highlight of the city is the Banpo Fountain, its pancake is almost 1.2 kilometers. It is considered the longest on the planet.

The local population of Seoul hardly sleeps. The average sleep length is about 4 hours a day. At the same time, Koreans have a lot of energy. Ginseng and kimchi are a must, not a luxury. There is nowhere without power engineers.

In Seoul, they believe in God and fear him. For example, girls cannot show their breasts, this is considered a sin. At the same time, they wear mini skirts and show their legs.

Koreans are very fond of coffee, the city is full of coffee houses where they prepare the drink according to local recipes.

Seoul has gained fame as one of the cities where dental services cost space money. Don't be surprised to see a crowd of people brushing their teeth in a public toilet. Better to prevent the problem than to overpay for it! - Koreans think.

Let's see the sights of Seoul, South Korea, which interesting places offers.

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Museums in Seoul

You can start your acquaintance with the city by visiting museums. They give an idea about the past of the country, its mentality and the values ​​of local residents. Choose interesting places for your excursion.

Kimchi Field - Edible Energy Museum

Kimchi is used in South Korea along with ginseng to maintain energy balance. The dish consists of pickled vegetables with spices. The favorite delicacy of Koreans is Chinese cabbage.

But, as a basis for the dish, peppers, eggplants, cucumbers and even radishes can be used. Kimchi is recommended for girls who love delicious food, but do not want to get fat.

The institution offers to get acquainted with equipment, utensils, recipes for cooking. On the spot, you can taste the dish and appreciate how tasty it is.

The museum has been operating for 31 years and actively presents to the guests of the city the specifics of cooking one of the most popular South Korean dishes. The institution is located in the shopping center of the city with the name SOEKH. The official website of the institution is https: //www.kimchikan.comforeigner.

Kimchi Field Museum on the map:

Korean national museum

One of the main attractions of Seoul, the pride of the city. Here are collected exhibits from the Paleolithic era to the present. The excursion here will appeal to history lovers, connoisseurs of antiquity and guided walks.

The second and third floors of the institution invite you to get acquainted with the inventive art of the country and handicrafts of folk craftsmen. The works are presented, both by the creators of the past and the present days.

The museum has an audio guide system. Don't feel like walking with a guide? Feel free to buy an audio guide and go to get acquainted with the exhibits. Visiting the main exposition of the museum is free. Admission is usually paid only for temporary exhibitions, they are held here periodically.

On the map:

War Museum - Republic of Korea War Memorial

The institution will be interesting for those who are interested in military operations, weapons and everything related to war and competition. The museum tells about all the wars that South Korea has just faced.

Here you can see weapons, personal belongings of the military, documentation, awards, etc. The institution has two basements, an open area for equipment, four floors with artifacts. In total, the institution has more than 30 thousand exhibits.

The museum occupies 20 thousand square meters and is considered the only such museum in the world. You can visit the institution free of charge. There is a special bus from Gwanghwamun Square.

The acquaintance with the institution takes place under the guidance of a guide. Museum guests gather in small groups and a large-scale excursion is made for them.

On weekends and Wednesdays, the establishment is open from 9 am to 9 pm. Day off Monday and national holidays. On other days, the museum is open until 6 pm. You can visit the museum during a general acquaintance with the museums of Seoul.

On the map:

Leeum Samsung - the center of contemporary art

Here you will see paintings by Kusama, Rothko, Bacon and other creators who have gained fame in modern world... Don't like painting? Walk through the rooms with celadon and ceramics. The hall with exhibits on the theme of Korean calligraphy and art will be interesting.

The cost of visiting the institution is about 10 thousand South Korean won, which is equal to 540 rubles per person.

The site of the institution in English http://leeum.samsungfoundation.org/html_eng/global/main.asp

See visit details here. The center is open from 10 am to 6 pm.

Lium on the map:

Seoul Museum of Art - contemporary art museum

The institution is located in the very center of the city, demonstrating the latest fruits of the work of famous and not promoted artists. There are cool exhibitions dedicated to sculpture, handicrafts, drawing.

Koreans treat modern art trends with awe and respect and strive to demonstrate it. Visits to the museum are free. The institution is open from 10 am to 8 pm, except for holidays and weekends when the establishment closes an hour earlier.

Seoul Museum of Art on the map:

TrickEye Museum - museum of eroticism, ice art and 3d illusions

The institution includes three areas at once: eroticism, ice art and illusion. Lovers of cool shots immediately go to the hall of realistic illusions. Nobody leaves without a couple of unusual photos.

There are always a lot of tourists here. Especially the place is overcrowded on weekends and holidays, so choose your time in advance.

There is an official website of the institution

http://trickeye.com/seoul/?page_id=3565

See details here.

The admission fee is 15,000 won for adults and 12,000 won for children. The institution works from 9 am to 9 pm.

Trickeye Museum Seoul on the map:

Seoul palaces

Attractions in Seoul, South Korea include atmospheric parks, old palaces, and nooks where the tourist attracted by tour companies rarely steps. Let's see what unusual, bright and non-standard can be seen in Seoul.

Gyeongbokgung - owned by the Joseon Dynasty

The palace is considered one of the most incredible buildings of the 14th century. Long time it was ruled by the Joseon family, who had special power in South Korea. Now the palace is a monument of history, architecture and the pride of the country.

Hall for coronations, events of national importance on behalf of the emperor;

Hyangwonjeong is a pavilion with 6 corners. Located unusual room from the northern part of the palace complex;

A separate pavilion Gyeonghoeru, it is located on a separate island, which can only be reached by one of the stone bridges thrown across the river.

Acquaintance with the imperial life will benefit everyone who is interested in history, architecture, the life of other peoples and wants to learn more about the world.

The official website of the institution

http://www.royalpalace.go.kr:8080/

Admission fee is 3,000 won for adults and 50% cheaper for children. Works palace in winter time 9am to 5pm excluding Tuesdays. During the warmer months, the palace is open to guests from 9 am to 6.30 pm.

On the map:

Changdeokgung - another palace from Joseon times

The institution is located in the northern part of Seoul, occupies 60 hectares and invites you to get acquainted with the nuances of imperial life. The lion's share of the territory is occupied by a beautiful garden with rare plants.

Of the buildings, there is the palace itself, guest houses and utility rooms. The inside of the palace is decorated in the classical style of the Korean emperors. It seems that you are immersed in a fairy tale and transported to the 15th century.

It is interesting to look at the bedrooms of the emperor's family members, his study, throne room and many other functional objects. Now the palace is considered one of the most interesting landmarks in Seoul with historical value.

Here you will find a garden with 35 thousand different plants, 28 pavilions and 13 palace rooms. Allocate at least a few hours to get to know the complex.

Palace on the map:

Changgyeongdong

In historical documents, the palace was referred to as Suganlung, then it was renamed Changyeongdong. After the reign of the Joseon dynasty, the residence turned into a monument of history and architecture. On this moment the institution is one of the five largest palaces in South Korea.

The complex appeared thanks to the Koryo family, who ruled the country until 1392. The palace was their favorite summer residence. This continued until the moment of enmity with Japan.

The Japanese were not the most peaceful neighbors and constantly attacked South Korea. The colonialist habits of the neighbors, their personal view of architecture led to the fact that most of South Korea's architectural heritage was destroyed during armed conflicts.

Changgyeongdong Palace miraculously survived and was restored several times before reaching our time. Here you can see several pagodas, the interior of the imperial chambers and the configuration of the premises. It is better to go on an excursion here during a general acquaintance with the palaces of South Korea.

On the map:

Parks and entertainment complexes in Seoul

Seoul temples

While vacationing in another country, it is curious to look at the shrines of local residents. What god do they believe in, how the rituals are observed, how the temples look. There are several holy places in Seoul that are interesting to see.

Jogyesa Temple

Unlike other shrines, the institution is located almost in the center of the city and is available for visiting. Near the temple there is a fantastic white pine tree and a sophora, 26 meters high.

Go inside the temple and see a large statue of Sokgamoni Buddha, which is worshiped by the locals. There is also a large pagoda made of stone and a crypt where monks related to this temple are buried.

The old Chogos building was destroyed during the war between South Korea and Japan. This room, where you will go on a tour, was built in 1910. Despite its young age, the premises are equipped according to all Buddhist canons.

There are souvenir and themed shops near the temple. Buy monks' clothes here as a keepsake, aroma oils, books and decorations. Take with you a funny souvenir from the world of Buddhists (considered the faith of freedom and spiritual development), healthy. You can visit the service in the institution from 4 am to 9 pm.

On the map:

Jingwansa - Former Confucian Library

The institution is located almost outside the city and is one of the most large temples in the country. During the reign of the Joseon family, there was a large library of Confucian literature and a temple at the same time.

When the Japanese invaded North Korea, this storage facility was destroyed to the ground.

Now the temple is a few buildings in a beautiful garden. There are only 4 temples in Seoul, each of them is on its own side of the world, and the city is located in the center of this pentagram.

Jingwansa is one of the main temples. Getting here, you will feel the atmosphere of peace of mind and kindness, even if you have nothing to do with Buddhism. Visiting the temple is free. The main thing is to observe the traditions of the local people.

Jingwansa on the map:

Summary

Seoul, as the capital of South Korea, will acquaint you with the key sights of the country, tell you about the traditions and culture of the people. The lion's share of South Korea's population lives in Seoul. Therefore, we can say that if you have been to Seoul, you have seen the whole of South Korea.

First of all, let's indicate where Seoul is located. This is a huge metropolis located on and is the capital of South Korea. This city is one of the largest cities in the world. The official name of the country is the Republic of Korea. It was formed Democratic state in the summer of 1945 after the division of spheres of influence on the Korean Peninsula. Under the treaty, this part of the peninsula came under the jurisdiction of the United States, and its northern part came under the influence of the USSR. Today the South is divided into 9 provinces with different population sizes. And Seoul is the most populous point in the country.

Population

• the group of children under 15 years old is 15.7% of the total;
• a group of people of working age from 15 to 65 - 72.9%;
• in the group of people over 65 years old - 11.4% of the population.

Natural growth for this year, according to calculations, should be more than 184 thousand people. If the level of external migrants remains, then the increase will additionally increase by more than 61 thousand people, since more people arrive in the country than leave it.

Alarming rates of aging

Seoul's population is aging rapidly. Experts attribute this phenomenon to increased life expectancy and declining fertility. Over the past 10 years, the number of young people has been declining, but the number of older people is growing. If this trend continues until 2030, more than 3 million residents will be over 65 in the capital of South Korea. By this time, Seoul may take the 8th line in the ranking of the "aging" cities in the world.

Statistics recorded that in 2013, Seoul, with a population of more than 9 million, had approximately 11% of the "age" population. According to calculations, by 2019 this figure may increase to 14.3%, and by 2030 it will amount to 31% of society. Young people, who will bear the burden of supporting pensioners, will be under great pressure. This can lower the standard of living.

To avoid an aging society, governments and employers must develop a global strategy to increase fertility.

A little about currency

The currency of Seoul (Republic of Korea) is the Korean won. This currency unit divisible by Chon 100. The South Korean won was introduced into circulation in 1962, and since 1980 it has been firmly pegged to the dollar exchange rate. Since South Korea is an economically developed state, the population has a fairly high level of income. A large percentage of the population works in the shipbuilding and engineering industries. In purchasing power parity, South Korea is ranked 13th in the world.

Seoul's currency is officially abbreviated as KRW and its international symbol is ₩.

Character traits

Koreans are hardworking people. They work hard and with pleasure. For young people, a career is a top priority. This, among other things, is associated with the low birth rate in the country.

Tourists cannot always correctly assess the character of the Seoul people. It seems to them that everyone around is closed and unfriendly. In fact, the people of Seoul are not in the habit of publicly expressing their emotions. They consider this a manifestation of bad manners. To understand the soul of a resident of the country, you need to gain confidence in him and become a friend.

The culture of communication among Koreans also has its own traditions:

• South Koreans do not shout at each other, do not show grudges or discuss their enemies behind their backs. They are convinced that these are all signs of weakness.
• For guests, they always prepare the most the best dishes... Respect for the guest is another important feature of the national character.
• South Koreans respect old age. They never argue with their elders, even when they are wrong. The younger one should keep silent.

Residents of the Republic of Korea are patriots of their country. They stand up for her with a mountain and are always ready to help their fellow citizens anywhere in the world. If a tourist speaks disrespectfully about South Korea, then he deeply insults everyone who heard him.