Mention Seoul, and most people probably know the more famous areas of Myeongdong (every shopping and beauty lover’s heaven; every boyfriend/husband/father’s worst nightmare) and Gangnam (the wealthy business district made famous by – what else – Gangnam Style), as well as touristy attractions like Gyeongbokgung, Lotte World and Everland.
However, besides shopping and theme parks, Seoul is also a city with a bustling art scene. There are several museums worth a visit, as well as quieter but prettier districts that would be any photographer’s dream. Below, we list the top six attractions you should check out if you love art, or want to fill your feed with Insta-worthy pics:
This place is an absolute must-visit if you love art and/or photography, or even if you are just a normal tourist – the architecture will blow you away.
Designed by the late British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, the place is conceptualised as a multi-purpose venue that hosts various conferences, events, gatherings and exhibitions (Louis Vuitton’s ‘Volez, Voguez, Voyagez’ exhibition is currently on show till 27 August).
Apart from checking out all the happenings indoors, take some time to explore the outside of the building – the modern aluminium panels, concrete framework and amorphous architecture make for endless photo ops.
D281, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 100-197
Image: @ZHA_News’s Twitter
Perhaps the most expat-friendly area in Seoul, Itaewon is a melting pot of different cultures due to its history, as American soldiers congregated here after the Korean War.
If you’re looking for a place to take an Insta-worthy #foodporn shot, look no further, as Itaewon is chock-full of highly Instagrammable cafes. Chill out with some drool-worthy brunch or specialty coffee, then get outside and strike a pose, as many of the cafes’ artsy and pretty facades also provide the perfect #ootd backdrop.
Image: @JannyLaika’s Twitter
Once you’ve had your fill of good food and a camera roll full of #foodporn and #ootd pics, consider heading over to D Museum, as it is not too far away from Itaewon.
Opened just in December 2015, this contemporary art gallery has hosted several well-received exhibitions, and has partnered with notable fashion brands such as Hermes and most recently, Chanel, which presented its ‘Mademoiselle Privé Seoul’ exhibition here from 23 June to 19 July.
5-6, Dokseodang-ro 29-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
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If you have a day to spare or some extra time on hand, make visiting Yongma Land your number one priority. It is quite far away from the Seoul city centre, and a little hard to get to, but well worth the journey if gorgeous photos make you happy.
Yongma Land is an abandoned amusement park built in the 80s that ceased operations in 2011. It is now quite a dilapidated sight, but the state of disrepair adds to the park’s nostalgic charm. Many fashion editorials have been shot here, and it is a great location to try out some creative and fun photoshoots.
69-1 Mangu-dong, Jungnang-gu, Seoul
Image: @ychorr’s Twitter
Nestled in Myeongdong is Stylenanda Pink Hotel, fashion brand Stylenanda’s flagship store that definitely stands out from the hundreds of other stores in this area.
Opened last year, the star attraction of this concept store is its cute hotel theme that permeates all six floors of the building. With a slightly retro aesthetic and largely pink decor, each floor reflects a standard interior of a hotel, such as the lobby, spa and room.
Apart from stocking its apparel and 3CE beauty and makeup products, there is also a small cafe on the fifth floor (pool), as well as a rooftop terrace for you to relax in after all the shopping.
66-2, Chungmuro 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Image: @STYLENANDAJAPAN’s Twitter
Many tourists who visit Seoul will definitely make a stop at the majestic Gyeongbokgung palace, as well as the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village.
This is the place to go if you are curious about Seoul’s history – the quaint village is full of traditional Korean houses, and you can even rent a hanbok and have a little photoshoot moment amongst the winding streets.
The area can get quite crowded with tourists, but don’t fret – take the time to explore the many small alleys and walkways, and you’ll be able to find the perfect tourist-free spot to take your photos.
Image: @tribe_ph’s Twitter
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