"Seoul Introduction" a Seoul Travel Page by shiran_d

Much of Seoul bears the distinct stamp of the 21st century -- 12-lane freeways carry a constant stream of traffic between steel-and-glass skyscrapers. But if you look more closely, you'll find ancient temples miraculously spared destruction in the Korean War, as well as painstakingly restored historic palaces whose designs date back centuries. Great effort has gone into preserving Korean history and culture despite what seems like a headlong rush into the future. Mere steps away from the bustle of commerce, you can find yourself in the serenity of a traditional garden or a market overflowing with ginseng, jade and dried squid.