Seoul Things to Do Tips by tyusen

Namdaemun was built as one of four great gates to protect Kyungbok-gung, the palace of Yi dynasty at the late 14th century. It is the oldest wooden structure in existence in Korea and has been designated as Korea’s national treasure No.1.

By the way, some Koreans believe that Namdaemun is not real national treasure No. 1 of Korea because it was designated by Japanese government under Japan’s colonial rule. They say that it is originally called Sungryemun but Japanese government changed its name to Namdaemun to push down of the value of this gate.

Instead of Namdaemun, they selected another one as national treasure No. 1. Do you know what it is? It is Hun Min Jeong Eum. It is a document for announce the establishment of Hangul, original Korean character for citizens. It is not a formal choice but it shows us their mixed feelings about Namdaemun as Korea’s national treasure No. 1.

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Address: Namdaemun-ro 4-ga 29, Jung-gu, Seoul
Directions: Hoehyeon Station on Subway Line-4 (Exit No.4)

Namdaemun Market has a typical Korean atmosphere. There is nothing you cannot find what you want to buy. It is old-style market, so most of customers are local buyers and tourists from foreign countries. The typical items you can get here are Korean ginsengs, seasoned lavers and glasses. It is also famous for a heaven of imitation items such as wallets, watches, bags and so on. Needless to say, it is illegal to buy them. You can also taste various kinds of street foods. Recently, Korean actors’ / actresses’ items are very popular among foreign tourist, especially from Asian countries.

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Address: 49 Manchang-dong, Jung-gu
Directions: Hoehyeon Station on Subway Line-4 (Exit No.5)
Website: http://english.tour2korea.com/06shopping/WhereToshop/Depth04.asp?sight=Shopping&sightseeing_id=39&ADDRESS_1=6142&ADDRESS_2=5541&konum=1&kosm=m6_3&Regi

Daehak-ro is a well-known spot for trendsetting area of modern art and theatrical performance. There is a multiplicity of small theaters around here and many performances are held there everyday. Maronie Park is a symbol of this area. If you have an appointment with your friends at Daehak-ro, you will probably meet with them at this park (or in front of Baskin Robins). You can see some street performance such as street lives, folk dances and so on at this park. There are many cafés, restaurants and bars around here, too. Why don’t you have a drink with your friends here after watching a good performance?

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Address: Hyehwa-dong, Jong-ro Gu, Seoul
Directions: Hyehwa Station on subway line-4.