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 closer, 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.
Although it's located in the northwest corner of the country,
Seoul is the center of South Korea, the hub of the nation's
government, economy, education and culture. Thus, it's where
everyone wants to be, and the city's population has grown
from less than 1 million shortly before World War II to
nearly 10 million today. That growth helped Seoul become
a major player in the world economy, but its rapid expansion
hasn't come without a price. Transportation, housing, utility
and recreation resources have been severely strained. Nevertheless,
Seoul has plenty to offer the traveler, including luxurious
modern accommodations, excellent public transportation and
an array of colorful cultural experiences.
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Dongdaemun Market
Biggest outdoor market in Asia. At the market, 30 shopping
centres, about 30,000 stores and more than 50,000 manufacturing
companies are join together to sell trade textiles, clothes,
shoes, sports goods, stationery, toys, household goods,
and accessories. Try out your bargaining skills to save
money. Whether you buy anything or not, the lively atmosphere
should not be missed. The market is open during the day
for retailers and shoppers, closes 6pm-midnight, then reopens
till 4am for wholesalers.
Kyongbuk Palace
For an insight into Korean history, it is hard to resist
Kyongbuk Palace. Founded in 1395 by King Taejo, this was
the base of the Chosun Dynasty (the last Dynasty of Korea).
This impressive palace has traditionally designed Korean
buildings, magestic towers and a lake with a stone bridge.
Apart from its unique history, the palace is a perfect place
to relax, featuring an interesting mix of greenery combined
with beautiful architecture.
Children's Grand Park
This is one of the largest children's parks in Asia. It
includes a zoo, a botanical garden, an amusement park, outdoor
concert stages and physical training facilities. In spring
and fall, many young children and their teachers can be
seen here on school picnics. As an educational venue, it
is not only fun, it also provides interesting information
about plant and animal life. Budget a full day for your
visit. Prices are very reasonable compared to those of other
amusement parks.
Korean Memorial Cemetery
This large cemetery is the resting place of the assassinated
president Park Chung-hee, as well as 110,000 other Koreans.
Originally only for soldiers who died in wars, since 1965
civilians who contributed to society have also been buried
here. On the weekends especially, many people come and quietly
stroll along the paths among the trees, grass, and flowers
and pay respect to the deceased. There is a small museum,
including a short explanatory film, inside the cemetery
grounds. If you come here be sure not to make any unnecessary
noise, and wear modest clothing.
Lotte World
No wonder Lotte World has been dubbed a magical kingdom.
It is in the Guinness Book of Records as being the largest
indoor theme park in the world. In the same complex, you
will find an outdoor park, a hotel, a duty-free shop, a
folk village, two department stores, a wedding hall, and
sports facilities. It is easy to spend countless hours just
exploring.
Seoul Metropolitan Museum of Art
Established in 1988, this museum is located on the former
site of Kyonghee-gung palace. There are four floors with
six exhibition halls. The collections include more than
170 Korean paintings, Western paintings and prints. There
is an outdoor sculpture park. Spend a peaceful and relaxing
day amidst beautiful works of art. If you are an art enthusiast
and would like to learn, the museum offers art courses every
Friday. |
