Travel

A Jonathon Hawes Guide to Seoul, South Korea

Seoul—a city where ancient palaces stand amidst soaring skyscrapers, where the aroma of sizzling street food fills the air, and where the night is always young. It's a place that effortlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering a sensory feast that's hard to resist. So, let's embark on a journey through this dynamic metropolis, savoring its culinary delights and vibrant culture.

Where to Stay: 5 Exceptional Hotels

Seoul’s hospitality scene is as diverse as its culture, catering to every taste and preference. Here are five top-tier hotels that promise an unforgettable stay:

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul – Located near Gwanghwamun, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations and is close to many historic sites.
The Shilla Seoul – A blend of traditional Korean aesthetics and modern luxury, The Shilla provides impeccable service and amenities.
Signiel Seoul – Occupying the upper floors of the Lotte World Tower, this hotel offers panoramic views of the city and world-class facilities.
Grand Hyatt Seoul – Nestled on the slopes of Mount Namsan, it provides a serene environment with easy access to the city’s attractions.
Lotte Hotel Seoul – Situated in the heart of the city, this hotel combines convenience with luxury, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.

Where to Eat: 5 Must-Visit Restaurants

Seoul’s culinary landscape is a delightful mix of traditional flavors and contemporary innovations. Here are five restaurants that offer an exceptional dining experience:

Mingles – A Michelin-starred restaurant that harmoniously blends Korean and Western cuisines, offering a creative and refined menu.
Jungsik – Pioneering “New Korean” cuisine, Jungsik presents traditional flavors with modern techniques in an elegant setting.
Tosokchon – Famous for its samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), this establishment provides a hearty and authentic Korean meal.
Gwangjang Market – For a more casual experience, this market offers a plethora of street food stalls serving dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls).
Hanilkwan – A longstanding restaurant known for its traditional Korean dishes, including bulgogi and galbi.

Korean Street Food Staples

Seoul’s street food scene is legendary, offering a myriad of flavors that capture the essence of Korean cuisine. Here are some staples you must try:

Tteokbokki – Spicy rice cakes simmered in a savory sauce, often accompanied by fish cakes and boiled eggs.
Kimbap – Seaweed rice rolls filled with a variety of ingredients like vegetables, eggs, and meat.
Hotteok – Sweet pancakes filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts, best enjoyed hot off the griddle.
Odeng – Skewered fish cakes served in a warm, flavorful broth, perfect for chilly evenings.
Pajeon – Savory pancakes made with green onions and various fillings like seafood or kimchi.

Best Food Markets

To immerse yourself in Seoul’s vibrant food culture, a visit to its bustling markets is essential. Here are some top spots:

Gwangjang Market – One of the city’s oldest markets, renowned for its extensive array of street foods and traditional snacks.
Myeongdong Street Market – A bustling area where vendors offer a variety of street foods, from savory to sweet delights.
Namdaemun Market – A sprawling market offering a wide range of goods, including a vibrant food section with local delicacies.
Tongin Market – Known for its unique “lunchbox café” where visitors can create their own meal from various stalls using traditional coins.
Dongdaemun Night Market – A late-night market that combines shopping with a variety of food stalls, perfect for night owls.

Late-Night Culture

Seoul truly comes alive after dark, offering a plethora of activities for night owls:

Hongdae – A vibrant district known for its indie music scene, street performances, and bustling nightlife.
Itaewon – A multicultural neighborhood offering diverse dining options, bars, and clubs that stay open until the early hours.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Beyond its architectural marvel, DDP hosts night markets and cultural events, making it a hub of nocturnal activity.
Noraebang (Karaoke Rooms) – A quintessential Korean experience, these private singing rooms are scattered throughout the city and are popular late-night destinations.
Jjimjilbang (Korean Bathhouses) – For relaxation, these 24-hour bathhouses offer saunas, baths, and communal areas where you can unwind at any hour.

Best Korean Fried Chicken Spots

Korean fried chicken is a culinary phenomenon, known for its crispy exterior and flavorful sauces. Here are some top spots in Seoul:

Kyochon Chicken – Renowned for its double-fried chicken and signature soy-garlic glaze.
Bonchon Chicken – Offers a variety of flavors with a perfect balance of crunch and juiciness.
Two Two Chicken – A popular chain known for its crispy fried chicken and diverse menu options.
Nene Chicken – Famous for its snowing cheese chicken, a unique and indulgent variation