Seoul Neighborhoods Get Travel Spotlight

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, was largely destroyed during the Japanese occupation, with 93% of its 500 buildings demolished. A massive restoration project that began in 1990 is ongoing and is scheduled to be completed by 2045, aiming to restore the palace to its former glory. Visitors today can see unique architectural details like animal and human figures on the roof hips, meant to ward off evil spirits. The now-affluent Gangnam district was mostly fields and farmland until the 1970s. Its transformation into a major economic hub happened rapidly over about 30 years. Today, the average price for an apartment in Gangnam is around $10,000 per square meter, nearly double the average in the rest of Seoul. Itaewon's international character began to form after the Korean War, heavily influenced by the nearby U.S. Army base. It was designated Seoul's first Special Tourist Zone in 1997 and gained global attention during the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. The neighborhood is home to World Food Street, featuring cuisines from over 30 countries. The creative energy of Hongdae is deeply rooted in its history as a haven for artists and indie musicians who were pushed out of the nearby Sinchon area by rising rents in the early 1990s. This led to the establishment of influential live music venues like Club Drug, which helped launch the careers of legendary Korean punk and indie bands. Beyond music, Hongdae is famous for its vibrant street art, particularly along Picasso's Street, where students from the arts-focused Hongik University began decorating walls in the early 1990s. This tradition continues with annual street art festivals, spontaneous busking performances, and a regular Free Market where local artists sell their handmade goods. While known for its nightlife, Itaewon also offers a quieter side with numerous unique cafes tucked away from the main streets. The neighborhood has historically been a place for cultural introduction in Seoul, being one of the first places to celebrate Western holidays like Halloween. As of September 2021, over 3,400 foreign residents lived in the neighborhood. Gangnam's global recognition skyrocketed with PSY's 2012 hit "Gangnam Style," which spurred a new wave of tourism focused on K-pop culture. The district is home to K-Star Road, featuring statues of famous idols, and is the base for many major K-pop entertainment companies, making it a pilgrimage site for fans. Special tours at Gyeongbokgung Palace offer unique experiences, such as the "Gyeongbokgung Starlight Tour." This nighttime journey includes a meal at the royal kitchen, Sojubang, featuring a modern take on the 12-cheop bansang, the daily meal served to Joseon kings, accompanied by traditional music.