World City Guide

Sightseeing

Sightseeing Overview
Seoul has a seemingly endless array of sights, from gleaming skyscrapers to graceful palaces. The ancient traditions and the rich folklore that once pervaded the city can be uncovered in its bustling markets, the Namsangol Hanok Village (an open-air museum with restored houses) and a swathe of museums that dot the city offering everything from fine art and traditional music to the history of cosmetic production. The most engaging museums include the Seoul Museum of History and the National Museum of Korea, where more than five centuries of history unfolds. The city’s modern face can be explored at the Olympic Park and the World Cup Stadium, both lasting testaments to two of the world’s greatest sporting events. Sports enthusiasts can also indulge themselves in the Han-gang Riverside Parks. These 10 leisure parks offer everything from water-skiing and windsurfing to cycling and tennis, as well as more leisurely paced river cruises. The observation deck of the Seoul Tower takes the strain out of sightseeing, while the Jogyesa Temple and Bukhansan National Park are tranquil and attractive escapes.

Tourist Information
Korea National Tourism Organization (KNTO)
Seoul Help Centre For Foreigners
Euljiro 1, Jung-gu
Tel: (02) 731 6800.
Website: www.seoul.go.kr

The information centre provides tourist information and can give advice about living in or doing business in the city. There are also tourist information points at the airport, Seoul Station, Dongdaemun Market, Namdaemun Market and the Deoksugung Palace.

Korea National Tourism Organization (KNTO)
40 Cheongyecheonno, Jung-gu
Tel: (02) 1330 or (02) 729 9497.
Website: http://english.tour2korea.com or www.knto.or.kr/eng/

The prepaid Korea Pass Card can be used in selected stores and restaurants, in deluxe taxis and to purchase travel tickets; it also provides discounted travel on public transport.