Halal restaurant in Seoul, South Korea.
CrescentRating: Not CrescentRated
Halal assurance by restaurant staff
187 Itaewon-ro, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
+82 2-794-8308
15 Nonhyeon-ro 95-gil, Yeoksam 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
15 Nonhyeon-ro 95-gil, Yeoksam 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
205 Sapyeong-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
15 Nonhyeon-ro 95-gil, Yeoksam 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Yongsan-gu , Seoul, Wu four to 10 road 67 ( Hannam-dong ), Seoul, Korea 140-911
172-38 Samseong 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
300 Olympic-ro, Jamsil 6(yuk)-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Anyang Masjid 618-132, Anyang 5-dong Anyang-si Gyeonggi-do South Korea
519-25 Jeondae-ri, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
When traveling to Seoul, Korea, K-drama lovers wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to live out your K-drama dreams in Bukchon Hanok Village. In fact, different parts of the area become filming locations of many K-drama as well as Sageuk (Korean historical drama TV series) such as Moon Embracing the Sun and Jewel in the Palace. Even if you are not a fan of K-drama, this ancient village will still mesmerize you with its charm and beauty. Bukchon Hanok Village is just the perfect place for you to experience the real Korean village environment in the Korean Dynasty era and discover the traditional house of Korea. Unlike Namsangol Hanok Village which is just a replica of a traditional Korean village, Bukchon Hanok Village is a real residential area with people living in hanoks (Korean traditional house). Many residents here, in fact, still choose to retain their traditional lifestyle. The name “Bukchon” literally translates to “northern village,”. This residential area was established 600 years ago during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). Situated in close proximity to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace, the area was built as the residential quarter of high-ranking government officials and nobility along with their families. Later on, due to societal changes, the place was occupied by commoners and many of the houses were torn down and left to decay. South Korean government fortunately made conservation efforts to preserve this cultural heritage and protect the area’s remaining houses. In recent times, as Hallyu (Korean wave: an increase of global popularity of South Korean culture) spread wider across the world and more people take interests in Korean culture, Bukchon Hanok Village gains more popularity among tourists; hence a number of fine dining restaurants, cafés, tea houses, craft workshops, cozy guesthouses, interesting art galleries, and upscale boutiques were opened throughout the area, many of which are housed in renovated hanoks. 6 Best Things To Do in Bukchon Hanok Village Stroll around the village (and take lots of pictures), in a Hanbok! Image Credit: Crystal Jo on Unsplash The real charm of the village does not lie only in the architectural design of hanoks, but also in its tiny alleys where you can see locals living out their ordinary lives: housewives hanging their laundry and set out hot peppers to dry in the sun, children playing hide and seek peeking around the corners of the narrow streets while the elderly watching on and conversing among themselves. With such a lively background, it would become such a perfect place to strike poses and snap lots of pictures to be posted on your social media or just for your keepsake. Furthermore, you can do it wearing Bukchon Hanok hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) which you can rent starting from KRW 7,000 per person. FYI: There is no such thing as Bukchon Hanok Village opening hours, but please be mindful of local residents living thereby coming in normal working hours (not before people wake up nor after sleeping hours), not getting inside a house without a clear sign of visitor allowance, and lowering your voices when you stroll around the village. Bukchon Hanok Village entrance fee: FREE (there may be fees for the various experiences in the area). Try Gold Leaf Printing Image Source: Visit Seoul This would be a unique experience for you while you are in Bukchon Hanok: learning their tradition of printing gold leaf on to silk while sitting in a traditional hanok house. You can choose to apply it on a sash, bag, or bookmark under the guidance of some experts (they are knowledgeable, patient, and can speak English pretty good!). Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 3:00pm Learn about Korean tea culture Image Credit: Tea Creative │ Soo Chung on Unsplash For those of you who are into tea or curious about how tea gets into Korean culture, you might want to learn it at the Traditional Korean Tea Institute. Here you will learn the traditional tea ceremony (you even can take part in the ceremony!) and about Korean culture in a fun and interesting way. You can also learn the delicate art of tea brewing and take a tea food making course. On top of that, they have green tea hand and foot massage (oh it sounds relaxing already!). Enjoy tea and footbath at Healing Café Image Credit: Crystal Jo on Unsplash This teahouse named Solgaheon is definitely out of ordinary! You can not only drink delicious herbal teas tailored to specific ailments and order their healthy food options, but you can also at the same time soak your feet in a hot medicinal foot bath. Solgaheon also offers the so-called “moxa cautery treatment”, whereby various herbs and plants are burnt on particular points on the body to improve your overall body health, especially ailments in the lower body. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace Image Credit: Konrad Ziemlewski on Unsplash Gyeongbokgung Palace which was built in 1395, is the most beautiful and largest palace within Seoul. You can explore different parts of the palace but you can’t miss the changing of the guards which happens twice a day at the main gate at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The ceremony lasts for around fifteen minutes. Opening Hours: 9AM to 6PM (Closed every Tuesday)Entrance Fee: 3,000 KRW (Free entry if you wear a Hanbok) Experience a Hanok Homestay Image Credit: Timothy Ries on Unsplash If you want to immerse yourself fully into Korean lives back in the 14th century, probably wearing a hanbok would not be enough. You can experience a homestay in a hanok at Bonum 1957, a boutique hotel with amenities like beautiful bathroom facilities having a bit more high-end touch, Chiwoonjung, the former Korean president’s historic traditional-style villa opened now to the public having jjimjilbang (traditional Korean sauna) for guests to use in the evenings. Is There Any Halal Food at Bukchon Hanok Village? Image Credit: rawkkim on Unsplash Yes, there is. Alhamdulillah! We have got you covered, so you can have all the energy you need to explore the area with peace of mind! Halal Kitchen is the first Halal Korean restaurant in Buckhon/Insadong area. They serve a vast array of Korean delicacies such as bulgogi, yanggalbi, dakgalbi, japchae, and tteokbokki. They also have prayer spaces for you to pray while stopping by for some meals. If you're looking for other options, there are a number of halal restaurants located around the area, they might not be in the village but closeby. Get the complete list of them here! How to Go to Bukchon Hanok Village Image Credit: Timothy Ries on Unsplash Bukchon Hanok Village can be reached by subway from any station in Seoul to Anguk Subway Station, exit 3. Walk straight out of the exit and turn left at the first street. Walk a bit up and you’ll find the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center on the left which is a great spot to start any tour in the area. There are also maps there to pick up to follow. You could also go out of Anguk Subway Station, exit 2, and walk straight to find the more popular side of the Hanok Village....
Approximately 4 hours ride from Seoul, you can reach the city of Busan. Being the second most populous city in Korea, there are so many things to see and do around Busan. Busan may or may not be in your itinerary when you are traveling to Korea. But if you happened to be there or finding a reason to visit Busan, then check out Jagalchi Market. There is more to it than just being a seafood market. And we are here to break it down for you. Where is the Jagalchi Market? Image Credit: DO KIBOCK on Unsplash As mentioned earlier, Jalgalchi Market is located in Busan. Tucked in between two train stations, Nampo and Jagalchi Stations, it is only 5 minutes walk from either station. Nampo Station is just 2 stations away from Busan Station, thus making it accessible to get from Seoul via the Korea Train Express (KTX). What is the Jagalchi Market? Image Credit: Daniel Bernard on Unsplash Being accessible to public transports makes Jagalchi Market a recommended place to visit when in Busan. It is the largest and oldest seafood market in South Korea, with huge varieties of fresh edible sea creatures. Apart from living seafood, you can also find dried ones. Jagalchi Market is notable for its five-story building. The outdoor section already gives you a glimpse of seafood available. The ground floor of the building is no different. Most people will purchase their seafood here and head one level up to get them prepared and cooked at any one of the restaurants. As Jagalchi Market is also located just a few walks away from Nampo-Dong Shopping District, your trip here will be worthwhile and fulfilling! What to do and see around Jagalchi Market? Image Credit: Daniel Bernard on Unsplash Heading down to Jagalchi Market wouldn't limit yourself to only the seafood market itself. Some said that if you happened to visit Jagalchi Market, you would be able to experience what Nampo-Dong has to offer you. 1. (See)Food! Image Credit: Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash It is a waste to leave Jagalchi Market without trying any of the fresh seafood. It is a heaven for all seafood lovers. You can shop for any kind of seafood available at the ground level and bring them up to any restaurants on the second floor. The downside is that there are no Halal eateries available here. Please dine at your own discretion, ensuring that the dishes are not prepared with alcohol despite alcohol being served at premises.If Jagalchi Market happens to be the last location for the day, how about bringing the seafood haul home and savor it in your accommodation? Provided you have proper storage for it, I'm sure you can still enjoy them! Also, a plus point if your accommodation has a basic necessity for cooking your own meal. 2. Enjoy the Panoramic View around Jagalchi Market from the Observatory Deck Who would have thought that a seafood market would have an observatory deck? Located on the rooftop of the Jagalchi Market, the observatory deck, also known as the sky terrace, is free! All you need to do is to take the elevator to the top level and climb up the stairs. Enjoy the panoramic view of Nampo port and also, you can spot Busan Tower from the sky terrace. 3. Get Starstruck at BIFF Square Image Credit: Ryan Bodenstein, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons If you happened to alight at Jagalchi Station and take exit 7, you would be able to see BIFF Square. BIFF is short for Busan International Film Festival and you may have guessed it right. Similar to Hong Kong's Avenue of Stars and Hollywood's Walk of Fame, BIFF Square housed the handprints of famous celebrities. It is also the main venue for the BIFF event. This street has transformed from just 2 movie theaters to a shopping complex and leisure facilities.BIFF Square is also famous for its street food. As there is no known Halal street food available here, we wouldn't leave you starving from all the walking and exploring. There is an Indonesian restaurant called Bakso Bejo, and it is Muslim-Owned! If you have yet to settle your meal throughout the trip, you can savor on their Bakso and Nasi Goreng.Address: 4, Nampo-gil, Jung-gu, Busan 4. Stroll down Yongdusan Park Image Credit: Mobius6, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons "Yongdu" in English means Dragon's head, and Yongdusan mountain is named as such to protect the area from foreign sea invaders. It is one of the three famous mountains in Busan. Every nook of this park is picturesque, not only because of the symbolic Busan Tower. You can also find the statue of the Great Admiral Yi Sun-Sin, Bell of the Citizens, Dragon sculpture, and Flower Clock.Address: 37-55, Yongdusan-gil, Jung-gu, Busan 5. Shop till you drop at Gwangbokro Fashion Street As the name suggested, Gwangbokro Fashion Street is Busan's Myeong-Dong. It is easy to spot Gwangbokro Fashion Street from the entrance of Yongdusan Park. Stroll down its beautifully decorated streets and find clothing items and cosmetics, from bargained products to renowned brands. So, fill up your shopping bag and bring home some momento from Busan!Shops at Gwangbokro Fashion Street close until late at night so you would have the luxury of your time to stroll around and find things that you fancy. And if you happened to get hungry from all the walkings, head down to Warung Jaya Mba Tia, another Indonesian restaurant in the area. You will definitely get energized to continue your day!Address: 72-1, Gwangbok-dong, Jung-gu, Busan 6. All sorts of activities await you in the Lotte Department Store Image Credit: Photo by Walter Cheung on Unsplash You would be familiar with the Lotte Department Store when in Korea. Ranging from local brands to international luxury brands, you can find them all in the Lotte Department Store. But Lotte Department Store is not just limited to shopping. If the Myeong-Dong Branch has Star Avenue, the Gwangbok Branch has plenty to see too! Your trip to the Lotte Department Store wouldn't be a wasted trip!Not only the Gwangbokro Fashion Street caters to youth fashion, but the Gwangbok Branch is also the largest youth-oriented shopping complex. Being the first seaside department store in Korea, the surrounding scenery is stunning. Enjoy the view of the entire city of Busan from the Rooftop garden, which seems to be the largest in Korea too! If you happen to be here at the right time, you may be able to witness the lifting of Yeongdo-daegyo (bridge), allowing ships to pass between the south and north ports. You can also watch the World's largest musical fountain in the mall, as recorded in the Guinness World Records. 7. Explore the winding alleys of Gamcheon Cultural Village Image Credit: Valentin on Unsplash Just about 15 minutes bus ride from Jagalchi Market lies Gamcheon Cultural Village. Known as the Machu Picchu of Busan and the Santorini of South Korea, the Gamcheon Cultural Village is a neighborhood of colorful houses and quirky artworks. Either you are doing it for the 'gram or just appreciating the beauty, you will love every single photo spots in Gamcheon Cultural Village. It is also homed to cafes and small museums. The only thing you might need to brace for is the crowd. Also, as this is a residential area, do be respectful when visiting and exploring the area.Address: 203, Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan Jagalchi Market is open every day, from 8 am to 5 pm. If you want to experience the daily and local life of the vendors, you can head down by 5 am or 6 am to watch them set up the stalls. Address: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Nampo-dong, Jung-gu, Busan...
Nami island is a half-moon shaped island that is surrounded by rising water from the North Han River. The sky and water meet around this island to create a fairy tale escape from the city. This beautiful island is known for its symmetrical trees that align the promenade paths and create impressive experiences. The walking paths are lined with Korean Pine trees and Redwood trees that have beautiful transformative colors and shades based on the seasons. It’s most famous pictures are the visual representation of autumn pumpkin-spiced fall season. Why is Nami Island Famous? Image Credit:Elle Morre on Unsplash Nami island is famous for its picturesque setting cultivated for the ethereal feel of being in a fairy tale story. As the K-wave continues to wash across the world with tv shows and movies translated and dubbed into English, Spanish and Arabic, Nami has been the illustrious background star for Winter Sonata and the inspiration for many other tv show settings. What is the best month to visit Nami Island? Image Credit: Hannah Sibayan on Unsplash It is perfect to visit any time of the year depending on your own preferences, do you prefer the autumn hues of red and orange on the trees or are you a fan of the spring renewal of trees and flowers. Perhaps you prefer the Narnia or Winterland wonder of bare trees and white coat of snow covering the ground, either way, Nami Island is a true fairy tale location and perfect for every season. Seoul to Nami Island Image Credit: Grace Lim on Unsplash The route from Seoul to Nami Island varies on how much you are willing to pay and the time you have. On average it will take 1 hour and 30 minutes to travel from Seoul to Nami Island. Trains from Yongsan to Gapyeong can take as little as 48 minutes. There is also the option of Cheongnyangni to Gapyeong. From Gapyeong, buses, taxis, and walking are all close options to reach the Nami Island ferry departing stop. Entrance fees It includes both the entrance fee to Nami Island and the Ferry transport from mainland Korea, Bangha-Ri. General Rate: 13,000 won (11-12 Dollars) Discounted Rate: 10,000 won (8-9 Dollars) Special Rate: 7,000 won (6-7 Dollars) Thrill experiences Image Credit: visitkorea Zipwire There are not many places in the world that you can pay for a visa and entrance with a zip lining pass! Nami Island provides the unique experience of paying for your visa, way back on a ferry, and zip-line experience. Whizz in and let gravity do the hard work as you cruise over the Han river and enter in style. Fare: 44,000 won Operating hours: April-October 09:00-19:00 / November-March 09:00-18:00 The operation may be discontinued in the case of snow, rain, or strong winds Inquiries: +82-31-582-8091 Sky bike A great way to overlook Nami Island, this sky bike track enables participants to cycle on a track from a height and enjoy a view of the island and visitors below. Fare: Adults 3,000 won / Children 2,000 won Boarding site: Bike Center Inquiries: +82-31-582-0144 Cultural experiences and Exhibition halls Image Credit: Vivian Wong on Unsplash Pyeonghwarang is home to all the following cultural experiences and exhibition halls. Handicraft Studio This studio provides children and adults the opportunity to experience various artistic workshops and classes including making ceramics, glassware, woodcrafts, dye crafts, and papercrafts. Children friendly cultural experiences The Island has various activities available for children and families, including the picture book library which brings alive storytelling and fairytales, different programs and activities are for kids. The Unicef Hall was opened to promote the Unicef welfare promotion for children, it is the 14th park in the world to receive a UNICEF child-friendly park. Petite France The Gapyeong city tour includes Petite France as one of its stops and this is not without reason. This multicolored mini-town pays homemade to le petit prince a famous tale and also a movie, there are an Antoine de Saint-Exupery Museum and many idyllic spots for Instagram shots. You can confuse your followers and make them believe you traveled to Europe with the century-old dolls and puppets, antiquities, and European looking architecture. Ryu Hongjuin World Folk Instrument Exhibition Hall This exhibition hall aims to preserve the beautiful historic lineage of Korean folk instruments and music. The history of storytelling through musical pieces is a tale as old as time and the exhibition hall allows you to understand the importance of these instruments and the stories they kept alive. Yu Qing Chung Sculpture Park Happy Garden Yu Qing Chung was an individual artist who created art which are known to make people happy, this great concept fits in line with the idea of storytelling and its powers to provide comfort and imagination. A park is dedicated to Chung’s art for the sole reason of providing happiness to all the visitors. Gardens and Nature Image Credit: Nichi 17 on Unsplash This island has over 20 gardens because the Nami Tourist governance has ensured the Island is kept as close to its natural form. The Namisum organization has cultivated a respect for and appreciation of organic nature and what it offers when it is left to grow wild. The Central Korean Pine Tree Lane Impossible to miss The Central Korean Pine Tree Lane is the iconic path lined with thick pine trees directing into the center of this fairy-tale island. Riverside reed Paths The island is filled with walking pathways but if love the idea of having nature flank you one on one side and water on your other then riverside paths will transport you. The Riverside reed will offer an ethereal cloaked view of Namiseom. Garden of Morning Calm This Garden is open all year and special at every season, blooming over 5000 different flowers at its natural season. This garden was founded by a professor of Horticulture from Sahmyook University. This garden encapsulates the morning calm and was founded to protect Korean nature and the spirit of Korean culture and appreciation of garden culture. Gongsaengwon Garden (The Winter Sonata Statue) It would only make sense that the tv show that made this Island popular is commemorated with its own garden. Fans of the winter sonata can take a picture with the impressive statues of Bae Yong Joon and Choi Ji Woo. This part of the island is supposed to preserve the idea of love and romance perfect for both new couples and married couples. Restaurants, Cafes, and food Image Credit: Photo by Vivian Wong on Unsplash Nami Island Sonata Cafe This Cafe is the perfect location to stop and pick up the classic sugar hotteok, a Korean pancake to warm your fingers. Both simple and delicious it will complete your wholesome adventure around the island. Halal-certified Asian Family Restaurant Dongmun If exploring this fairy tale Island actualizes a hunger for a proper hearty meal, then head over to the Asian Family Restaurant Dongmun. The choices of Korean food include seafood, halal meat, and even traditional Korean dishes. The meals come with side dishes, sticky rice, and a good serving of halal and friendly hospitality. The restaurant’s versatility is explored by the dishes on offer from all over Asia including Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysian, Chinese, and Japanese. Halal Service- Muslim prayer room Image Credit: Ammar Zainal on Unsplash The prayer room is located on the second floor of the Asian family restaurant dongmun restaurant and is the perfect addition to any Muslim day trip. As Muslims, we often struggle to find secluded places to pray and concentrate. However, thanks to the generous donation of an Iranian poet Ms. Pooneh Nedai, Muslims have been provided with a prayer room with wudu facilities. Even a secluded fairy tale land. The ties and bonds of Muslims internationally are strong and this is evidenced by this room. Nami Island proves that fairytales do exist and not only is it a beautiful place but it is truly inclusive and open to visitors from all over the world. All information is correct at the time of writing. Please check with the respective service providers for more information....
This week has been filled with updates on travel restrictions and green lane arrangements between countries. Here are the highlights for this week’s Travel News Wrap: Canada Extends Travel Restrictions till 30 September Image Credit: Photo by Alex Shutin on Unsplash Canada has extended the emergency orders that place restrictions on international travel and a mandatory 14-day quarantine for travelers entering the country during the pandemic. The arrangement has been set to be extended for at least one more month until further notice by the Canadian Government. The restrictions prohibit all non-essential travel to Canada from all countries except for the United States. There some exemptions however to immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents if they enter the country by air. This is on a case-to-case basis. This travel restriction is separate from the Canada-US land border restriction which will remain closed until 21 September, for non-essential travel. United Airline drops Change Fees Image Source: Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash Good news for those living in the United States as with immediate effect, United Airlines is permanently eliminating change fees on all Economy and Premium cabin tickets for domestic flights in the United States of America. Malaysia Extends MCO and Updated Travel Ban on Foreign Tourists Image Source: Photo by Paweł Szymankiewicz on Unsplash Malaysia has extended its Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) to the end of the year, 31 December 2020. When it started earlier this year, it was set to be lifted on 31 August 2020 but with the current pandemic situation, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin and the local government decided to extend the order to curb the spread of Covid-19. This announcement came in tandem with the ban on foreign travelers into Malaysia to prevent imported cases into the country. The countries under the ban are countries with 150,000 or more recorded cases of Covid-19 cases. The countries are the US, Britain, Brazil, France, Spain, France, Spain, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Bangladesh. South Korea and Singapore to Launch Fast Lane Image Source: Photo by Ping Onganankun on Unsplash Similar to last week’s news, Singapore has been busy with setting up bilateral travel arrangements with other countries. This time, South Korea (ROK) and Singapore are set to launch a fast lane arrangement for essential business and official travel. The fast lane will open today (4 September). This arrangement was set up in hopes to restore connectivity and economic recovery while taking necessary health safeguards. Under this arrangement, travelers will have to abide by health measures in both countries. With Covid-19 testing pre-departure and post-arrival while also required to adhere to a controlled itinerary for 14 days in the receiving country. To learn more about the measures, protocols, and requirements, please check with the respective government agencies. To read more about similar travel arrangements, check out our past blog on reciprocal green lane travel here. Singapore and Brunei to open Green Lane Travel Image Source: Photo by Edho Pratama on Unsplash Following the Green Lane travel news, Brunei has also joined the list of countries to set up a green lane travel arrangement with Singapore. Applications for Singapore-Brunei travel opened on 1 September. This announcement means that travelers from both countries will enjoy the same convenience in both countries as it was announced last week where travelers from Brunei are considered under the reciprocal green lanes in Singapore. Similar to the measures in Singapore, travelers are required to produce approved Entry Travel Pass, negative Covid-19 results from a test taken within 72 hours before departure amongst other requirements. To learn more about the measures and requirements, please check with the respective government agencies. To read more about similar travel arrangements, check out our past blog on reciprocal green lane travel here....
Even though we can't travel to South Korea right now due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there is no harm planning for a future trip to Seoul. What more with all the fun and amazing things that you could do in Seoul! If there's one thing we miss about Seoul, it is the beauty that the country has got to offer, with many stunning locations that make amazing backdrops for all your photos. Seoul is the largest city in South Korea, also the nation's capital city. A bustling city mix with ancient and modernity, Seoul has become a top destination for travelers. What's more, with the invasion of K-drama and K-pop culture that swept the world, travelers from different age group flock in to see what does Seoul have to offer. From skyscrapers to village-like districts, designer boutique store to night markets, colorful cafes to street food stalls, there are endless places to explore. Whether you plan your itinerary or decide to follow your feet (and heart), you will witness the beauty of what Seoul has to offer. And of course, a trip to Seoul is not complete without all that flexing on your Instagram account. If you're planning a trip to South Korea in the future after Covid-19, you should check out these amazing Instagram spots in Seoul! Let us list down the Instagram-worthy spots for you to include in your itinerary. And you know what they say? Do it for the 'gram! via GIPHY 1. Bukchon Hanok Village Image Credit: Yeo Khee on UnsplashIn Bukchon Hanok Village, you can find yourself transported back to the Joseon Dynasty. It is home to traditional houses called Hanok. Despite being an actual residential area, it has become a popular tourist spot. You can experience and immerse yourself in the Korean culture by visiting the cultural center, restaurants and teahouse. Image Credit: Crystal Jo on UnsplashHow can we leave out the fact that you can rent a hanbok and explore the village? We promise that you will get that perfect shot, not to forget the experience and memories as if you are living in the Joseon era. For a more picturesque shot, capture the city center of Seoul as the backdrop to get the contrast between traditional and modernity.Address: 37, Gyedong-Gil, Jongno-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Anguk Station via Seoul Subway Line 3, 300m walk from Exit 1 or 2. 2. Common Ground Image Credit: Roberto R. on UnsplashIf you are looking for a hipster place to hang out at, Common Ground is the answer. Located in the eastern end of Seoul, Common Ground is a shopping district with pop-up stores built out from 200 blue shipping containers. It is filled with trendy cafes and restaurants, fashion labels and also lifestyle products. On some days, you can watch performances and exhibitions held in this space. Shopping in the containers gives you a unique experience as it is uncommon. And once you are done with retail therapy, get that OOTD shot with the blue containers as the backdrop.Address: 200, Achasan-Ro, Gwangjin-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Konkuk University Station via Line 2 or 7 and take Exit 6. 3. Dongdaemun Design Plaza Image Credit: HJ Park from Pixabay Dream, design and play; that's what Dongdaemun Design Plaza is about. It is the latest architecture of the Korean design industry, becoming an essential venue when it comes to cultural events, design-related shows and even conferences and gatherings.Being the most tagged Instagram location in 2015, it is no doubt that Dongdaemun Design Plaza is an Insta-worthy spot. The unique and unusual structure of the building gives off a stunning background to your picture. The 25,550 installations of LED roses at night is another attraction that shouldn't be missed. Also, don't leave without exploring the shops and wandering the floors because who knows you might find a perfect photo spot!Address: 281, Eulji-Ro, Jung-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station via Line 2/4/5 and take Exit 1. 4. Starfield Library - COEX Mall Image Credit: Josip I. on UnsplashEither you are a bibliophile or not, there is always something to do at Starfield Library! Located in one of the largest malls in Asia, Starfield Library is open to the public. With a wide variety of genres encompass vast topics, this library is not like your traditional library.The iconic 3 towering bookshelves are the point of photography. Standing tall at 13 meters, ride on the escalator to get a snapshot high up.Address: 06164, 513 Yeongdong-Daero, Gangnam-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Samseong Station via Line 2 and take Exit 5 or 6. 5. Namsan Tower Image Credit: Ethan Brooke on Unsplash Being the #1 tourist attraction and a landmark of Seoul, the Namsan Tower also known as N Seoul Tower has a lot to offer. Sitting on top of Namsan mountain, it offers an observatory with a panoramic view of Seoul. Image Credit: Yi Liu on UnsplashWalk down to the infamous Love Locks and make the colorful locks as the backdrop of your photos. There are also places like Palgakjung Pavillion and Sunset Spot for you to explore. For a more scenic view and photo opportunity, you can walk down the mountain to reach the Namsan Shuttle Bus's Bus Stop. The beautiful scenery down the road is best viewed during Spring and Autumn.Address: 105, Namsangongwon-Gil, Yongsan-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Myeong-dong Station via Line 4 and take Exit 3. It is recommended to take the cable car to the tower. 6. Ikseon-dong Image Credit: Ikseon-Dong by Korea Tourism Organization Malaysia on FacebookFirst established way back for almost 100 years in the 1920s, Ikseon-Dong has gained popularity and became a hot spot. This neighborhood is defined as where traditional meets modernity. You can find Hanok that offers trendy cafes, bars and restaurants, giving off the nostalgic feel. Image Credit: Ikseon-Dong by Korea Tourism Organization Malaysia on Facebook Get lost in the twist and turn of the alleyways and discover the hidden gem of this neighborhood. The colorful shops and attractive cafes serve a perfect backdrop for your photos. Giving off the ambiance setting for K-drama like Mr.Sunshine and Hotel Del Luna, a vintage lover shouldn't miss out on this place!Address: Areas of Supyo-Ro 28-Gil, Jongno-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station via Seoul Subway Line 5, 300m walk along Donghwamun-Ro 11-Gil Street from Exit 4. 7. Yangpyeong Dumulmeori Image Credit: sonharam0 from Pixabay Put on your best pair of shoes and head down to Dumulmeori. Approximately 90 minutes journey from Seoul, you will be transported to a magical place of tranquility, away from the bustling city of Seoul. Dumulmeori is an eco-tourism spot, surrounded by water. In fact, Dumulmeori literally means "two water areas." It remains a popular site for dramas, commercials and wedding photography.The weeping willow and the 400-years old Zelkova trees will add the rustic feel to your photos. With the scenic view of landscape surrounded by water and lotus field, there are endless backdrops here. Don't forget to visit the Semiwon garden, a traditional Korean garden style which housed almost 50 kinds of lotus flowers and 60 other water plants.Address: Dumulmeori-Gil, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-doAccess: Alight at Yangsu Station Station via Jungang Subway Line, walking takes about 20-30 minutes. You can choose to reach the destination by cab/bicycle. 8. Haneul Park Image Credit: Melody Zhang on UnsplashJust like its name which means sky, Haneul Park is located at the highest peak of World Cup Park. Haneul park, together with another four parks are incredible examples of large-scale environmental and ecological parks. With a scenic view of vast grassland, Haneul park offers up to 22 lookout points. You can enjoy the panoramic view of Seoul, which includes landmarks like Namsan Seoul Tower, Bukhansan Tower and Han River. Image Credit: Haneul Park by Korea Tourism Organization - VisitKorea on FacebookThe best time to visit Haneul Park is in October during Autumn. The Silver Grass Festival is being held and it is the city's most popular event. Silver grass is also known as Pampas grass or Eulalia, which gives a beautiful backdrop to your photo. You can also witness cosmos and pink muhly grass around this timing.Address: 121-250, 95 Haneulgongwon-Ro, Mapo-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at World Cup Stadium Station Station via Line 6. 9. Olympic Park Image Credit: JoHyeonSik on Pixabay Being the legacy of the 1988 Seoul Olympics, it is home to the largest sports arena. These days, it has become a place for recreation and relaxation. This huge park is divided into several zones and will take almost 3 hours to explore.Unlike Haneul Park, Olympic Park offers varieties of fauna photo spots in every season. You can catch Red Poppies in Spring; Rose in Summer; Yellow Cosmos, Pink Muhly Grass and Spiny Spiderflower in Autumn. Also in Autumn, don't miss the chance to snap a picture (or more) at the Ginko Tree Road which will give a spectacular view with golden yellow leaves. Your photo opportunity doesn't only stop here. The lone tree on the hillside known as One-Tree Hill will serve an aesthetic look to your photo.Address: 424, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Olympic Park Station via Line 5 and take Exit 3. Alternatively, you can alight at Mongchontoseong Station via Line 8 and take exit 1. 10. Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park Image Credit: Yongma Land by The Korea TimesHave you ever thought about exploring an abandoned theme park without the fear of trespassing? This is your best opportunity. Yongma Land is an abandoned theme park that still welcomes visitors. Though the rides don't work any longer (except for the Merry-go-round at a price), this theme park offers you nostalgic scenes of the 80s. This park has also been used by some K-Pop idols like EXO and Crayon Pop. Despite the creepy ambiance of the amusement park, bring out your creativity to get that Insta-worthy shot. You are free to explore the park at your own risk. Also, who knows, you might even get the whole place for yourself.Address: 118 Mangu-Ro 70-Gil, Mangubon-dong, Jungnang-gu, SeoulAccess: Alight at Mangu Station, 10 minutes walk from the station. There you have it, 10 Instagram spots in Seoul where you can get some of the best shots taken! The next time you plan a trip to South Korea after Covid-19, be sure to include these places in your itinerary! You can finally get the Instagram feed that you've been dreaming of with these Insta-worthy spots. For now, we hope that everyone stays safe and healthy. via GIPHY...
Prayer times for Seoul,South Korea