About Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a bustling metropolis where tradition and modernity seamlessly coexist. With a rich history dating back over two thousand years, this vibrant city is a captivating blend of ancient palaces, temples, and futuristic skyscrapers.
One of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks is Gyeongbokgung Palace, a grand structure that harks back to the Joseon Dynasty. Nearby, you’ll find Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved neighborhood of traditional Korean houses. Contrastingly, the towering skyscrapers of Gangnam District represent the city’s contemporary side.
Seoul is a global hub for technology, entertainment, and cuisine. It’s the birthplace of global tech giants like Samsung and LG and the epicenter of K-pop music and Korean cinema.
Food lovers will delight in Seoul’s culinary scene. From sizzling street food stalls to upscale restaurants, the city offers a tantalizing array of flavors, with dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi being favorites.
Seoul’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore the city’s neighborhoods, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re shopping in Myeongdong, strolling along the Han River, or exploring the trendy alleys of Hongdae, Seoul is a dynamic, multifaceted city that continually evolves while honoring its rich heritage
Best Indoor Places in Seoul for Shopping
1. 스타필드 코엑스몰 (Starfield COEX)
COEX (Convention and Exhibition Center) is a massive multipurpose complex located in the Gangnam district of Seoul, South Korea. It’s one of the largest and most prominent convention and exhibition centers in the country and plays a significant role in Seoul’s business and cultural scene.
The COEX Mall is a massive underground shopping complex with over 200 shops, including international brands, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Location: 서울 강남구 봉은사로 524 (524, Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
Operating hours: 10:30-22:00
Shop number: 02-6002-5300
2. 잠실 롯데월드타워 (Lotte World Tower)
Lotte World Tower, situated in Jamsil, is a prominent landmark in Seoul, South Korea. It soars to a staggering height of 555 meters, spanning 123 floors, and holds the distinction of being the fifth-tallest skyscraper worldwide. In addition to its remarkable height, the tower has garnered awards like the 2019 Brand of the Year and 2019 Top Complex Shopping Mall for Lotte Mall. It serves as a symbol of modernity and urban development in Seoul, offering a range of facilities including a luxury hotel, office spaces, a shopping mall, and an observation deck, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Lotte World Tower is a testament to Seoul’s economic and architectural prowess and is a must-visit attraction for both locals and tourists.
Location: 서울 송파구 올림픽로 300 (300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
Operating hours: 10:30-22:00
Shop number: 02-3213-5000
3. 현대백화점 압구정본점 (Hyundai Department Apgujeong)
Hyundai Department Store Apgujeong Main Branch is a large-scale department store located in Apgujeong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea. This department store offers a wide range of shopping and entertainment options, from luxury brands to various products, restaurants, and cultural facilities.
With 14 floors, the store features a diverse selection of items, including fashion items, cosmetics, jewelry, home goods, electronics, books, music, and more. Additionally, it houses numerous dining options and cafes, making it a place where you can enjoy meals and relaxation while shopping.
Hyundai Department Store Apgujeong Main Branch is easily accessible, with close proximity to Apgujeong Station on Subway Line 3 and Cheongdam Station on Subway Line 7. In addition, there is also a Galleria luxury department store nearby, so there are plenty of things to see. It is considered one of the must-visit destinations in the Gangnam area, offering a taste of modern Korean consumer culture with its shopping and leisure options.
Location: 서울 강남구 압구정로 165 현대백화점압구정본점 (165, Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
Operating hours: Mon-Thurs 10:30-20:00 Fri-Sun 10:30-20:30
Shop number: 02-547-2233
4. 더현대서울 (The Hyundai Seoul Yeouido)
This is the latest work by the globally renowned architect Richard Rogers, known as one of the most famous architects in the world. The building embodies Rogers’ architectural philosophy. It takes inspiration from traditional Korean architectural elements such as the distinctive colors of the wooden pillars and the “dancheong” (traditional Korean decorative coloring), interpreting them in a fresh and contemporary way. The result is an ultra-modern structure that pays homage to the essence of Korean architectural tradition.
A vast indoor garden spanning approximately 1000 pyeong (about 3,305 square meters) with natural grass. The glass ceiling, towering over 20 meters high, allows the gentle infusion of natural light, creating an ambiance reminiscent of the forest’s tranquility.
From the 6th underground floor to the 6th above ground floor, there is a spacious parking lot and a variety of shops in operation. Additionally, various pop-up stores that change regularly are also operated.
Location: 서울 영등포구 여의대로 108 더현대 서울 (108, Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
Operating hours: Mon-Thurs 10:30-20:00 Fri-Sun 10:30-20:30
Shop number: 02-767-2233
