Whether it’s murals, statues, or quirky buildings, I appreciate seeing artistic touches sprinkled throughout a city. I spent several days wandering Seoul's streets and compiled numerous photos of random artwork and architecture that I found interesting. I decided to create this photo gallery to share them and inspire you to explore Seoul's streets too!
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Visiting Seoul? Check out my post 'A Guide to Seoul (and Why ​​You Should Visit in Autumn)'.
Sejong Center, Sejongno
Walking up towards Gyeongbokgung Palace from my hotel near City Hall, I came across the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts. Behind the center on Saemunan-ro 5-gil, I found a lovely park and garden with several interesting statues.
Statue running in the park.
Peace tree - the word 'peace' written in many languages makes up the branches of this tree.
This statue of singed wooden logs was across from the Sejong Center.
The peace tree from another angle.
Myeongdong
One evening, meandering through the Myeongdong street food market, I came across this building. It seems as though blocks of concrete are just stacked on top of each other to form the structure. And though I imagine the small, narrow windows don't allow much light to enter the building, they give the building a unique look.
Cheonggyecheon Stream
Flowing through the center of Seoul, the Cheonggyecheon Stream is lined with pedestrian walkways and decorated with art. The portion closest to City Hall has the majority of the decorations, which light up at night. As you wander further away, the path becomes more about nature, the vines becoming the artwork. Still, as you walk under several bridges, bright and colorful murals liven up the space!
Scenes in the stream
Night scenes
One of the bridges is covered with lights - perfect spot for an Instagram shot!
The stream's waterfall is illuminated at night.
Vines as artwork
Mural under one of the bridges.
While you're wandering around, stop and try some of the 'Top 5 Delicious Meals to Eat in Seoul'!
Sinsadong
Exploring the Sinsadong neighborhood, I ended up on Garosu-gil (street) which is full of upscale stores, decorative coffee shops, and a few murals. In the fall, the leaves on the Ginko trees lining the street turn a bright yellow making the street glow. On Google maps, the name of the road is Apgujeong-ro 12-gil (not sure why).
Stand beside Korean actor Ji Chang Wook and get your photo taken with him.
In case you can't figure out what you're supposed to do - here's an example!
Hall of Mirrors in Versailles
Beautiful Ginko trees against a stunningly blue sky.
Bar all decked out for Christmas!
Hongik University, Hongdae
Getting off the Seoul metro at the Hongik University station, I wandered through this fun and youthful neighborhood. I had no destination in mind, but stumbled upon loads of quirky cafes, art galleries, and bars. Looking at the compilation of photos below, can you believe that all of these buildings are within a few streets of each other? Though I was only there in the afternoon, I can see how this place could come alive at night (and is known for its nightlife).
Funky art gallery with outdoor seating
This cafe almost made me nostalgic for American suburbia - almost.
Super heroes encouraging dental hygiene - and why not?
Bar./cafe/reading spot.. they seem to love lawn chairs in Hongdae.
Castle Praha - a Czech restaurant and bar
Want to wander outside of the city instead? Check out the Jaunbong Peak Hike in Bukhansan National Park!
Bukchon Hanok Village
In addition to traditional Korean houses, the Bukchon Hanok Village has an array of artistic touches throughout it. As you're wandering through the neighborhood between the Gyeongbokgung and the Changdeokgung palaces, be on the lookout for street art!
This mural will brighten your day even if it's cloudy!
Stumbled into this girl reading a book, then realized I didn't need to apologize!
In case you want to know about budae jiigae (spicy sausage stew)... here's a mural for you!
Spiderman proposal? Or, jewel thief...?
Insadong
One of my favorite buildings is the Samsung Jongro Tower or Jungno Tower in Insadong. It's a 33-story office building, but floors 23-30 are hollow. The top floor has a restaurant that offers nice views of the city. I couldn't decide whether I liked it better by day or by night - which do you prefer?
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