• Gangnam Square
• K Star Road
• Coex Mall
• Starfield Library
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza
• Han River Bridge
• Coex Aquarium
• Olympic Park

On the fifth day of our Korean adventure, Twe embarked on an exciting city tour of Seoul. This time we booked a private car charter via KLOOK. This is the most convenient way to explore Seoul especially if you have kids in tow. Not only you can save time and maximize your day, but also the comfort of having someone to drive and tour you around is worth the buck.

We set out to explore the bustling neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems that make Seoul such a captivating destination. Our itinerary was packed with a myriad of attractions, including Gangnam Square, Coex Mall, Starfield Library, Coex Aquarium, K Star Avenue, Han River Bridge, Dongdaemun Plaza, and Olympic Park. Join us as we recount the highlights of this unforgettable day.

Gangnam Square: A Taste of the K-Pop Phenomenon

Our first stop was Gangnam Square, a place synonymous with the global hit “Gangnam Style” by Psy. As we stepped foot in this vibrant district, we couldn’t help but feel the energy that permeated the air. Inspired by the song’s catchy dance moves, we decided to unleash our inner K-pop stars and performed the famous Gangnam dance right in the heart of Gangnam Square with Psy on our background. It was a fun experience and we enjoyed dancing and posing despite the chilly weather.

Coex Mall: When shopping meets architecture

Next on our itinerary was Coex Mall, one of the largest underground shopping complexes in Asia. The mall offered a vast array of shops, ranging from high-end boutiques to local designer stores. This is also where we ate our lunch and where we experienced snow. It was quick but definitely one of a kind experience. Additionally, the mall housed the Starfield Library, a mesmerizing space filled with countless books and a striking architectural design, providing the perfect backdrop for a few Instagram-worthy shots.

Coex Aquarium: A Subaquatic Adventure

Adjacent to the mall, we found the Coex Aquarium, a captivating world beneath the waves. The aquarium boasted an impressive collection of marine life, including vibrant coral reefs, graceful stingrays, manatees and majestic sharks. We marveled at the diverse species and even had the opportunity to witness a thrilling live feeding session. It was a truly immersive experience that left us in awe of the wonders of the ocean.

Starfield Library: A Book Lover’s Paradise

Step into a world of literary wonder at Seoul’s Starfield Library. Nestled within the vibrant Starfield COEX Mall, this captivating public library beckons book enthusiasts with its towering shelves, showcasing over 50,000 books. Lose yourself amidst the endless rows of captivating titles, basking in the tranquil ambiance and the thrill of literary discovery. Whether you seek solace in reading or simply wish to immerse in the bibliophile’s utopia, the Starfield Library is an enchanting destination not to be missed. The design is a perfect backdrop for that nstagram-worthy shots.

K Star Avenue: A Glimpse into the World of Hallyu

Our journey through Korean popular culture continued as we made our way K Star Road, also known as K-Star Street. This unique street is a stretch of road in the Cheongdam-dong area of Gangnam, lined with various entertainment agencies and studios that house K-pop idols and celebrities. It became a famous spot due to the large number of “Hallyu” (Korean Wave) stars and K-pop groups associated with the area. In this street, you can see GangnamDol, it is a compound word derived from “Gangnam,” “idol,” and “doll.” The GangnamDol sculptures are human-scale bear dolls featuring printed images of famous K-pop groups, making them representative and iconic symbols of K-Star Road.

These GangnamDol sculptures serve as a homage to the popular K-pop groups and idols that have contributed to the Korean Wave phenomenon. Visitors to K-Star Road can enjoy seeing and taking photos with these unique and artistic sculptures, which showcase the vibrant and influential nature of the K-pop industry in Gangnam. My girls can’t help but pose on their favorite K Pop GangnamDol idols.

Han River Bridge: A Picturesque Riverside Retreat

To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, we made a detour to the Han River Bridge. This iconic landmark provided a breathtaking view of the river and the city skyline. We took a leisurely stroll along the bridge, relishing in the serene atmosphere and capturing postcard-worthy photographs. The Han River Bridge was a peaceful oasis amidst the vibrant cityscape, offering a much-needed moment of tranquility.

Captivating Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a mesmerizing architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Seoul. As we stepped foot into this creative hub, I was immediately struck by its avant-garde design and innovative atmosphere.

Designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, DDP represents a harmonious blend of art, culture, and technology. Its fluid and futuristic structure showcases the perfect amalgamation of curves and straight lines, creating a visually captivating experience. The building’s aluminum façade, adorned with thousands of LED lights, transforms it into an enchanting spectacle during the night.

DDP houses numerous exhibition halls, galleries, and showrooms that showcase a diverse range of art, fashion, and design exhibitions. From emerging local designers to internationally acclaimed artists, there is something here to captivate every artistic taste.

Beyond its artistic offerings, DDP also serves as a hub for cultural events and conferences. Its versatile spaces are designed to accommodate fashion shows, music performances, and international conferences, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment.

It is a testament to Seoul’s commitment to nurturing creativity and pushing boundaries in the realm of design. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a design aficionado, or simply seeking inspiration, DDP is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe of its architectural grandeur and artistic wonders.

Olympic Park: A Tribute to Sporting Excellence

Our next stop took us to Olympic Park, an expansive green oasis that pays homage to the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. As we wandered through the park, we were surrounded by lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and picturesque walking trails. The park also features various sports facilities and stadiums, reminding us of the city’s sporting legacy. Olympic Park provided us with a serene escape from the urban landscape, allowing us to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Each location showcased a different side of Seoul’s dynamic character, leaving us with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this captivating city.