A Day Out in Seoul & Beyond
100 Hangang-daero, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
아모레퍼시픽 본사
The holiday season always seems to fly by in an instant, but it’s the small moments that make it memorable. From the architectural majesty of the Amorepacific Headquarters to the historic beauty of Gyeongbokgung Palace, this week was a perfect blend of modern city life and traditional charm. Even with the bustling crowds and expensive parking, exploring the heart of Seoul reminded me why this city is truly the best.
In this quick diary entry, I’m looking back at a few highlights: a satisfying pork dinner after a long wait, quiet reflection in a crowded art museum, and the simple joy of green tea ice cream. I also ventured out to Songtan for some incredible fried rice and spicy jjampong. Join me as I relive these moments before the photos pile up again!
Modern Landmarks: Amorepacific and Museum Days
My first stop was the Amorepacific headquarters in Yongsan. The building itself is grand and inspiring, though the parking fees were a bit of a shock! Afterward, we successfully navigated a long waiting list at a local pork restaurant for a very satisfying meal. It’s these urban adventures—amidst crowded museums and intricate art installations—that really capture the energy of modern Seoul.
A Sweet Break: Green Tea Bliss
After taking in the complex and time-consuming details of the museum exhibits, it was time for a treat. A refreshing serving of green tea ice cream was the perfect palate cleanser. There’s something special about sitting in a quiet corner of a busy city and enjoying a simple dessert after a day of cultural exploration.
Historic Beauty: Gyeongbokgung Palace
Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace during the day was a first for me. Since it was a public holiday, admission was free, which meant the grounds were teeming with people. Despite the crowds, the palace remains a stunning testament to Korea’s history. Walking through the gates and seeing the beautiful traditional architecture against the Seoul skyline is always a "bright future" moment.
Songtan Flavors: The Best Fried Rice
To wrap up the holiday, I headed to Songtan. While I went for the spicy seafood jjampong and crispy fried dumplings, the real star was the fried rice. It was surprisingly delicious and the perfect way to end the break. Sometimes the best flavors are found in the most unexpected places!
Would you like me to find the best local jjampong restaurants near Songtan for your next trip, or should I check for upcoming night opening dates at Gyeongbokgung Palace?
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