Seoul is more than just the city where I was born, it is the place that shaped who I am. Growing up there, I was always surrounded by a unique mix of rich history, beautiful traditions, and the fast paced energy of modern life. Whenever I think about home, I picture the streets, the landmarks, and the atmosphere that make Seoul feel so special to me. Below are three places that truly represent the heart of my hometown and bring back some of my favorite memories.
Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Seoul, but honestly, I did not go inside the palace very often myself. Instead, it became a place I would bring my friends whenever they visited from foreign countries, because it is such a classic spot to experience Korean history and culture. I also have a lot of personal memories around the area because there are so many cozy tea shops nearby. Sometimes I would stop for tea on a date after walking around the palace grounds, which made the whole neighborhood feel even more special to me.
Namsan Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Korea, and it has always felt like a special part of Seoul to me. When I was younger, I used to take the gondola up the mountain, but interestingly, I never really did it again after high school. Instead, as I got older, I enjoyed walking up toward the tower at night along the stone lined walls. Those quiet walks made me feel connected to the city in a different way, especially with the lights of Seoul stretching out below. It was one of the best places to truly take in the atmosphere of home.
> The Han River has always been one of the most personal and meaningful places in Seoul for me. I lived close enough that I could easily ride my bike down to the river whenever I wanted. I spent so many evenings there hanging out with friends, eating ramen and snacks from nearby convenience stores, and staying up late just talking while sharing a nice cold beer. In the mornings, I would sometimes go for runs along the river paths, and when I was even younger, I used to rollerblade through the Han River parks. The river truly runs through the heart of Seoul, stretching wide across the city, and it always felt like a place where the busy energy of Seoul slowed down into something peaceful.