South Korea route: Seoul's Smart City to Lotte World Tower

The route through Seoul and the surrounding area covers 14 key locations: from the futuristic Smart City of Seongdo to the historic village of Bukchon Hanok, the modern skyscrapers Lotte World Tower and Starfield in Gangnam, as well as the cultural districts of Itaewon, Myeongdong, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza. The total distance is 412.7 km.

Distance
412.7 km
Mode
route
Start
설천면, 대한민국
End
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Stops
14
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. 설천면, 대한민국 — A leading country in technology and innovation, where traditional culture coexists harmoniously with cutting-edge architecture and digital solutions.
  2. Songdo Smart City — An innovative city with full IoT integration, where all systems are managed in real time for maximum efficiency and convenience of residents.
  3. Seoul Metro — One of the largest and most developed metro systems in the world with clean stations, easy navigation and underground shopping centers.
  4. Cheonggyecheon Stream — A restored ecological corridor in the center of Seoul, where locals and tourists enjoy nature among the city's skyscrapers.
  5. The Pearl of Seoul – Myeongdong Street — A major shopping artery with flagship stores of brands, cosmetics and fashion, attracting millions of shoppers every year.
  6. 600-Year-Old Houses – Bukchon Hanok Village — An authentic quarter of traditional Korean hanok houses that preserve the architectural heritage and culture of the Joseon Dynasty.
  7. Chinatown in the suburbs of Icheon — A historic district with Chinese cultural influences, where architectural monuments and traditional shops of the early XX century have been preserved.
  8. Lotte World Tower is Korea's tallest building — A 555-meter-high skyscraper with shopping malls, offices, and an observation deck offering panoramic views of Seoul.
  9. Gangnam + Starfield Library — An elite area with shopping malls and cultural facilities, home to a modern library with glass architecture and diverse collections.
  10. Area for foreigners - Itaewon — A cosmopolitan neighborhood with international restaurants, clubs, and shops, historically serving as a cultural meeting center in Seoul.
  11. Hwangudan Independence Altar — Built in 1897 by Emperor Gojong to declare Korean Empire independence from China; partially demolished by Japanese in 1913.
  12. Incheon Chinatown — Chinatown district in suburban Incheon.
  13. Naksan Park — Park featuring Camel Hump-shaped landscape formation.
  14. Dongdaemun Design Plaza — Architectural landmark designed by Zaha Hadid.

Useful for your trip

Food
Korea is the world leader in coffee consumption. Locals drink 2-3 cups a day. Starbucks is popular as a place to work, date, and meet with free Wi-Fi.
Food
Street food is a cult in Korea. Large portions, incredible variety, but the locals remain slim.
Transport
The Seoul subway is endless underground passages. Get ready for long journeys between stations.
Tip
Food delivery is carried out in 15 minutes. Koreans are in a hurry (pali-pali – fast, fast).
Avoid
Taxi drivers may chew gum loudly, blow their nose and spit in the presence of passengers - this is normal for them.
Tip
Strict garbage sorting system. Throwing food waste into the wrong bag is a fine. Garbage is weighed.
Tip
After the war in the 1950s, Korea was one of the poorest countries. Today it is in the top 15 economies in the world.
Timing
Corporate drunkenness with the boss is a sacred rite. The local drink of Soju is traditional vodka.
Where to stay
Songdo is an artificial island with a smart city. It looks like a shooting about the future, but there are almost no people. Housing is expensive.
Tip
The South Korean passport is one of the top 3 most powerful passports in the world. You can travel almost anywhere without a visa.

Video on this route

SOUTH KOREA 2026: Another Planet | A country that was ahead of its time

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