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Seoul: Know Before You Go Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Local experts recommend books, music, and films that give you a feel for the city. Also: travel basics, the best websites and local media, cultural tips, recipes, advice on shopping for local handicrafts, and walking tours of the city.

Photo: Namdaemun Market
Children play at Namdaemun Market, one of the oldest continually running food and clothing markets in South Korea and the largest retail market in Seoul.
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The Basics
Nuts-and-bolts information to plan your trip, plus a checklist of essentials to include when you pack.
Get the Basics

Cultural Tips
Cultural dos and don’ts, plus a handy phrase book that introduces you to the language and local argot.
Learn Cultural Tips

Books
Great reading that provides a sense of the city, from the Traveler online Ultimate Travel Library.
Get a Reading List

Music
Compilations and classic songs that put you in mind of the city, from our city playlist.
Experience the Sounds of Seoul

Movies
Movies that capture the atmosphere of the city.
Get Movie List

Recipes
A sampling of signature regional dishes, with complete instructions for preparation.

Links and Media
Our favorite Web links and the best local media.
Get Links and Media

Authentic Shopping Guide
The best local handicrafts and artisanal items, from our online worldwide Authentic Shopping Guide.
View Shopping List

Walking Tours
Three select walks that reveal the best of the city.

Seoul Multimedia

Know Before You Go Seoul

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The Republic of Korea, or South Korea, consists of the southern half of the Korean peninsula in East Asia and many islands lying off the western and southern coasts.

All About Seoul

All Places of a Lifetime

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Sacred Places of A Lifetime

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Visiting 500 of the most sacred destinations, this book answers the call of the spiritual traveler.