Seoul Photos -- National Geographic's Ultimate City Guides

Dongdaemun
Photograph by Heimo Aga
Heavy traffic surges past the historical landmark Dongdaemun—the Great East Gate—in central Seoul. Originally built in 1396, the current structure was reconstructed in 1869.
Hotel Shilla
Photograph by Martin Sasse/laif/Aurora Photos
A Samsung electric car sits outside the entrance of the luxury Hotel Shilla, which is owned by Samsung, the giant Korean electronics company.
Lotte Department Store
Photograph by Heimo Aga
An employee of the Lotte Department Store directs traffic in the parking lot. The Lotte chain includes numerous department stores, discount stores, and supermarkets.
Namdaemun Market
Photograph by Catherine Karnow
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.
Lotte World Magic Island
Photograph by Heimo Aga
The gyro wheel thrill ride delights patrons of all ages at Lotte World Magic Island outdoor amusement park, located in the center of Seokchon Lake.
Female Monks
Photograph by Catherine Karnow
Two female monks enjoy tea in an old teahouse in the Insadong neighborhood, an area full of interesting antique shops, calligraphy shops, and art galleries.
Food Stall at Namdaemun Market
Photograph by Catherine Karnow
A young woman eats an omelette at a food stall at Namdaemun Market, the vast market that sells clothes, toys, luggage, and hardware, and which also has a huge selection of street food.
Bau House Café
Photograph by Heimo Aga
At the Bau House Café, in the Hongdae neighborhood, friends have fun at a birthday party. Patrons can bring their own pets or play with one of the owner's several dogs.
Namdaemun
Photograph by Heimo Aga
Busy Namdaemun Market is located next to Namdaemun—the Great South Gate—which was the main southern gate to the old city of Seoul.
Goseong Dinosaur Museum
Photograph by Heimo Aga
Following the fossil-footprint exploration path at the Goseong Dinosaur Museum, visitors take a family photo with a life-size Tyrannosaurus Rex.