Wondering how a city can be both ancient and cutting-edge? Seoul, a capital since 1394, is your answer. Today we are visiting \uc9c4\uc120\ubbf8\uad00 in Seoul.
\uc9c4\uc120\ubbf8\uad00 is located in a city that has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years. Seoul acquired strategic importance. It became a city during the early historic period.
Let’s take a quick historical detour. General Yi Seong-Gye founded Seoul as the capital of a unified nation. That happened in 1394 during the Joseon Dynasty. The location was chosen because of its military advantages. It was a natural redoubt at the center of the peninsula. The navigable Han River made it suitable for a capital city. The river was a major route for transporting grain, taxes, and goods.
Seoul’s City Wall was built by King Taejo. It was built to defend the Korean capital from invaders. The wall follows the ridges of four mountains. These are Baegak Bugaksan, Naksan, Namsan Mongmyeoksan and Inwangsan. It was designated as a Historic Site of South Korea in 1963.
More than half of South Korea’s population lives in the Seoul Capital Area. Around 26 million people call this area home. The Seoul Metropolitan area is about the same size as Bhutan or Trinidad.
The name Seoul means capital city in Korean. It likely came from Seorabeol. That was the name of Silla’s capital. Over the years, Seoul has been known by several names. These include Wiryeseong, Namgyeong and Gyeongseong. The city became known as Seoul after World War II.
Did you know Seoul is close to North Korea? It is only 35 miles from the border.
Seoul is the heart of the Korean Wave. It is home to major K-pop labels. Famous dance studios are also located here.
There is a Tehran Boulevard in Seoul. This was proposed to honor the visit of Tehran’s mayor in 1977.
If you are feeling energetic you could visit the Han River. Bike paths and parks make for beautiful picnic settings. You can rent picnic supplies from shops. Chimaek fried chicken and beer is a local favorite for picnics.
Seoul is divided by the Han River. The northern half is called Gangbuk or North of the Han River. The southern half is Gangnam or South of the Han River.
Seoul is a city that never sleeps. There are many 24-hour options. This includes restaurants and cafes.
The Seoul Capital Area has five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include Changdeokgung Palace Complex and Hwaseong Fortress.
So as you leave \uc9c4\uc120\ubbf8\uad00, remember that Seoul is a vibrant mix of history and modernity. It is a city that continues to evolve. It preserves its rich heritage while embracing the future.