A metaphorical description: Ori-ro is the vein pumping life through Seoul. It is more than just a road. Seoul, a city that never sleeps, pulsates with energy and Ori-ro plays a vital role.
Ori-ro is a secondary highway. It is part of the intricate network that keeps this metropolis moving. Seoul is a city of many names. It was once known as Wiryeseong during the Baekje era. Later it was called Hanyang during the Goryeo era. During the Joseon era it was also named Hanyang. Under colonial rule, it went by Keijo. Finally, after the partition of Korea in 1948, it was officially named Seoul.
Seoul has been the capital since 1394 during the Joseon Dynasty. King Taejo built Seoul’s City Wall to defend the capital. The wall protected the city from invaders. It was built along the ridges of Baegak, Naksan, Namsan and Inwangsan mountains.
Today, Seoul is a global hub. It blends ancient traditions with modern innovation. The Seoul Metropolitan Government has focused on key industries. These include international finance, IT, digital content, fashion and bio industry. This helps Seoul compete with other leading cities in Northeast Asia.
The city has made efforts to improve public transportation. In 2004, Seoul introduced a new system. It included exclusive bus lanes and a subway-bus connection. This reduced travel time and costs for citizens.
Seoul aims to be a global leader. It focuses on culture, environment, welfare and economy. Projects are underway to make Seoul a warm and comfortable city. They also aim for a green living environment.
Seoul is known for its street food. Some areas are dedicated to specific dishes. You can find mung bean pancakes at Gwangjang Market. Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town offers spicy tteokbokki. Namsan is famous for pork cutlet. Dongdaemun Dak-Hanmari Alley has dak-hanmari. Namdaemun Kalguksu Street offers kalguksu. Sillim-dong Sundae Town serves sundae. Myeongdong Street Food Alley has various snacks.
Seoul works hard to preserve its hanok. This helps maintain cultural identity. The city restores traditional Korean houses. Some hanok have become museums, cafes and cultural hubs.
Seoul has a sister city relationship with Tehran. Samneungno Street was renamed Teheran-ro in 1978. This honored the visit of Tehran’s mayor.
Seoul is also a city of festivals. You can visit the Seoul Eulalia Fest in October. In spring, you can see cherry blossoms at the Seoul Flower Fest. The International Firework Festival takes place in October and September. You can light lanterns in November at the Lanterns Festival.
Changdeokgung Palace Complex and Jongmyo Shrine are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Starfield COEX Mall is one of Asia’s largest underground malls. Banpo Bridge is the world’s largest fountain bridge.
Seoul is a city of workaholics. It is also a city that never sleeps. You can find 24-hour restaurants, cafes and bathhouses. Seoul is known as the City of Hanbok. It is the birthplace of K-Pop.
As we travel along Ori-ro remember that Seoul is a city of constant change and enduring tradition. It is a place where the past and the future come together.