Yes you read that right, today we will talk about Seoul. Of course, in the first place this blog is all about Japan: we introduce our readers to Japanese food, culture, services and activities. Nevertheless, in the first place though, this blog is a part of the Asahi Nihongo school which is located in Fukuoka. Seoul is just a 50 minute flight away from the city and tickets are fairly cheap. We have an ongoing series of articles about activities and places for you to visit which are close to the city but not in the area of the city of Fukuoka. Today we will leap over the pond and talk about the capital of South Korea and a vivid Asian metropolis: Seoul (ソール)

Seoul is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Korea (commonly known as South Korea), forming the heart of the Seoul city area which includes the surrounding Incheon area. It is home to over half of all South Koreans along with 678,102 international residents.

Today, Seoul is considered a leading and rising global city, resulting from an economic boom which transformed it to the world’s 4th largest metropolitan economy.

The largest wholesale and retail market in South Korea, the Dongdaemun market, is located in Seoul. Myeongdong is a shopping and entertainment area in downtown Seoul with mid- to high-end stores, fashion boutiques and international brand outlets.

Insadong is the cultural art market of Seoul, where traditional and modern Korean artworks, such as paintings, sculptures and calligraphy are sold. As you can see, all your shopping needs can be fulfilled in Seoul, no matter if you’re looking for traditional Korean souvenirs and crafts or new clothes. 

The traditional heart of Seoul is the old Joseon dynasty city, now the downtown area, where most palaces, government offices, corporate headquarters, hotels, and traditional markets are located. Joseon is a hotspot for Korean food as well, a good starting point to try local specialties and to check out the Korean cuisine at its best!

Seoul is a city that is a perfect symbiosis between past and the future: for example, there are 115 museums to visit in the city of Seoul, covering art and history in all aspects but on the other side, Seoul has the strongest broadband internet connection and most WIFI spots in the world! 
If you find the time, visit Seoul for a week. Most Korean people speak a pretty solid English and the city is definitely worth it.