✈️ Don’t Miss These Places in Korea #6 : The Ultimate Guide to Seoul Station
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✈️ Don’t Miss These Places in Korea ⑥ : The Ultimate Guide to Seoul Station
Seoul Station is far more than just a cold, transit-oriented structure made of glass and steel. For many, it is the first greeting they receive upon arriving in South Korea via the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) and the last place they bid farewell to this beautiful country. It is a vibrant, multi-layered complex where the echoes of 100-year-old history meet the trendy flavors of modern Seoul.
If you have a few hours to spare before your KTX train departs or after arriving from the airport, don't just sit in the waiting area. This guide will show you how to turn a transit stop into a highlight of your journey.
🍱 1. A Gastronomic Adventure: From Traditional Crafts to Iconic Desserts
Seoul Station’s dining scene has undergone a massive renovation recently, specifically the "Connect Place" on the 3rd floor. You can find everything from quick bites to fine dining.
Hamru : This is a premium restaurant specializing in Hitsumabushi (Japanese-style grilled eel over rice). It is highly recommended for travelers who need to recharge their energy.
How to eat like a pro: Divide your bowl into four quarters. Eat the first plain, the second with added scallions and wasabi, the third by pouring warm green tea (Ochazuke) over it, and the last quarter in the style you liked best!
Sugar Skull : Step into a world of color! This Mexican eatery is themed after the "Day of the Dead." Beyond the Instagrammable decor, their carnitas tacos and sizzling fajitas are authentic and satisfying.
Cheil Jemyunso : If you want to experience the soul of Korean noodles, this is the place. Their broth is deep and savory, and they offer various regional noodle styles that represent different parts of Korea.
Taegeukdang : Located on the 2nd floor, this is a legendary bakery established in 1946.
The Signature Item: You must try the Monaka Ice Cream. It is a handmade milk ice cream sandwiched between crispy, thin wafers. It’s a nostalgic taste of Seoul that has remained unchanged for decades.
Hosujip : Located just a short walk (about 10 minutes) from the station, this local favorite is famous for its charcoal-grilled chicken skewers and spicy chicken stew (Dak-bokkeum-tang). It’s a hidden gem for those who want a truly local, "gritty" Seoul atmosphere.
Local Fast Food, Lotteria: While global chains are available, try Lotteria for a uniquely Korean twist. Their 'Bulgogi Burger' or the 'Jeonju Bibim Rice Burger' (which uses rice buns) offers a flavor profile you won't find anywhere else in the world.
🛍️ 2. The Shopping Paradise: Lotte Mart & Lotte Outlets
The Lotte Mart at Seoul Station is arguably the most famous supermarket in Korea for international visitors. It is specifically curated to cater to tourists' needs.
🔎The "Must-Buy" Shopping List:
K-Snacks: Look for the HBAF Seasoned Almonds (Honey Butter, Wasabi, and Roasted Corn flavors are top-tier). Also, grab Market O Real Brownies and Orion Choco Pies.
The "Gim" (Seaweed) Aisle: Korean seaweed is world-famous. Look for the "Gop-chang-gim" variety for a thicker, crunchier texture, or flavored versions like Wasabi or Teriyaki.
K-Beauty Essentials: Inside Lotte Mart and the adjacent Lotte Outlets, you can find brands like Mediheal (for sheet masks) and Innisfree. Look for "1+1" deals which are very common here.
Instant Noodles (Ramyeon): Beyond the spicy Shin Ramyun, try the Buldak Bokkeum-myeon (Spicy Chicken Noodles) or the sesame-flavored Cham-kkae Ramyeon.
🔎Pro-Tips for Savvy Shoppers:
Instant Tax Refund: Don't forget your Passport. For purchases over 30,000 KRW, you can get an immediate tax deduction at the designated "Tax-Refund" checkout counters.
Closing Days: IMPORTANT! Large supermarkets in Korea are legally required to close on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month. Always check the date before planning your visit.
Locker Service: If you have heavy suitcases, use the lockers in the station or the temporary luggage storage service inside the Mart so you can shop comfortably.
🎨 3. Culture Station Seoul 284: A Timeless Landmark
Directly in front of the modern station sits a beautiful red-brick building with a green dome. This is the Old Seoul Station, now transformed into a cultural art space called Culture Station Seoul 284.
Built in 1925, it served as the central gateway to the city for nearly 80 years. Today, it hosts rotating art exhibitions, design fairs, and performances. The interior has been meticulously restored, allowing you to see the original VIP waiting rooms and the grand central hall. Most exhibitions are free of charge, making it an excellent spot for culture seekers on a budget.
🌿 4. Seoullo 7017: Walking Above the City
Often called the "High Line of Seoul," Seoullo 7017 is a pedestrian park built on a former highway overpass. The "70" stands for the year the highway was built (1970), and "17" for the year it was reborn as a walkway (2017).
The Experience: You can walk directly from the station's 2nd floor onto the bridge. It features over 24,000 plants and several "experience zones" including foot baths and small galleries.
Connecting the City: This walkway is a strategic shortcut. You can walk from Seoul Station to Namdaemun Market (the largest traditional market in Korea) in 15 minutes, and continue further to the Myeong-dong shopping district.
Photographer's Tip: The best time to visit is 20 minutes before sunset. You can capture the glowing "Seoul Station" sign and the heavy traffic of the city lights, which looks like a scene from a cyberpunk movie.
📍 Essential Traveler Information
Luggage Storage: If the station lockers are full, look for "T-Luggage" services which offer more space and even delivery to your hotel.
AREX (Airport Express): The entrance to the Airport Railroad is located on the B2 floor. Make sure to distinguish between the Express Train (non-stop, 43 mins) and the All-stop Train (cheaper, 59 mins).
Connectivity: The entire station offers free high-speed Wi-Fi (Public WiFi Free), which is very stable for checking maps or uploading your latest photos.
Closing Thoughts: Seoul Station is the perfect microcosm of Korea—efficient, modern, and deeply rooted in history. Whether you are grabbing a quick Taegeukdang Monaka or taking a sunset stroll on Seoullo 7017, make sure to give this area more than just a passing glance.
Happy Travels in Korea! ✈️
