As a result of the ever-growing presence of K-pop in the West and the global success of K-dramas, the beauty of South Korea and its culture has been projected across the world.
Therefore, it’s no surprise that Seoul has become an increasingly popular travel destination in recent years as tourists flock to the capital.
Square Mile has enlisted the help of one of the prominent artists in the global genre, Kang Daniel, to produce a travel guide to Seoul for those looking to experience the beauty and rich culture of the South Korean capital for themselves.
The multi-hyphenate was born in Busan but now, when he’s not travelling the world performing, he calls Seoul home. There is genuinely something for everyone in Seoul with scenic natural spots to high-end fashion districts to a buzzing nightlife scene and Kang Daniel outlines his favourite things to do in the city.
The K-pop idol and actor recently headlined a show at London’s O2 Shepherds Bush Empire and has just released his hotly-anticipated mini-album, ‘Glow To Haze’, in which he explores the complexities of love.
Restaurants
Surin
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Kang Daniel: I recently visited a restaurant that was so good, I highly recommend it. It's called "Surin", located right next to Dosan Park. The meal is served as a course, and the beef is grilled right in front of you. The various dishes served in between were also incredibly delicious. There are private rooms available, which is nice, but sitting at the bar and watching the chefs cook was also really fun. The view from inside the restaurant was great as well.
Where: 24 Eonju-ro 164-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul
CESTA
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Kang Daniel: I would also like to recommend the 'CESTA' restaurant in Yongsan. I love to visit both during the day and night. The interior with a lot of rattan materials makes me feel good, and when I tasted the food, it tasted amazing. And I recommend you to try the wine they recommend.
Where: 68-4 Hannam-dong, Yongsan District, Seoul,
Hotel
Grand Hyatt Seoul
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Kang Daniel: All the rooms have neat and nice interiors. But what I like the most is the view of Seoul from the hotel. I think the biggest advantage is that we can see the city and the mountains together.
Where: 322 Sowol-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul
Nature
Inwangsan Mountain
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Kang Daniel: I like Inwangsan Mountain. I often go hiking there with my friend. If you go to the trainrock (Gichabawi Rocks) of Inwangsan Mountain, you can enjoy the night view with the sunset, which is my favorite sunset place in Seoul.
Where: Ogin-dong, Jongno District, Seoul
Han River
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Kang Daniel: I enjoy leisure activities in Seoul because I can't go out of the city too often. I recommend having a picnic with food and beer at the Han River. It's great to feel romantic.
Where: Seoul
Further afield
Gijang
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Kang Daniel: Many people are probably familiar with Busan, but I’d like to recommend a place called Gijang, which is in Busan. Gijang has developed a lot over the past few years, and it has many beaches along the coast with beautiful views. I think it’s a perfect place to relax and unwind.
Where: Located on the coast between Ulsan and Haeundae-gu in northern Busan.
Music Venues
Kang Daniel: Lately, as I’ve been touring more, I’ve found myself becoming increasingly interested in concert venues. Unlike in Korea, I’ve mostly performed in smaller, more intimate venues during my tours in Japan, North America, and Europe.
What stands out the most in these venues is the incredible, high-quality sound systems that come with them. I especially love the sound production at the Zepp venues in Southeast Asia – they’re truly top-notch. Of course, the small theatres in North America and Europe are also amazing.
One unique aspect I noticed in those regions is that many venues allow the audience to enjoy drinks and alcohol during the performance, which gives the shows a distinctly different vibe.
