Seoul: The Insta-worthy Capital of South Korea
As a former Seoul resident, I can confidently say that this vibrant city is a veritable goldmine of Instagrammable spots. From the towering Lotte World Mall to the serene Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul offers a diverse array of visually stunning locations that will have your followers double-tapping in no time.
Whether you’re a seasoned Seoul explorer or a first-time visitor, this in-depth guide will take you on a journey through the most photogenic corners of the city. So, grab your camera, charge your phone, and get ready to transform your social media feed into a Seoul-inspired masterpiece!
Jamsil: Where Aesthetics and Functionality Collide
Let’s start our Instagrammable adventure in Jamsil, one of my absolute favorite areas in Seoul. This bustling neighborhood is home to the iconic Lotte World, the world’s largest indoor amusement park, and a plethora of Instagram-worthy spots.
Arc-N-Book: A Bibliophile’s Dream
One of the most notable Seoul Instagram spots is the Arc-N-Book, located within the Lotte World Mall. This second-floor bookstore boasts a striking architectural design, with arched ceilings and sleek, modern decor. The best time to visit for uninterrupted photos is during the week, as the weekends can get quite crowded.
Basilur Cafe: A Tea-rific Backdrop
Another Instagrammable gem in Jamsil is the Basilur Cafe, located on the top floor of the Lotte World Mall. This quaint, Victorian-themed cafe serves up delicious teas in charming little tins, creating a visually appealing backdrop for your social media posts. I recommend visiting the Basilur Cafe after your photoshoot at Arc-N-Book, as the two locations complement each other perfectly.
Lotte World Mall: A Playground for Photographers
The Lotte World Mall itself is a veritable treasure trove of Instagrammable spots. From the colorful, repurposed storage containers on the ground floor to the seasonally-decorated steps on the 6th floor, there’s something new to discover around every corner. The best time to visit is during the week and in the morning, when foot traffic is a bit lighter.
And let’s not forget the Lotte World Tower, the fifth-tallest building in the world and a true architectural marvel. Snap a photo from across the street to capture the stunning cityscape backdrop.
Olympic Park: Where History and Beauty Collide
No trip to Seoul would be complete without a visit to the iconic Olympic Park, the site of the 1988 Summer Olympics. This sprawling green oasis offers a wealth of Instagrammable opportunities throughout the year.
Cosmos Garden: A Floral Wonderland
One of the most popular places to take pictures in Seoul is the Olympic Park Cosmos Garden, where the spring and autumn blooms create a visually stunning backdrop. To beat the crowds, I recommend visiting during the week and early in the morning – though you may still run into a few dedicated ajummas (Korean older women) doing their morning exercises.
Rose Garden: A Fragrant Oasis
In late spring, the Olympic Park Rose Garden transforms into a true paradise, with the blooming roses filling the air with their intoxicating scent. While the central statue with the Korean flag is a popular spot, I suggest getting creative with your angles and even sitting in the grass to capture the garden’s beauty.
Seokchon Lake: A Serene Sanctuary
Another hidden gem in the Olympic Park area is the Seokchon Lake, a man-made oasis surrounded by lush greenery and the iconic Lotte Tower. The best way to frame your photo is to walk along the path above the track, with the Lotte Tower in the background. This tranquil spot is perfect for a leisurely stroll and an impromptu photoshoot.
Gangnam: Where the Ritzy and the Quirky Collide
Gangnam, the affluent neighborhood made famous by Psy’s “Gangnam Style,” is a hub of Instagrammable delights. From high-end establishments to quirky, one-of-a-kind spots, this vibrant area has something to satisfy every aesthetic craving.
Art Monster: A Watering Hole for the Creative Crowd
One of my favorite Seoul Instagram spots is the Art Monster, a unique bar and lounge located in the heart of Gangnam. The alleyway leading to the entrance is a feast for the eyes, and the interior design is equally captivating, with a Hong Kong-esque vibe. Just remember to be discreet with your photography, as the staff can be a bit protective of their space.
Seoul’s Glittering Skyline
No visit to Gangnam would be complete without capturing the neighborhood’s glittering skyline. Head to the islands at sunset for the perfect opportunity to photograph the city’s twinkling lights, with the Lotte Tower serving as the centerpiece.
Hongdae: The Quirky, Youthful Heart of Seoul
If you’re in search of the most unique and Instagram-worthy cafes and hangout spots, look no further than Hongdae. This vibrant, youthful neighborhood is a hub of creativity and cool, making it a mecca for photographers and influencers alike.
2D Cafe: A Flat-out Fabulous Spot
One of the most aesthetically pleasing cafes in Seoul is the 2D Cafe, which has inspired countless imitations around the world. This flat, minimalist space offers the perfect backdrop for your photos, and you can enjoy delicious treats and drinks while you’re at it.
Harry Potter-Inspired Delights
For the Potterheads out there, the 943 Kings Cross Cafe in Hongdae is an absolute must-visit. With six floors of magical photo opportunities, including the Gryffindor-inspired common room, this cafe is a true wizarding world oasis in the heart of Seoul.
RolaRola: A Retro Playground
Another Instagrammable gem in Hongdae is the RolaRola Flagship Store, a retro-inspired fashion and lifestyle haven that offers a perfect backdrop for your OOTD shots. The vibrant, vintage-inspired decor and neon accents make this spot a must-visit for any Seoul Instagrammer.
Myeongdong: The Mecca of Seoul’s Shopping Scene
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Seoul, Myeongdong is a treasure trove of Instagrammable sights and experiences. From the iconic Arc-N-Book to the stylish StyleNanda cafe, this bustling neighborhood has something to offer every type of content creator.
Arc-N-Book: A Bibliophile’s Paradise (RIP)
Sadly, the Myeongdong location of the beloved Arc-N-Book has closed its doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was once one of the most well-known Instagrammable places in Seoul, and its closure is a true loss for the city’s photo-loving community.
Hello Beautiful Mural: A Positive Message
While the Arc-N-Book may be gone, Myeongdong still offers plenty of Instagrammable spots, including the “Hello Beautiful” mural on the side of the Banila Co storefront. This vibrant, uplifting mural makes for a great backdrop, especially when captured in the morning before the crowds arrive.
StyleNanda: A Pink Oasis
The StyleNanda flagship store in Myeongdong is a true Instagrammer’s paradise, with its signature pink decor and even a decorative pool (that you can’t actually swim in). For the best photos, I recommend visiting in the morning before the crowds start to build.
Bukchon Hanok Village: A Step Back in Time
If you’re looking to capture the traditional essence of Seoul, make your way to the enchanting Bukchon Hanok Village. This well-preserved neighborhood of 600-year-old hanok (traditional Korean houses) offers a picturesque backdrop for your Instagram feed.
The charming alleys and meticulously maintained homes create a timeless, almost magical atmosphere that will transport you back in time. And if you really want to immerse yourself in the experience, you can even rent a traditional hanbok (Korean dress) and stroll through the village, capturing stunning photos along the way.
Instagrammable Oases Across Seoul
Beyond the well-known hotspots, Seoul is dotted with countless other Instagram-worthy gems just waiting to be discovered. From the whimsical Color Pool Museum to the serene Greenmile Cafe, the city is a veritable treasure trove of photo opportunities.
Color Pool Museum: A Rainbow-Hued Oasis
If you’re looking to add a burst of vibrant color to your Instagram feed, the Color Pool Museum is the place to be. This unique attraction was designed specifically with Instagram in mind, offering a kaleidoscope of hues and interactive installations that will have your followers double-tapping in no time.
Greenmile Cafe: A Rooftop Oasis
For a more serene and sophisticated Instagrammable experience, head to the Greenmile Cafe in Hongdae. This rooftop oasis serves up some of the best matcha drinks in the city, all while providing a picturesque backdrop for your photos. The best part? The cafe isn’t overly crowded, so you can take your time capturing the perfect shot.
Uncovering Seoul’s Hidden Gems
While the well-known Instagrammable hotspots in Seoul are undoubtedly impressive, the city is also home to a wealth of lesser-known gems that are just as (if not more) photogenic. These hidden oases offer a chance to step off the beaten path and discover the true essence of Seoul.
Ikseondong-dong: A Modern Hanok Sanctuary
Located just a stone’s throw from the famous Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Ikseondong-dong neighborhood is a hidden gem that’s been transformed into a trendy, modern hanok haven. Filled with charming cafes, boutiques, and restored traditional homes, this area is a must-visit for any Seoul Instagrammer looking to capture the city’s blend of old and new.
Yongma Land: A Hauntingly Beautiful Abandoned Amusement Park
For those seeking a more gritty, industrial-chic aesthetic, the abandoned Yongma Land amusement park is a true photographer’s paradise. This eerie, decaying site has been repurposed as a hub for creatives, offering a unique and visually striking backdrop for fashion, editorial, and even horror-themed shoots. Just be sure to pay the extra fee to have the carousel turned on for some truly mesmerizing night shots.
Seoul: A Photographer’s Playground
As you can see, Seoul is a veritable treasure trove of Instagrammable delights, from the towering landmarks to the hidden, quirky corners. Whether you’re a seasoned Seoul explorer or a first-time visitor, this guide has hopefully inspired you to venture off the beaten path and uncover the city’s most visually stunning spots.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your ultimate Seoul photoshoot and get ready to transform your social media feed into a vibrant, Korea-inspired masterpiece. Trust me, your followers will be double-tapping in no time!
