If you have spent any time in Seoul, it can seem like the variety of activities for the solo traveler are somewhat limited. Many of the great things to do and see in the city are designed for couples or groups of people, which can be frustrating for those traveling alone.
This might be a concern for tourists visiting the city alone, or for anyone living here who simply wants some time on their own. However, if you know where to go, there is plenty to do in the city without any companions.
Visit A Gallery
Spend the day strolling through a gallery in Seoul. The city is teeming with galleries, from traditional to contemporary, including both Korean and international art; there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Leeum Samsung Museum of Art | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
The gallery contains traditional Korean art fused with contemporary collections and exhibitions.
Hours: 10:30-18:00. Closed on Mondays.
Fee: 8000-14000 KRW
MMCA | Jung-gu, Seoul
This museum has earned a reputation as the representation of modern Korean art and now focuses on introducing global contemporary art.
Hours: 10:00-18:00. Saturday 21:00 close. Closed on Mondays.
Fee: Free!
Visit A Museum
Learn all about Korean history and get cultured by visiting a museum. This is a great option for solo travelers on a budget as most museums are free and will provide visitors with a captivating experience.
National Museum of Korea | Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Take a journey through Korean history from the Paleolithic age to modern times. This educational and informative experience will introduce you to the unique and fascinating aspects of Korean history and culture.
Hours: 09:00-18:00. Wednesday and Saturday, 09:00-21:00.
Fee: Free!
National Folk Museum of Korea | Jongno-gu, Seoul
Located within the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum is designed to represent the daily life and culture of Korea, and aims to develop an understanding of the Korean lifestyle.
Hours: 09:00-17:00
Fee: Free!
Seoul Museum of History | Jongno-gu, Seoul
The museum aims to provide visitors with in-depth knowledge of Seoul through exhibitions, activities, and events. This experience provides citizens and visitors of the city with an understanding and awareness of the city’s history and culture.
Hours: Weekdays 09:00-20:00. Weekends 09:00-18:00.
Fee: Free!
An Evening At The Movies
For the Korean entertainment fanatics, spending an evening at the movies is a great activity to enjoy alone. Many Korean cinemas offer subtitled screenings of Korean releases, as well as international releases in English. CGV, Megabox and Lotte World Cinemas can be found all across Seoul. The following are popular destinations for citizens and visitors to Seoul:
CGV, Megabox and Lotte World Cinemas can be found all across Seoul. The following are popular destinations for citizens and visitors to Seoul:
Go Shopping
Many tourists come to Seoul specifically to shop, so don’t miss out as the city has something to offer every type of shopper.
Myeongdong is a popular shopping district for tourists because of the many branded stores in the area, including beauty and fashion. The area is full of Korean and international restaurants; visitors can easily spend the day in Myeongdong without getting bored, but expect it to be busy!
If you want to shop in the evening, visit Dongdaemun’s infamous night market. This is great for anyone who wants to purchase unique gifts and clothes, at low prices.
EWHA Womans University shopping street is known for its abundance of stylish yet affordable clothing stores, as well as its many hair and beauty salons.
For a more glamorous shopping experience, COEX Mall is an underground shopping centre with plenty of branded stores, eateries and a cinema for the perfect solo day out.
PC Rooms
You can find PC rooms everywhere in Korea, and especially in Seoul. The cost per hour to use computers and other equipment is cheap to top it off, and they’re accessible 24/7.
Take A Hike
When city life begins to take its toll on you, take yourself out hiking at one of Seoul’s picturesque national parks. Hiking is extremely popular among Korean people for a good reason, so make sure to give it a go.
Have a look at our recommendations on the best hiking trails in Korea.
Step Back In Time Through A Temple Or Palace Visit
If you want to fully immerse yourself in Korean culture, visiting a temple and/or palace should be at the top of your list. Delve into Korea’s past and visit a palace or temple on your solo travels around Seoul.
Jogyesa Temple | Jongno-gu, Seoul
This temple is the centre of Zen Buddhism in Korea and remains a popular destination for tourists due to its convenient location in the centre of the city.
Hours: 24 hours
Fee: Free
Bongeunsa Temple | Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Bongeunsa temple contains over 3,000 Buddhist scriptures and hosts the annual ceremony, Jeongdaebulsa, on September 9th. Activities include temple stay, tea ceremony, experiencing a Buddist meal and meeting Korean monks.
Hours: 24 hours
Fee: Free
Gyeongbokgung Palace | Jongno-gu, Seoul
An iconic landmark in Seoul, this palace must be on every tourist and citizens’ list. If it isn’t for the beauty of the palace, you should visit Gyeongbokgung to learn about Korean history as the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea are located within the palace grounds.
Hours: 09:00-17:00. Closed on Tuesday
Fee: 3000 KRW
Changdeokgung Palace | Jongno-gu, Seoul
Built in 1402, this palace was where the royal family resided and is seen as a place of perfect harmony with nature. Spend the day relaxing and soaking in Korea’s culture by visiting this historic space.
Hours: 09:00-18:00
Fee: 3000 KRW
Dine Out Alone
You may not be able to order Korean barbeque for one, but the food you can enjoy on your own in Seoul is plentiful. If you are out and about, try some street food, visit a Korean market, or stop by a convenience store and try out the unique range of Korean snack foods available.
Relax In A Café
In the colder months when you may not want to venture outside, relaxing in a Korean café is a great solo activity. Cafe culturé is an important part of modern Korean life and should be experienced by all visitors and citizens of Seoul.
Take a book and enjoy the variety of unique drinks available at Korean coffee shops. If you are a tourist in Seoul, why not visit a pet or themed café for some entertaining photos to look back on when you return home.
Check out some of our winter café recommendations here.