What are the top photography locations in Seoul? Best Places to Snap Holiday Photos

While the South Korean capital attracts countless visitors due to the popularity of its K-Pop stars and skincare brands, the city's breathtaking landscapes and cultural landscapes are equally compelling reasons to holiday in Seoul. From iconic palaces to lush parklands with natural water features, this bustling metropolis is a visual wonder. Whether you're an avid Instagrammer or an amateur photographer, here's a list of Seoul's most photogenic highlights to add to your travel itinerary.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Dating back to the 14th century, the Gyeongbokgung Palace is a palace that was constructed during the Joseon Dynasty and is one of Seoul's most recognizable landmarks. Restored to its glory during the latter half of the 19th century, Gyeongbokgung Palace is situated close to City Hall and is easily identifiable due to its lush rolling lawns and pavilions. Although most locals will don traditional hanboks for a visit to this royal abode, the stunning surroundings of this royal palace are so striking that they are likely to stand out regardless of your choice of attire. The changing of the guard is another ceremony worth capturing on film during a visit although tourists should remember that the palace is not open to the public on Tuesdays.

Image via pexels

Bukchon Hanok Village

Earning a spot on nearly every list of the "Most Beautiful Villages in South Korea" Bukchon Hanok Village is the perfect backdrop for those who wish to snap pastoral holiday snaps in Seoul. Lined with nearly a hundred hanok homes or conventional Korean households, it is one of the best glimpses of a traditional village tourists have access to in the nation's capital. Revered for its unique architectural features and layout, the long winding avenues that make up Bukchon Hanok Village are not the only noteworthy aspects to photograph on a tour of the area. Home to countless hanbok rental stores, it is the ideal venue to dress up in a hanbok and pose in front of a typical village household like you're starring in your own Joseon-era K-drama. 

Yeouido Park

Occupying captivating Yeouido Island, Yeouido Park is arguably the finest location to photograph cherry blossoms during the height of spring.  Floating on the Han River, this picturesque island full of vibrant flora and greenery is a hotbed of activity all year round, thanks to its jogging tracks, hiking paths and biking trails. Those who are holidaying in the city during the Seoul International Fireworks Festival will find that the park is also the perfect venue to photograph fireworks displays and the celebratory mood of the capital during the event. 

Seoul Forest Park

Located in Seongdong District, this public park is not only a safe haven for nature lovers but also a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. As another cherry-tree-lined precinct in the city,  Seoul Forest Park is a shutterbug's dream during the magical seasons of autumn and spring. Boasting its very own deer corral, the parkland is also home to a spacious butterfly enclave where Instagrammers can shoot engaging reels full of winged beauties in flight. Those who venture down to the park can also cross the street to tour the historic Bongeunsa Temple where one of Seoul's oldest and tallest Buddha sculptures is found. 

Myeongdong Night Market

Food photographers based at Travelodge Myeongdong Namsan or any other hotels near Myeongdong Shopping Street can pop by the area's famous night market to document Seoul's street treats. As one of the city's most popular and busiest night bazaars, the shops and stalls also provide plenty of opportunities for colourful holiday snaps with uniquely Korean curios and cuisine. 

Eunpyeong Hanok Village

Those who would rather avoid the crowds that gather at Bukchon Hanok Village can alternatively make Eunpyeong Hanok Village the focus of their Seoul Instagram stories. While it may not be as expansive or as well-known, the ability to photograph its quaint streets in peace is well worth the drive over to Seoul's Eunpyeong District.