Top Photography Destinations in Seoul: A Must-Visit Guide for Enthusiasts

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a captivating blend of modernity and tradition. With its towering skyscrapers juxtaposed against serene palaces, bustling markets, and vibrant streets, Seoul offers photographers an endless array of spectacular scenes to capture. Whether you are an amateur hoping to build your portfolio or a seasoned photographer seeking inspiration, this city promises a treasure trove of stunning spots.

Gyeongbokgung Palace: A Journey Through Time

Gyeongbokgung Palace is not just a favorite among history buffs; it’s also a dreamy playground for photographers. Built during the Joseon Dynasty, this grand palace offers endless possibilities for unique shots. The splendid architecture, characterized by its distinctive Korean style, is both bold and intricate. Its vast courtyards and lush gardens are perfect for morning light shoots. Be sure to visit during the changing of the guard ceremony, a colorful and vibrant event, rich with traditional costumes perfect for action photography.

Photographic Highlights

• Capture the intricate patterns of the palace roofs against a clear blue sky.
• Play with perspectives and frame palace gates for unique compositional shots.
• Utilize the reflection of the palace in the serene Hyangwonjeong Pond for a breathtaking double exposure effect.

Bukchon Hanok Village: A Glimpse into the Past

Nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, Bukchon Hanok Village is a picturesque neighborhood brimming with traditional Korean houses known as 'hanoks.' This quaint village beautifully captures the essence of ancient Korea. As you wander through the narrow lanes, observe how old meets new, with the N Seoul Tower peeking in the backdrop of hanok rooftops offering contrasting imagery. Here, each twist and turn presents a new composition waiting to be photographed.

What to Photograph

• The unique rooflines and wooden accents of hanok homes.
• Lively street views filled with locals and travelers in traditional hanbok attire.
• Quaint alleyways encased in ivy-covered walls, providing a natural frame for your images.

Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon: A Nature-Lover’s Paradise

Famed for its exquisite garden, Huwon, Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an absolute must for photographers interested in nature and architecture. This palace’s garden presents an idyllic setting for capturing the seasonal beauty of Seoul, transforming through vibrant bursts of cherry blossoms in spring, lush green scenery in summer, a tapestry of autumn colors, and snow-clad landscapes in winter.

Scenic Photography Spots

• Capture the serene beauty of the Ongnyucheon Stream.
• Vibrant trees in contrast with the historical architecture.
• Stone bridges beautifully blending with the garden’s curated landscape.

Namsan Seoul Tower: The City’s Panorama

Rising high above the cityscape, the Namsan Seoul Tower is a beacon for panoramic views of Seoul. This is where the city truly comes alive under your lens, offering dynamic cityscapes and breathtaking sunsets. An observatory gives you a 360-degree view, ideal for capturing the glittering metropolis below. Visiting during the evening offers magnificent city lights stretching into the horizon, stunningly captured against the sunset’s painted sky.

Must-Capture Moments

• The transition of daylight to dusk, painting the Seoul skyline in magnificent hues.
• The mesmerizing sea of city lights during the golden hour.
• The love locks symbolizing romance near the viewing platforms, adding a touch of sentimentality to your shots.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Futuristic Architecture

Designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza stands as a testament to futuristic innovation. The flowing, organic curves of this architectural masterpiece offer abundant opportunities for abstract and modern architectural photography. The plaza lights up beautifully at night, providing yet another dimension for photographers to explore.

Things to Capture

• The smooth, seamless surfaces of DDP for reflective and abstract compositions.
• Vibrant LED rose garden installations near the plaza.
• The interplay of light and shadows across the plaza’s curves throughout the day.

Best Places to Visit

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
3. Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon
4. Namsan Seoul Tower
5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Seoul is a city that thrives on contrasts, offering an intricate tapestry of scenes to capture. Whether you’re documenting its grand historic palaces, traditional villages, or ultramodern architecture, each frame is bound to narrate its unique story. As you explore, remember that each moment through your lens becomes a narrative of Seoul’s rich culture and vivid dynamism. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant mix of ancient and new, and let its energy inspire your photographic journey.