Known for its luxe lifestyle, wealthy residents and high-end shopping, Gangnam-gu is Seoul’s most prestigious neighbourhood. For shopaholics, it’s a sartorial paradise. High-end malls and department stalls dot its footprint, retailing coveted brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Versace. Gangnam-gu also serves up a raucous nightlife scene. From electro and house to pop and hip hop, it’s home to Seoul’s most exclusive clubs.

Gangnam-gu has always been well known, but it wasn’t until the legendary K-pop single “Gangnam Style” was released in 2012 that it shot to fame. The neighbourhood inspired the viral hit, and it’s not unusual to see fans recreating the video clip’s outrageous dance moves on the public stage outside Gangnam Station.

Gangnam-gu is serviced by several stops on the Seoul subway network, with the biggest being Gangnam Subway Station. The closest airport is Gimpo International, and Incheon International is also a popular access point. To central attractions like the Gyeongbokgung royal palace, Myeong-dong shopping strip and N Seoul Tower, the public transit journey from Gangnam-gu is around one hour.

Beyond gleaming shopfronts luxe nightclubs, Gangnam-gu also offers visitors a cultural fix. The neighbourhood is anchored by the Bongeunsa Buddhist Temple, which offers visitors a fascinating glimpse at Korea’s traditional past.