One of South Korea’s most affluent residential districts, Seochu-gu sprawls south of Seoul’s city centre. It’s home to monumental performing arts complexes dedicated to both traditional and classical styles, as well as a leafy park that was established in the lead up to the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

Things to do

Korea’s ancient musical traditions are preserved at the National Gugak Center, which offers academic courses and private tuition in a range of instruments. You can attend one of their multi-week courses in dance and music or coincide your visit with an ensemble performance to learn about traditional aak court music.

Focused on Western performing arts is the Seoul Arts Center, a modern complex home to the Korea National Ballet, the Korea National Opera and the Korean Symphony Orchestra. In addition to its Opera House and Music Hall, the complex encompasses the Hangaram Art Museum where large-scale contemporary works and art installations are showcased. You can browse the creative exhibitions at the Hangaram Design Museum before marvelling at the detailed works of the Seoul Calligraphy Art Museum.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul, spend an afternoon in Yangjae Citizens’ Forest, which was established in the lead up to the 1986 Asian Games and the 1988 Seoul Olympics. In addition to its extensive sports facilities, the park also features a children’s playground and an outdoor wedding hall, as well as a memorial dedicated to the Korean independence activist Yun Bonggil.

Getting around

Seocho-gu is served by several lines on the Seoul Metro and buses travel throughout the district. The centre of Seoul is around 30 minutes away by subway while Incheon International Airport is a 1.5-hour ride from Seocho-gu.