Since we've been waking up early ever since we got here, we thought we would take it easy today and spend some time checking out one of the many parks along arguably the most defining landmark in Korea and that is none other than the Han River. The Citizen's Park consists a total of 12 districts - Gwangnaru, Jamsil, Ttukseom, Jamwon, Banpo, Ichon, Yeouido, Yanghwa, Mangwon, Seonyudo, Nanji and Gangseojihu.
In this case we decided to go to Yeouido Hangang Park. Why Yeouido? Simple. If you are a big fan of K-variety shows, this is the area where all the major broadcasting stations (KBS, SBS, MBC) are located and have filmed. If you happen to go to Korea during Spring, the park is covered with an abundance of beautiful cherry blossoms and the weather is perfect for a walk.
How & the many ways to get here: Yeouido Station (Line 5 & 9), Exit 2 OR National Assembly Station (Line 9), Exit 4.
Because the park is rectangular in shape, it's in between the two stations.
Yeouido Park is also the place where you can find the famous "I Seoul U" signage. Unfortunately we did not manage to get a good shot here cause of the event that was held on that day. There are just so many dating spots to go to in Korea you'll be spoilt for choice. What can be more romantic than cycling or simply sitting by the river with the autumn wind blowing in your hair?! Definitely a must to go here during the spring so you can witness the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival!
How to get here: Yeounaru Station (Line 5), Exit 2 OR 3.
For lunch, we decided it was a good idea to finally head on over to Hongdae at BoA's Travel House and while we were there, we dropped by the Free Market at Hongik's Children's Park.
Address: 15, Sinchon-ro 1-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea 120836
How to get here: Hongik University Station (Line 2) Exit 9.
BoA Travel House is not only halal but they provide food delivery services as well.
How to order: Drop a message on their Facebook page indicating the item and quantity, pick up time and your accommodation in Seoul.
Price: 7,000 won per dosirak if you're staying at the guesthouse
8,000 won for other guests
Hongdae is basically the go-to neighbourhood for all things street food, street fashion and young trendy people to hang out at. It's really big on entertainment compared to shopping but fret not, there are still plenty of shopping to be done here as well. As Hongdae also has one of the most happening nightlife scenes in Seoul, expect lots of Bars, Clubs, KTVs, Cafes and places youths of today like to venture to. Famous for it's youthful ambience, the place is brimming with young musicians, buskers and artists staging street performances on weeknights.
Fun fact: How exactly did the name Hongdae came about? In full, it's actually Hongik Daehakgyo which was then abbreviated to Hongdae taking only the first few letters of the two words.
(Photo courtesy of http://herlittleguiltypleasures.blogspot.com/)
The hipster flea market sells brand new creative items that reflects the distinctive taste of the local artists at the market. Located at the Hongdae Children's Playground, it takes place every Saturday, opens from 1:00pm - 6:00pm during the months of March to November.
How to get here: From Exit 9, walk straight towards Hongik University entrance, cross the road and turn right to arrive at Hongik Children's Park.
Seeing as Kai is a guy who doesn't have the fashion sense of a typical Korean boy/man. He didn't have to worry about splurging his money on skincare products or clothes so he just bought himself an MCM wallet hahaha.
Before we ended our day, we stopped by Ewha Womans University which was just two stops away if you take the subway. The area around the university is full of budget friendly street food, cafes, restaurants, shops an stores with beautiful trees lined on the street. The campus is without a doubt beautiful if we had gone during the day and definitely a must visit place to enjoy the autumn vibes in Seoul. Unfortunately, by the time we got there it was getting late and the night got colder, hence we did not manage to take a good look around the campus as it was already dark. Nonetheless, here are some photos from other bloggers during the summer and autumn.
(Photo courtesy of http://kayleensy.blogspot.com/)
Targeting the students of Ewha Womans University, you'll also notice that some of the things here are relatively cheaper than in Hongdae. The shopping streets are lined with things catered from women and girls alike.
(Photo courtesy of http://foodinloveid.com/)
How to get there: Ewha Womans University Station (Line 2), Exit 2 or 3. The building is located only 5 mins from the station.
Next up, Day 8 - Garosugil, Grilled Fish Alley & Myeong-dong.
