//
Established in 2001, PKM Gallery is known for its sleek, modern architecture and thoughtfully curated exhibitions that span painting, sculpture, multimedia, and installation art. The gallery actively participates in global art fairs and supports emerging and established artists alike, making it a significant player in South Korea's contemporary art scene. It offers visitors an immersive cultural experience, surrounded by beautiful views of the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
북촌동양문화박물관
You can see various exhibitions of the museum, and there is an observatory where you can see Seoul City Wall and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
북촌전망대
Provides a sweeping view of Bukchon Village and the greater Seoul cityscape, with Lotte Tower and the palace both clearly visible. It’s humble: clearly a converted apartment, and so tucked away its easy to miss, but it’s a great place to rest and take in the views, with beverage (tea, coffee) included as part of admission.
국립 민속 박물관
국립민속박물관 어린이박물관
This place provides various experiences and services for children in areas such as exhibitions, education, research, and exchange.
청와대, 靑瓦臺
Also known in English as the Blue House, it was the residence of the President of the Republic of Korea from 1948-2022. It's next to the grounds of Gyeongbokgung, and can be easily recognized by its blue roof tiles and its unique fusion of modern and traditional Korean architectural styles. It is now open to the public, but only allows a limited number of visitors per day, so be sure to reserve your tickets in advance. As of June 2025, president Lee Jae-myung have announced that he will soon move his presidential residence back to Cheong Wa Dae, so be quick if you wish to visit.
North Village, 북촌한옥마을
The collective name of the few tiny suburbs ("dong") wedged between Gyeongbuk Palace and the Secret Garden, just north of Insadong and Anguk Station. This area was where relatives of the royal family, high public officials, and other important families lived for over 500 years as they serviced the nearby palaces. Today, some 900 of their traditional Korean "hanok" houses remain, making this area one of Seoul's most picturesque centres for arts, culture, food, and fashion. The flip side is that the neighbourhood has been heavily commercialized, is rather soulless, and on the verge of becoming a Korean theme park. Some streets no longer house local residents and have instead been taken over entirely by guest houses in faux hanok style. From 17:00 to 10:00, tourists are not allowed to enter the village. Self-styled neighbourhood guards in fantasy uniforms patrol the streets and rudely shoo visitors away. If your accommodation is in the area, they will let you pass grudgingly, but take cruel pleasure in proclaiming an absurd photo ban during the curfew.