Seoul transforms into a golden dreamscape at sunset, blending ancient palaces with neon skylines. Here’s where to witness magic hour like a local:
1. Namsan Seoul Tower (Namsan Mountain)
Why visit? Panoramic 360° views from Seoul’s iconic landmark. Watch the city fade from daylight to a sea of twinkling lights.
How to get there: Take Bus No. 02/03/05 to Namsan Cable Car Station (from Myeongdong/Chungmuro Stn). Ride the cable car (₩14,000 round-trip) or hike 30 mins.
Pro tip: Lock a love token at the fence, then sip coffee at the rooftop cafe. Arrive 90 mins pre-sunset for prime seating!
2. Banpo Hangang Park (Han River)
Why visit? Sunset + Rainbow Fountain Show (Apr-Oct, 7:30/8:00/8:30 PM). Reflective waters turn the sky into liquid fire with Banpo Bridge’s 10,000 LEDs dancing behind you.
How to get there: Subway to Express Bus Terminal Stn (Line 3/7/9), Exit 8-1. 10-min walk to the river.
Pro tip: Rent a picnic mat (₩3,000) and grab fried chicken + beer (“chimaek”) from nearby vendors. Pure Seoul vibes!
3. Gyeongbokgung Palace Backdrop
Why visit? Historic drama! Capture the sun dipping behind ancient palace roofs with Bukhansan Mountain silhouetted. Photographers’ paradise.
How to get there: Subway to Gyeongbokgung Stn (Line 3). Enter via Gwanghwamun Gate.
Pro tip: Visit Tuesday-Saturday (closed Mon). Stand near Hyangwonjeong Pavilion for mirror-like pond reflections. Pair with Changdeokgung’s secret garden at sunset (separate ticket).
4. Seonyudo Park (Floating Garden)
Why visit? A reclaimed water treatment plant turned eco-park. Unobstructed western views over Han River, framed by industrial-art installations.
How to get there: Subway to Dangsan Stn (Line 2/9), then Bus 5714 to Seonyudo Park.
Pro tip: Explore glass greenhouses by day, then watch sunset paint steel structures crimson. Less crowded weekdays!
5. Lotte World Tower Observatory (Seoul Sky)
Why visit? Highest sunset view (555m)! Watch from Korea’s tallest building as the sky streaks pink over distant mountains.
How to get there: Subway to Jamsil Stn (Line 2/8), Exit 1. Observatory ticket: ₩27,000 (book online for discounts).
Pro tip: Time your visit for “Golden Hour” (check online for daily sunset timings). Sky-high cocktails at the 123F bar enhance the glamour.
Essential Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Timing: Check sunset times on apps like KakaoWeather (varies from 4:30 PM winter to 7:30 PM summer).
- Transport: Use T-money cards (subway/bus). Late-night taxis are affordable.
- Etiquette: Clapping during sunset is a local quirk – join in!
- Safety: Parks are well-lit; observatories have English signage.
Seoul’s sunsets are love letters to the city’s soul. Whether you’re riverside with chicken or atop a skyscraper, that golden moment will etch itself into your travel memories. 🌇✨
Got questions? Drop them below – I’ll reply faster than Seoul’s sun disappears behind Bukhansan!