Kyung Hee University (Peace Hall)
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About
Kyung Hee University is widely considered the most beautiful campus in Korea, famous for its European-style stone architecture and gothic-style buildings. The 'Grand Peace Hall' is a massive cathedral-like structure that serves as a landmark for the university and a venue for prestigious award ceremonies and concerts. During spring, the campus is covered in cherry blossoms, creating a fairytale-like sensory experience. The vibe is a mix of academic prestige and architectural grandeur. Experts recommend visiting the 'Main Building' with its Greek-style columns and central fountain for the best photos. Pro tip: The walk from the subway station involves a steep hill; the campus is particularly spectacular in early April for cherry blossoms or late October for autumn foliage.
Highlights
- Grand Gothic-style architecture
- Prestigious concert venue
- Stunning spring cherry blossoms
- Magnificent facade carvings
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Born & Bred
Born & Bred is a multi-story beef boutique located near the Majang Meat Market, serving the absolute finest 'Hanwoo' (Korean beef) in the country. The basement 'Speakeasy' offers a world-famous beef omakase that has been featured on numerous global food shows. The sensory experience is an education in beef: you'll taste various cuts from different parts of the cow, each prepared with precise techniques. The marbleized fat melts on the tongue, leaving a rich, nutty aftertaste. Experts recommend the 'Butcher's Lounge' on the second floor for a more casual but still premium BBQ experience. Practical pro tip: The basement omakase is one of the hardest reservations to get in Seoul; if you can't book it, the higher floors still offer some of the best steak you will ever eat.
Kyochon Chicken (Dongdaemun)
Kyochon is a pioneer of the Korean fried chicken craze, famous for its 'double-frying' technique that creates an incredibly thin, crackly, and non-greasy crust. The Dongdaemun flagship is a 24-hour hub where the smell of soy-garlic glaze and spicy red peppers permeates the air. The experience of 'Chimaek' (chicken and beer) here is a quintessential Seoul nightlife ritual. Experts recommend the 'Honey Series' for a perfect balance of sweet and salty, or the 'Red Series' if you can handle authentic Korean spice. Practical pro tip: The chicken is cooked to order, so expect a 20-minute wait even after sitting down; use this time to enjoy the complimentary pickled radish and a cold draft beer.
Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun)
Heunginjimun, the 'Gate of Rising Benevolence,' is the grand eastern gate of Seoul’s ancient city wall. It is the only one of the four main gates featuring an 'Ongseong'—a semi-circular protective outer wall designed to defend against invaders. The architecture is more ornate than Namdaemun, reflecting the style of the late Joseon period. The gate is located at the center of the Dongdaemun shopping district, creating a sharp contrast between 14th-century history and 21st-century fashion. Experts recommend walking up the 'Seoul City Wall' trail starting right across the street in Naksan Park for a view of the gate from above. Pro tip: The gate is especially beautiful at night when the traffic lights create light trails around its historic stone base.
Seoul Forest
Often compared to New York’s Central Park, Seoul Forest is a massive ecological park that was once a royal hunting ground and later a golf course. It is divided into several zones, including a Cultural Art Park, an Ecological Forest where deer roam, and a Waterfront Park. The sensory experience changes with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to golden ginkgo paths in autumn. It has become a trendy 'hot spot' due to its proximity to Seongsu-dong’s hip cafes. Experts recommend the 'Skywalk' for an elevated view of the deer enclosure and the Han River. Pro tip: Rent a bike near the entrance to cover the vast grounds efficiently, and don't miss the Butterfly Garden and Insect Garden during the summer months.
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