SeoulOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Ancient Capital to Joseon Dynasty Powerhouse

Seoul's history spans over 2,000 years, with the area along the Han River inhabited for millennia. The city's story begins around 18 BC when it was founded as Wiryeseong, the early capital of the Baekje Kingdom, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. This location, surrounded by mountains and traversed by the Han River, offered both natural defenses and transportation routes.

In 1394, General Yi Seong-gye, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, chose Hanyang (present-day Seoul) as his new capital, moving it from old Goryeo. The city was planned according to Confucian principles, with construction beginning in October 1394. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), Seoul, also known as Hanseong, was surrounded by a circular fortress wall, standing 20 feet high, to protect its citizens. By 1429, the population had reached 100,000. Most of the city's surviving historic architecture, including the five royal palaces and Jongmyo Shrine, dates from this 500-year period.

Colonial Rule and the Korean War's Impact

The early 20th century brought changes under Japanese colonial rule (1910–1945), during which Seoul was temporarily renamed "Keijō" (Gyeongseong in Korean). This era saw modernization efforts, including paved roads and Western-style buildings, but also the damage or repurposing of Korean cultural sites. Following Japan's surrender in World War II, Korea was divided, leading to the Korean War (1950–1953). Seoul changed hands four times during the conflict and suffered extensive destruction, leaving much of the city in ruins.

After the armistice in 1953, Seoul underwent rapid reconstruction and urbanization. The city transformed from a war-ravaged landscape into a metropolis of skyscrapers and highways, with its population reaching 2.5 million by 1960 and 10 million by 1990.

• —Gyeongbokgung Palace — The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, originally constructed in 1395. See the Gwanghwamun Gate, the main entrance, and explore the palace grounds, including the Geunjeongjeon Hall where the king's official functions were held.
• —Jongmyo Shrine — A Confucian royal ancestral shrine built in the late 14th century for memorial services for deceased kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. It is the oldest royal Confucian shrine preserved and houses the spirit tablets of former kings and queens.
• —Bukchon Hanok Village — A traditional Korean village with approximately 600 hanok (traditional Korean houses) that were once home to royalty, aristocrats, and government officials during the Joseon Dynasty. Walk its narrow alleys to see the preserved architectural styles, some modernized in the 1920s-30s with glass windows and electricity while retaining their traditional form.
• —Changdeokgung Palace — Another of the Five Grand Palaces, built in 1405. It is known for its Secret Garden (Huwon), a large landscaped garden reserved for the royal family, featuring pavilions, ponds, and diverse flora.
• —Seodaemun Prison History Hall — This former prison, built in 1908 during the Japanese colonial period, served as a place of detention for Korean independence activists. Walk through the cells, interrogation rooms, and execution areas, offering a look into a period of Korean history.
• —War Memorial of Korea — Opened in 1994 on the former site of the army headquarters, this museum commemorates Korea's military history, with a focus on the Korean War (1950-1953). It features six indoor exhibition rooms and an outdoor area displaying war memorabilia and military equipment, including the Statue of Brothers.
• —Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) — A neofuturistic architectural landmark designed by Zaha Hadid, opened in March 2014. It hosts art exhibitions, fashion shows, and cultural events, characterized by its curves and thousands of uniquely shaped aluminum panels.

The best times to visit Seoul are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). Spring offers mild temperatures and cherry blossoms, while autumn brings crisp air and fall foliage, with temperatures between 10 and 20°C. Both seasons are popular, so expect crowds and higher prices for accommodations and flights.

Avoid visiting in July and August, the hottest and most humid months, with temperatures around 28°C. This period also experiences the monsoon season with heavy rains. Winters (December to early March) are cold and sunny, with occasional snowfalls, and afternoon temperatures often around freezing.

Seoul is served by two airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). From Incheon, the AREX express train takes 43 to 51 minutes to Seoul Station, costing between 11,000 and 13,000 KRW. The all-stop commuter train is cheaper but takes longer. Airport limousine buses are also available.

Getting around Seoul is efficient with its public transportation system, primarily the subway and bus networks. Purchase a T-money card (available at convenience stores and subway kiosks for 2,500-4,000 KRW) for discounted fares and easy transfers. The base fare for a subway ride with a T-money card is 1,500 KRW for the first 10 kilometers. Buses have varying flat rates, starting around 1,550 KRW for city buses. Free transfers between subway and bus apply within 30 minutes of tapping out with a T-money card. Taxis are available, with standard fares starting at 4,800 KRW for the first 1.6 kilometers.