Why is Namsan Tower famous?
Namsan Tower in autumn
One of the Top 500 attractions of the world, and the greatest symbol of Seoul, Namsan Tower shines bright as the star itself. The tower has a number of cultural experiences available with 360 degree panoramic views to entertain the eye and a place where your dreams can come true. Read on to find out more!
Opened in 1969, it was the first general radio and television tower in South Korea, conveniently located on Seoul’s highest hill Mt. Namsan, it stands 479m above the sea level making it one of the tallest towers in Korea! If you get to see Namsan Tower in the dark, you’ll find it illuminated in various colours, as if becoming an unmovable firefly.
What many visitors don’t realize, is that the Namsan Seoul Tower is actually split into two parts: the Seoul Tower Plaza and the N Seoul Tower, where the main observatory is located. At the Seoul Tower Plaza, you can enjoy a hanbok experience (find out which colour represents you best), take numerous photos with your favourite idols (any fans of PSY, 2NE1 or G-dragon?), or visit a Hello Kitty character exhibition to feel a little cuter, and a little closer to your favourite character. The tower also has the latest LED technology on display, when you are there, don’t forget to look up not only at the starry sky of Seoul, but at the ceiling of the Namsan Plaza too (promise you won’t be disappointed!).
Famous K-drama filming location, the remains of Seoul city wall at Namsan Tower
However, it is not only Namsan Tower is worth a visit, take your time to explore the various paths on Namsan mountain too. Back in Joseon Dynasty, tens of soldiers stood protecting the fortress wall along its ridges all the while admiring the majestic views of Seoul. The park is also the largest of its kind within the city and has over 60 different species of trees, making it a nature lovers paradise. It is especially beautiful in autumn and spring, when the trees turn into bright colours. After all, there is a good reason why Itaewon Class shot their most important love scene at the Namsan Park itself, along a city wall trail, with the Namsan tower in the background, and an abundance of love in the air.
P.S. If you’re up for a challenge, why not complete a Seoul City Wall Circuit? It is over 18.6km long, and boasts incredible views of Seoul and Namsan Tower from all around!
‘Love Locks’ at Namsan Tower
Remember we mentioned that your dreams might come true at Namsan Tower? Actually, there is a good chance! As you step onto the observation plate you will soon be welcomed by thousands of locks admiring the stunning views. The local legend has it, that if you write a wish on the padlock and put it there, it will come true and your love life will flourish in a multitude of colours. Many come here with couples, wish that their relationships would last forever, some come alone hoping their crush would start noticing them, some come here to wish for a success in life and good happenings. Whatever is your dream, once you write it down you are one step closer to achieving it! But if you prefer more typical wish-making ways, look out for a pond, which welcomes a few coins in exchange of a wish come.
As expected, Namsan Tower is also one of the most romantic places in Seoul, perfect for romantic walks and dates. When you are there, you can feel like you are in some sort of a Korean drama, let it be the “Boys Over Flowers”, “Hotel Del Luna” or your own. Even the ‘Dating Agency Cyrano” was filmed there, there must be really something in the air…
Let us know in the comments what would be your top places in Seoul!
Author: Raimonda Kekyte