Ikseongdong, Insadong, Gwanghwamun and Myongdong, Seoul, South Korea

Ikseon-dong, Insadong, Gwanghwamun, and Myeong-dong are all located in central Seoul, near Jongno and Jung-gu districts, making them easily accessible and close to major historical and cultural sites. 1031

Today’s journey began near Tapgol Park, where I stayed. The first stop was Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, just a short walk away.

Song Hae-gil (송해길) is a street in Seoul named after Song Hae (송해), a beloved South Korean television host known for his long-running role on the show National Singing Contest (전국노래자랑). The street, located in Jongno near Tapgol Park, was dedicated to him in recognition of his contributions to Korean entertainment. It serves as a tribute to his legacy, especially among older generations who fondly remember his work.

Song Hae-gil (송해길) Street

Jongno 3 Street Subway Station Entrance

Back side

Entering Ikseon-dong Hanok Village

You can purchase a daily fortune paper here.

Ikseon-dong Hanok Village is a charming neighborhood in central Seoul, known for its well-preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) and trendy cafés, boutiques, and restaurants. Unlike other hanok villages, such as Bukchon, Ikseon-dong blends traditional architecture with modern culture, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Originally built in the 1920s, the village has transformed into a lively cultural hub while maintaining its historical charm. Its narrow alleys are filled with hidden tea houses, artisan shops, and fusion dining spots, offering a unique contrast of old and new.

Looking at the backside

Looking at the backside

Walking out of Ikseon-dong Hanok Village

A short walk from Ikseon-dong Hanok Village leads to Insadong Street, a popular tourist destination known for its traditional crafts and cultural charm.

Insadong Street

Insadong Street is a vibrant cultural district in central Seoul, famous for its traditional Korean crafts, antiques, teahouses, and art galleries. It is a top destination for visitors looking to experience Korea’s artistic and historical heritage.

The street is lined with shops selling hanji (traditional paper), pottery, calligraphy materials, and hanbok (traditional clothing). You’ll also find authentic Korean restaurants and teahouses offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.

A side street view

Insadong Street

Looking at the backside

Building structures lining the left side of Insadong Street

Looking at the buildings closely

Returned to the street

Ssamziegil is a vibrant shopping and cultural complex located in Insadong, Seoul. Opened in 2004, it is famous for its unique architectural design with a spiraling walkway that leads visitors from the ground floor to the rooftop without the need for stairs.

The complex houses over 70 shops offering handmade crafts, such as pottery, jewelry, and traditional Korean souvenirs.

Returned back to Insadong street

A side street view

Another side street buildings

Returned to Insadong street

Another side street view

At the end of Insadong street

Looking at the backside

At the end of Insadong street is this big street

Gwanghwamun Gate, the main entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace, is just a short walk from Insadong Street.

Buildings in front of Gwanghwamun Gate

Walking toward Gwanghwamun Square

Statue of King Sejong the Great.  King Sejong the Great (세종대왕) was the fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty, reigning from 1418 to 1450. He is one of Korea’s most revered historical figures, known for his contributions to culture, science, and governance. His most notable achievement is the creation of Hangul, the Korean alphabet, which greatly improved literacy among commoners.

Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin.  Admiral Yi Sun-sin (이순신, 1545–1598) is one of Korea’s most celebrated naval heroes, known for his leadership and military brilliance during the Japanese invasions of Korea (Imjin War, 1592–1598). He is especially famous for his undefeated record in battle and for his role in defending Korea against overwhelming odds.

From Gwanghwamun Square, I took a subway to Myeongdong Shopping Street

Walking from the subway station to Myeongdong’s main street

This is the Myeongdong’s central street, named “Myeongdong Gil(Street).”

Right side view

Left side view

I turned right toward Myeongdong Cathedral

Myeongdong Cathedral

Myeongdong Cathedral (명동대성당) is the first Roman Catholic church in Korea and a significant landmark in Seoul. Built in 1898, it is the birthplace of the Korean Catholic community and an important symbol of Korea’s religious history.

Returning back to the street

I turned left onto Myeongdong-gil and walked back to where I had been.

Then I passed the street where I had come from the subway station and continued straight.

View of a side street

I stopped at a restaurant and had dinner.

I returned to the street and continued in the same direction.

At this end of Myeongdong-gil, there is a wide street lined with several large department stores.

Looking at the backside

One of the department store had a giant LCD screen on it.