Seoul Photo Spots
South Korea is known for top-quality skincare, catchy K-pop, and incredible films and shows, but there’s so much more to this amazing destination! Named one of the best places to visit in 2023, Seoul is an experience-rich city that will captivate you from the moment you arrive. From centuries-old palaces and bustling markets to world-class shopping and beautifully designed cafés, there are endless things to do and places to take photos in Seoul. 🇰🇷
And that’s not all! Seoul is widely considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with gorgeous parks and beautiful architecture. Naturally, that means there are countless photo opportunities throughout the city.
Here at Flytographer, we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over three million memories worldwide. Today, we asked our local photographers to show us around all the very best places to take photos in Seoul. 📸
TLDR
(A little sneak peek just for you 😊)
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: Explore Korean culture at Seoul’s primary palace from the Joseon Dynasty.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: Wander through this picturesque residential area to see traditional Korean architecture.
- Eunpyeong Hanok Village: Experience the beauty of traditional Korean homes in a quiet neighbourhood away from the crowds.
- Changdeokgung Palace: Discover Seoul’s most beautiful palace grounds, with Joseon Dynasty–era palaces and gorgeous gardens.
- Namsangol Hanok Village: Immerse yourself in Korean culture at a tiny traditional village set on the foot of the popular Namsan Mountain Park.
- Deoksugung Palace: Explore Seoul’s central palace before heading to Myeongdong for shopping and street food.
- Yeouido Park: Enjoy a peaceful respite from the bustling city energy on an island park in the Han River.
- Yongsan Family Park: Take a break between sightseeing to enjoy views of Seoul’s picture-perfect family park.
- Seoul Forest Park: Connect with nature at Seoul’s enchanting forest park, home to dense forests and deer and butterfly sanctuaries.
- Seoul Children’s Grand Park: Bring the family to the city’s best destination for kids, which includes an amusement park and expansive playground.
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Pearl and partner capture memories in Seoul with an anniversary photoshoot at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Located just north of Gwanghwamun Square and City Hall, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a 14th-century palace that served as ‘sSeoul’s main royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty. The palace has a long history—it was destroyed multiple times due to invasions and war but was finally restored in the late 19th century, where it remains to this day.
An expansive pavilion stretches in front of the colourful main gate of the palace, while the mountains of Bukhansan National Park tower in the background — an incredible photo opportunity! ⛰️ Here, you’ll see both locals and visitors snapping photos in their hanboks—beautiful traditional Korean clothes—making for stunning photos. 📸
From here, you’re well situated to explore culture-rich areas of the city, as the area around the palace is home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural sights, including Bukchon Hanok Village, Jogyesa Temple, Insadong, and more.
🗺️ Travel tip: Visitors can view the changing of the guards ceremony every day at 10 am and 2 pm—except Tuesdays when the palace is closed to the public.
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Christine and partner capture memories in Seoul with a vacation photoshoot at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Considered one of the most beautiful places in South Korea, Bukchon Hanok Village is made up of hundreds of hanok—traditional Korean houses—that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The houses in this residential area are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into Korea’s traditional architecture and way of life. 🏠
The homes’ curved rooftops, intricate brickwork, and warm neutral tones create a beautiful and inviting atmosphere. From the distinctive architecture to the beautiful setting featuring sloped, winding alleyways with views of Seoul in the foreground, this is easily one of the best places to take photos in Seoul!
For the best photo opportunities, rent a hanbok at one of the nearby hanbok rental shops, and visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive —take advantage of that golden hour glow! Surrounded by stunning architecture with a view of Namsan Tower in the background, you’ll capture unforgettable memories here.
To really immerse yourself in Korean culture, you can book your stay in a historic hanok—an unforgettable trip!
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Noelle and family capture memories in Seoul with a family photoshoot at Bukchon Hanok Village.
3. Eunpyeong Hanok Village
If you’re looking to capture the beauty of Bukchon Hanok Village but want to escape the crowds, visit Eunpyeong Hanok Village! This residential area is another traditional Korean village located in the Eunpyeong District of Seoul. While relatively small compared to Bukchon Hanok Village, it is equally charming and also offers a unique insight into traditional Korean life. ✨
Eunpyeong Hanok Village is situated on a hillside and is made up of around 20 hanok. It is a peaceful and tranquil escape from the busy streets of modern Seoul. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys and admire the historic houses and beautiful gardens that line the area. There are plenty of great photo spots throughout the village. Be sure to capture a shot with the traditional buildings in front of the mountains of Bukhansan National Park. 😍
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Raluca captures memories in Seoul with a solo adventure photoshoot.
4. Changdeokgung Palace
Located in the Jongno District, Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most beautiful palaces in South Korea, and one of the best places to take photos in Seoul—and a UNESCO World Heritage Site! It was the second palace built in Seoul, after Gyeongbokgung Palace. The 15th-century palace was designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape, and the secret gardens are considered some of the most beautiful in South Korea. 🌳
Visitors to Changdeokgung Palace can take a guided tour of the palace complex and gardens, both of which offer an impressive insight into Korean culture and history—and stunning scenery! With intricate woodwork, detailed and colourful facades, and open architecture, the grand palaces offer so much to explore.
After you’re done exploring the palace grounds, take time to visit nearby attractions, including Ihwa Mural Village, Seoul City Wall Trail, Naksan Park, and Ikseon-dong. With winding, narrow alleyways, Ikseon-dong is one of the most Instagrammable places in Seoul—and one of the most shared travel spots on social media. This hip, trendy neighbourhood is full of Instagram-worthy cafés with gorgeous interiors and delicious desserts—popular with locals and visitors alike. ☕
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Jazmarae and partner celebrate an engagement in Seoul with an engagement trip photoshoot at Changdeokgung Palace.
5. Namsangol Hanok Village
Namsangol Hanok Village is another traditional Korean village located at the foot of Namsan Mountain in Seoul. The village is a collection of five hanok that have been relocated from different parts of the city and restored to their original state.
With its close proximity to Namsan Mountain, this is an excellent place to begin a day of exploring Namsan Mountain Park. The park is a popular destination for both locals and visitors—and for good reason! It has some of the best views of Seoul, is home to the iconic N Seoul Tower—or Namsan Tower—and offers traditional Korean cultural activities, including calligraphy classes and live performances.
You can choose to hike up the hill or take a cable car to the summit, where you’ll have beautiful views of Seoul! For an incredible 360-degree perspective, head to the observatory at the top of Namsan Tower, where you’ll see sweeping views of the Han River, Bukhansan National Park, Seoul’s endless cityscape, and more. Truly awe-inspiring! 😮
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Ana and family capture memories in Seoul with a family photoshoot at Namsangol Hanok Village.
6. Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace is another one of the five grand palaces of the Joseon Dynasty located in Seoul. It was originally built as a residence for the royal family, but it was later used as the main palace when the other palaces were destroyed during wars.
The Deoksugung Palace complex includes several buildings—Junghwajeon Hall, Seokjojeon Hall, and Hamnyeongjeon Hall, among others. The palace is surrounded by a beautiful park with walking trails, gardens, and a pond, providing a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city.
Deoksugung Palace is located in central Seoul, near City Hall, Namdaemun Market, the Cheonggyecheon walkway, and vibrant Myeongdong. Visit Deoksugung Palace in the morning, then head over to Myeongdong to stock up on fabulous Korean skincare at the many boutiques that line the streets, followed by sampling the delicious street food at the Myeongdong night market. 😋
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Donald captures memories in Seoul with a solo adventure photoshoot at Deoksugung Palace.
7. Yeouido Park
Yeouido Park, situated on picturesque Yeouido Island in the Han River, is an expansive public park. It’s one of the most special places to take photos in Seoul, and one of the most cherished destinations in the city.
The park’s serene landscape is filled with lush greenery and colourful flowers, including vibrant cherry blossoms in the springtime. 🌸 Yeouido Park offers an extensive network of walking trails, bicycle paths, and jogging tracks, perfect for enjoying an active afternoon in the city.
Yeouido Park hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the Seoul International Fireworks Festival, drawing visitors from around the world.
After enjoying time in the park, head across the Han River to Hongdae, a bustling area in the hip Mapo District, famous for street performers and buskers. 🕺
Photo: Mint in Seoul for Flytographer. Eric and partner celebrate a proposal in Seoul with a proposal photoshoot at Yeouido Park.
8. Yongsan Family Park
Yongsan Family Park is a public park located in the Yongsan District. The park is known for its beautiful gardens, walking trails, and recreational facilities, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Most notably, the park is home to a large pond, where visitors can rent boats and paddle around the tranquil waters. 🛶 The pond is surrounded by sprawling fields and lush trees, making for a relaxing afternoon—and a fabulous photo opportunity, so be sure to snap a selfie while out on the water!
🗺️ Travel tip: Several points of interest are within minutes of Yongsan Family Park, including the National Museum of Korea, the War Memorial of Korea, the Han River, and Itaewon—a neighbourhood famous for multiculturalism and vibrant nightlife.
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Kamille and family capture memories in Seoul with a family photoshoot.
9. Seoul Forest Park
Seoul Forest Park is a vast public park located in the Seongdong District. The park is home to many types of trees, plants, and wildlife—a fabulous place for nature lovers!
Seoul Forest Park is a wonderful place to visit no matter what the season. From pink cherry blossoms 🌸 in the springtime to warm-hued ginkgo trees 🍂 in the autumn, the park is alive with colour.
For those who love animals, Seoul Forest Park has a deer corral where you can feed the deer, as well as a butterfly house where you can spot butterflies drifting through vibrant flowers. 🦌🦋
And just across the Han River is the iconic Gangnam neighbourhood! Pay a visit to Starfield Library at COEX Mall—one of the best places to take photos in Seoul. Starfield Library is an Instagram-worthy library with bookshelves that tower over two stories, often elaborately decorated to suit the season.
Just across the street is Bongeunsa Temple, a Buddhist temple that dates back to 794! Wander around the grounds where you’ll see a series of temple buildings, as well as an impressive Buddha statue that stretches toward the sky.
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Stanley and partner celebrate a proposal in Seoul with a proposal photoshoot.
10. Seoul Children’s Grand Park
Seoul Children’s Grand Park is the perfect place for a family-friendly day in Seoul. The park has it all—a zoo, botanical gardens, an amusement park 🎡, a large playground, a concert hall, and restaurants and cafés.
Across the Han River lies Olympic-ro, home to Olympic Park, the Lotte World Tower, Lotte World, and Sculpture Park. For the absolute best view of Seoul, head to the top of the Lotte World Tower for 360-degree views of the city—especially enchanting at sunset. 🌇
Photo: Flytographer in Seoul. Lee and partner celebrate a proposal in Seoul with a proposal photoshoot.
Capturing Memories in Seoul
There’s no doubt about it—Seoul is a vibrant city with so much to do! From immersing yourself in Korean culture at the grand palaces to café hopping to sampling Korean cuisine, Seoul has a magnetic energy that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Connect with a local photographer to capture your time in Seoul, so you can look back on your magical memories for years to come. 💖
“The shoot with Mint went well. She’s easy to work with. She puts in effort to engage with her clients through simple conversations which made us feel comfortable right away. Love the photos! Wish we were there during the Cherry Blossom season (we were a week early) as I’m sure she could have done the best job.”
Trina
“Working with Allen could not be a better experience. He was a trooper doing the shoot in incredibly hot and humid weather. He still made us laugh and feel comfortable and enjoy the time as much as possible even against the elements. I’m so happy we worked with Allen to capture such a momentous and special time in our lives of getting engaged. Thank you Allen for the most amazing photoshoot ever. I’ve done many with multiple different photographers, and this one was the best!”
Pearl
“Allen did a fantastic job and his skills are on point. Throughout the online consultation, he took in all our requests and then walked us through many options so we’d get the most out of our time with him. Allen’s location recommendation was spot on (Buckchon Hanok Village) and his eye for the right angle, mood, pose, and colors are amazing. He was relaxed, funny, and great at directing us for the perfect shot. We can’t say enough about how he created amazing memories for us and our visit to Seoul.”
Andrew
