Best Free Views of Seoul

Seoul is the fourth largest metropolitan city in the world, with a population of about 9.8 million. When it comes to the metropolitan area, its population is even 25 million. Naturally, the vista of Seoul from above is phenomenal. There are a number of observation spots throughout the city including Seoul Sky and N SEOUL TOWER Observatory. They surely offer you spectacular views but they are not free. If you are a budget traveler or if you want to avoid crowded tourist destinations, there are some famous and some hidden spots where you can enjoy the views for free!

1. Namsan Mountain

Namsan or Namsan Mountain is a 262 m high peak. You can walk up to the summit or you can take the cable car or the bus. There is N Seoul Tower on top of the mountain. I usually do not go up to the tower because I can still enjoy a beautiful view over Seoul in Namsan Park.

N Seoul Tower – A Romantic Island in the City

2. Lotte World Tower

Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in Korea. Of course, there is an observatory in this building; Seoul Sky, which is on 117 ~ 123 floors. I have not been to the place yet but I bet the view from the sky would be amazing. The only problem is the ticket to the tower costs 27,000 won (about 24 USD). Well, there is an alternative option available for those who want to appreciate the vista in this new landmark, Lotte World Tower, without paying a dime. That option is SKY 31. As you can guess from its name, SKY 31 is on the 31st floor and is accessible for free. You will need to check in at the information desk near the East Gate. After the registration, they will give you the visitor’s pass.   

3. Naksan Park

The View from Naksan Park

Naksan Park is one of my favorite attractions in Seoul. Have you seen the movie, La La Land? There is a spot in Naksan Park which is similar to the hilltop where Mia and Sebastian first danced. Therefore, some people call Naksan Park “Naksan Land”. 🙂

4. Jeongdong Observatory

Free Observation Point for the View of Seoul

Jeongdong Observatory is probably the most famous free observation point in Seoul. It is located on the 13th floor of Seoul City Hall Seosomun Building. It is right next to Deoksugung Palace so it offers the view of the palace and its surrounding skyscrapers.

5. National Museum of Korean Contemporary History

National Museum of Korean Contemporary History is a little known place as a museum and as a viewing vantage point. It is in front of Gyeongbokgung, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. The museum is open to the public free of charge. Take a look inside the museum if you have enough time or you can just go straight up to Hwangtomaru Garden (rooftop garden) on the 8th floor. Hwangtomaru Garden overlooks Gyeongbokgung, Blue House, Bugaksan Mountain, and Gwanghwamun.

6. Sewoon Shopping Center

Sewoon Shopping Center (세운상가) was founded in 1968 as Korea’s first multipurpose complex with electronics shops and apartments. Once it was a symbol of economic development in Seoul, but it became outdated. To transform old Sewoon Shopping Center into a hub of the fourth industrialization, Seoul Metropolitan Government has been carrying out an urban regeneration project, The Dasi (Again) Sewoon Project. As a part of this project, the Seoul Roof on the rooftop of the building was open to the public in 2017. The Seoul Roof is an incredible place for photographs. You will have excellent views of Jongmyo Shrine and Jongno District.