For many travelers today, photography is an important part of their journey, often even the reason to explore new destinations. In Seoul, visitors tend to move away from familiar attractions, seeking out lesser-known neighborhoods and hiring photographers to capture their unique memories.

The Seoul Tourism Organization suggests five beautiful photo spots, recommended for different times of day, from the early morning sun at Gyeongbok palace to the neon lights of Euljiro at night.

Morning at Gyeongbok palace

As the royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, located in Jongno district in central Seoul, Gyeongbokgung is most beautiful and peaceful right after opening.

A photo spot at Gyeonghoeru pavilion. Photo: Velt.

Visitors can rent hanbok near the palace and take photos in front of Geunjeongjeon main hall with Bugak and Inwang mountains in the background, or use the corridor frame with its red wooden columns as a focal point. Gyeonghoeru pavilion, reflected on the lake, is also a popular photo spot.

Midday at Mullae-dong creative village

Mullae-dong, in Yeongdeungpo district, was once a bustling machinery manufacturing area from the 1970s, but it gradually declined as inexpensive goods from Trung Quoc flooded the market in the late 1990s. By the 2000s, the neighborhood revitalized as artists sought out vacant workshops.

Currently, art studios and nostalgic cafes are nestled among old machinery and industrial structures, creating a blend of old and new. About 50 murals and metal artworks made from scrap materials line the alleys.

Midday is an ideal time for photography, as sunlight penetrates the narrow alleys, creating a contrast between light and shadow. Visitors can stroll around Mullae station, exploring art installations, cafes, and craft workshops.

Afternoon by Cheonggye stream

In the afternoon, as the sun begins to soften, Cheonggye stream becomes a refreshing photo spot in central Seoul. Light reflecting on the water, combined with willow trees along the banks and shadows beneath the bridges, creates many contrasting photo angles.

Visitors stroll by Cheonggye stream. Photo: The Korea Times.

The area around Gwangtong bridge, a stone bridge dating back to the Joseon era, is a notable highlight. Visitors can also descend from Sewoon plaza to the stream, combining it with exploring cafes, independent bookstores, and vinyl record shops in the old electronics market.

From elevated walkways or nostalgic cafes, visitors can capture views of the stream amidst Seoul's buildings.

Sunset at Naksan park

Following the Seoul city wall up to Naksan park, visitors can admire the city from above at sunset, when the ancient stone walls stand out against the modern skyline.

The late afternoon sun casts a golden hue over the city wall, N Seoul tower, and the Dongdaemun area. Naksan has recently gained international recognition after appearing in the film "KPop Demon Hunters".

After sunset, the "blue hour" is an ideal time for photography, as the city wall stands out against the deep blue sky, creating a cinematic frame.

Night in Euljiro

As night falls, Euljiro's industrial alleys become vibrant with neon lights. Old printing shops and machine workshops are interspersed with bars and restaurants, creating a contrasting space of old and new.

A night street corner in Euljiro, Seoul. Photo: The Korea Times.

The area around Euljiro 3-ga station is bustling at night, with neon signs providing unique lighting for portrait photos, standing out against old brick walls.

Visitors can conclude their journey at local eateries, LP bars, or walk to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) to photograph its modern architecture.

Tuan Anh (According to The Korea Times)