The capital of South Korea and a city of more than 10 million, Seoul rushes toward the future with an abundance of opportunities for both business and tourism. With a focus on new technology, unique culture and a taste for luxury, Seoul proves a perfect destination for the globetrotter looking for an unforgettable experience or the businessperson wanting to delve into the city’s booming industries of technology and finance.

GETTING THERE
Incheon International Airport is located approximately 35 miles outside of the city center. To get downtown, visitors can travel via airport buses, taxis or the Airport Railroad. Airport buses operate every 10–30 minutes between 5:30 a.m. and 10 p.m. Limo buses (about $14.70 one way) stop at major attractions and hotels and provide a good option for travelers with luggage. Standard taxi service from the airport to downtown runs about $40 for regular service and $70 for deluxe service. The Airport Railroad departs every 30 minutes; a one-way ticket to Seoul Station costs about $8.

GETTING AROUND
The well-connected Seoul Metro runs throughout the city and its suburbs. Pick up a stored-value T-money Card at most subway stations, convenience stores and newspaper kiosks if you plan on using the subway often. The card itself costs around $3. It can also be used for taxi fares, buses and some convenience stores. The city has four kinds of public buses: yellow (tourist areas), green (travels around neighborhoods and connects with the subway), blue (across town), and red and green (intercity). One-way fares cost about $1. Standard taxis (orange or silver) start from $2.35 and go up 10 cents for each eighth of a mile. Black deluxe taxis are more expensive, starting at $4.41 and increasing 20 cents for each tenth of a mile.

9–5
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
If it’s meeting space you’re after, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, opened in 2014, is worth looking into. Located in Seoul’s fashion district, the complex not only offers large conference spaces but also an array of meeting rooms surrounded by an outstanding display of futuristic art and architecture in every direction. It’s also located fairly close to several of the most preferred hotels in Seoul, including The Plaza and Grand Hyatt Seoul.

Peninsula at Lotte Hotel Seoul
For a restaurant that can accommodate your casual business brunch, Peninsula at the Lotte Hotel offers a wide array of breakfast options, from light and healthy to traditional Korean breakfasts. The proximity to many of the hotels in the area, as well as plenty of business opportunities, allows for a convenient stop on your and your colleagues’ itinerary.

Samwon Garden
Situated in Seoul’s rich and luxurious Gangnam district near Teheranno, a technology-based business epicenter, Samwon Garden has hosted world politicians, celebrities and groups from many conferences held in the area. It prides itself on being the largest first-class restaurant in South Korea, able to accommodate more than 1,000 people at once. Opening shortly before noon every day, Samwon Garden serves a bounty of traditional Korean fare perfect for your business luncheon.

AFTER 5
Congdu
Located inside the Seoul National History Museum, this restaurant serves traditional Korean dishes with a modern, fun flair. An excellent introduction to Korean cuisine for newcomers, Congdu has received great reviews.

Jungsik Dang
Chef Jung Sik Yim, called “the king of New Korean cuisine,” created this high-end eatery found in the Gangnam district. Just looking at the various offerings will cause any mouth to water, from the pork jowl entrée to the sea urchin rice.

Yeongdeungpo Times Square
One of the newest and largest megamalls in Seoul, the Yeongdeungpo Times Square complex offers not only a multitude of shopping but also a myriad of other services from lodging to medical to event venues. Intended to be as environmentally conscious as possible, the space offers lots of green areas and natural light.

RESOURCES
For more information, visit visitseoul.net