Seoul Plaza (City Hall), Seoul - low angle photography of umbrella umbrellas under white sky during daytime
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Seoul Plaza (City Hall) Seoul

4.3
·830 reviews·, South Korea

Seoul Plaza: A dynamic urban heart, famous for its winter ice rink and vibrant cultural events, right by City Hall.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Experience the magical ice rink

CrowdHigh
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Seoul Plaza (City Hall), Seoul - low angle photography of umbrella umbrellas under white sky during daytime

Seoul Plaza (City Hall) Seoul

Best Time

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Experience the magical ice rink

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Seoul Plaza: A dynamic urban heart, famous for its winter ice rink and vibrant cultural events, right by City Hall.

4.3
(830 reviews)

"The ice rink is a winter must-do, offering affordable fun in the heart of Seoul!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ Ice Rink Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds at the winter skating rink. It's affordable and fun!

📅 Check Event Schedules

Seoul Plaza hosts many events; check online to see what's on during your visit.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Winter Ice Skating Rink

Winter Ice Skating Rink

Seoul Plaza

Glide across the ice in the heart of Seoul! A beloved winter tradition offering affordable fun for all ages.

Cultural Event Hub

Cultural Event Hub

Seoul Plaza

Experience vibrant festivals, fan events, and public gatherings that bring the city to life.

Iconic City Hall Architecture

Iconic City Hall Architecture

Seoul City Hall Building

Admire the modern architecture of Seoul City Hall, a landmark in the city's administrative center.

Planning Your Visit

Check for Special Events

Seoul Plaza is a dynamic hub for festivals and events, from winter ice skating to K-drama fan gatherings. Always check the schedule before your visit to catch unique happenings or avoid potential crowds.

Winter Wonderland Alert

During winter, Seoul Plaza transforms into a popular ice skating rink. Expect crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early for the best experience and to secure your spot.

Best Times

When
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Why
Experience the magical ice rink
Crowd
High
When
Event days
Why
Catch unique festivals & fan events
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Avoid peak crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

"Squid Game' finale fan event #squidgame #season3 #cityhall #gwanghwamun #netflix #seoul #seoulplaza
@usrname_alvin
2.4M likes • 19.7M views

⛸️ Ice Rink Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds at the winter skating rink. It's affordable and fun! Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedules

Seoul Plaza hosts many events; check online to see what's on during your visit. Reddit

Squid Games 3 is here and Seoul was a big playground today! The epicenter - Seoul City Hall where you could play games, try your luck or meet and greet some of the actors in the series.
chrisbg
116.1K likes • 1.6M views
From binge-watching in bed to walking into the world of Squid Game !🥹😍 Netflix really said, “Green light!” 🟢😮‍💨 Still can’t believe I got invited to the official fan event and lived my K-drama fantas...
nikita_in_korea
291 likes • 6.4K views

🎬 K-Drama Fan Events

Keep an eye out for fan events, like those for Squid Game, that pop up unexpectedly. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with nearby palaces for a full day of sightseeing. Reddit

Pov: you get tickets for the squid game finale event
itsdiaworld
60 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ Ice Rink Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds at the winter skating rink. It's affordable and fun! Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedules

Seoul Plaza hosts many events; check online to see what's on during your visit. Reddit

🎬 K-Drama Fan Events

Keep an eye out for fan events, like those for Squid Game, that pop up unexpectedly. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with nearby palaces for a full day of sightseeing. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(830 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Seoul Plaza is a vibrant, central hub known for its seasonal ice rink and diverse events. Visitors appreciate its accessibility and the festive atmosphere, especially during winter. However, it can become extremely crowded during popular events and peak skating times.

"Dope and safe place to look around and chill in a clean place. Stop by the coffee shop on the first floor to get served some bomb coffee by a robot. Giving it 4 stars and not 5 because it seems like it would give you a good view of the city at the top but it can be misleading. The information desk in the front was helpful."

andrew chin

"Architecturally beautiful building. You really feel the calmness as you enter the main lobby. The vertical garden is stunning. Wish more offices had this. Take the elevator to the top level and grab a coffee at the cafe and enjoy the view."

Paul Britton

"If you like architecture, urban gardens, or just awesome photo spots, I recommend making a stop here. Korea is already very photogenic, and this building is quite interesting. The lobby is open to the public, and there is a small cafe with restrooms. The vertical garden in the lobby is currently the largest vertical garden in the world, and helps with filtering contaminants and regulating temperatures inside the building. City Hall is very close to Deoksugung Palace, Namdaemun Market, and Cheonggye Plaza, so if you are in the area this is worth a visit!"

Mike M.

What People Like

Affordable ice skating
Central location
Lively event atmosphere

What People Dislike

Extreme crowds
Cold winter weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Seoul Plaza is easily accessible via Seoul Subway. Take Line 1 or 2 to City Hall Station, which has direct access to the plaza. Several bus routes also stop nearby. TikTok

Yes, Seoul Plaza is centrally located and within walking distance of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Reddit

Exits 5 and 6 from City Hall Station (Seoul Subway Line 1 or 2) lead directly to Seoul Plaza, making it very convenient. TikTok

Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive. The City Hall underground parking lot is available, but it's often full during events. Public transport is highly recommended. Reddit

Seoul Plaza is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators available in the City Hall building. Public transport options like subway stations also have accessibility features. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Seoul Plaza itself is a public space and generally free to enter. However, specific events held within the plaza, like the ice rink or special exhibitions, may require tickets or admission fees. Reddit

As an outdoor public space, Seoul Plaza is accessible 24/7. However, specific facilities like the ice rink or cultural centers within City Hall have their own operating hours, which vary by season and event. Reddit

The ice skating rink at Seoul Plaza is known for being affordable. Prices typically include skate rental and are very reasonable, making it a popular winter activity. Reddit

For major events, especially those with limited capacity like fan meet-and-greets or popular exhibitions, advance booking is often recommended or required. Check the official Seoul City website or event-specific pages. Instagram

Generally, there are no strict entry restrictions for the plaza itself. However, during large-scale events or protests, security measures may be in place, and access could be temporarily limited or rerouted. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy seasonal activities like ice skating in winter, attend various festivals and cultural events, or simply relax and people-watch in this central urban space. TikTokReddit

Seoul Plaza can get very crowded, especially during major events, festivals, and the winter ice skating season. Weekends and evenings are typically busier. Reddit

Yes, public restrooms are available at Seoul Plaza, often located underground or within the City Hall building. They are generally well-maintained. Instagram

Absolutely! Seoul Plaza offers great photo opportunities, especially with the City Hall building as a backdrop and during festive events. Instagram+1

Seoul Plaza hosts a wide range of events, including seasonal festivals (like the winter ice rink), concerts, public rallies, protests, and promotional events for movies or dramas. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Seoul Plaza itself doesn't have dedicated restaurants, there are often food stalls or vendors during festivals and events. The surrounding area is packed with diverse dining options. Reddit

You'll find everything from traditional Korean cuisine (bibimbap, bulgogi) to international fast food and trendy cafes in the streets surrounding Seoul Plaza. Reddit

Dining prices vary. You can find budget-friendly street food and casual eateries, as well as more upscale restaurants. Expect typical Seoul city prices. Reddit

There aren't cafes directly within the open plaza area, but the City Hall building might have some facilities, and numerous cafes are located just steps away. Instagram

Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the public space of Seoul Plaza, especially when there isn't a specific event with restrictions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The City Hall building itself, especially at night when lit up, is a great subject. During winter, the ice rink is iconic. Also, capture the energy during festivals and events. Instagram+1

Yes, Seoul Plaza is excellent for night photography. The illuminated City Hall building and surrounding lights create a vibrant urban scene. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for general shots. For events, a telephoto lens can be useful. A wide-angle lens is good for capturing the expanse of the plaza. Instagram

Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, for professional or commercial shoots, you might need to obtain permits, especially within the City Hall building. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. For vibrant cityscapes, nighttime is ideal. During events, capture the lively atmosphere. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seoul Plaza is a fantastic spot for families, especially during winter when the ice skating rink opens. It's an affordable and fun activity for children and adults alike. Reddit Beyond skating, the plaza often hosts family-friendly festivals and events throughout the year, offering entertainment and cultural experiences. TikTokInstagram

Tips for families: Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds at the ice rink. Consider visiting on a weekday if possible. The surrounding area also offers plenty of dining options suitable for children. Remember to dress warmly during winter months. Reddit

❄️ Winter Visitors

If you're visiting Seoul in winter, the Seoul Plaza Ice Rink is an absolute must-experience. It's a quintessential Seoul winter activity, offering a chance to skate in a prime urban location. Reddit Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours and weekends, and consider arriving early to make the most of your time on the ice. Reddit

Beyond skating, the plaza itself is often decorated for the holidays, adding to the festive atmosphere. It's a great place to soak in the winter ambiance of the city. Remember to bundle up, as it can be quite cold!

🎬 K-Drama & Pop Culture Fans

Seoul Plaza has gained notoriety as a venue for exciting K-drama related events. Fans have flocked to the plaza for special gatherings, such as those celebrating the 'Squid Game' series, offering a unique chance to immerse themselves in the world of their favorite shows. TikTokInstagram+1 Keep an eye on local event announcements, as the plaza frequently hosts promotional events for new releases or anniversaries.

These events can be a highlight for fans, providing opportunities to see cast members, participate in themed activities, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. It's a dynamic space that taps into Seoul's status as a global hub for pop culture.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Seoul Plaza Ice Rink Experience

From late December to mid-February, Seoul Plaza transforms into a bustling outdoor ice skating rink, a cherished winter tradition for locals and tourists alike. It's an incredibly popular spot, offering an affordable way to enjoy the winter chill in the heart of the city. Visitors often praise its accessibility and festive atmosphere, making it a must-do during the colder months. Reddit

Pro-tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the rink can get quite crowded. Many visitors recommend combining a skating session with a visit to nearby historical sites like Deoksugung Palace, which is just a short walk away. Reddit The rink typically operates from morning until evening, providing ample opportunity to skate under the city lights. Reddit

While the rink is a major draw, remember that it's an outdoor facility. Dress warmly in layers, and be prepared for potential queues for skate rentals and entry during peak times. The low cost makes it an excellent value for a memorable winter experience in Seoul. Reddit

Seoul Plaza as an Event Venue

Seoul Plaza is more than just a public square; it's a dynamic venue that frequently hosts a variety of events, from major cultural festivals and concerts to public rallies and promotional activities. Its central location and open space make it an ideal spot for large gatherings. One notable example was the fan event for the popular K-drama 'Squid Game,' which drew significant attention and participation. TikTokInstagram+1

These events can significantly impact the plaza's atmosphere and accessibility. While they offer unique opportunities to experience local culture and entertainment, they can also lead to increased crowds and temporary closures of certain areas. It's always advisable to check the official Seoul City website or local event listings before your visit to see what's scheduled. Reddit

Beyond entertainment, Seoul Plaza also serves as a space for public discourse, occasionally hosting protests or demonstrations. While these are part of the city's vibrant civic life, visitors should be aware of their presence and potential impact on the surrounding area. Reddit The plaza's versatility ensures that there's often something happening, making each visit potentially different.

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