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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the magical ice rink
Seoul Plaza (City Hall) Seoul
Best Time
Experience the magical ice rink

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Seoul Plaza: A dynamic urban heart, famous for its winter ice rink and vibrant cultural events, right by City Hall.
"The ice rink is a winter must-do, offering affordable fun in the heart of Seoul!"
⛸️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Winter Wonderland Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛸️ 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.
🎬 K-Drama Fan Events
Keep an eye out for fan events, like those for Squid Game, that pop up unexpectedly.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with nearby palaces for a full day of sightseeing.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛸️ 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.
🎬 K-Drama Fan Events
Keep an eye out for fan events, like those for Squid Game, that pop up unexpectedly.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with nearby palaces for a full day of sightseeing.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, Seoul Plaza is centrally located and within walking distance of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.
Exits 5 and 6 from City Hall Station (Seoul Subway Line 1 or 2) lead directly to Seoul Plaza, making it very convenient.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Seoul Plaza can get very crowded, especially during major events, festivals, and the winter ice skating season. Weekends and evenings are typically busier.
Yes, public restrooms are available at Seoul Plaza, often located underground or within the City Hall building. They are generally well-maintained.
Absolutely! Seoul Plaza offers great photo opportunities, especially with the City Hall building as a backdrop and during festive events.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
You'll find everything from traditional Korean cuisine (bibimbap, bulgogi) to international fast food and trendy cafes in the streets surrounding Seoul Plaza.
Dining prices vary. You can find budget-friendly street food and casual eateries, as well as more upscale restaurants. Expect typical Seoul city prices.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, Seoul Plaza is excellent for night photography. The illuminated City Hall building and surrounding lights create a vibrant urban scene.
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.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, for professional or commercial shoots, you might need to obtain permits, especially within the City Hall building.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. For vibrant cityscapes, nighttime is ideal. During events, capture the lively atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
❄️ Winter Visitors
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
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
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. The rink typically operates from morning until evening, providing ample opportunity to skate under the city lights.
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.
Seoul Plaza as an Event Venue
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.
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. The plaza's versatility ensures that there's often something happening, making each visit potentially different.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit