Jeremiah PatrickItaewon is undoubtedly one of the jewels of South Korea’s capital, Seoul. This lively neighbourhood is an entertainment mecca among locals and travellers alike. Explore its cosmopolitan streets and you’ll find yourself in a wonderland of Korean barbeque joints, upscale bistros, beer bars, and more.
The shining allure of Itaewon was sadly dimmed in recent history; a tragic stampede on the night of 29 Oct 2022 caused over 100 casualties and traumatised the identity of an entire nation in the process. However, time has flowed steadily on since then and the neighbourhood continues to heal.
While the stampede of 2022 will forever be etched into the hearts of South Koreans as they memorialise that loss, Itaewon continues to be a beacon of entertainment in Seoul. There are plenty of fun things to do in Itaewon, so let’s look at some of the best.
Also read: Seoul Itinerary: All the Best Places to Go for a 5-Day Trip!
Fun things to do in Itaewon
1. Go food-hunting
Image credit: blueorangestudio via Canva Pro
Itaewon is a paradise for foodies, with its penchant for eateries made even more popular thanks K-Dramas like Itaewon Class. For an airy and open experience with Italian cuisine, you can check out Oriole, a three-story restaurant that served as a filming location for a scene in Itaewon Class. You can also check out Daol Charcoal Grill for a classic Korean barbeque experience. Other options for this classic Korean meal are Maple Tree House and Ziu BBQ. Trying out some delicious cuisine is definitely one of many fun things to do in Itaewon.
2. Enjoy the nightlife
Image credit: @thefinestlounge | Instagram
There is no shortage of watering holes for weary travellers in Itaewon looking for a classy cocktail or a stiff nightcap. The Finest (yes, that’s its actual name) lounge serves up excellent cocktails and beverages that you can tip back while enjoying the nighttime skyline of the surrounding city. Another popular rooftop bar is Privilege Bar, a luxurious affair with incredible night views, fine dining and bespoke drinks.
3. Check out Leeum Samsung Museum of Art
Image credit: Alejandro | Flickr
The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art is a private museum that’s run by the Samsung Foundation of Culture. Visitors can look forward to intriguing exhibitions that are split into two main sections. The first focuses on Korean traditional art, including pottery, traditional paintings, calligraphy, and jewellery. In compliment, the second section centres around contemporary art featuring works from both local and international artists. A visit to this unique museum should certainly make your list of fun things to do in Itaewon.
4. Shop at Itaewon Antique Furniture Street
Image credit: Korea Tourism Organisation
Discover this charming street in Itaewon and prepare to lose yourself in a wide array of antique merchandise. Stroll around and find yourself in the midst of traditional Korean antique furniture, exotic furnishings from Europe, and even vintage clothing. Itaewon Antique Furniture Street is an excellent destination for antique enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike, delivering a unique window into Seoul’s unique historical identity.
5. Swim at the Hamilton Rooftop pool
Image credit: Hamilton Hotel Official Website
A secret (and yet not-so-secret destination), this rooftop swimming pool is Seoul’s hidden party oasis. Located atop the Hamilton Hotel in Itaewon, the rooftop terrace and pool is a hub of locals seeking a reliable watering hole to let loose in the summer months. During less busy moments, it remains an excellent place to enjoy a relaxing swim. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Itaewon, try this rooftop hotspot!
6. Visit the War Memorial of Korea
Image credit: War Memorial of Korea Official Facebook Page
On the very edge of Itaewon’s border lies the War Memorial of Korea: history buffs, this destination’s for you. The museum opened in 1994 and exhibits items from the Korean War. There are over 30,000 items on display within its grounds, divided into exhibition halls with different themes; the Memorial Hall, War History, Korean War, Expeditionary Forces, and more.
7. Hike to N Seoul Tower
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Roaming around Itaewon comes with a quick and easy hiking opportunity that shouldn’t be missed! From Hangangjin Station Exit 1, you can discover a hiking trail that leads to N Seoul Tower, and the mountain of the same name. The first part of the trail takes you up to the Grand Hyatt and comes with spectacular bird’s-eye views of Itaewon. From there, you can continue following the trail (if you so desire) into Namsan Park, where multiple different trails branch off, all the way to N Seoul Tower.
Also read: 26 Seoul Airbnb Stays in Popular Areas & Neighbourhoods
Itaewon continues to be a must-visit destination for any traveller with plans to explore the grand city of Seoul. Despite recent tragedies, it perseveres to continue upholding what is certainly a gold standard for an entertaining romp in South Korea. If you’re ready to try out some of these fun things to do in Itaewon, it’s time to pack those bags and visit it for yourself!
Featured image credit: guineapig33 | Flickr
