Is the Dongdaemun walking route difficult?

It is considered moderate. The beginning near the markets and DDP is flat, but the second half involves a steady uphill climb along the fortress wall and some steep stairs in the mural village.

What is the best time to visit Naksan Park?

Sunset is the best time to visit. You can watch the sun go down over the city and see the historic fortress wall illuminate as the city lights come on.

Can I see the Seoul City Wall for free?

Yes, access to the Hanyangdoseong (Seoul City Wall) and the Naksan Park section is completely free and open to the public year-round.

Is the Ihwa-dong Mural Village still open to tourists?

Yes, it is open, but visitors must be very quiet. Some famous murals have been removed by residents to discourage noise, but many artworks and the charming atmosphere remain.

What is special about the architecture of the DDP?

The Dongdaemun Design Plaza was designed by Zaha Hadid and is the world's largest atypical third-dimensional building, meaning it has almost no flat surfaces or right angles.

Where is the best place to start a walking tour in Dongdaemun?

The best place to start is Dongdaemun Station (Line 1 or 4). From here, you are steps away from the Heunginjimun Gate and the historic Pyounghwa Market.

Are there places to eat along the Dongdaemun walking route?

Yes, you will find street food near the markets and DDP, and several charming hilltop cafes with city views in the Ihwa-dong Mural Village area.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Dongdaemun is a neighborhood where the layered history of Seoul is visible in every stone and steel beam. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a dramatic transition from the ancient Joseon dynasty to the cutting-edge futuristic architecture that defines modern South Korea. You will start in the heart of the city's textile legacy before moving toward the iconic Great East Gate, which has stood guard over the capital for centuries. The route then leads you through the silver curves of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a landmark of neo-futurism designed by Zaha Hadid. As you leave the bustling markets behind, the path climbs along the Hanyangdoseong, the ancient fortress wall, offering a peaceful escape into the hills. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of Seoul’s rapid evolution, blending the grit of 20th-century industrial markets with the whimsy of street art and the serenity of mountain parks. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a photographer seeking the perfect sunset shot, this walking route Seoul offers a comprehensive look at the city's dual identity. You can move at your own pace, stopping to admire the intricate murals of Ihwa-dong or the panoramic views from Naksan Park without the pressure of a group. This walking tour Seoul is best experienced starting in the late afternoon to catch the transition from daylight to the glowing neon of the DDP and the city lights from the fortress walls. While many visitors stick to the shopping malls, this independent journey takes you off the beaten path to discover the quiet residential alleys and historic defense lines that shaped the city's destiny. It is a perfect way to travel through time within a single neighborhood.

Highlights

The futuristic silver curves of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Heunginjimun, the majestic 14th-century Great East Gate

Pyounghwa Market, the historic heart of Seoul's garment industry

The scenic Hanyangdoseong ancient fortress wall trail

Whimsical street art in the Ihwa-dong Mural Village

Panoramic city views from the summit of Naksan Park

Tour Stops (6)

Pyounghwa Market

Begin your journey at Pyounghwa Market, a place that embodies the post-war industrial spirit of Seoul. Established in the 1960s, this market became the center of Korea's textile industry. As you walk past the endless stalls of fabric and clothing, consider the significance of this site in labor history. It was here that Jeon Tae-il, a young garment worker, sacrificed himself to protest poor working conditions, sparking a national labor movement. Today, it remains a bustling hub of wholesale trade, connecting the city's humble manufacturing roots to its current status as a global fashion capital. The atmosphere here is raw and energetic, providing a stark contrast to the modern plazas nearby.

Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun)

Standing as a dignified sentinel amidst modern traffic is Heunginjimun, the 'Gate of Rising Benevolence.' First built in 1398 and reconstructed in 1869, this is the only one of Seoul's eight gates to feature an 'ongseong,' a semi-circular outer wall designed to protect the entrance from invaders. As you observe the intricate stonework and the traditional multi-tiered roof, imagine the Joseon-era guards who once stood watch here. While the city around it has transformed into a sea of glass and steel, Heunginjimun remains a grounding symbol of Seoul’s 600-year history as a walled capital.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Cross the street into the future at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, or DDP. Designed by the visionary architect Zaha Hadid, this neo-futuristic structure is characterized by its flowing curves and 45,000 distinct aluminum panels. There are no right angles here; the building mimics the fluidity of water. As you explore the plaza, look for the 'hidden' history beneath the silver exterior—during construction, workers discovered the remains of the Hadogamyun military camp and parts of the ancient city wall, which are now preserved in the history park on-site. The DDP is a masterpiece of urban regeneration, turning an old baseball stadium into a global design hub.

Naksan Fortress Wall Trail

Follow the path upward to join the Hanyangdoseong, the Seoul City Wall. This section of the wall leads toward Naksan Mountain, the lowest of the four inner mountains protecting the city. The stone blocks used in the wall tell a story of their own—different sizes and shapes indicate different eras of construction and repair over the centuries. Walking alongside these ancient fortifications offers a literal connection to the past. The higher you climb, the more the noise of Dongdaemun fades, replaced by the wind and the sight of the wall snaking across the ridgeline like a dragon's spine.

Ihwa-dong Mural Village

Tucked away on the slopes of Naksan is the Ihwa-dong Mural Village. Once a declining residential area, it was transformed in 2006 by the 'Art in the City' project. Local artists and residents painted murals and installed sculptures to breathe new life into the neighborhood. As you navigate the steep alleys, you will find whimsical paintings of wings, flowers, and local life. Please remember that this is a living neighborhood; while the art is public, the homes are private. The village serves as a colorful bridge between the ancient wall and the modern city below, showcasing the power of community-led urban art.

Naksan Park

Conclude your walk at the summit of Naksan Park. This is one of the most beloved spots in Seoul for panoramic views. From the pavilions, you can see the N Seoul Tower in the distance and the sprawling metropolis stretching toward the horizon. If you arrive as evening falls, you will witness the city wall lighting up, creating a golden ribbon against the dark hillside. It is a place of quiet reflection where the ancient wall meets the modern skyline. The park's granite peaks, for which 'Naksan' (Camel Mountain) is named, provide a natural end to a journey through Seoul's architectural and historical layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full walk typically takes between 90 and 120 minutes. This includes time to explore the DDP and take photos at the Ihwa-dong Mural Village and the fortress wall.