Everything you need to book Seoul.

Plan 2–5 days in Seoul to see the city without sprinting. We map 3 distinct neighborhoods — Hongdae, Itaewon, Gangnam alone fill a long weekend. Add 1–2 days for day trips if you want to head out of the city.

Seoul is generally safe for travelers. The US State Department lists South Korea at Level 1 — "Exercise Normal Precautions". South Korea is very safe for tourists with modern infrastructure, low crime, and excellent public transit.

US passport holders need an ETA (K-ETA) for South Korea — $8, approved in 72+ hours, valid for 90 days. K-ETA required.

Budget travelers spend around $151/day in Seoul, mid-range stays land at $250/day, and a comfortable hotel-plus-restaurants day runs $458+. Mid-tier hotel rooms average $130/night across the neighborhoods we cover.

Hongdae is the safest first-trip pick in Seoul — seoul's student-driven creative district — live music, street art, and the 24-hour rhythm that never really stops. Itaewon is the strong alternative if you want foodies and solo travellers.

Surprisingly no — the neighbourhood has enough café density, boutique shopping, and restaurant variety to suit any age. The clubs are concentrated on three streets; the rest is calmer. Many older travellers prefer Hongdae for the creative energy without feeling like they're in a student party zone.

Gangnam is polished, upscale, chain-heavy, and more office-district by day. Hongdae is creative, independent, younger, and more restaurant-and-nightlife dense. Most first-time Seoul visitors find Hongdae a better base despite being further from 'Gangnam Style' tourist expectations.

Extremely. Seoul is one of the safest major cities globally, and Hongdae is well-lit and dense with foot traffic until 3–4 a.m. Solo female travellers consistently report comfort. The only caveat is Korean drinking culture can be intense around 2 a.m. — watch for sidewalk soju spills rather than any violence risk.

The memorial garden is public and explicitly designed for visitation. Respectful visits (quiet, no photography of the names) are welcomed. The main alley itself is functioning normally with a visible plaque; it is not a mandatory stop.