Seoul Stories: A Stranger's Kindness to Neon Nights

Seoul Station

We were swept into a stream of rushing commuters and blinking LED signs when we stepped off the train at Seoul Station. Slightly lost and exhausted, I paused to check directions to Myeongdong when a kind stranger approached. A retired teacher, he offered to walk us to the right platform. As we chatted, he shared local tips and stories — a gesture of warmth that set the perfect tone for our Seoul journey.

Neon  lit Myeongdong

Staying in Myeongdong was like living inside a neon dream. The streets pulsed with life — a sensory overload of food stalls, skincare shops, and fashion boutiques. One night, we stumbled upon a cosy traditional eatery tucked between street vendors and glowing signs. There, we enjoyed a rich, flavorful Vegan Black Bean Ramen, a satisfying contrast to the sweet and spicy treats lining the streets outside.

Every corner revealed another delight — fish-shaped pastries, fried chicken skewers, or iced strawberry mochi — each more tempting than the last.

Changing of the Guard ceremony

Our morning began with tradition. At Gyeongbokgung Palace, we watched the 'changing of the guard ceremony' unfold with regal drama. 

Gyeongbokgung Palace

All around us, visitors in vibrant 'hanbok' took selfies against the grand architecture — a living blend of history and youth.

Hanok Attired people

Just a short walk away, Bukchon Hanok Village invited us to stroll through its narrow alleyways, where ancient rooftops peeked over stone walls and silence replaced the city buzz.

Hanok Bukchon Village

Later, we wandered into the charming Insadong Cultural Market, a vibrant hive of artistry and tradition. 

At Insadong Cultural Market

We were lucky to catch 'Jang Sang Choel's stunning “Clayworks: Diffusion of Lights” — an exhibition that bathed the venue in a surreal glow of shapes and shifting colours.

Clayworks: Diffusion of Lights

Seeking some tranquillity, we made our way to Hangang Park — a welcome pause in our fast-paced trip. As the river breeze washed over us, we strolled along the banks and watched locals jog, picnic, or quietly reflect under cherry blossom trees.

Hongik University  Market in the evening

Later, our curiosity led us to Hongik University, a haven of youthful creativity. The campus was alive with students painting murals, dancing, and sipping coffee in artsy corners. We capped off the visit by joining in an impromptu celebration of 'International Pancake Day' with savoury, spicy Gochujang pancakes that packed a punch of flavour.

At the Iconic Gangnam Style Mural

Our venture into Gangnam introduced us to Seoul's sleek, futuristic edge. The iconic mural of the hit ''Gangnam Style' draws huge crowds. Glass towers sparkled, people strutted in designer fashion, and K-pop music pulsed from cafes. At the sprawling COEX Mall, we visited the breathtaking 'Starfield Library', where thousands of books reached toward a glass ceiling — both a booklover’s paradise and a social media sensation.

Starfield Library at COEX Mall

We also explored 'Lotte Mall', a polished haven for retail therapy. Here, we discovered 'Tir Tir', a beauty brand known for its dewy finishes and high-performance skincare. The staff offered demonstrations, and we left with glowing skin and even brighter smiles.

Seoul’s artistic spirit also shines in architecture and light. We were mesmerised by the flowing curves of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), illuminated at night like a spaceship from the future.

The Han Riverfront

Our journey reached a poetic high at a light exhibition by the Han River, where tunnels of glowing lanterns and interactive art displays transformed the night into a dreamlike experience.

Seoul offered us contrasts at every turn — history and hypermodernity, street food and cutting-edge fashion, quiet temples and pulsing youth districts. From a stranger’s help at Seoul Station to hanbok-clad moments and neon-lit ramen bowls, it was a journey of discovery, colour, and connection.

And as we left the city behind, we carried with us not just bags full of beauty products, but memories shimmering like the lights along the Han.

Travel Tip: Don’t skip the smaller art markets like Insadong’s, and if you're visiting in spring or fall, schedule a walk through Hangang Park for a nature break that refreshes both body and mind.

 I will continue with more adventures in the coming post

PS- All pics are mine