Opened in 1980 as a broadcast tower, Namsan Seoul Tower has become one of South Korea’s most famous tourist attractions. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
At 774 feet tall, the Namsan Seoul Tower is one of Asia’s tallest structures and one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Officially called YTN Seoul Tower, this iconic structure on Nam mountain is the second-highest spot in the South Korean capital. It comes with restaurants, shops and a view that makes it seem like you’re on top of the world.
Opened in 1980 as a broadcast tower, Namsan Seoul Tower has become one of Korea’s most famous tourist attractions.
The tower is known for its organic electroluminescent diode, or OLED, displays on the first, second and fourth floors. Unlike light-emitting diodes, OLED displays work by passing an electric current through an organic compound that emits light in response. The five kinds of OLED displays include a panorama tunnel and a 3D video world that will leave any art-lover and tech-geek speechless.
For another type of electric response, take the one you love to the Proposal Staircase, one of the most inspiring areas in the tower and, if you’re into that kind of thing, an opportune spot to declare your intentions before heading to the Bridge of Love that connects Level 2 and Level 3. There you may purchase a Love Lock at the souvenir shop, write a note on it and attach it almost anywhere on the tower.
Colorful Love Locks cover the Bridge of Love at Namsan Seoul Tower, March 7, 2023. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
Colorful Love Locks decorate trees near the Bridge of Love at Namsan Seoul Tower, March 7, 2023. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
At Linlin Land on the tower’s first floor, visitors will find life-size figurines of the world’s endangered species like Capuchin monkeys, lemurs and red squirrels. Continue to the fourth floor and you’ll find Yoohoo Land, with the same conservation-minded characters, but in greater numbers and more animated.
The crowning Namsan experience is on the top floor, where visitors will find a 360-degree view of the entire city. The main observation deck truly gives you an exceptional experience, so be sure not to miss it. This floor features high-powered telescopes for close-up views of the city, and each window panel lets you know which major world city you are facing.
A view of South Korea's capital from atop Namsan Seoul Tower on March 7, 2023. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
Weekdays are best to visit Namsan Seoul Tower to avoid the crowds. Set aside three to four hours to make the most of all the attractions.
There are five ways to reach Namsan Seoul Tower: cable car (my personal favorite); shuttle bus; Seoul city tour bus; taxi or private car service. Whatever mode of transportation you use you’ll have an amazing time.
Directions: The Namsan cable car station is at 83 Sopa-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Times: Noon to 10 p.m., weekdays; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., weekends
Costs: Adults 16,000 won, or $12.14; children 12,000 won, or $9.10
Food: There are numerous food vendors.
Information: Online: nseoultower.co.kr/eng
