Seoul Crowned Top City for Solo Travelers by Global MZ Generation for 5th Straight Year!
Seoul has been ranked the 'Best City for Solo Travel' by the global MZ generation for five years in a row! What are the unique charms of Seoul that have allowed it to outshine renowned cities like Hong Kong and London? Kagit.kr is here to uncover everything that has captured the hearts of global MZ travelers in Seoul.
According to an announcement by a US travel media outlet on August 2, 2026, Seoul secured the top spot for the fifth consecutive year in the 'Global MZ Generation's Most Favorite City' category, solidifying its unparalleled popularity. Reports from JoongAng Ilbo and Money Today specifically highlighted Seoul's recognition as 'the best for solo travel,' surpassing cities like Hong Kong and London. This achievement is analyzed as a major factor driving the growth of Korea's tourism industry, fueled by the global K-culture craze led by K-Pop. Seoul offers a safe and diverse range of experiences for solo travelers, making it an optimal destination to enjoy delicious food, shopping, culture, and nature all in one place.
[BEST THINGS TO DO] 5 Must-Do Activities in Seoul
It's perfectly fine to travel alone! Seoul is bursting with diverse experiences that will perfectly match your taste. Here are some key spots where you can witness the past, present, and future of K-culture all in one glance.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) Hanbok Experience
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Admission 3,000 KRW (~$2.25 USD / ~70 TWD) (Free when wearing a Hanbok (한복), traditional Korean dress), Hanbok rental 15,000-30,000 KRW (~$11.25-22.50 USD / ~350-700 TWD) (for 4 hours)
- Experience: Take unforgettable photos wearing a Hanbok against the backdrop of the majestic Joseon Dynasty palace. Don't miss the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony (수문장 교대식) performed every hour on the hour.
2. Namsan Tower (남산타워) Night View
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Observatory 16,000 KRW (~$12 USD / ~370 TWD)
- Experience: This is the best place to take in Seoul's beautiful night skyline at a glance. Make a wish by attaching a love lock, or simply enjoy some solitary time soaking in the cityscape.
3. Hongdae (홍대) K-Pop Street Culture
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Cost: Free (shopping and food costs separate)
- Experience: Immerse yourself in the youthful and artistic streets of Hongdae, enjoying K-Pop busking performances and browsing unique street fashion boutiques. Finding your favorite K-Pop merchandise at the goods stores is also a delight.
4. Seongsu-dong (성수동) Hip Pop-Up Store Tour
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Cost: Free (shopping and cafe usage separate)
- Experience: Transformed from a factory district into a trendy, emotional space, Seongsu-dong is the hottest neighborhood for the MZ generation. Explore the regularly changing pop-up stores and unique cafes to feel the latest trends in Seoul.
5. Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥마을) Tranquil Stroll
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Free
- Experience: Experience a serene atmosphere in Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Hanok (한옥) houses are densely clustered. The sight of Hanoks harmonizing with high-rise buildings is a special blend unique to Seoul.
[PRACTICAL TIPS] How to Smartly Enjoy Your Seoul Trip
Seoul boasts an excellent public transportation system, making it an ideal city for solo travel. With just one T-money card, you can conveniently use both the subway and buses. Plan your trip according to your budget!
| Budget Level | Accommodation/night | Food/day | Activities/day | Total Budget/day (KRW/USD/TWD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | 30,000-50,000 KRW | 20,000-30,000 KRW | 10,000-20,000 KRW | 60,000-100,000 KRW (~$45-75 USD / ~$1400-2400 TWD) |
| Mid-range | 80,000-150,000 KRW | 40,000-60,000 KRW | 30,000-50,000 KRW | 150,000-260,000 KRW (~$110-195 USD / ~$3500-6000 TWD) |
| Luxury | 200,000+ KRW | 100,000+ KRW | 70,000+ KRW | 370,000+ KRW (~$280+ USD / ~$8500+ TWD) |
[LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS] Seoul's Flavors and Stays Loved by Locals
If you want to experience the real Seoul, you have to visit the places locals frequent. In this gastronomic city, we recommend must-try restaurants and comfortable accommodations for a relaxing stay.
Restaurant Recommendations
- Gwangjang Market (광장시장) Bindaetteok & Mayak Gimbap: Enjoy cheap and delicious street food while soaking in the local atmosphere. The mung bean pancake (Bindaetteok (빈대떡)) and the addictive 'drug gimbap' (Mayak Gimbap (마약김밥)) are absolute must-tries.
- Price: 5,000-10,000 KRW (~$3.75-7.50 USD / ~115-230 TWD)
- Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours: 09:00-22:00 (Varies by store, many stores closed on Sundays)
- Knotted Doughnut (노티드 도넛): A doughnut shop that has gained explosive popularity among the MZ generation. Famous for its cute visuals and sweet flavors.
- Price: 3,000-4,000 KRW (~$2.25-3.00 USD / ~70-90 TWD)
- Address: 15 Dosan-daero 53-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Apgujeong branch)
- Operating Hours: 10:00-21:00 (Open all year round)
Accommodation Recommendations
- Budget: Hotel the Designers Jongno – A hotel with reasonable prices and clean, distinctive designs. Located near Jongno 3-ga Station, offering convenient transportation. (60,000-90,000 KRW (~$45-67.50 USD / ~1400-2100 TWD))
- Mid-range: L7 Hongdae by Lotte – A Lotte-affiliated boutique hotel located in the heart of Hongdae. Recommended for travelers who want to feel the energy of K-Pop and youth. (120,000-200,000 KRW (~$90-150 USD / ~2800-4600 TWD))
- Luxury: Andaz Seoul Gangnam – A luxury lifestyle hotel connected to Apgujeong Station. Experience top-tier service in the sophisticated atmosphere of Gangnam. (300,000+ KRW (~$225+ USD / ~$7000+ TWD))
[HIDDEN GEMS] Seoul's Secret Spots Only Locals Know
Venture out to discover Seoul's hidden charms that tourists often miss. These are places that will offer a more special and local-like experience.
1. Bukhansan Dulle-gil Trail (북한산 둘레길)
- Features: A gentle walking course where you can enjoy nature within the city. Easily accessible by subway, it boasts beautiful scenery, especially in spring and autumn.
- Tip: Rather than completing the entire course, we recommend choosing a specific section (e.g., the Pyeongchang-dong section) for a light stroll.
2. Ikseon-dong Hanok Street (익선동 한옥거리)
- Features: Cozier and more retro than Bukchon Hanok Village, these alleyways are alive with charm. There are many unique cafes, restaurants, and charming shops, making it perfect for a leisurely solo visit.
- Tip: Visiting in the evening allows you to experience an even more atmospheric ambiance as the Hanoks are illuminated.
Seoul has once again proven its allure by being selected as the top 'solo travel' city for the global MZ generation for five consecutive years. From the energy of K-Pop to the tranquil charm of traditional Hanoks, and from trendy streets to hidden natural escapes, Seoul is ready to offer a perfect trip, even when you're traveling alone. Why not book a flight to Seoul for your next solo adventure?
韓食筆記
韓食與旅遊,從街頭美食到打卡路線。
