From Incheon to Seoul: Harmony, Tradition, Modernity. And Fantasy

The Opening of the Country: 개항장 (Gaehangjang) – the historic center where, in the 19th century, Incheon became one of Korea’s first open ports, paving the way for international trade and cultural exchange.

China Town: The famous Chinese quarter, where you can try authentic Jjajangmyeon (짜장면) – the iconic black bean noodle dish that originated here and became a symbol of Incheon’s cuisine.

Japanese Quarter: A stroll through streets lined with preserved Japanese colonial-era architecture. The old buildings and early 20th-century facades tell the story of Incheon’s modernization during a transformative period.

Freedom Park (자유공원): End the tour in Korea’s oldest Western-style park, which offers beautiful views of the port and coastline.

This tour is rich with the history, architecture, and flavors of old Incheon, where every street tells its own unique story.

A private museum owned by Samsung, the Leeum Museum of Art showcases both traditional Korean art and contemporary works. In the contemporary art section, you will also find masterpieces by renowned international artists.

The museum’s architectural ensemble was designed by celebrated architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas, each contributing their unique vision to the space.

A contemporary office complex with a V-shaped façade design inspired by nature. The towers blend perfectly with the historic area near Gyeongbokgung Palace.

A cultural center designed by Tadao Ando, renowned for his minimalist approach and masterful use of light and space.

"The significance of architecture is as important as the significance of education. Architecture, like education, provides a space where people can gather and exchange ideas. If architecture lacks the ability to organize and bring people together, it is not architecture. I always think of architecture as something that gathers people."

"Architecture is the art of experience; we see, feel the surface with our hands, walk through the interior of a building – and, in doing so, better understand our own thoughts."

Tadao Ando

The uniqueness of the JCC Art Center complex lies in the fact that it is the only building by Pritzker Prize laureate Tadao Ando in Korea, constructed within the "four fortress gates of Seoul" (i.e., in its historical center). You can find other masterpieces by Ando in Korea; however, this one is the most accessible to the public, being located in the heart of the metropolis. The thematic essence of this masterpiece, which suddenly emerges before us in a narrow alley leading towards the small fortress gate of Hyehwa, is this: "People meet, fall in love, argue, clash – on a small street..." A new challenge for the architect was the slope of the hill along which the alley runs – typically, Ando's creations are associated with straight vertical and horizontal lines.

The complex consists of two standalone buildings. The Art Center and Creative Center are like brothers, members of the same family, separated but inherently connected.

A futuristic complex by world-famous architect Zaha Hadid, a fashion and design center with flowing lines and modern aesthetics. Located in the Dongdaemun area. A venue for exhibitions, forums, fashion shows, biennales, etc.

A legendary skyscraper with a golden façade, offering panoramic views of Seoul.

A museum specializing in traditional Korean art, including ceramics and calligraphy.

A contemporary building that harmoniously integrates traditional Korean aesthetics with modern architectural elements, creating a serene space to showcase Korean art forms.

A skyscraper with a unique "floating" top floor, symbolizing transparency and lightness.

A sophisticated space where visitors can explore the traditions of Korean tea and cosmetics.

A unique space dedicated to collectible figures and toys, housed in an architecturally refined building.

One of the most modern shopping centers, blending nature and architecture.

The Amorepacific Headquarters is an architectural masterpiece designed by British architect David Chipperfield, inspired by Korea’s “moon jars,” symbolizing simplicity and elegance.

The building also houses the Amorepacific Museum of Art (APMA), showcasing international exhibitions.

Amorepacific seamlessly blends business, nature, and art in the heart of Seoul.

The tallest building in Korea is Lotte World Tower. 123 floors and 555 meters high. And on the highest floors is Seoul Sky - an observation deck.

Floor with transparent floor; the floor where you can go outside, the floor with cafes and souvenirs. Even the elevator that takes you to Seoul Sky is a separate attraction with Guinness records to boot.

The unique architectural structure was opened to the general public (and city officials, of course) in 2013.

Its uniqueness lies in environmentally friendly, unusual and unexpected solutions: a double facade of an unusual shape, reminiscent of a sea wave, covering, by the way, the former Seoul City Hall; choice of heating sources; way of preserving the old city hall, Guinness record for the world's largest vertical green façade (internal).

This breathtaking library in COEX Mall features towering bookshelves and a stunning architectural design. It's an ideal spot for book lovers and those looking for a unique photo backdrop. The natural lighting and open space make it perfect for both wide shots and close-ups.