Choi Kyu-hah House

Culture space · Hapjeong Stn. (Line 2)

A hub for young artists near Hongdae, with dance and music practice rooms and multipurpose spaces available to borrow for free.

Museum · Mangwon Stn. (Line 6)

A space that remembers and teaches the history endured by surviving victims of the Japanese military's "comfort women" system and works toward resolving the issue of Japanese military sexual slavery. Even today it is happening

Study & youth space · Hapjeong Stn. (Lines 2, 6)

A lounge, study and community space free for all young people, part of the Seoul Youth Center Orang network.

Library · Hongik Univ. Stn. (Line 2, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

Public library in Mapo-gu. Free entry and reading, fully heated and air-conditioned.

Museum · Hongik Univ. Stn. (Line 2, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

The museum's collection spans archaeological artifacts to modern and contemporary painting, sculpture and ceramics, with a focus on exhibitions, research and education.

Park · Hongik Univ. Stn. (Line 2, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

A 6.3 km linear park on a former railway. The Yeonnam-dong stretch, nicknamed Yeontral Park, strings together shade, lawns and cafes. Few drinking fountains, so bring water.

Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3) Exit 5

Joseon's foremost royal palace. Free on the last Wednesday of the month or in hanbok. The changing of the guard ceremony (10:00 and 14:00) is always free.

Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3) Exit 3

A UNESCO World Heritage site famed for autumn foliage. Free entry applies to the main palace only; the Secret Garden requires a separate booking.

Jongno-gu · Hyehwa Stn. (Line 4) Exit 4

A palace with a Grand Greenhouse and the Chundangji pond. Linked internally to Changdeokgung, and beautifully lit during night openings.

Jung-gu · City Hall Stn. (Lines 1, 2) Exit 2

A downtown palace where Seokjojeon sits alongside traditional halls. Open until 9pm, it's popular for evening strolls and the stone wall road; the changing of the guard is free.

Jongno-gu · Jongno 3-ga Stn. (Lines 1, 3, 5) Exit 11

A World Heritage shrine housing the spirit tablets of Joseon kings and queens, with a meditative path through dense woods. Self-guided visits on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays are the most relaxed.