King Sejong the Great Memorial Hall

Park · Cheongnyangni Stn. (Line 1, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

Korea's first arboretum. A lush, free forest trail with 100 years of history, best walked in spring and autumn.

Library · Hoegi Stn. (Line 1, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

Public library in Dongdaemun-gu. Free entry and reading, with heating and air conditioning.

Sports facility · Cheongnyangni Stn. (Line 1, Suin-Bundang Line, Gyeongui-Jungang Line, Gyeongchun Line)

Public indoor pool with open swim sessions.

Library · Anam Stn. (Line 6)

Public library in Dongdaemun-gu. Free entry and reading, with heating and air conditioning.

Study & youth space · Hoegi Stn. (Line 1, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

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

Museum · Hoegi Stn. (Line 1, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

Since opening in 1955, the museum has centered on archaeology, history and folklore.

Yongsan-gu · Ichon Stn. (Line 4, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

Korea's largest museum, with all permanent galleries free. The spacious lobby and Reflecting Pond garden are good for a rest, and Wednesday and Saturday evening openings are quieter.

Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. / Anguk Stn. (Line 3)

A free museum of Korean daily life. The outdoor Memory Street and children's museum make it great for families.

Jongno-gu · Gwanghwamun Stn. / Seodaemun Stn. (Line 5)

A free museum on Seoul's transformation from the Joseon era to the present. The old Tram No. 381 outside is a photo favourite.

Jongno-gu · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5) Exit 2

A free modern history museum facing Gwanghwamun Square. Insider tip: the rooftop viewpoint takes in Gyeongbokgung and the square at a glance.

Jung-gu · Euljiro 1-ga Stn. (Line 2) Exit 6, Myeongdong Stn. (Line 4) Exit 5

A compact free museum on the history of stamps. In the middle of Myeong-dong, so it's a handy escape from the heat or cold.