A Breezy Spring Weekend Walk from Gwanghwamun to Seochon! The Perfect Seoul Day Trip

Hello! This is 365happy365, a blog bringing you happiness in everyday life.

Today is the third Saturday of March 2026. The daytime temperature has risen noticeably, and the breeze against your cheeks feels unmistakably like spring. What makes today especially exciting is BTS's free comeback concert at Gwanghwamun, which has the entire downtown Seoul buzzing!

Are you wondering, "I came to Gwanghwamun, but where should I spend time before and after the concert?" Or perhaps, "Is there a nice place to take a casual walk in Seoul this weekend?" We've prepared just the thing.

Here is the perfect spring outing route that takes you from the Gwanghwamun area, where past and present coexist, through the charming alleys of Seochon!

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1. Starting Point: The Majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun Square

The walk naturally begins at Gwanghwamun Square. Standing before Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace with Bugaksan Mountain as its backdrop, you can't help but feel a sense of openness.

Today in particular, the purple wave of ARMYs gathered from around the world blends with the gate guards in traditional attire, creating a scene more vibrant and unique than ever. Take a memorable photo with Gwanghwamun as your backdrop, then slowly stroll along the stone walls of Gyeongbokgung Palace under the warm spring sunshine.

• Tip: Did you know you can enter Gyeongbokgung Palace for free if you rent and wear a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing)?

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2. Main Course: The Charming Alleys of Seochon

Exiting through Gyeongbokgung's Yeongchumun (west gate), you enter the alleys of Seochon (Sejong Village). While Bukchon was the neighborhood of the aristocracy, Seochon was home to the middle class and artists, giving it a much more humble and quaint charm.

• Tongin Market: The famous "oil tteokbokki" (spicy rice cakes), where you pay with old-fashioned brass coins and fill an empty lunchbox with side dishes of your choice, is a must on any Seochon walk.
• Indie Bookshops & Cafe Hopping: Discovering unique independent bookshops and beautiful cafes converted from traditional hanok houses hidden in the winding alleys is a delightful experience. Sit by the window of a cafe that catches your eye, enjoy a refreshing Americano, and people-watch.

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3. Grand Finale: Cheonggyecheon Stream Night Scenery with a Cool Evening Breeze

After an enjoyable afternoon in Seochon, head back down toward Gwanghwamun in the evening and make your way to Cheonggyecheon Stream.

The refreshing sound of water from the waterfall at Cheonggye Plaza, the starting point of the stream, provides the perfect ASMR in the middle of the bustling city. As evening falls, soft lights illuminate the banks of Cheonggyecheon, creating a romantic atmosphere. With a warm cup of takeout tea in hand, walk along the waterway and let the stress of the week melt away.

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Enjoy Your Own Spring!

Spring 2026 has arrived after an especially harsh winter. This weekend, why not put on comfortable sneakers and follow the Gwanghwamun-to-Seochon route I've recommended to enjoy your own spring?

If you know of any hidden restaurants or cafes near Gwanghwamun, please share them in the comments! Wishing everyone a happy 365-day weekend.