Being in Seoul for your birthday is a treat in itself. There are many options you could go for, but we have compiled a list for you on what we think are the best things to do on your birthday.
1. Visit Namsan Seoul Tower
Standing atop Namsan Mountain in the heart of Seoul, it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built as a broadcasting tower in 1969, it has since become a popular tourist attraction. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling city below.
The tower stands at 236 metres tall and when combined with the elevation of Namsan Mountain, reaches an impressive height of nearly 480 metres above sea level. You are able to access the tower via a scenic cable car ride or by hiking up the well-maintained trails that wind through Namsan Park.
At the top, the observation decks provide stunning 360-degree vistas. Certainly worth seeing the sights at sunset and nighttime when the city’s lights create a sea of lights in the skyline.
Beyond the views, Namsan Seoul Tower also offers a range of activities that make it a must-visit attraction. The tower is famous for its “Locks of Love” area, where couples attach padlocks to the fences as symbols of their everlasting love, a tradition that has become a romantic ritual for both locals and tourists alike.
Inside the tower, you can enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant, which slowly rotates to give diners a continuously changing view of the city. There are also various exhibitions, gift shops, and even a digital observatory where interactive screens provide detailed information about Seoul’s landmarks visible from the tower.
2. Experience a K-pop Concert
What could be better than attending a K-pop concert in Seoul on your birthday. This will truly capture the essence of Korean pop culture. As you approach the venue, the atmosphere is electric, with fans of all ages decked out in official merchandise, waving lightsticks in the colours of their favourite groups, and chanting fan slogans.
The anticipation builds as the doors open, and you’re greeted by a sea of fans inside, each person eagerly awaiting the moment when their idols will take the stage. The sense of community is palpable, with everyone united by their love for the music and the performers.
When the concert begins, the energy in the room skyrockets. The stage production is a spectacle in itself, with dazzling light shows, intricate choreography, and stunning visuals that transport you into the world of K-pop.
The performers’ charisma and talent shine through every song, and the audience’s enthusiasm fuels the entire experience. Fans sing along to every lyric, scream during high-energy dance breaks, and wave their lightsticks in perfect synchronisation, creating a vibrant, pulsating atmosphere.
The concert is not just a musical performance; it’s a full-blown entertainment extravaganza that leaves you buzzing with excitement long after the final encore.
3. Cruise the Han River
Who doesn’t like spending time on the water. This experience blends the serenity of the water with the dynamic skyline of the city. As you set off on the cruise, the city begins to fade into the background, replaced by the gentle lapping of the river against the boat. The Han River, which runs through the heart of Seoul, provides a calm retreat from the city’s fast pace, making it an ideal way to relax and take in the sights.
The cruise routes often pass by key landmarks such as the iconic N Seoul Tower, the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, and the historic 63 Building, each offering a different glimpse of Seoul’s rich history and modernity.
On some of the cruises you can enjoy gourmet dining options to live music performances. Evening cruises are the best option in my opinion, as the city lights reflect off the water, creating a shimmering panorama that’s perfect for a romantic outing or a memorable celebration.
Some cruises even offer special themes, like fireworks displays or K-pop performances, adding an extra layer of excitement to the journey. As you glide along the Han River, you’ll feel a sense of tranquillity that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant energy of the city.
4. Visit a Themed Café
Step into a whimsical world where creativity and imagination come to life. Seoul is famous for its diverse range of themed cafés, each offering a unique experience that goes beyond just coffee and pastries. Whether you’re a fan of cute animals, classic literature, or even quirky cartoon characters, there’s a themed café to suit your interests.
For instance, at a cat café, you can sip on your latte while surrounded by playful felines, or you can visit a book-themed café where the walls are lined with shelves of classic and contemporary novels, creating a cosy, intellectual ambiance. These cafés are designed to transport you to another place, making your visit both a relaxing and an exciting adventure.
One of the most popular themed cafés in Seoul is the Harry Potter-inspired café, where you can enjoy your drink in a setting that mirrors the magical world of Hogwarts. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by staff in wizard robes, and the décor includes everything from spell books to enchanted portraits. You can even try themed snacks like butterbeer or magical cupcakes, adding to the immersive experience.
Another example is the Line Friends Café, where the beloved characters from the Line messaging app are brought to life in the form of giant plushies, character-themed desserts, and merchandise.
5. Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Experience
This option offers a unique way to explore one of Seoul’s most iconic historical sites. Gyeongbokgung, the largest and most impressive of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, serves as a stunning backdrop for this cultural activity. As you don a hanbok, the traditional Korean dress, you are immediately transported back in time, feeling a connection to the royal history and cultural heritage of Korea. The palace’s expansive grounds, with its ornate architecture, tranquil gardens, and grand courtyards.
Wearing a hanbok at Gyeongbokgung also comes with a special perk: free entry to the palace. This tradition encourages visitors to embrace and celebrate Korea’s cultural heritage. As you walk through the palace grounds in your hanbok, you might also participate in traditional activities, such as watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which occurs daily at the main gate. The experience is both educational and entertaining, offering a deeper understanding of Korea’s royal past while allowing you to actively engage with it.
6. A day at Lotte World Adventure
Lotte World Adventure in Seoul is an expansive theme park that offers an exhilarating mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, making it a perfect destination for fun-seekers of all ages on that special day. As one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, it has an array of rides, from gentle carousels and whimsical fantasy rides to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like the French Revolution.
The park’s indoor section is beautifully themed with various zones, including a fairytale-like castle, an ice-skating rink, and numerous parades and live performances that keep the atmosphere lively throughout the day. Outside, the Magic Island section features more thrilling rides and a scenic lakeside view that adds to the enchanting experience.
7. Shopping in Myeongdong
This place showcases the best of Seoul’s fashion and beauty scene. This district is a shopper’s paradise, with streets lined with an array of international brands, Korean cosmetic stores, and trendy boutiques offering the latest styles.
The energy in Myeongdong is palpable, with bright neon signs, catchy music playing from storefronts, and the enticing aroma of street food wafting through the air. Whether you’re on the hunt for cutting-edge skincare products, fashionable clothing, or unique accessories, Myeongdong has something for everyone.
8. Have a Korean Spa Day
A Korean spa day, or jjimjilbang, in Seoul offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience steeped in tradition. These sprawling wellness centres provide a range of therapeutic amenities, including steaming hot baths, invigorating saunas, and soothing massage services. You can unwind in various themed rooms, such as the popular jade or salt saunas, each designed to promote health and relaxation.
The experience typically includes access to communal areas where you can enjoy a leisurely nap or indulge in traditional Korean spa treatments like exfoliating scrubs. With a focus on holistic wellness, jjimjilbangs are not just about relaxation but also offer a cultural immersion into Korea’s unique approach to self-care and well-being.