How long does it take to walk through the main sights of Gangnam?

A typical walk covering the Horim Museum to the Starfield Library takes between 2 to 3 hours. This includes time to explore the temple grounds and take photos at the library, covering a distance of roughly 3.5 kilometers.

Is Bongeunsa Temple worth visiting?

Yes, it is one of the most significant cultural sites in Seoul. It offers a unique visual contrast of a traditional Buddhist temple set against a backdrop of modern skyscrapers, featuring a massive 23-meter Buddha statue.

Can I visit the Starfield Library for free?

Yes, the Starfield Library is a public space located inside the COEX Mall and there is no admission fee. It is open to everyone for reading, resting, or photography.

What is the best time to visit Gangnam for photography?

Late afternoon is best for photography. You can capture the golden hour light at Bongeunsa Temple and then see the Starfield Library and the surrounding city lights glow as evening begins.

Is the Gangnam walking route difficult?

No, this route is rated as easy. Most of the walk is along flat city sidewalks and through a modern shopping mall, making it accessible for most fitness levels and those with strollers.

Where can I find the BTS bear statue in Gangnam?

The BTS GangnamDol is located on K-Star Road near the Apgujeong-ro area. It is one of the most popular statues on the walk and is easily identifiable by the group's logo and art style.

What should I wear when visiting Bongeunsa Temple?

While there is no strict dress code for visitors, it is respectful to dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders are covered and avoid extremely short clothing, as it is an active place of worship.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Discover the fascinating duality of Seoul’s most famous district on this self-guided walking route through Gangnam. Known globally for its luxury and the infectious Hallyu wave, Gangnam is far more than just high-end boutiques and pop music. This neighborhood stroll invites you to explore the seamless blend of ultra-modern glass skyscrapers and centuries-old spiritual sanctuaries. As you move through the streets, you will encounter the legacy of Korean independence, the vibrant energy of the entertainment industry, and the profound silence of a Buddhist temple that has stood for over a millennium. Starting in the sophisticated Sinsa-dong area, the route highlights the intersection of traditional Korean aesthetics and modern architecture. You will have the opportunity to wander through lush urban parks dedicated to national heroes and walk the same paths as global K-pop icons. This walking route is perfect for those who want to experience the glitz of 'K-Star Road' before finding tranquility among the thousands of lanterns and the massive stone Buddha at Bongeunsa Temple. The journey concludes in the heart of the city’s commercial pulse at the Starfield COEX Mall. Here, the architectural marvel of the Starfield Library serves as a modern cathedral to literature and design. Whether you are a fan of Korean culture, an enthusiast of urban photography, or a seeker of historical religion, this self-guided walk provides a comprehensive look at the identity of modern Seoul. Avoid the rigid schedules of a guided tour Seoul and instead navigate these iconic landmarks at your own pace. This is a quintessential walking tour Seoul experience that captures the high-energy lifestyle of the district while honoring its deep historical roots.

Highlights

Marvel at the modern architecture and ancient ceramics at the Horim Museum

Pay respects to a national hero in the peaceful enclave of Dosan Park

Snap photos with the 'GangnamDol' bear statues on K-Star Road

Find Zen at Bongeunsa Temple, an urban oasis dating back to 794 AD

Visit the world’s largest underground shopping mall at Starfield COEX

Stand in awe of the towering bookshelves at the Starfield Library

Tour Stops (6)

Horim Museum Sinsa Branch

Begin your exploration at the Horim Museum, a striking example of modern architecture that houses a world-class collection of traditional Korean art. The building itself is a work of art, featuring three distinct metallic volumes inspired by traditional Korean pottery. Inside, you can discover a vast array of celadon, porcelain, and ancient paintings. The museum bridges the gap between Korea's storied past and its sleek, contemporary present, making it the perfect starting point for understanding the aesthetic evolution of Seoul. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the galleries before heading into the bustling streets of Gangnam.

Dosan Park

A short walk away lies Dosan Park, an urban green space established in 1973 to honor the independence activist An Chang-ho, whose pen name was Dosan. The park serves as a memorial to his lifelong efforts to modernize Korea and secure its independence from colonial rule. You can find his tomb here, along with a memorial hall detailing his philosophy of 'truth, action, loyalty, and courage.' The park is a favorite local spot for a quiet stroll and offers a stark, peaceful contrast to the high-end fashion boutiques that surround its perimeter in the Apgujeong area.

K-Star Road

Transition from history to pop culture as you reach K-Star Road. This stretch of Apgujeong-ro is the epicenter of the Hallyu wave, lined with 'GangnamDols'—large, artfully decorated bear statues representing famous K-pop groups like BTS, EXO, and Girls' Generation. This area is home to major entertainment agencies, and the street itself is a tribute to the global phenomenon of Korean music. It is a prime spot for photography and a must-see for anyone interested in the industry that put Gangnam on the global map. Look for the signatures of idols on the statues as you walk toward the eastern end of the road.

Bongeunsa Temple

Cross into a world of ancient spirituality at Bongeunsa Temple. Founded in 794 during the Silla Kingdom, this Buddhist temple offers a profound sense of peace amidst the skyscrapers of the COEX complex. As you walk through the gates, the sound of traffic fades, replaced by the rhythmic chanting of monks and the scent of incense. The highlight is the 23-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, one of the tallest in Korea. During the Lotus Lantern Festival, the temple grounds are covered in thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a breathtaking visual experience that connects contemporary Seoul to its religious heritage.

Starfield COEX Mall

Directly across from the temple is the Starfield COEX Mall, a massive underground labyrinth that represents the pinnacle of Seoul’s shopping and lifestyle culture. As the world's largest underground mall, it features hundreds of shops, an aquarium, and a convention center. This space is a hub of activity where locals come to eat, shop, and socialize. It showcases the high-tech, fast-paced side of Gangnam life. Navigation here can be an adventure in itself, but the underground setting provides a cool respite from the summer heat or a warm escape during Seoul's crisp winters.

Starfield Library

Your journey ends at the Starfield Library, located in the center of the COEX Mall. This is not your typical quiet library; it is a vibrant public space defined by its towering, 13-meter-tall bookshelves and a massive glass ceiling that floods the area with natural light. With over 50,000 books and magazines, it serves as a cultural lounge for the city. The architectural design has made it a global icon for social media photography. It is the perfect place to sit down, reflect on your walk, and watch the world go by in one of the most dynamic corners of South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

This self-guided route is ideal because it includes K-Star Road, where you can see the GangnamDol statues representing major idol groups. It also places you near many entertainment agency headquarters located in the Apgujeong and Cheongdam areas.