Since the beginning of this year, the COVID-19 has impacted the world, including South Korea. Many tourist attractions in Seoul are hanging by a thread, and sadly some places are closing down.
We have compiled 7 tourist attractions in Seoul, which have already closed down or soon will. However, some spots are just renovating and will be reopening with a new look, so you'll be able to visit there in the future.
LED Rose Garden
The LED rose garden used to be at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). The garden was first installed in 2015 as a one-off exhibition. However, due to its popularity, its closure was postponed. Now, it has officially closed down after five years.
DDP Rose Garden used to have 22,550 LED Roses. Each rose represents a day, and 70 years X 365 days is 22,550. It was installed to celebrate the 70th year of Korean independence day. Meaningful and beautiful scenery has attracted countless people over the years. The area is now empty and is used as a space for art and culture exhibitions.
Ihwa Mural Village
Ihwa Mural Villages is not officially closed yet, but the residents of the village are not happy about tourists visiting their homes. Therefore some have removed some of the murals from the wall and requested tourists not to visit here.
In the beginning, the Korean government tried to promote and invite tourists to the Ihwa mural village. However, residents felt that tourists were disrupting their personal space. Therefore, anonymous residents have written on the wall saying, "We have the right to live like a human being" and more. Government policies should think about the balance between tourism and the rights of the locals.
Lotte Tower Firework Show
Every year at the Lotte Tower, a firework show took place. The firework show had been going on for a long time, making it one of the most significant festivals in Korea. Each year, locals would gather to see this spectacular show.
But Lotte Tower decided not to perform fireworks anymore. From 2021 they will change it to laser show. This year will be the last that Lotte Tower will present a firework show to the public.
Hanok Village
Is it true that Hanok village is about to disappear?!?! Relax, the local district is trying to improve the area by renovating the old buildings into safe and better buildings, while keeping the ancient look.
As you know, hanok buildings are old, and the materials have been weathered over the years. The renovation process will take a long time and effort. You will notice many hanok buildings going under construction around the Gyongbokgung area. I don't know when it will all be completed, but after a few months, you will be able to enjoy the renovated hanok village.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
DMZ remains the same and was open to the public, but due to the COVID-19, the DMZ tour programs have been cancelled.
DMZ is the border link between North Korea and South Korea. It's a tourist attraction where they can feel the intense atmosphere and learn about Korean history. We can only hope that the epidemic will disappear soon, and DMZ will be open to tourists again.
SMTOWN Coex Artium
For K-Pop fans, SMTOWN Coex Artium has been a must-visit place when visiting Korea. It's been six years since SMTOWN was first installed in Coex. You could find performances, souvenirs, cafes and many more inside it. However, SMTOWN has announced that the SMTOWN Coex Artium will officially be closed in June 2020. Many K-Pop fans were stunned about this news.
But don't worry, SMTOWN has announced that they will be back with a new building. Which area will it be next?
Ewha Womans University
Ewha University is another popular tourist destination in Seoul. Tourists from all over the world come here and take pictures, especially in front of this famous architecture by Dominique Perrault. But since the spread of COVID-19, the university has banned all outsiders from entering the university.
Although it is a pity, we have to say goodbye to some of these great tourist attractions. Next time you visit Korea, try to visit these famous tourist attractions since it could be the last time you ever visit.
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