Seoul’s Sanctuaries: Unplugging in the World’s Most Digitally-Connected City

With lightning-fast internet speeds and plans to roll out 5G by 2019, South Korea is one of the world’s most digitally integrated nations.

In Seoul, free Wi-Fi is now available almost everywhere you go, making it easy to stay connected on the move.

"I believe there’s a unique spirit in the Korean people," says Keith Kim, founder of Seoulistic.com. "They embrace innovation and everything that pushes progress forward."

This rapid connectivity, however, presents a dilemma for the government – how can they persuade hyper-connected citizens to disconnect and take time to unwind?

State data shows that, on average, smartphone users spend four hours a day gaming, tweeting, or chatting.

In an effort to restore balance, the government has turned its focus toward cultural spaces, creating peaceful retreats throughout Seoul. (More on this in the video above.)

Between 2012 and 2016, 197 new green spaces were developed in the heart of Seoul’s downtown area.

These green areas complement Seoul’s already impressive selection of museums and attractions, which are compelling enough to convince travelers to take a break from their screens.

Here are some of our top picks, all of which can be experienced on a Seoultastic tour.

Starfield Library

One of the city’s latest landmarks, the striking Starfield Library is located within Starfield COEX, the world’s largest underground shopping center.

The two-story library is open to everyone, completely free of charge.

Spanning 2,800 square meters, the library features three towering bookshelves, each 13 meters (42 feet) tall, filled with around 50,000 books and magazines.

"This is one of the building blocks of the future, to have structures like this," says Kim. "Soon, they’ll be everywhere."

Not only does Starfield Library offer a relaxing reading environment, but it also hosts a range of cultural events and performances, each with unique themes, every day.

Starfield Library, Starfield COEX Mall, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

War Memorial of Korea

With a history spanning 5,000 years, Korea has endured its fair share of wars, and that’s exactly why the War Memorial of Korea is home to a vast collection of stories and artifacts.

The museum, located on the former site of the army headquarters, features two main exhibitions.

The indoor exhibition consists of six halls. The first is the Memorial Hall, which honors all those who have fought in Korea's wars and sacrificed their lives.

The next room is the War Room, showcasing Korean weapons dating back to the Paleolithic era, along with armor, helmets, and swords used throughout various periods of Korean history.

Another indoor exhibit is dedicated entirely to the Korean War of the 1950s. Beginning with North Korea's unexpected invasion of the South on June 25, 1950, this hall covers all aspects of the war, including the role of the United Nations and the wartime experiences of Koreans.

The Outdoor Exhibition showcases restored tanks, vehicles, submarines, aircraft, and artillery from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. And it's not just about standing next to these giant machines – you can actually climb inside them.

Entrance to the museum is free of charge.

War Memorial of Korea, 29 Itaewon-ro, Namyeong-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea; +82 2 709 3139

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Once known as “Gaecheon,” or “open stream,” Seoul's Cheonggyecheon was covered in concrete in 1958, and later completely buried under a highway completed in 1976.

However, in 2005, a bold revitalization project brought the waters of Cheonggyecheon back to life. Today, it’s a favorite destination for Seoulites seeking an escape from the concrete jungle.

The park spans a large area, with Cheonggyecheon’s main pedestrian pathway stretching 5.3 kilometers.

Featuring waterfalls, stone bridges, lush vegetation, and flowerbeds, the space offers a peaceful retreat for office workers, students, and tourists. At night, it becomes a romantic setting, illuminated by vibrant beams of light dancing through the waterfalls and bridges.

A variety of performances and cultural events are also held here.

Planning a visit? Seoulistic.com has a few handy tips for you.

"The Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza is the busiest spot," according to the travel site’s advice. "Head further along for a more peaceful experience."

Additionally, "the stream is at its most picturesque in the early evening, as dusk falls and the night lights begin to illuminate the area."

The Seoul Tourism Organization offers free guided walking tours of Cheonggyecheon Stream, which can be reserved on their website.

National Museum of Korea

Originally opened in 1945, the same year Korea gained independence from Japan, the National Museum of Korea has relocated several times before settling in its current location at Yongsan Family Park in October 2005.

With over 220,000 pieces of art and artifacts, about 13,000 of which are on display at any time, the best way to navigate this vast collection is by breaking it down into sections.

Explore the museum floor by floor, starting with the first floor, which features an archaeological and historical gallery. Here, you can examine artifacts dating back to 1392, showcasing the beginnings of Korean civilization.

On the second floor, you'll find a collection of calligraphy, paintings, and works donated by private collectors.

The third floor immerses you in stunning Buddhist sculptures, ceramics, and artwork representing various Asian cultures.

National Museum of Korea, Yongsan-dong 6-ga 168-6 (Seobinggo-ro 137), Yongsan-gu