N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

Built in 1969 as a broadcast transmission tower, Namsan Tower was reborn as 'N Seoul Tower' after a major renovation in 2005. Standing at 479.7m above sea level (243m Namsan Mountain + 236.7m tower), the 360-degree panorama on a clear day stretches from Bukhansan in the north to the Han River and Lotte World Tower to the southeast. There are three ways up: the Namsan Cable Car (about 3 minutes one-way), the Namsan loop bus, or hiking. The walk from Hoehyeon Station takes roughly 30-40 minutes through forested trails — surprisingly lush for the heart of a megacity. Start around sunset to watch the city gradually light up as you climb. The 'love locks' fence on the tower plaza has become one of Seoul's most iconic romantic symbols. Locks are sold at shops nearby. Beyond the observatory, n.Grill at the top is Seoul's only revolving restaurant — reservations are essential.