I always prioritize immersive experiences that make me feel like a local. I crave the energy of unfamiliar alleyways, soft evening lights, and the genuine pulse of a city. While searching for hotels near Seoul Station, I specifically looked for a place that would allow me to explore Seoul’s diverse night culture—like the lively night markets—comfortably each evening.
I found the perfect match in The Plaza Hotel Seoul. It’s seamlessly connected to Exit 6 of City Hall Station, making travel absolutely convenient and safe—even late at night. Here's my vivid review:
Step Outside Your Hotel — Step In to Seoul's Local Nightlife
Located right beside City Hall, The Plaza Hotel Seoul sits at the very heart of the city. For international travelers like me, this prime location felt like a golden ticket. After a short walk, the vibrant streets of Myeongdong were right in front of me—alive with energy.
I ventured out into the nearby alleys of Euljiro—just minutes from the hotel—and discovered a completely different scene. Known as “Hip-Jiro,” this area blends old and new seamlessly. Hidden gems include small, nostalgic eateries serving spicy chicken stew and savory pork belly, alongside lively craft beer pubs full of chatter. There, immersed in the local after-work buzz, I enjoyed “chimaek” (chicken and beer), a simple yet magical experience that erased all my travel fatigue.
Gwanghwamun K-Food Festival “Neokneok”: The Highlight of My Trip!
An easy walk (15–20 minutes) from the hotel took me to Sejongno Park next to Gwanghwamun Plaza, where the Gwanghwamun K-Food Festival “Neokneok” was in full swing! Open every Friday to Sunday from 4 PM to 9 PM through the end of the year (from June 22, 2025), it celebrated modern Korean fusion cuisine with flair.
The menu was eye-catching—from kimchi-bacon-cheese pancakes and Korean-style tacos to bibimbap burgers. Fusion desserts included cream cheese dried persimmon rolls and trendy black sesame or mugwort lattes. Snack stalls offered crispy nurungji chicken, sosaksoseok (skewered sausage and rice cake), K-BBQ favorites like pork belly and ribs, tteokgalbi hotdogs, and refreshing traditional beverages like omija-ade, pumpkin sikhye, and honey-ginseng shakes. It was a foodie dream come true—so lucky I could enjoy it so close to the hotel!
The dining area wasn’t just tables and chairs—it even had cozy tents and picnic-style seating. Perfect for families or groups to enjoy meals like a casual indoor picnic. The space was spacious, relaxed, and not overcrowded—just right.
Walking out from the hotel to enjoy this festival at night was a stroke of luck in my Seoul trip. If traditional palaces capture Seoul by day, this festival revealed the city’s vibrant modern soul at night.
Heading Back to the Hotel—Finishing the Night Against a Beautiful Backdrop
After the excitement of night shopping and food, returning to The Plaza’s room brought a new wave of calm. The view of Seoul Plaza and Deoksugung palace lit up under the night sky was a beautiful sight—like the city wrapping up my night with a gentle bow.
Being back just minutes after such lively streets felt magical. The moment I closed my room door, the city’s noise faded—but the flicker of lights and the scent of luxury lingered. I found myself unwinding entirely, reset and ready for another day’s adventure.
The Plaza Hotel Seoul became my perfect base. Every night, returning from vibrant markets and food stalls to a quiet room with breathtaking night views was a unique luxury that only this hotel could deliver.
Essential Tips for International Travelers
Q: Can international guests order easily at the Gwanghwamun K-Food Festival?
A: Absolutely! While ordering is done via kiosks, they support multiple languages—including English, Chinese, and Japanese. Plus, there are staff onsite to assist. People of all nationalities were ordering with ease.
Q: Should I walk to Sejongno Park from the hotel?
A: Walking is fine—it's about 15–20 minutes. But if you're unsure or visiting at night, a quick taxi ride (about 5 minutes and around ₩5,000) is more convenient. Buses are available nearby but may take longer due to route complexity.
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