Accommodation in Gangnam-gu from AU$149

Want to see what all this Gangnam fuss is about? This district of Seoul is no doubt one of privilege and money, as South Korea’s number one pop export Psy touted in his hit song “Gangnam Style”, but does it measure up as a destination? The answer is yes, the hype is deserved and though it may be a symbol of riches and the high life, the attractions here are varied enough that anyone can enjoy a little slice of this area and have fun while they’re at it. Book a room from our Gangnam accommodation list today!

This part of central Seoul may seem pretty normal at first glance, with skyscrapers dominating its southern skyline, drab apartment blocks and endless shops to the north. But when you let the area soak in, you’ll understand its appeal and reputation. Expect to find both modern and historical attractions in Gangnam; the most notable one is Bongeunsa Temple, a pristine Buddhist sanctuary near the district’s northeastern edge with buildings and grounds as stunning as any part of the Seoul cityscape – except with architecture over 1,200 years old. You may be lucky enough to catch a prayer sessions during your visit.

Just across the street is the COEX shopping mall, just one of many that you’ll be able to find here. Needless to say, you’ll either find yourself in a blissful spending daze or literally lost in its array of shops. If you’re looking to spend big, head to Apgujeong for a real taste of Korean luxury at its best. Pricey cars, storefronts, designer clothing and jewellery all add the shine here. Then, if you have the cash and the luck, try out Seven Luck Casino attached to COEX. Finally, the Yangjae Citizen’s Forest is a great park first built for the 1988 Seoul Olympics that is thick with trees and dotted with monuments honouring victims of civilian tragedies. It provides a popular place for locals to escape for peace and quiet.

As day turns to night, Gangnam comes to life. Its clubs may be glitzy but you can easily sidestep the pretentiousness and have a great time. Apgujeong shuts its shops in favour of posh bars and the area around Gangnam Station also has a trendy nightlife scene. Fittingly, the district plays host to the Gangnam Fashion Festival every October, but also has more humble sporting events such as the International Peace Marathon in the same month, and a sports festival for residents in May.

Gangnam is not a tourist attraction in the traditional sense but it can be loads of fun if you let yourself get carried away by its spirit of luxury or be surprised by its hidden localities. Reserve a seat on one of our flights to Seoul, check into your pick from our Gangnam hotels and find out what Korean life is like in fast lane.