Visit Seongbuk-gu for fascinating historic attractions that provide insights into the Seoul of yesteryear. The district’s museums help trace that history, while its universities have a future-looking perspective. Make your way through the various attractions to understand the local culture.

Admire the intriguing sculptures adorning the grassy field of the Jeongneung Royal Tomb. It contains the remains of Queen Sindeok from the Joseon Dynasty, which lasted from the 14th to the 19th century. For more modern history, check out the Choi Sunu House, where its namesake writer lived in the 1970s and 1980s. Admire the imposing design of the Sukjeongmun Gate, one of the Eight Gates of Seoul.

Get a better understanding of spiritual traditions at Gilsangsa Temple. With its tea ceremonies, meditation rooms and cultural workshops, this modern temple and its picturesque grounds offer a serene alternative to the busy city center. Consider the changing aesthetic of the country’s décor and style in the Korea Furniture Museum, which focuses on early wooden pieces.

The area is an arts hub, with several important galleries. Study historic sculptures in the Korean Stone Art Museum and learn how the Gansong Art Museum protected Korean works of art from the Japanese Occupation in the early 1900s. The Seongbuk Museum of Art has a wonderful modern façade and contains a great range of Korean works. Explore the Korea University campus and Sungshin Women's University.

The Seongbuk-gu district is in the northern part of Seoul, just north of the zones of Dongdaemun-gu, Jongno-gu and Seongdong-gu. Ride a bus to the Seongbuk Police Station or take the subway to Gireum Station and get around the neighborhood by taxi or on foot. While in the region, explore the surroundings for other zones such as Yongsan-gu, Cheongdam-dong and Bangi-dong.