Great Spring & Summer Date Spots in Seoul

Casual #Korean #adultcoloringbook for #travel #girls! #map #Korean

A photo posted by Kate Carter Hickey (@thatgirlcartier) on

Date spots in Seoul are plentiful, but blogs told me I’d never use ’em.  The blogs I read before coming to Korea all had one particular common post that kind of irks me now that I live here.  The majority of them stated that a single, straight woman over the age of 21 or 22 would have a tough time dating.  The blogs went on to say that even they would have trouble because the Western men nearly all had an “Asian Persuasion”, and the Korean guys were “all out to ride the white stallion“.  These crass descriptions are true in some instances, but it’s the same way back home, isn’t it?

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It’s okay, Baby, you’re about to meet Johnny.  Photo by: Kristina Paukshtite

There will always be men who have a fetish for women of a particular culture, and there is a stereotype (still, unfortunately), about women who travel on our own.What we often forget is that the most popular blog posts are often the oldest and most out of date.  With updates in technology (and mentalities) there are a lot more ways for people to meet.  Relationships begin in a robust manner – he’ll call/ text you constantly, introduce you to his friends, and spend every free moment with you for the first few weeks.  They crash and burn pretty quickly, too.

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Photo by: Abigail Keenan

Expats are all on deadlines with ESL Teachers typically on one-year contracts and people in the Military on deployments generally in the realm of 6 months to a year.  There’s always someone more beautiful, younger, more interesting, and with whom they “have more in common” a single right swipe away.  If you’re nearing 30 (I turn 29 next month…scary stuff) the pressure to settle down is greater than ever, and seems almost impossible halfway around the world.  That said, having dropped some weight and having moved to Seoul, my dating life is actually better than ever (even better than in Canada!).  With tons of new places to explore (date spots in Seoul are everywhere!), my indecisiveness (paired with the guy’s desire to appear easygoing and aloof) is the only factor when trying to find a great first date spot!

 

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The First (few) Date(s):

What a #sunset at last night's #lgtwins game. #Seoul #Korea #baseball #uploadkorea #ig_korea #visit_korea #visitkorea #서울

A photo posted by Kate Carter Hickey (@torontoseoulcialite) on

The Baseball Game

I’ve actually been to the baseball game on one first date, one 4th or 5th date, and with friends.  Each time the experience has been fantastic.  There are 3 baseball teams in Seoul alone, so there’s almost always a game on at the stadium in Jamsil (sometimes there are even 2 in a day!).  Bonus: the cheap seat are $7 ($8 on weekends) and you can bring your own food & beverages into the stadium.  If you’re feeling a little nervous and don’t know much about the game itself, you can always talk about what the fans are up to, what the walk-up song might mean (there are new songs written to popular tunes for each player), who will win the audience participation challenge, and you can “ooh” and “aah” at the couples they choose for the kiss cam.  Who knows…it might be you and your date having that awkward first kiss right on screen!

Brunch in Gangnam, Itaewon, or Hongdae

I always love going for brunch on first dates because if you really like the person you can spend the rest of the day together (maybe even making your way through this list!).  You’ll find out if your date is a sweet or savoury person (Eggs Benny or Very Berry Waffles?), there’s always good people watching, and you can assess their mimosas brunch game (or Caesars/ Bloody Marys).  Don’t make a fool of yourself, but sometimes a little social lubrication or liquid confidence can help you loosen up and be yourself.

There are so many sweet little spots in #Itaewon! #이태원 #Seoul #서울 #Korea

A photo posted by Kate Carter Hickey (@thatgirlcartier) on

Chicken pot pie in #Korea! #Seoul #이태원

A photo posted by Kate Carter Hickey (@torontoseoulcialite) on

Build your own Foodie Tour

There are tons of tiny, but awesome, spots in the Kyungnidan (Noksapyeong Station) area of Seoul.  It’s always fun to follow your nose or see where your date wants to take theirs!  I’ve often wondered about the Meat Pie Place in Itaewon called “The Little Pie”.  Grab one to share, then head wherever your heart (or the above stairs) sends you next!

Toronto Seoulcialite Gyeongbokgung to Dongdaemun

Cheonggyecheon (Stream)

We started at Dongdaemun Design Plaza which has several restaurants, but that whole area is a great place to begin a date.  Whether your style is more bistro or ethnic, the area has you covered.  Head down the stairs on the North side and make your way along until you reach Namdaemun.  The stream will turn in and around the financial district, and you’ll be able to conclude your walk near a bunch of fabulous restaurants and bars.  Date not going so well?  Pull the shoot and head up the stairs.  There are plenty of bus and subway stops along this route!

Glowbowling at Smashing Bowl

Alright, so I’ve never actually been glowbowling in Seoul, but we used to go to Rock n’ Bowl all the time in Hwamyeong (Busan).  This bowling pin dances around Itaewon constantly, and one night we decided it had followed us around long enough to warrant a picture.  Bowling is a great first date option because you can get a little competitive and shift your nerves from “first date jitters” to “gotta get a strike goals”.  If you’re great at bowling you can show off your skills.  If you’re not so hot, I’m sure your date can either offer some helpful tips and tricks, or at least some entertainment value if he or she is just as bad!

#Olympic Park in #Jamsil #Seoul #Korea. Site of the 1988 #서울 #Olympics! #hashtagabuse #femaletravelbloggers

A photo posted by Kate Carter Hickey (@torontoseoulcialite) on

Olympic Park

Last weekend I finally got to check out Olympic Park.  It was a Saturday without much to do, so we walked around the neighbourhood and ended up meandering our way to the site of the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul.  We had plenty to talk about with the Olympic Flame and the list of winners and sponsors available for all to see.  There are some small restaurants, fast food eateries, and a mini stop, so you don’t need much in the way of preparation if you head over that way on a first date!  Special mention to Yeouido Hangang Park where you can hang out by the Han River, see the “I. Seoul. U” sign, and enjoy a sunny day.  In the spring this is said to be one of the best places in Seoul to catch the cherry blossoms.

I.Seoul.U

A photo posted by Kate Carter Hickey (@torontoseoulcialite) on

Brush up on your History

The National Museum of Korea is mostly rocks n’ stuff, but your date might just dig it.  Make sure the special exhibits are open to make the most of your trip to Ichon Station.

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Photo by: Josh Willink

It’s still pretty new:

First time #betting on #horses! #RaceDaySeoul #Seoul #Sheraton #Walkerhill #서울 #Korea #Korean #Horse

A photo posted by Kate Carter Hickey (@torontoseoulcialite) on

Take in an afternoon of horse races at the KRA OTB Walkerhill

About a month ago I spent the afternoon learning how to place bets on horses racing in various areas of Korea.  Going to the actual races can take an eternity to leave time for people to place bets before the race begins.  Because the KRA (Korean Racing Association) has an Off-Track Betting site near me at the Sheraton Grande Walkerhill Hotel, there’s no wait between races since the monitors rotate throughout all the different tracks.

Spend a Royal Afternoon at Gyeongbokgung (Palace)

You don’t have to wear couples Hanbok at this stage.  Just go check out the grounds, bring a picnic if you like, and relax and talk.  A picnic takes a little bit more preparation, which you might not want to put in on a first date.  This scenic setting is perfect to relax and actually get to know one another, and there are plenty of places for that perfect “we just started dating” awkward selfie (I actually have one of those with the guy who took the above picture.  Crash and burn or slow fade?  That one’s a secret…).

Changdeokgung (Palace) and Huwon Secret Garden

I haven’t actually managed to get here yet, but I have heard great things about the Palace and its secret garden.  Any time you can spend just wandering around and chatting tends to be valuable when deciding whether or not you want to continue seeing this person.  When things are still pretty fresh a beautiful setting can’t hurt to set the mood!

Take a Tubester ride from Some Sevit (Floating Islands)

This would be a great first date option if the date goes well, but if something goes wrong I would never want to be responsible for either party having to swim the Han back to the safety of dry land!  We went to a rooftop party at Some Sevit and the first thing I noticed were these awesome Tubester boats.  Wouldn’t it be romantic to float along the river at sunset?

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Photo by: Ian Schneider

You’re properly dating:

N Seoul Tower, Seoul, South Korea - Love locks at Namsan Tower! 😍😍😍
Photo by: Rinne Santarita

Feel like you’re on top of the world at Namsan Tower (Seoul N Tower)

This one should definitely only be attempted on a date once you’ve locked things down.  If you’re taking your date to Namsan Tower, it’s because you’re in lurrrrrve.  Be prepared with lock and key in hand because Seoul N Tower is, indeed, for lovers.  This 236.7 m tall structure is a beacon in the night making the Seoul skyline unique.  Make your date especially marvelous by booking a table at POOM (check out my instagram feed for the live ‘grams from out 7 course meal with Taste of Korea!).

[Cable Car]
– Operating hours: 10:00-23:00
– Fare:
Individuals (round-trip ticket): Adults 8,500 won / Children & Seniors 5,500 won
Individuals (one-way ticket): Adults 6,000 won / Children & Seniors 3,500 won
Groups (round-trip ticket): Adults 7,000 won / Children & Seniors 4,500 won
Groups (one-way ticket): Adults 5,000 won / Children & Seniors 3,000 won

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Take the Wine Train

Trazy.com just wrote a blog post about Train travel in Korea, and one particular event caught my eye.  You might not want to venture out of the city with someone who isn’t your girlfriend/ boyfriend, but pretty much the minute you’ve had that conversation it’s time to book the Wine and Cinema Train.  This tourist train offers wine, snacks, and movies en route to a winery and wine spa in Yeongdong.  I want to go to there.

Check out Jeonju

Jeonju was one of my favourite spots on my trip to Jindo.  While we were only there for about an hour and a half, we got to taste Jeonju Bibimbap (it’s as good as the year-long lead up made it out to be!) and check out the hanok village.  I wish we had had more time to actually relax in this traditional village, enjoy a tea ceremony, or have a makgeolli tasting.  I would make a great couples’ weekend retreat.

https://www.instagram.com/p/_nwUuciYfb/

Recreate a Korean Drama at Nami Island

I’ve never been to Nami Island, but it’s supposed to be one of those spots where couples can go to take in nature and see spots from their favourite K-Dramas.  I wouldn’t know any of the famous spots, but the Gangchon Rail Bike looks pretty rad!

씨네드쉐프 센텀시티. Cinema와 Restaurant이 있는 특별한 문화 공간. 200석 규모의 탁 트인 공간에 미니멀하고 심플하면서도 품격있는 인테리어가 보이는 레스토랑 그리고 2개의 상영관과 5개의 독립된 다이닝 룸으로 구성되어 있습니다. 국내 최고의 시설을 자랑하는 restigious Cinema와 품격 높은 이탈리안 Fine Dining은 어디에서도 경험하지 못한 영화 그 이상의 감동을 전해드립니다.

Dinner and a Movie with a twist @ Cine de Chef

French and Italian dishes are available at this serious upgrade on the traditional dinner and a movie date.  Comfy chairs, exquisite meals, and alcoholic beverages will make for a special occasion.  If that isn’t enough, they even have theatres with Tempurpedic Beds!  Check out this luxurious experience in Apgujeong (where else, right?).

Head to Jeju Island

The prices right now on Jeju Air and T’Way  for a quick getaway to Jeju-do are ridiculously cheap.  It would even be worth it to head out early Saturday morning and fly back late Sunday evening, at these rates.  There’s tons of hiking and swimming as well as the delicacies of Jeju oranges and black pork.  Outdoor adventure not your thing?  Rumour has it they have a “Penis Park” if your visit has a bit more of a phallic inclination.  Why not spend a night away with your honey on the island commonly referred to as “The Hawaii of Korea”?

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Photo by: Rowan Heuvel

Wherever you end up, the most important thing is that you’re spending time together, right?  I always feel responsible if a date I’ve suggested with certain expenses (ahem, Lotte World) is a disappointment, so go with the tried and true and focus on getting to know your mate.

Bonus!

How to Spend a Day in Suwon

Wee Gypsy Girl has compiled a list of great things to do in Suwon!  If you’re south of Seoul, or feel like heading out of the big city, check out this modern city with a rich, traditional heritage!

How Not to See the Great Wall of China

On a budget in BUSAN?  Wee Gypsy Girl has you covered AGAIN with free things to do in Busan.  Wouldn’t this be a great vacation spot for canoodling couples?

Great Spring/ SummeR Date Spots in Seoul
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Have you been on any fantastic dates in Seoul?  Let us know in the comments.

Stay tuned for my perfect Busan spots for your spring or summer date, too!


34 Comments Add yours

  1. Star Lengas says:

    These are awesome rec’s Kate! I’m planning to check out The Royal Fad soon! Changdeokgung Palace is beautiful, I definitely want to go back and take proper instaphotos. Sam and I are planning to re-visit Namsan just for the lock bridge, gotta cement that love 🙂

  2. weegypsygirl says:

    These are fab tips, Kate! Will defos try a few of these spots out the next time I’m in Seoul! I had a wee chuckle at the end about Lotte World- my BF and I went to Everland on Christmas and it was a terrible mistake lol! Will never go to a Korean amusement park again! Xx

    1. I actually didn’t hate Lotte World, but I want to go somewhere with actual Rollercoasters and excitement! I haven’t been to Everland – what was so bad about it?

      1. weegypsygirl says:

        It was soooo busy- so many selfie sticks and people EVERYWHERE! There was only actually one proper rollercoaster too and the wait time was 3.5 hours.. No way!

        1. Oh woof. No thanks!! Is there a real theme park in Korea?

  3. I will tell you ALL about Jeju! There’s lots of KDrama spots there too, haha. This was really cute and some fantastic recs!

  4. SuzeMonster says:

    I really enjoyed this style of post. I’m glad we got to go on your dates with you 🙂 I’ll keep these in mind if I ever find myself looking for love in Seoul.

  5. Megan Indoe says:

    I agree! Korea has such a couple culture and so many awesome date spots. I always wanted to do the wine train actually, but we never made it. There are also some great spots just outside of Seoul in Chuncheon (like Nami Island) that’s a mecca for couples including Petite France and The Garden of Morning Calm. That area also has that famous railbike you featured (I dont remember seeing that at Nami though) Anyways, great round up, we always love going on day dates around Seoul.

  6. ktmcg16 says:

    Woo what a list! Totally agree on lots of these. When we go on ‘dates’ (which sadly don’t really do anymore), we typically go on a sweet hike somewhere in Seoul and eat a picnic lunch/dinner at the top. My favorites are in Bukhansan or along the Seoul Fortress Wall. Also, I turn 29 in a month too – ah!

  7. Wow what a list – it makes me think how not long enough I went to Seoul and would love to go back there and live there. My friends working there for Samsung are having a blast and can’t seem to be able to leave!

  8. What a great list of all the places where you did some dating. It is so much fun to read about it and to see some pictures. Unfortunately, I do not have any dating experience in Seoul, yet! 😉

  9. These are a lot of great ideas! I have to admit that I do not envy those of you who are young and dating but these things might make it more fun, especially the museum, the food tour, and the wine train. Good luck with dating but please do not feel like you are getting old or that you must settle down! You are young and have so much to look forward to in life! So have a great time!

  10. casstravels says:

    These look like some amazing recommendations, and I’m glad you’re finding the dating scene better than expected! I’ve never been to Korea, but I’d love to see it one day, definitely keeping these in mind for then. I’ve got less than a month to 30 myself so I feel ya there!!!

    1. It’s a tough age to be in this generation! Happy birthday (soon!)

  11. Wendy Flor says:

    I’ve been to most of these and it’s still fun reading about them. Though I didn’t know about the tubesters. Will definitely have to check that out when I get back after vacation.

  12. Shirgie Scf says:

    oh wow, what a great list of dating spots in South Korea. I have been to some places you mentioned here and didn’t really dawn on me that it could be a great dating spot when in Korea. What I realize though after reading the article is that, actually, everywhere in Korea is a good dating place. I was surprised though that you haven’t mentioned any themed cafes, although the title says it’s “summer date spots” but I guess some indoor venue is a good idea too.

    1. I went to the Raccoon Cafe during Seollal (with my ex, actually)! Definitely a cosy date spot when it’s chilly out. Great idea!

  13. Rachel says:

    My fiance and I have done a couple of these– but now there are more for my list! I agree that dating doesn’t have to be so difficult for foreign women in Korea, but getting married can be. Korean in-laws can be quite…a challenge to navigate.
    I also recommend Garosugil in Sinsa and the Coex for good spots. Tons of cafes around Sinsa, and the Coex has food, shopping, and an awesome aquarium– plus various exhibitions almost every weekend. I dragged my guy to their tea expo last month.

  14. odessaabroad says:

    I agree that dating isn’t as much of a challenge as it was a couple of years ago. But, getting serious and getting married can be. Korean in-laws are… challenging.
    I would also recommend Garosugil in Sinsa for some cafe hopping. The Coex in Gangnam is great too! Food, shopping, a cinema, an aquarium, and different exhibitions nearly every weekend. I dragged my fiance to their tea expo last month. You can quite easily spend a whole day there.

    1. I love COEX! It’s 3 km from my place, so very walkable. What spots do you two particularly like there?

      1. odessaabroad says:

        Cafe Mama’s is awesome, and Seven Springs! There are a ton of great expos too, we went to the handmade fair yesterday actually.

  15. Emre Kanik says:

    I like the diversity in places you present. There’s something in here for everybody. Build your own foodie tour is a great idea! It’s always good to get lost in this city, because you stumble upon places you wouldn’t have found otherwise.

  16. Charisse says:

    Very nice and comprehensive list. This can also apply for someone who wants to see the city and take it all in. Thankfully, I am married with a three year old son. My son has more stamps in his passport than I did when I was his age. We visited Gyeongbokgung Palace, ate our way through Itaewon, and visited the hanok village in Jeonju. I didn’t realize they had horse races and I wish I had the chance to go to Jeju. My family and I are now in Japan and hope to explore our new host country. Love this list!

  17. Laura says:

    My boyfriend and I did pretty much all of these while we lived in Korea (with the exception of some of the restaurants as well as the wine train.) This is an awesome list! I would definitely add The Beastro in Hongdae to a romantic date spot. James and I are literally obsessed with the fried brie there!

    1. I’ve heard Beastro is a great time! Thanks for the reco and the comment. I’ve got a special new guy so here’s hoping we can make it to at least the middle of that list!

  18. abcdeghizzy says:

    Wow this is a great compilation of date ideas! I have a friend who just moved to Seoul with her hubby and was looking for cute date ideas in Seoul. I love how you sorted it based on first dates and then the eventual progression of seriousness. Wish I had this while I was in Korea and props for squashing all those stereotypes about white guys and Asian fever and vice versa!!

    1. It’s super fun to date in a new locale! Discovering a new person and a new place all at once is the best. Thanks for the compliment! I wondered how many people would notice my traffic light progressions LOL

  19. Gina says:

    My boyfriend absolutely loves baseball. He’s been asking me to go to a baseball game for ever. It’s so cheap and I love that you can bring your own food and drinks if you want. I also like going on dates to the palace. They make for great hanbok photos!

    1. Haha yup this posts talks about all that.

  20. CityGirlSearching says:

    I love the idea of building your own foodie tour! And I love your suggestion about doing brunch on a date as you have the whole day to spend together (if things are going well!).
    Such great recommendations! I would definitely still d any and all of them and I’ve been married for 4 years now! 🙂

  21. Lauren says:

    Love these ideas! I’ll be heading to Seoul several times this winter and I’m taking notes!

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