I SEOUL U is the brand of Seoul, the capital city of South Korea. From the moment you arrive into Incheon International Airport, you will see a slogan written in Korean hangeul: “너와 나의 서울” (neo-wa na-eui Seoul) which literally means “my Seoul and your Seoul.” The slogan was created by Lee Ha Rin, with the meaning of connecting people through Seoul.
Following the positive response from Seoulites, “I SEOUL U” sculptures were built throughout the city. These sculptures are now popular photo zones for both locals and foreign travellers. What’s more, it has even been featured in the background of K Dramas and TV commercials.
As of 2021, there are 29 “I SEOUL U” sculptures in Seoul. In this article, I will share with you the 7 best “I SEOUL U” locations to visit.
The most popular “I SEOUL U” sculpture can be found in the largest of Seoul’s Han River parks, Yeouido Hangang Park. The Yeouido area is one of Seoul’s prime business districts, with iconic buildings like the golden Hanwha tower. Conversely, the Yeouido Hangang Park is a hotspot for friends and couples to enjoy fried chicken, ramen and picnics on the banks of Han River.
You might need to queue up to get your photo taken with this “I SEOUL U” sculpture. It is undoubtedly the most photographed “I SEOUL U” sculpture in Seoul!
Address: 330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul Website: english.seoul.go.kr Directions: Yeouinaru Station (Subway Line 5) Exit 2 or 3
Another Hangang Park, Ttukseom Hangang Park is located in Gwangjin-gu. However, unlike other major parks in Seoul, you’ll notice that there are more locals here than tourists. The “I SEOUL U” sculpture is located close by to the left of the Ttukseom Resort Station exit once you enter the park.
Address: 139 Gangbyeonbuk-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul Directions: Ttukseom Resort Station (Subway Line 7) Exit 2 or 3
Seoul Grand Park is a family-friendly theme park in Gwacheon. The park is one of the largest and oldest in Seoul and includes the first zoo of Korea. With a total area of 6,460,000㎡, there is an amusement park, botanical garden, zoo, campsite and museum! How to find the “I SEOUL U” monument? Thankfully, it’s right in front of the park entrance.
Address: 102 Daegongwongwangjang-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do Operating Hours: 9:00am - 7:00pm everyday (May ~ Aug); - 6:00pm (Mar ~ Apr, Sep ~ Oct); - 5:00pm (Nov ~ Feb) Directions: Seoul Grand Park (Subway Line 4), Exit 2
Seoul Forest is an educational, eco-minded park beloved by locals and tourists alike, especially during the Spring and Autumn seasons. The park is split into 4 sections: Culture & Art Park, Educational Experience Park, Eco Forest Park and Riverside Park.
Found in Seongdong, Seoul Forest is open throughout the year and free to enter. If you’re hunting for the “I SEOUL YOU” sculpture? Its right by Gate 1.
Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul Website: seoulforest.or.kr Directions: Seoul Forest Station (Subway Bundang Line) exit 4; Ttukseom Station (Line 2) Exit 8
Dongdaemun Design Plaza is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul. This plaza is a cultural exhibition center built by the world renowned British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid in 2014. What’s more, it is the largest atypical building in the world!
Like the previous stops, it is another popular filming location for K Drama and Film. The “I SEOUL U” sculpture is right outside the plaza next to the tall bronze statue.
Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul Website: ddp.or.kr Directions: Dongdaemun History and Culture Park (Subway Line 2, Line 4) Exit 1 or 10
Nodeul Island is an artificial island located under the Hangangdaegyo Bridge. More than just a grassy mound, Nodeul Island is an open culture and art space featuring a prime music venue, work space, cafe, book store and gallery.
The island’s most recent fame comes from its use as the filming location in the popular K Drama Start Up. Moreover, the “I SEOUL U” sculpture is one of the newest additions and only few know about its existence.
Address: 445 Yangnyeong-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Website: nodeul.org Directions: Nodeul Station (Subway Line 9) Exit 2
Finally, where else could be better for “I SEOUL U” than the centre of Seoul itself? Seoul plaza is a popular open space located right in front of City Hall. You never know what you might find here, from festivals to rallies, a fountain during the summer and an ice rink in the winter!
Address: 110 Sejongdae-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul Directions: City Hall Station (Subway Line 1) Exit 5 or 6
