Seoul

Seoul is South Korea's capital and the engine of its tech, entertainment, and beauty industries, a city that rebuilt itself from wartime devastation into one of Asia's most connected metros in under two generations. It runs on a dense mix of centuries-old palaces, like Gyeongbokgung, and glass tech campuses, with a nightlife and shopping culture that shapes trends across Asia. Unlike Busan's port-city pace, Seoul is the country's undisputed political and cultural center.

Korean barbecue, grilled at the table and wrapped in lettuce with garlic and ssamjang paste, is the meal built for groups. Banchan, the small side dishes including kimchi that arrive unordered with every meal, are refilled free and expected. Age and hierarchy shape everyday interactions here, using both hands to receive something from an elder is a small but noticed courtesy.