Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Dongdaemun Design Plaza which includes modern architecture
Dongdaemun Design Plaza featuring a sunset, outdoor art and modern architecture
Dongdaemun Design Plaza as well as a small group of people
Dongdaemun Design Plaza featuring modern architecture as well as a couple
Dongdaemun Design Plaza which includes interior views


Join the masses who snap selfies every year at one of the most Instagrammed sites in South Korea, a UFO-like building that hosts a variety of events.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza is an instantly recognizable Seoul landmark. Spot a building that looks like an enormous alien spaceship and it is likely to be this spectacular site. The building hosts exhibitions, conventions and other events throughout the year, but many people come here simply to take photos in front of its extraordinary façade.

Though Dongdaemun Design Plaza was only built in 2014, it has already come to hold great historic and cultural significance. It was among the final projects Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid worked on before her unexpected death in 2016. See the design plaza from a distance and notice Hadid’s characteristic flowing lines and curves.

Visit the plaza during the day to see its vast silver surface clearly. At night, the building is even more spectacular, as it is illuminated in bright colors. The busy, brightly lit roads surrounding it add to the futuristic impression.

Book a guided tour of the building ahead of your visit to have an expert lead you around all of its most impressive features or pick up an audio guide at the door. Check the plaza’s event schedule to see what is on before you come. The events taking place here throughout the year are widely varied, including exhibitions, conventions and more. Some events return annually, including HERA Seoul Fashion Week and Seoul Architecture Festival. Kids are also well catered for, with a great on-site program of entertainment for youngsters.

Explore the innovative Dongdaemun History and Culture Park while you are here. The park has been designed to showcase past and present South Korean culture through interactive exhibits. Part of the park is actually on the roof of Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Visit the space-age marvel that is Dongdaemun Design Plaza any day except Monday, when it is closed. Take the bus or the subway to Dongdaemun History and Culture Park station, which has excellent connections throughout the South Korean capital.

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Zizel Suite Room Seocho
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Reviews of Dongdaemun Design Plaza

4.2
Top destination
5 - Excellent
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5 - Excellent 36%
4 - Good
5
4 - Good 45%
3 - Okay
2
3 - Okay 18%
2 - Disappointing
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2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

Very interesting building, however they seemed to be 'between exhibitions' when we visited so nothing to see inside.

Popular places to visit


Top Dongdaemun Design Plaza Hotel Deals

Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun No.2

Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun No.2

3 out of 5
325, Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun No.2
LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong

LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong

4 out of 5
362, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong
Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Seoul Dongdaemun

Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Seoul Dongdaemun

4 out of 5
226, Jangchungdan-ro Jung-gu, Seoul, Seoul
Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Seoul Dongdaemun
HOTEL THE BOTANIK SEWOON MYEONGDONG

HOTEL THE BOTANIK SEWOON MYEONGDONG

4 out of 5
23-1 Eulji-ro 19-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
HOTEL THE BOTANIK SEWOON MYEONGDONG
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences

Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences

5 out of 5
238 Euljiro, Jung Gu, Seoul, KR
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences
Travelodge Dongdaemun Hotel

Travelodge Dongdaemun Hotel

3 out of 5
359 Dongho-ro Jung-gu, Seoul
Travelodge Dongdaemun Hotel
Grand Hyatt Seoul

Grand Hyatt Seoul

5 out of 5
322, Sowol-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Seoul
Grand Hyatt Seoul
The Shilla Seoul

The Shilla Seoul

5 out of 5
249, Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
The Shilla Seoul
Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun 1

Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun 1

3 out of 5
337 Toegye-ro, Seoul, Seoul
Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun 1
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dongdaemun Design Plaza

At Dongdaemun Design Plaza, immerse yourself in a vibrant hub of shopping and entertainment. Explore the bustling Dongdaemun Market and the surrounding shopping area, where you can discover the latest fashion trends. Don't miss the opportunity to catch a fashion show or indulge in the lively nightlife, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of cultural experiences and modern attractions.

Shopping

Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Visit the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park, a lively public market just 161m away. The Shilla Duty Free Shop is 966m away, while the Lotte Department Store, with its family-friendly atmosphere, is 1.6km away.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Seoul Olympic Stadium, where you can enjoy various sports activities. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the entertainment vibes of Lotte Concert Hall, featuring captivating music performances. For more sports excitement, head to Jamsil Baseball Stadium, a hub for thrilling baseball games.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views on the Namsan Cable Car, located 3.2km from Dongdaemun Design Plaza, perfect for outdoor adventure. Alternatively, enjoy thrills at SeaLaLa Spa & Water Park, 11.3km away, or relax at Anyang Water Land, 17.7km away, both offering family-friendly entertainment.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Dongdaemun Design Plaza is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy a captivating performance at Myeongdong Nanta Theatre, just 1.6km away, or immerse yourself in culture at Chongdong Theatre, 3.2km away. For adventure, head to Hannam Bowling Center, also 3.2km away, for a fun-filled evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Dongdaemun Design Plaza offers a vibrant mix of cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for tourists. Explore the nearby attractions such as the Dongdaemun Gate, the bustling Myeongdong Street, and the expansive Dongdaemun Shopping Complex. With its museums, art spaces, and urban parks, this area caters to those seeking a family-friendly outing while immersing themselves in the city's rich culture and design.

  • Myeongdong Street: A vibrant hub for shopping and street food, Myeongdong Street is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll through the bustling streets lined with cosmetic shops, boutiques and savour delicious local delicacies from street vendors.
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace: This magnificent historic palace offers a glimpse into Korea's royal past. With stunning architecture and serene gardens, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Joseon Dynasty.
  • Bukchon Hanok Village: A picturesque traditional village, Bukchon Hanok Village features beautifully preserved hanoks (traditional Korean houses). Wander through the narrow alleys and experience the charm of Korean heritage amid a modern city backdrop.

Best time to go to Dongdaemun Design Plaza

The best time to visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.3°F (-2.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February32.5°F (0.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.2°F (6.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July77.4°F (25.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August78.4°F (25.8°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December30.7°F (-0.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dongdaemun Design Plaza

To save money during your visit to Dongdaemun Design Plaza, consider travelling between January and March for lower hotel rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Wednesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, including eco-friendly options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Additionally, take advantage of the efficient public transport system in Seoul, which is both affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dongdaemun Design Plaza are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dongdaemun Design Plaza is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dongdaemun Design Plaza is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dongdaemun Design Plaza is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels at a glance. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.