Dongdaemun: The Old and New

Nowhere in Korea is the contrast between the old and the new, the traditional and modern, more apparent than in Dongdaemun. While most of Seoul exists firmly in the present, somehow Dongdaemun manages to stand firmly in both the past and the future.

The Busy Streets of Dongdaemun

I first noticed this division while taking pictures of Dongdaemun Gate and the old city wall, the spot which marks the eastern border of Joseon-era Seoul.

It’s always been remarkable to me, when looking at the location of the gates on a map, how small Seoul used to be compared to today, but this thought took on a new depth as I looked out over the ancient wall. It struck me that everything on the other side was relatively new, that even just 100 years ago much of it had likely been undeveloped countryside. Although these landmarks are themselves relatively minimalistic attractions, they had a profound effect on me as they inspired me to consider the pace of human expansion and development.

Dongdaemun Gate

Historic Seoul City Wall

Dongdaemun Gate

More Information

DDP Architecture

These considerations were only deepened when I visited Dongdaemun Design Plaza, often abbreviated as DDP. DDP is a monument to innovation and, as the name implies, design. Every crevice of the facility exudes and encourages creativity. The building itself is a marvel of modern architecture and supremely enjoyable to simply wander around. The curves, angles, spaces, and halls are forever intriguing, surprising, and beautiful.

The facility hosts a variety of stores, exhibits, and attractions that endeavor to inspire visitors to expand their own creative vision and expression.

DDP Architecture

In one corner of the building, I talked for a while with a man who was designing home aquariums as self-sustaining ecosystems that didn’t need to be cleaned or maintained with electricity-using filters. On the top floor was a sort of playground for children, which focused on exploration and discovery. It left me wishing I could be a child again just to experience it. There were multiple art galleries around the building as well that featured a variety of curations to display both traditional Korean art and global modern art.

DDP Kids Playground

Designer Office Supplies

The shopping in DDP is another way in which Dongdaemun juxtaposes the old and new. While these stores offer a shopping experience that feels extraordinary in its modernity, the streets of Dongdaemun still offer street market shopping that is extraordinary in its timelessness. There are a number of unique shops that one couldn’t find anywhere else, such as a 3D-printed toy store and a shop devoted entirely to calligraphy, where customers are invited to design, build, and customize their own high-end pens. Somehow these felt to me like a reflection of the piles of toys and clothes being sold on the street just outside.

Traditional Korean Art Museum

It was my first trip to Dongdaemun Design Plaza in the 8 years I’ve lived in Seoul, and it was a delightful experience. It was both beautiful and inspirational, and the contrast with the older elements of Korea surrounding it was thought-provoking.

Dongdaemun is a juxtaposition of the old and new and, in my opinion, a must-see for any tourist passing through.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

More Information

Hotel entrance

Room from entrance

Hotel QB Seoul Dongdaemun is a lovely place to stay in a dynamic and interesting neighborhood. It is modern and comfortable, while also displaying an interior design that is warm, inviting, and homey. The artwork on the wood-paneled walls create a soothing and welcoming atmosphere that leaves one feeling comfortable from almost the moment you enter.

Room side view

The rooms themselves are quite comfortable. The beds are soft and the lighting offers a number of options from bright to relaxing which can be adjusted to suit your mood. While it may sound like a minor thing, I quite enjoyed the artwork that had been chosen for my room. It was a deep and engaging piece of original modern abstract impressionism that captivated my gaze for a surprising length of time. I greatly appreciated the effort and artistic eye that went into the design of this hotel.

Hotel staircase

Hotel hallway

The location is convenient and central, an easy spot from which a visitor can see the most interesting parts of the city. The streets of Dongdaemun themselves are a fun place to be, with enough shopping and restaurants to occupy any traveler for days without ever leaving the neighborhood.

I found my stay in Hotel QB Dongdaemun to be truly enjoyable, and I would recommend it to others without hesitation.