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  >  Asia   >  Korea   >  Seoul Sky Observatory in Lotte World Tower has the Best Views in Seoul… 555 Metres Up!
lotte world tower seoul sky observatory

If you’ve lived in Korea for any length of time, you know that clear skies and good air quality are not necessarily a given. So, when you get 3 uninterrupted weeks of glorious blue skies, fluffy clouds and bright sunshine, you know it’s time to mark the occasion with something special.

lotte world tower seoul sky observatory

Seoul Sky Observatory sits at the top of Lotte World Tower – Korea’s tallest building.

For me, that something special, was a trip up Korea’s tallest building to the Seoul Sky Observatory. At its lofty height of 555-metres at the top of the Lotte World Tower, it’s the 3rd highest observatory in the entire world.

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Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory | 롯데월드타워 서울스카이

The Seoul Sky Observatory is without a doubt the best place to get a birds eye view of one of the world’s few mega-cities. It’s located at the top of the tallest building in Korea!

It’s hard to appreciate the incredible vastness of this densely populated metropolis on ground level. But at 500+ metres up, it’s impossible not to be wowed by just how huge the city is.

seoul sky observatory | view of seoul

Seoul goes on and on and on…

Panoramic views from the Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory are astounding, with views of the city, surrounding mountains, and far-off oceans stretching out as far as the eye can see, in every possible direction.

There’s something spectacular to see out of every single window at the Lotte World Tower observation deck, but I was particularly entranced by the south-side view. It showcases the Han River, Namsan, and the N Seoul Tower in the distance.

It was – in a word – breathtaking.

Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory

It’s impossible to find this breathtaking view anywhere else in Seoul.

How to get to Lotte World Tower and the Seoul Sky Observatory

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 300

Seoul Sky Observatory is located on the top 7 floors of the 123 story Lotte World Tower, but the ticket office and entrance is located on the B1 Level of Lotte World Mall.

lotte world tower | seokchon lake moon boats

Seoul Sky Observatory is on the top 7 floors of Lotte World Tower.

By Seoul Subway | The easiest way to get to Lotte World Tower is via subway. Get off at Jamsil subway station on Line 2. Take Exit 1 or 2, and follow the signs to Lotte World Mall.

Things can get a little confusing, because the OLD Lotte Mall from the 1980s is located across the street. Just make sure to follow the signs for the Lotte World Mall. This is where you can access Lotte World Tower and the Seoul Sky Observatory.

seoul sky observatory | lotte world tower

There’s signage directing you to the Observation Deck all over Lotte World Mall.

There’s tons of signage around though, so don’t worry too much about getting lost. If you do, there’s information booths in the mall, where you can ask for help. And yes, they can speak english.

By Car | If you decide to drive to Seoul Sky Observatory, you’ll can get 4 hours of parking for 4,800 won with your receipt. If you stay longer than 4 hours, you’ll have to pay regular parking rates for the extra time (500 won per 10 minutes).

Seoul Sky Observatory Tickets

There are 2 types of admission tickets to Seoul Sky Observatory: Regular and Fast Pass. These can be purchased in person at the ticket office on level B1, or in advance online for a small discount.

lotte world tower seoul sky observatory

Regular admission tickets for Seoul Sky Observatory range from 25,000 – 27,000 won.

The regular admission ticket is for a set date and time. It allows you access to all levels of Seoul Sky, except the 123 Lounge. Tickets for adults cost 27,000 won (age 13+), and admission for children is 25,000 won (age 3- 12). 1 child under the age of 36 months per parent can enter free. You’ll need ID to take advantage of this.

The Fast Pass allows immediate admission at any time, and costs 50,000 won.

Once you pass ticket control, you’ll have to go through a security check that felt so much like an airport one, that I took out my electronics and placed them in a bin – not necessary – and um yeah, embarrassing.

lotte world tower

Check out the exhibits on B2F and B1F, before heading up to the top of Lotte World Tower.

Once through security, you’ll enter the elevator boarding area. There, you’ll be entertained by huge video installations about the construction of the tower, tourist destinations in Seoul, and the natural wonders of Korea.

You can’t get back onto the exhibition level once you’ve taken the Sky Shuttle Elevator to the top, so make sure you get your fill before you step onto the elevator and ascend to Seoul Sky.

LOTTE WORLD TOWER DISCOUNTED TICKETS  |  These discounted tickets for Seoul Sky Observatory let you bypass lines, and enter directly using a QR code. Quick and convenient. Check details here.

Lotte World Tower | Sky Shuttle Elevator

From the B1F level, the Sky Shuttle Elevator climbs 117 floors in less than a minute, at a world record breaking speed of 600 metres per minute.

It’s something I definitely felt in my popping ears, but couldn’t see, because the entire interior of the elevator is covered in the world’s first ceiling and four-walled screen. It shows video of Seoul, the Han River and its impressive modernization over the last 50 years.

interior video of the Sky Shuttle Elevator at Seoul Sky Observatory

A funky video plays on the walls of the Sky Shuttle Elevator as you rocket up the Lotte World Tower

It was kind of a bummer not to be able to see outside as we rocketed up Lotte World Tower, but since the elevator isn’t on an outside wall, you wouldn’t see much anyway.

Seoul Sky Observatory | What to Expect

Your skyward exploration of Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory begins on the 117th floor. From there, you can take escalators up 1 floor at a time, until you reach the top and final floor accessible with a general admission ticket – the 122nd.

seoul sky | observation platforms

Windows are unique at Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory.

To keep things interesting, each level is slightly different with unique features and engaging window layouts.

117th Floor | Sky Show

The Seoul Sky observation platforms start on the 117th floor, where you can enjoy a Sky Show and Media Room, along with your views of Seoul.

118th Floor | Sky Deck

On the 118th floor Sky Deck, you can test whether you’re ACTUALLY afraid of heights by walking out onto transparent glass floors that give you an unobstructed view of just how high above ground you are.

Seoul Sky Observatory | Transparent floors

Transparent floors at Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory.

I admit to shaky knees and a sickening feeling of vertigo as I made my way onto the Sky Deck, but I’m proud to say I did it. I even spent some time lounging around on top of them.

seoul sky observatory | Sky Deck

These people don’t know that the floor can disappear from beneath them.

If you ARE afraid of heights though, beware – because you might find yourself standing atop transparent glass unawares. Staff have control of the clarity of the Sky Deck, and I bet they have quite a bit of fun scaring those among us who have a phobia of heights!

YEO YONG GUK TRADITIONAL MEDICINE SPA  |  After visiting Seoul Sky Observatory, treat yourself to a one-of-a kind traditional spa experience at Yeo Yong Guk. It’s in the same neighbourhood, and its designated as one of the top 25 MUST-GO Wellness Attractions in Korea by the Korea Tourism Organization. Check services here.

119th Floor | Sky Friends Cafe

There’s a small cafe on the 119th Floor, where you can grab an ice cream or drinks.

120th Floor | Sky Terrace

Seoul Sky Observatory | Sky Terrace

The Sky Terrace is 486-metres up!

The Sky Terrace on the 120th floor is a definite highlight of the Seoul Sky Observatory. At 486 metres, it’s the highest outdoor observation deck in the world. It’s absolutely the best spot to get crystal clear pics of the fantastic landscapes around you, without dirty windows getting in the way.

Since this the only outdoor area at Seoul Sky Observatory, it can be closed unexpectedly due to bad weather.

lotte world tower seoul sky observatory | sky terrace

The Sky Terrace is exposed to the elements.

121st Floor | Sky Mapping Show

The Sky Mapping Show offers a media art display on the windows of Seoul Sky Observatory.

122nd Floor | Seoul Sky Cafe

The 122nd floor is the last floor you can access with a general admission ticket. You can enjoy the views, while sipping a coffee from the Seoul Sky Cafe.

Best Time to Visit the Seoul Sky Observatory

It’s understandably very popular to visit Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory during sunset hours. On a clear day, the views are beyond extraordinary and what could be better than watching sunset from that high above.

It can get very busy at that time though, so it’s probably a good idea to reserve tickets in advance, especially if you’ve got your heart set on visiting during magic hour, on a weekend night or holiday.

lotte world tower | seoul sky observatory

Sunset is probably the most popular time to visit Seoul Sky Observatory.

If you’d like a more peaceful experience, I recommend going in the morning, on a weekday. You’re much more likely to avoid queues and crowds.

We visited the observation deck on a Friday around 11:30 in the morning. It was essentially empty, aside from a few super noisy elementary school groups, which are easily avoided by moving to a different floor.

lotte world tower seoul sky observatory

It was easy to get pictures without people in them when we visited

Tickets can be purchased on-site for a 30 minute elevator boarding slot, on the hour or half hour. We’d bought tickets for the 12:00 – 12:30 time slot, but were able to go up earlier since there was no line. There’s a handy electronic board outside the ticket office that lets you know how many slots are available in real time.

Note that this is ONLY a boarding time for the Sky Shuttle elevator. You can spend as much time up at Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory as you want.

LOTTE WORLD THEME PARK  |  It’s great to combine Lotte World Adventure Theme Park and Magic Island with Seoul Sky Observatory, beause they’re steps away from each other. You can score nearly 50% off admission by booking passes online in advance. Check full details here.

Sky Bridge Tour at Lotte World Tower

The latest attraction at Lotte World Tower is the thrilling Sky Bridge tour. If you’ve got the nerve, this is a totally unique experience that gives you totally unobstructed views of Seoul, from 541-metres above ground, as you walk across a tiny bridge between the 2 peaks of the Tower.

It is possible to reserve a spot one month in advance, but it can be challenging for non-Koreans to do so. It’s probably easier to book tickets on-site, on the same day on the B1 or 117th floor of Lotte World Tower. Costs range from 96,000 to 132,000 won, and includes admission to Seoul Sky Observatory, the Sky Bridge tour, and 2 photos.

Lotte World Tower | Other Activities

There’s a FREE way to get inside Korea’s tallest building without forking out the 27,000KRW price tag to get up into the Seoul Sky Observatory… even though I think it’s totally worth paying that price at least once.

Sky31 Food Avenue

Sky31 Food Avenue is located on the 31st floor of the Lotte World Tower, and it’s open to absolutely everyone. Sure, it’s not the top floors of the building, but there are still incredible views of Seoul below.

You can access this food court in the sky by getting a free pass card in the lobby of the Lotte World Tower. When I visited, I couldn’t help but feel like I was getting past the velvet rope, into some sort of privileged territory, rather than just a food court.

There are huge windows on absolutely every side of Sky31 Food Avenue. I personally loved the evening view of Seoul’s city lights coming to life, but sunset would also be gorgeous and great for photography.

Keep in mind that even though the setting is pretty exciting, this is still just a food court, and dining options reflect that. There’s burgers, ice cream, Krispy Kreme, coffee and other humble options available there.

Check out Sky31 Food Avenue during sunset or in the evening

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Seoul Sky Observatory: Essential Info and FAQs

1
How much does it cost to go up Lotte World Tower? Tickets for Seoul Sky Observatory are 27,000 won for adults, and 24,000 won for children.
2
How many floors is Seoul Sky Tower? The Seoul Sky Observatory is located at the top of Korea's tallest building - the Lotte World Tower. It has 123 floors and stands 555-metres tall.
3
Where is Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky located? Seoul Sky is located in Seoul, South Korea, in the Jamsil area. It overlooks Seokchon Lake, and is close to 2 major malls, and Lotte World amusement park.
4
What subway station is closest to Lotte World Tower? Jamsil on Line 2 is the closest subway station to Lotte World Tower in Seoul.

What’s the tallest building you’ve visited? Would you stand on a glass floored observation deck?

Get the best views of Seoul from the Seoul Sky Observatory

Comments:

  • July 16, 2017

    This is so cool

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  • July 15, 2017

    Good one!

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  • July 6, 2017

    I haven’t seen the Seoul Sky yet. The tallest places I’ve been in Seoul are the peaks of Mt. Bukhansan and Mt. Gwanaksan, (and N Seoul Tower). I avoid going to any observatory that asks for entrance fees but the glass floor looks interesting to me! I guess it’s worth the price.

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    • July 7, 2017

      It’s definitely worth the price…especially if you go on a clear day, and think about just how much it cost them to build the tower and observatory in the first place. I don’t think there’s anywhere in the city to get a better view! 🙂

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  • July 4, 2017

    A glass floor? Sweet man I think I’m going to pee my pants but totally enjoy myself. YAY for one more photogenic destination in Seoul !

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    • July 4, 2017

      Haha, I was scared myself, but made it out onto them nonetheless. Worth it, I think. 🙂 I saw some sunset pics of Seoul Sky and it looked absolutely incredible. I might have to brave the crowds on a clear day to check it out one day.

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  • July 3, 2017

    Some great tips here about enjoying the exhibit before rocketing to the top, and skillful advice for evading elementary groups. I also read Hallie’s blog, so it’s nice to see your take on the experience. It’s interesting that “time slots” are displayed. I think that would make the visitor much more aware of time and urgency to take in sights quickly. As a European, I really dislike that aspect, and seems to be another manifestation of time concepts here in Korea. The Empire State Building is the tallest observation deck that I’ve visited thus far! Thanks for a nice write-up!

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    • July 4, 2017

      I think the time slots are a bit confusing, and maybe I haven’t written about it clearly enough…but they are just slots for entering the elevator boarding area, NOT for your time in the Tower. You can take as much time as you want once you’re inside. And to be honest, I think they’re necessary. Can you imagine the chaos that would ensue if they were at full capacity and everyone was trying to go up at once (and especially since Koreans are, shall we say, not the best at queueing?) Also if it’s not busy, you can go up any old time you please (like we did). I hate limitations myself, but actually appreciated these, cuz I hate crowds, and I could actually see how many tickets were sold, out of 500, and KNOW that it would be quiet up above. 🙂

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  • July 2, 2017

    I’ve been up to the observatories at the World Trade Center and the Empire State Building (I grew up in the NYC suburbs), and while it is a sort of touristy thing to do, it is truly a breathtaking experience and the best way short of an airplane to get a grasp of a city’s layout. I’ll try and get up there on a future trip (though maybe not the glass floor).

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    • July 4, 2017

      Definitely touristy, but definitely required. The best bet is to try to go when there’s less tourists, so that it feels less touristy. 😉 I’ve been to NYC a few times, but somehow have never made it to any of the “touristy” sites….will have to remedy that one day!

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  • July 2, 2017

    “If you ARE afraid of heights though, beware on the 119th floor, because you might find yourself standing atop transparent glass unawares. Staff have control of the clarity of the Sky Decks, and I bet they have quite a bit of fun scaring those among us who have a phobia of heights!”

    This terrifies me, because I really am afraid of heights. I also like to photograph from great heights so that irony always leaves me with a dilemma. However, Lotte Tower is still on my bucket list. I’ll just be careful on the 119th floor. Thanks for the warning.

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    • July 4, 2017

      It’s really a curse to have this fear of heights, isn’t it? Cuz the best views are always from high above. It’s quite cruel to give staff control of those floors though. I saw people cowering on the edge of those floors…not sure what would happen to them if the floor just disappeared from underneath them!

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  • July 1, 2017

    What a cool view! The air quality issue in SoKo is a huge bummer. I had a hard time adjusting to it last year, but this year I didn’t notice it as much, or perhaps I wasn’t as affected by it because it became “normal” to me. I do, however, have a profound appreciation for the rare days that I can see the nearby mountains clearly.

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    • July 4, 2017

      HUGE bummer! 🙁 We’ve been here for almost 10 years, and it’s definitely gotten worse in the last few years. I don’t remember it really being an issue when we first moved here. Hopefully the new government will take real steps to address it, instead of blaming it on people cooking too much mackerel and samgyupsal. 😮

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  • July 1, 2017

    Wow! What a great view. It certainly puts the 64 to shame. Enjoy those rare stretches of clear skies before the next smog cloud forms 😉

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    • July 1, 2017

      Yeah, the 63 is like half the height of the Lotte World Tower – crazy, right? But I am sad to say that the smog cloud has already formed, and has been hovering over us like an evil alien warship for the last week. Ugh. Oh how I wish I could escape Seoul every single summer. 🙁

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  • July 1, 2017

    Definitely agree about the air quality over in Korea…usually not good. This looks awesome thought…I can imagine how those views must have been as you stared down the massive city sprawl before. Great piece!

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    • July 1, 2017

      It’s horrible, and getting worse unfortunately. That month of good air and blue skies feels like a dream. 🙁 But yeah, the views from up there were really incredible. I’m always struck by just how gigantic Seoul is.

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  • June 30, 2017

    Early spring gave us very bad air quality. You’re lucky you got in there on a good day and your photos are wonderful. Your tip on visiting on early morning weekdays is very useful especially this summer when I am sure so many families and visitors are going up there to get a good view and good photos of this popular and latest attraction in Seoul. So nice to see you and Hallie exploring and enjoying together.

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    • June 30, 2017

      I felt like it was a dream, that almost month long of blue skies and good air quality, but alas, it seems we’re back to haze. Ugh. At least the AQI is ok. I find that Koreans are not really morning people in general, so most places are quite quiet until about noon. I’ve even gone to kids cafes around 10:30-11 and had them all to myself until 1! It’s quite amazing actually. Hallie and I have actually known each other since around 2010 I think! We took Korean classes together!! 🙂

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  • June 29, 2017

    Anything with a glass bottom, nope! lol The views are amazing but I am way too afraid of heights to venture out on that glass. Willis Tower in Chicago has that and I stayed so far away from it lol

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    • June 30, 2017

      Heh heh, so you would’ve one of those ones lingering on the edge of the platform nervously eh? :p I’m surprised I made it out onto those Sky Decks to be honest, but I’m glad I did! 🙂

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  • June 27, 2017

    Seoul Sky really is a treasure here in the city. I still haven’t made it over there but I’m hoping to do it soon on a day off so I can avoid the crowds. I like how they make it so accommodating and convenient for visitors. Now I’m just waiting for the bungee jumping!

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    • June 30, 2017

      Bungee jumping off that thing would be insane. 😮 I guess you’re not afraid of heights? Def wait for a clear day before you head over there though, otherwise it would be a waste of all that altitude. Views really are incredible form there!

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  • June 26, 2017

    I love getting a perspective of a city from high up and those glass bottomed floors give a slightly scary experience. I’ve been to the Shard in London, some of Chicago’s tallest towers and the Petronas towers in KL but the tallest would be the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. It was awesome. Seoul is somewhere I’d love to visit. Great to see your photos. Thanks for sharing on #citytripping

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    • June 27, 2017

      I’ve never seen the Shard, but have seen the Burj (this past January), and the Petronas a few times, but have never made any trips up the buildings until this one. It was definitely a great way to see the the whole city! For me, the Burj gets top marks for appearance though – what a gorgeous building. Seoul is a great place to visit, so much to see and do, with great food – and amazing for kids too. 🙂

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      • June 27, 2017

        I don’t think I need too much more convincing about Seoul then! Love a good skyscraper view!

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  • June 24, 2017

    Oh WOW. I recently congratulated myself on going up to 50-odd floors – they highest I’ve ever been in a building, but this is just a whole other ball game. And how cool that you go up and up the final ones yourself. Not al ALL sure I would have been as brave as you on the glass floor!

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    • June 25, 2017

      I definitely had nervous knees and a kind of sick feeling in my stomach when I walked out onto that floor, but I still managed, and am super glad I did. The trick is to not look down. Haha! I saw a lot of people that absolutely refused though!

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  • June 24, 2017

    Looks cool! Great photos!

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    • June 25, 2017

      Thanks! Really a must see if you ever visit Seoul… 🙂

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      • June 25, 2017

        Hoping to go there one day. Not in the foreseeable future, unless I do Japan and South Korea in one go…, then sooner than later 🙂

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        • June 27, 2017

          Very doable – it’s only a 2 hour flight between the 2 countries and super affordable on the budget airlines, and even the regular airlines if it’s mid-week!

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          • June 28, 2017

            Music to my ears 🙂 Thanks!

  • travelingchristie

    June 22, 2017

    ooh this looks amazing I just love seeing a city from so high up all that life buzzing around below is fascinating. thanks so much or linking up #MondayEscapes x

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    • June 23, 2017

      Hopefully the first link-up of many. 🙂 It really is a great way to see a city – especially one as incredibly massive as Seoul!

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  • June 22, 2017

    What wonderful views from the top of that tower. You’ve captured it wonderfully #citytripping

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    • June 22, 2017

      We were lucky to visit when the sky was crystal clear and there were no crowds to battle. So worth visiting when travelling to Seoul.

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  • June 21, 2017

    Wow.. that is some Vantage Point!!! Would love to head there some day 🙂 Cheers!! #citytripping

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    • June 22, 2017

      Definitely the best one in the city and all of Korea. I think it’s currently the 5th highest building in the world! 🙂

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  • Ruth

    June 21, 2017

    It is really breathtaking! One of my coworkers visited Korea recently and he can’t stop raving about the country. I would really want to go (and eat all the food!). #CityTripping

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    • June 22, 2017

      Haha, yes, eating all the food is definitely of high priority when you visit Korea. There’s so much variety, and if you like spicy food, you’ll be in heaven. And a visit to Seoul Sky (on a clear day), is a great way to get a view into how huge the city actually is. Hope you make it here one day! 🙂

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  • June 14, 2017

    I only went to Namsan Tower last time, I will definitely check this out the next time I am there! Thanks for sharing 🙂

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    • June 14, 2017

      Namsan has a decent view and it’s a nice place to visit, but it definitely doesn’t compare to Seoul Sky – especially on a clear day. Well worth going next time you’re here! 🙂

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  • June 12, 2017

    I have been in the Willis Tower (I still call it the Sears Tower) in Chicago a number of times. Our little tower is ONLY 108 stories tall (haha), but we also have one of those clear decks that you can walk out on – eek! With Chicago and Illinois being so flat, on a clear day you can see for miles and miles. The city and lake views are amazing, and we have taken many visitors there. Your tower is just as amazing (and taller, of course), your city is so much vaster to look down upon, and your visit sounds great with so few people there.

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    • June 13, 2017

      Those clear decks are terrifying…and the fact that they let the staff control them is somewhat sadistic. I definitely saw people who were truly scared to walk out onto them. Can you imagine if they were standing on one, and then all of a sudden, they could see 500 metres below them? Probably enough to give someone a heart attack! ?

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  • June 11, 2017

    Wow Shelley, this looks and sounds amazing!
    Alison

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    • June 13, 2017

      We really enjoyed it, especially because there were so few people inside. It’s definitely a spot you have to see if you visit Seoul. 🙂

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  • June 10, 2017

    I actually had no idea Korea doesn’t usually have blue skies. Always thought the opposite :/ You do not look like you are afraid of heights at all! That is amazing that each level is different with different layouts. The view looks spectacular alright and you did a good job of taking photo without glare or reflection in the windows 😀 Here in Melbourne we have the Eureka Tower where you can see the views of Melbourne high from above. It has 91 floors and it costs $20 to go in for an adult. Unlike Seoul Sky, this one only has one floor. I’ve been twice and on both occasions I’ve stayed only an hour. I do want to go back again at some point around sunset and get some sunset shots – but it would be a gamble whether or not it will be a good sunset 😀

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    • June 13, 2017

      It seems like the air has been getting worse and worse with every passing year. 🙁 That said though, we’ve just had almost a full month of the absolute best weather, so who knows what’s ahead. I hope it continues like this…we were seriously considering moving because of it.

      The view really was incredible. Definitely the best one in Seoul by far! Though it seems like there are more and more supertowers being built here now. Eureka Tower sounds pretty high too. 91 floors is nothing to sneeze at! I really liked how Seoul Sky had 7 different levels to explore – it made the $27 entrance fee totally worth it, I think! I would also like to get some sunset shots…but I have a feeling it’ll be super crowded up there then. 🙁

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  • June 10, 2017

    beautiful travel blog!

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