An old Korean proverb says, “even if you have to crawl on your knees, get yourself to Seoul!”; though the 600-year old megacity has undergone a constant flow of changes, this maxim remains true. South Korea's capital of almost 12 million is regularly likened to a phoenix, risen from the ashes of the Korean War as a cultural, economic and political leader of the Far East. And though this ultra-modern megalopolis may feel infinite, it’s easy to get up close and personal.
Since most travel guides to South Korea are quick to point out its country’s historic sights are reproductions, it’s a destination known for the new: sleek skyscrapers, miles of endless neon signs, and vast shopping districts reflecting a population preoccupied with the finer things in life. It continues to be one of the safest cities in the world, with a low crime rate and a highly educated citizenry. Consistently topping itself with infrastructure projects in the works, South Korea seems to always be looking into the future, and it looks incredible.