Seoul is the pulsing capital of South Korea. Mooch around the Dongdaemun district for shopping and the show-stopping Design Plaza designed by Zaha Hadid architects. Visit the buzzing foodie scene; it may the home of kimchi (fermented vegetable) and bibimbap (dishes of mixed rice) but there are restaurants for all tastes.

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Here are 5 reasons you should visit South Korea.

1.Dongdaemun Design Plaza

 

Designed by Zaha Hadid architects, the DDP – in Seoul's historic Dongdaemun district – is a design destination. This year, it installed 25,550 light up roses to commemorate Korea’s independence day. Its coolest achievement? It was the most tagged location on Instagram in Korea in 2015.

 

2. It's a fashion hub

 

Seoul is a fast city with faster fashion. Its clothing market moves at dizzying rates and is attracting international attention - Vetements dropped a ‘Garage Sale’ collection in Seoul in October. You can stock up on staples - Seoul has two 10 Corso Como shops - and find new favourites. Korean brands are becoming celebrity traps; Justin Bieber loves 99%IS while Stereo Vinyls - designed in London - is loved by Korean stars. A recent addition to South Korea’s shopping scene is Queenmama Market, whose launch was covered by Vogue Korea. It has oversized plants, a real-life market and a café on the top floor which is a favourite Instagram check-in.

 

3.Sky bars

 

The best way to see the glittering city is from above, with a drink. Thankfully, Seoul’s bar scene takes drinking next level. High end options are all attached to hotels. Splash out on champagne at the garden terrace at the Four Seasons. Or reserve a table at the ever-popular Le Style Restaurant & Bar. Hongdae is where you will find the city's bars and clubs. And there's always streetfood available for nights out on the town.

 

4.Hiking 

 

Once you’ve Instagrammed your way through the art district and bought out the best of the independent shops, it’s time to stretch your legs – up the top of a mountain. Although there are many mountains, Hallasan might be the jewel in South Korea's crown - especially in the winter when snow descends. 

There are seven mountains in Seoul itself but for a lazy person's view from above, head to N Seoul Tower where a speedy elevator will take you to the top.

 

5.Cherry blossom festival

 

The cherry blossom festival runs from March to May and is a must see - even if flowers aren't your thing. Tunnels of pink blossom blanket the country. The best place to visit is Gyonghwa Station - known as cherry blossom road - where a train track runs through avenues of pastel blossom.