Seoulstyle.com - Namsan Is For Lovers

N Seoul Tower on Namsan is the preferred locale in Seoul for making lifelong commitments to loved ones. Not marriage vows, but locks of love. A cheaper alternative to the eternal Cartier Love bracelet, locks can be purchased on the grounds in a variety of shapes and styles for under $10,000 dollars. In fact, you can procure a lock for anywhere between 6,000Won and 16,000Won, and it will sparkle and shine just the same. A word to the wise: heftier and thriftier locks are available at the bus stop at the halfway point up to the tower, pricier locks are sold in the gift shop. After purchasing, the locks are then fastened outside the main building of the tower, along the fence overlooking the entire city. Just as anywhere else in life, the spots with the best views are the most crowded… with locks.

There are locks upon locks, of assorted shapes, sizes and embellishments. The embellishments are by far the most fascinating; one could spend hours observing (and translating most of) the messages engraved or attached to the locks on foam heart-shaped writing pads. Beyond this entertainment, the tower holds a 360 degree observation deck, which I have reason to believe is the best view of the city. As any guidebook would heartily advise you, come on a clear day, and sundown is particularly remarkable to watch from the windows. The city really is vast, surprisingly so when so much of travel is spent underground on subways, and the view is an interesting way to orient oneself amongst the madness of nameless streets and high rises. While the sun is still up, the whiteness of Seoul is overpowering, the buildings all bear their numbered labels and the smog leaves a dusty hue over the place. But as the sky darkens, the city reacts on the contrary and engages the eye with every color of neon and light imaginable. You can further enjoy the candy box of color from one of the few restaurants in the tower, or shy away from the heights at the Teddy Bear Museum.

The tower is located high on a hill north of the river, and is visible from almost everywhere in the city. There are several ways to reach the top; bus, cable car or taxi. Walking could be nice in the warmer months, but would be a bit of a hike. Subway: Myeong-Dong