How to Explore Old Seoul on Foot: Overpasses, Alleys, and Hidden Views

 How to Explore Old Seoul on Foot: Overpasses, Alleys, and Hidden Views

When exploring Seoul for the first time, most travelers immediately think of grand royal palaces or towering observation decks. However, the true, authentic charm of "Old Seoul" reveals itself not at famous tourist traps, but in the layered textures of the city's streets.

To truly read Seoul, you have to look at it multi-dimensionally—from elevated walkways overlooking train tracks to quiet, hidden hills where historic churches sit. Here is a perfect walking guide to experiencing the deeper, quieter side of Seoul.

1. Seoullo 7017: A Highway Turned Pedestrian Oasis

The best starting point for this journey is Seoullo 7017. Originally constructed in 1970 as a highway overpass, the structure was transformed into a beautiful elevated pedestrian walkway in 2017 (hence the name "7017").

Seoullo is impressive not just because it is a pretty park, but because it reclaims a massive piece of infrastructure for walking at a human pace. Standing 17 meters above the ground, you get a completely unique perspective. Train tracks, bustling multi-lane roads, historic architecture, and modern skyscrapers all fit into a single panoramic frame. It allows you to see Seoul not as a checklist of landmarks, but as a city with layers of history stacked on top of one another.

2. Culture Station Seoul 284: The Gateway to the Past

As you walk along Seoullo, you must pay attention to Culture Station Seoul 284. This is the beautifully restored former Seoul Station building, which now serves as a vibrant cultural complex.

Standing right next to the ultra-modern current Seoul Station, this old brick building preserves the memories of Korea's modern transportation history. Walking through it is more than just "looking at architecture"—it physically connects you to how Seoul evolved from a mid-century gateway into a modern metropolis.

3. Malli-dong & Jungnim-dong: The Quiet Hills of Old Seoul

Take a few steps further west off the overpass, and the atmosphere of the city changes dramatically. You will enter the old neighborhoods of Malli-dong and Jungnim-dong.

Just minutes away from the towering forest of corporate buildings, you are suddenly greeted by quiet hills, steep staircases, and old brick houses. The absolute highlight of this area is Yakhyeon Catholic Church. Built in 1892, it is known as Korea's very first Western-style Catholic church. The real beauty of this neighborhood isn't found in a flashy observation deck, but in how the church steeple, the train tracks, the old residential rooftops, and the new high-rises blend into one unforgettable scene.

4. Walk the Official History Trails

If you want to structure your walk, you are in luck. This area is officially recognized for its historical significance and walkability.

The local district operates the "Jung-gu Pilgrimage History Trail (Course 2)." This 3km route takes about 1.5 hours and connects Yakhyeon Church to the Seosomun Historical Park and the Seoul Anglican Cathedral. While the official guided tours (available on select days) require reservations, you can easily walk this route at your own pace.

The Bottom Line Exploring Old Seoul is not about "conquering" famous buildings. It is about slowing down. Let the elevated path of Seoullo lead you past the memories of the old train station and into the quiet, historic alleys of Jungnim-dong. Don't rush—just follow the shifting elevations and the changing faces of the neighborhoods. That is when Old Seoul shines the brightest.

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💡 Editor's Note "Here is a crucial tip for this walking route: because Seoullo 7017 is an elevated overpass, it is completely exposed to the wind. If you visit during the day (especially in early spring or late autumn), it can get surprisingly chilly, making it tough to walk the entire length comfortably. Countless travelers highly recommend doing this walk in the evening instead! The winds tend to settle, and watching the city lights and the golden streams of traffic below the overpass is an absolutely spectacular experience."