Attraction
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The first and largest royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, founded in 1395 and home to the throne hall Geunjeongjeon and the Gyeonghoeru banquet pavilion.
Lotte World Tower and Seoul Sky
Korea's tallest building, 555 metres and 123 floors, whose Seoul Sky observation deck on floors 117 to 123 includes a glass floor high above Jamsil.
At a glance
- Type
- Skyscraper and observation deck
- Area
- Jamsil, Seoul, South Korea
- Official site
- seoulsky.lotteworld.com
Good to know
- Glass floor
- Lifts
- Shopping mall
- Aquarium in complex
Why we recommend it
Lotte World Tower in Jamsil is the tallest building in South Korea and one of the tallest in the world, rising 555 metres over 123 floors. It was completed at the end of 2016 and opened in April 2017, and its tapering shape now dominates the skyline of south-east Seoul. The tower mixes offices, residences and the Signiel hotel with a large shopping and entertainment complex at its base.
Seoul Sky, the observation deck, occupies the top seven levels, from floor 117 to 123. One of the world's fastest double-deck lifts carries visitors up in about a minute. The main viewing floors are 117 and 118, where a glass floor lets you look straight down, and there is a terrace, café and lounge on the floors above. On a clear day the view takes in the Han River, the Lotte World theme park and Seokchon Lake below, Namsan and the mountains to the north, and the whole sweep of Gangnam. For a more adventurous visit, the Sky Bridge Tour lets small groups walk, harnessed, across a bridge between the tower's two peaks at 541 metres; it has its own booking and age and height rules.
The tower suits families, couples and anyone who likes big views, and it pairs well with a few hours in the complex below. Lotte World Mall has shops, restaurants and a large cinema, the Lotte World Aquarium is in the basement, and the indoor and outdoor Lotte World theme park is next door. Clear days after rain, often in autumn, give the longest views; sunset visits are popular, so book ahead for that time. Allow at least an hour at the top.
Tickets can be bought online or on site. Check the official website for current opening hours and prices, which change with the season and for events.
If you would rather have a drink than buy an observation ticket, Signiel Seoul, the hotel on the upper floors of the tower, has restaurants and a bar with similar views over the city.
Jamsil Station, on Lines 2 and 8, connects directly to the mall below the tower. Seokchon Lake, with its lakeside walking path and spring cherry blossom, wraps around the theme park, and Olympic Park, built for the 1988 Summer Olympics, is a short ride east.
Lotte World Tower and Seoul Sky FAQs
How tall is Lotte World Tower?
It is 555 metres tall with 123 floors above ground, the tallest building in South Korea.
Which floors is Seoul Sky on?
Seoul Sky covers floors 117 to 123, with the main viewing floors and glass floor on 117 and 118.
What is the Sky Bridge Tour?
A guided, harnessed walk across a bridge between the tower's two peaks at 541 metres, booked separately with its own conditions.
When is the best time to go?
A clear day, often after rain or in autumn, gives the longest views, and sunset is the most popular slot.
How long should you allow?
At least an hour at the observation deck, plus time in the mall or aquarium below.
How do you get there?
Take Line 2 or 8 to Jamsil Station, which connects directly to Lotte World Mall.
Where can you check opening hours and prices?
On the official Seoul Sky website, as hours and fares change with the season.
What is nearby?
Lotte World Mall, the Lotte World Aquarium, Lotte World theme park, Seokchon Lake and Olympic Park.