Seoul Design Tour 2025: A Highlights Look Back on a Journey of Inspiration

Our four-day journey through Seoul may have been short, but it was deeply impactful. From historic streets and bold architecture to contemporary art and immersive cultural spaces, each stop offered lessons in design, storytelling, and creative perspective. More than souvenirs, we came home with renewed inspiration, fresh insights, and experiences that will continue to shape our creative practice.

Day 1 | November 11, Tuesday

Annyeonghaseyo! Welcome to Seoul

The #SoFALovesSeoul Design Tour officially began as delegates arrived at Incheon International Airport between 12 NN and 3 PM (Korea time). After transfers and hotel check-in, the group took a short break before heading out to experience the city for the first time.

Our evening unfolded with a walking tour of Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most vibrant districts. Neon lights, bustling streets, fashion-forward shops, and irresistible street food created the perfect introduction to the city’s energy.

Highlights from the night:

• A welcome dinner and introduction to Hansik, Korea’s rich culinary culture
  

• A spread of classic dishes including bibimbap, jajangmyeon (black bean noodles), kimchi pajeon, samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), spiced acorn salad, and essential Korean condiments like ssamjang
  

• Evening exploration of Myeongdong Shopping Street, designated an honorary UNESCO street in 2019

Day 2 | November 12, Wednesday

From Seoul’s Roots to Its Runways

The day began in Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses coexist with indie cafés, boutiques, and creative spaces. Walking through its narrow alleys highlighted how heritage architecture can be thoughtfully reimagined for modern lifestyles.

Next, we stepped into the future at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)—Zaha Hadid’s iconic architectural masterpiece. Beyond the structure itself, students experienced how design can shape public space, culture, and innovation.

A major highlight was the Jean-Michel Basquiat exhibition, “Signs: Connecting Past and Future,” held at the DDP Museum. Featuring over 70 paintings and drawings alongside original notebooks, the exhibition connected art, history, and contemporary discourse—an inspiring moment for creatives across disciplines.

We capped the day in Garosugil, Sinsa-dong, exploring its trendsetting boutiques, art cafés, and concept stores. Each space became a live case study in branding, interior design, and visual storytelling.

Day 3 | November 13, Thursday

Korea’s “Kulture Meets Kool”

Day three placed creativity front and center. Our visit to the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) showcased Korea’s evolving artistic voice, blending traditional themes with experimental and contemporary expressions.

We then stepped back in time at the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, where architectural symmetry, color, and cultural symbolism offered a powerful reminder that design is deeply rooted in identity and history.

The afternoon led us to a surreal and immersive experience at HAUS NOWHERE, where art, space, and emotion intersected. It was a moment of reflection—challenging perceptions and expanding how we experience design beyond form and function.

Day 4 | November 14, Friday

Seoul-ful Goodbyes

As we checked out and prepared for departure, we bid farewell to Seoul with hearts full and minds inspired. The journey may have ended, but the stories, perspectives, and creative sparks gathered along the way continue to resonate.

We returned home carrying memories, diverse experiences, and the spirit of travel—one that encourages exploration, curiosity, and constant creative growth.

Design Beyond Borders with SoFA

The SoFA Seoul Design Tour is more than a travel experience—it is a global classroom where culture, creativity, and design converge. From architecture and fashion to art and urban life, each journey shapes perspective, sharpens creative thinking, and inspires future-ready designers.

🎨 BA Fashion Design and Marketing
🏠 BS Interior Design
🛋️ BS Interior Design-Professional
📖 Fall Workshops and Certificates
✂️ Short Courses
🖌️ Workshops

Enroll today!
📲 Contact our Admissions Office:
📧 admissions@sofa.edu.ph
📞 0917 539 7574 / 0917 501 8136 

📍 2nd Level, The Proscenium Retail Row at Rockwell, Makati City, Metro Manila