Where to see Seoul's best night views

In Seoul, there’s a vast field of white roses that come to life when night falls. In fact, there are 25,550 of them planted on the grounds of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, emitting a dazzling nebula of cool, white lights. The figures speak to the 70th anniversary of Gwangbok-Jeol (Independence Day): 365 days times 70 years equals 25,550 roses. As the garden is split into two elongated areas, “Rose Road” might have also been appropriate. When the sun sets, the artificial roses light up to give off a slightly greenish tinge. Look inside the bud and you’ll see exactly why—each rose is made out of fabric to house a micro LED bulb, not much bigger than the size of a thumbnail. The roses at the DDP shut down when the sun comes up, so make sure to head over when the sparkle and the magic happen.

Designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, DDP is a cultural playground that operates 24 hours. The futuristic landmark shines in silver during the day, as the exterior is fashioned out of aluminum panels. The building lights up in the dark and flickers its lights, just like a spaceship that transmits visual signals into space.

There is a giant centipede that resides in Ttukseom Hangang Park. Also known as the J-Bug, you can easily recognize the building by its circular window, lit in blue at night. Walk further into the bug’s “abdomen,” and you’ll soon be lost in a field of miniature lights. It’s Christmas all over again, minus the unbearable weather.