Seoul Sky 서울스카이: Things to See and How to Get There

Seoul Sky is the famous observation deck perched on the upper floors of the iconic Lotte World Tower skyscraper in Seoul, South Korea. The impressive Seoul Sky provides guests with a unique experience, allowing them to see the vast urban landscape of the city, the Han River, and Seoul’s distant mountain ranges. This observation deck has transparent glass floors that give a thrilling feeling of walking on air. Furthermore, the Observatory provides a vast selection of special activities that can only be experienced at a thrilling height of 500 meters, including various exhibitions based on the theme “The Pride of Korea,” a café above the clouds, and the newly introduced Seoul Sky Bridge Tour.

About Lotte World Tower and its Location

Lotte World Tower is the world’s fifth tallest skyscraper, with a mind-numbing 123 floors or 555 meters (1,819 feet) high. Recognized as the tallest building in the country, it is undoubtedly the best spot to take in an unparalleled 360-degree view of the capital city. Seoul’s vibrancy, energy, bright lights, brilliant history, and dynamic modern culture can all be viewed from above. Specifically, it is situated in the Songpa-gu district in the southeastern part of Seoul. This humongous skyscraper is adjacent to the Lotte World amusement park and Mall.

Lotte World Tower has established itself as a major tourist attraction in Seoul. Visitors from all over flock to the location for the observation deck and the various facilities and amenities it offers. These include world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, and a stunning luxury hotel. This symbolic building represents South Korea’s development and technological success. The design and architecture symbolize the country’s ambition and determination to become a global giant in business and modernism. This massive skyscraper is a striking architectural landmark. It stands out in the Seoul skyline with its incredibly sleek and modern design, establishing itself as among the most recognizable buildings in the country.

Seoul Sky Observation Deck

Seoul Sky Observation Deck should be at the top of the list of things to do when visiting the city of Seoul. This unique destination offers unparalleled, breathtaking, eagle-eyed views of the sprawling metropolis. From the top of this vantage point, you can witness Seoul’s concrete jungle stretching in every direction, displaying the combination of ultra-modern infrastructure with stunning historic landmarks. For the thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, the observation deck offers the chance to stand on clear glass floors. The Sky Deck at the top of the Tower is the main attraction, which provides an open-air experience. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and unobstructed 360-degree views of Seoul and take some of the best photo opportunities for your social media pages!

Seoul Sky is fully fitted with state-of-the-art amenities and some of the highest-speed elevators in the world (The Sky Shuttle). These elevators swiftly send visitors to the upper floors to enjoy multimedia entertainment and gorgeous skyline views. These elements contribute to an engaging and educational visit for those who want to know more about Seoul’s history.
Seoul Sky also hosts special events, adding a dynamic and unique element to the entire experience. The tower complex includes a restaurant, cafe, shops, and various amenities, making it a well-rounded destination for a day or evening outing. Whether you visit during the day or take in the stunning scenes at dusk, Seoul Sky offers a captivating experience at any time.

How to Get to Seoul Sky

By Subway

The easiest way to reach Seoul Sky is via subway. Take Seoul Subway to Jamsil Station (잠실역) Line 2 (Green Line) Exit 1, 2 or Line 8 (Pink Line) Exit 10, 11. You can also reach Lotte World Tower by bus to Jamsil Station. Once you arrive at Jamsil Station, you can walk towards Lotte World Mall.

Lotte World Mall is connected to Lotte World Tower and provides access to the observation deck. Upon arriving at Lotte World Tower, head to the Mall’s entrance.

• From Myeongdong: Take Subway Line 4 from Myeongdong Station to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park. From there, switch to Subway Line 2 and go to Jamsil Station. Then, search for Exit 4 to get directly to Lotte World. Travel time is roughly 26 minutes.
• From Seoul Station: Take Subway Line 4 from Seoul to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station. Then you transfer to Subway Line 2 and go to Jamsil Station. Lotte World is readily accessible from Jamsil Station’s Exit 4. The travel takes about 30 minutes.
• From Hongdae: Take the Subway Line 2 from Hongik University Station to Jamsil Station. Then, you get to Exit 4, immediately connected to the theme park. The one-way ride takes roughly 38 minutes.

By Bus

If you’re in downtown Seoul, you can catch a bus to Lotte World. You can hop on one of these bus: Green Bus (3217, 3313, 3314, 3315, 3317, 3411, 3414, 4319), Express Bus (1007-1, 1100, 1700, 2000, 6900, 7007, 8001), Blue Bus (301, 341, 360, 362). If you come from Incheon International Airport, catch an airport bus number 6000, 6006, 6705, or 6706A.

Parking at Lotte World Tower

• Parking services are available at the location for those who are driving. Parking tickets are provided for visitors on the day of the visit: 4 hours maximum, 4,800 won (1,200 won per hour). After 4 hours, regular parking rates apply. Regular parking rates (10 a.m. – 8 p.m.: 500 won/10 minutes, other times: 200 won/20 minutes)

Seou Sky Ticket Purchase

• Tickets can be purchased at the venue from the vendors or the kiosk. However, to avoid long queues on busy days, it’s advisable to pre-book them online. Visitors can also check the official website for discounts or package deals, which are often available. After buying your tickets and going through the turnstiles, you can take the Sky shuttle elevators to the upper floors of the observation deck. The elevator ride is often an attraction, as it is one of the fastest in the world!
• On-site ticket office open time: 10:20
• The on-site ticket office opens 10 minutes before opening hours; the last ticketing is one hour before closing.
• Sunday ~ Thursday: 21:00. Friday/Saturday: 22:00

Seoul Sky Facilities and Attractions

Numerous attractions and facilities are spread out between the B2/B1 floors, up until the very top of the 123rd floor of the tower. When you enter the Lotte World Tower, you can first take the elevators to the B2 and B1 floors of the Seoul Sky facility, which house the Observatory Lobby, the gift shop, and the Sky Platform. As you make your way up to the observation deck, you will enter the Sky Shuttle, the world’s first double-deck elevator featuring monitors on the ceiling and each of the three walls, showcasing various animations and immersive multimedia shows.

B1 & B2

B1 is called the ‘Standby Zone,’ where visitors can find various displays showing the Pride of Korea and the history of Korea’s birth and growth. Through various multimedia content, you can witness and appreciate Korea’s traditional beauty and pride. The content represents the harmony between Yin and Yang through which growth and prosperity were achieved.

B2 is the floor where the Exhibition Zone is located. This area features additional multimedia content that explains more facts and the history of Seoul. It also displays the formative beauty and originality of the Korean language (Hangeul). The Exhibition Zone offers a unique Korean-style rest area and showcases Seoul’s unique architectural beauty.

Sky Deck and Sky Terrace

The Sky Terrace is located on the 120th floor, around 486 meters above sea level! The Sky Deck is two floors down on the 118th floor, which features the highest indoor glass floor (478 m) recognized by the Korea Record Institute. Here, you experience the thrilling feeling of floating in the sky as it instantaneously changes from opaque to clear. This is an ideal place for those who love adventure during their visit!

Sky Bridge Tour

The latest attraction at the venue is the Sky Bridge Tour, established on July 24, 2020. This tour allows visitors to walk atop the Seoul Sky Observatory with a metal bridge connecting to Lotte World Tower’s two structures at the peak. The outdoor bridge provides an unparalleled 360-degree view of Seoul. It is 11m long and 541m above the ground. This is another extremely thrilling adventure and not the easiest activity for those with a phobia of heights!

Gift/Souvenir Shops

The facility has two gift shops, one on the B1 floor and one on the 121st floor. Visitors can purchase memorable souvenirs, and there are options from postcards, keychains, mugs, fridge magnets, magazines, etc.

Restaurant/Cafe

123 Lounge

123 Lounge is the main restaurant/lounge where you can enjoy a variety of menus with a view of the city from the highest floor! This is dining with a special experience, and the restaurant is recognized as being among the highest in the world. The food is premium and extremely delicious.123 Lounge rentals are available for special events such as proposals, wedding receptions, etc.!

122F SEOUL SKY CAFÉ

Known as “the highest café under the sky,” Seoul Sky Cafe is on the 122nd floor of the observatory and offers visitors the chance to enjoy delicious cocktails while enjoying stunning sunset views! The best time to visit is during the evenings and sunsets when Seoul lights up with millions of lights!

Three Guinness World Records

Seoul Sky is officially the holder of three Guinness World Records. These include the following:

1. World’s highest glass-floored observatory – 478m on the 118th floor.
2. The Sky Shuttle elevator is the world’s fastest double-deck elevator, with speeds of 600m per minute (10m per second).
3. World’s tallest double-deck elevator – Sky Shuttle at 496m tall

Nearby Attractions

Lotte World Adventure Park

Lotte World Adventure Theme Park is an enormous entertainment complex with an indoor theme park, an outdoor amusement park, shopping malls, and more. It is a popular destination for families and anyone looking for a day of fun and entertainment. It is among the largest theme parks in the country and is a must-visit for anyone coming to Seoul!

Lotte World Aquarium

Located within the Lotte World Mall, the Lotte World Aquarium is a large and impressive aquarium with a huge array of marine life exhibitions and tanks. The aquarium is a great place for families and those who have a particular interest in underwater life forms.

Lotte World Mall

Lotte World Mall is connected to the Lotte World Tower, where the Seoul Sky Observation deck is located. This huge mall is home to numerous multinational and local brands, along with numerous restaurants, cafes, and entertainment facilities.

Olympic Park

The impressive Olympic Park, built for the 1988 Summer Olympics, is another nearby attraction to the Lotte World Tower. The park features stunning landscapes, walking trails, and various sporting/athletic facilities. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll and explore the Olympic monuments and sculptures in the area.

COEX Mall and Convention Center

COEX Mall is one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia and is connected to the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center. The complex is among the most famous and popular destinations for international visitors and locals in Seoul. This massive Mall includes many shops, restaurants, a huge multiplex cinema, and ultra-modern exhibition spaces.

Seoul Sky: A Must-See Attraction When Visiting Seoul

The Seoul Sky Observatory is a truly captivating destination for anyone visiting or living in Seoul. The Observatory provides unmatched panoramic views of the vibrant landscape and the distant mountains that border Seoul. The harmonious balance between modern technology and cultural architecture offers a unique and memorable viewing opportunity. Moreover, the chance to participate in the heart-pumping Sky Bridge Tour adds an extra layer of adrenaline, excitement, and insight into the tower’s many marvels. Ultimately, whether admiring the city’s towering skyline during the day or reveling in its illuminated sights at dusk, the Seoul Sky Observatory has proven to be a truly unique way to take in the entirety of Seoul as a city!

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