How Tall is Namsan Tower? Uncovering Seoul’s Iconic Landmark

Struggling to figure out the exact height of Namsan Tower for your Seoul trip? You’re not alone! It can get a little confusing with all the numbers flying around. Let me clear it up for you: the Namsan Tower itself stands at 236.7 meters or about 777 feet tall from its base. But here’s the cool part: it’s perched right on top of Namsan Mountain, which is roughly 243 to 270 meters high. So, when you add the mountain’s elevation, the very top of Namsan Tower reaches an impressive 479.7 meters around 1,574 feet above sea level. That makes it one of the highest points in all of Seoul, giving you absolutely mind-blowing panoramic views!

This iconic structure, officially known as the N Seoul Tower, is more than just a tall building. it’s a true symbol of the city and a must-visit spot for anyone exploring South Korea’s vibrant capital. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about its height, what makes it so special, how it stacks up against other famous Seoul landmarks, and all the best ways to get there.

Namsan Tower: The Heart of Seoul’s Skyline

When you look up at Namsan Tower, you’re not just seeing a communication and observation tower. You’re looking at a piece of Seoul’s history and its beating cultural heart. For years, it’s been a romantic spot for couples, a fantastic family outing, and a go-to for tourists wanting that quintessential Seoul experience. It’s often been featured in popular K-dramas like “My Love From The Star” and “Boys Over Flowers,” further cementing its status as a beloved landmark.

The tower’s design is pretty distinct, a sleek cylindrical shape that became an instant icon on Seoul’s skyline. It’s been attracting massive crowds for decades, with some estimates suggesting approximately 8.4 million to nearly 12 million visitors come to see it every year. Imagine all those people taking in the same breathtaking views you’re about to witness!

The Official Name: N Seoul Tower and Its Meaning

You might hear it called Namsan Tower, Seoul Tower, or its official name, N Seoul Tower. Don’t get confused – they’re all talking about the same magnificent place! The “N” in N Seoul Tower actually stands for a few things: “new,” referencing the renovations it received, “Namsan Mountain” for its location, and “nature,” acknowledging the beautiful surroundings it calls home. The tower was officially renamed to N Seoul Tower in 2005 after significant renovations, which reportedly cost around ₩15 billion. Before that, it was simply known as Seoul Tower. In fact, it’s also been called YTN Seoul Tower after YTN acquired it in 1999.

When Was Namsan Tower Built? A Glimpse into its History

So, when did this grand structure first come to life? Construction of the N Seoul Tower began in 1969 and was completed on December 3, 1971. Some sources mention 1975 as the completion date, specifically for the observatory, museum, and souvenir shop. Initially, it wasn’t even meant for tourism. it was built as South Korea’s first general radio wave tower, broadcasting signals for major Korean media outlets like KBS, MBC, and SBS.

It wasn’t until October 15, 1980, that the observatory finally opened its doors to the public. Can you believe it was a broadcast tower for almost a decade before people could actually go up and enjoy the views? Since then, it has steadily grown into the beloved tourist attraction we know today, continually to offer new experiences to its visitors. How to Set Up SEO for My Website

What Makes the Height of Namsan Tower Special?

The fact that Namsan Tower sits on Namsan Mountain is what truly elevates its status as a viewpoint. While the tower structure itself is a respectable size, being on top of a mountain means you get an already elevated vantage point before even stepping into the observation deck. Namsan Mountain itself is a significant natural landmark in central Seoul, providing lush green spaces and hiking trails, offering a refreshing contrast to the bustling city below.

From the observation decks, you get a full 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul, stretching out to the horizon. On a clear day, you can see for miles, picking out various districts, the Han River winding through the city, and the surrounding mountains. It’s truly a sight that captures Seoul’s dynamic energy and its beautiful natural setting.

How High is Seoul Tower Compared to Others?

When you’re exploring Seoul, you’ll notice more than one impressive skyscraper. While Namsan Tower is undoubtedly iconic, you might be wondering how it compares to other modern marvels.

The most notable comparison is with the Lotte World Tower. This supertall skyscraper is a beast, soaring to an architectural height of 555 meters about 1,821 feet with a staggering 123 floors. It’s currently the tallest building in South Korea and among the sixth tallest in the world. Its observation deck, Seoul Sky, is located at a dizzying 500 meters high, offering an entirely different kind of high-altitude experience. How much is n seoul tower

So, if you’re asking “how tall is Seoul Lotte Tower” compared to Namsan Tower, the Lotte World Tower is significantly taller in terms of its structural height. While Namsan Tower’s combined height with its mountain base 479.7m above sea level is impressive, Lotte World Tower’s structure alone surpasses it. This difference means each tower offers a unique perspective on the city. Namsan Tower gives you a classic, central view from a natural peak, while Lotte World Tower offers a super-modern, higher-up experience from a different part of the city.

Where is Namsan Tower Located? Your Gateway to Seoul’s Views

Namsan Tower is nestled right in the heart of Seoul, specifically in the Jung District, atop Namsan Mountain. This central location makes it quite accessible from various parts of the city, especially popular tourist hubs like Myeongdong. Being on Namsan Mountain means it’s surrounded by Namsan Park, a beautiful public park offering hiking trails and serene spots to enjoy nature away from the city buzz.

The exact address is 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea. Knowing this helps if you’re taking a taxi though taxis can only take you so far up the mountain or trying to navigate with a map app.

How Tall is N Seoul Tower? Your Ultimate Guide to Seoul’s Iconic Landmark

Getting to Namsan Tower: Your Travel Options

Now that you know how tall Namsan Tower is and where it is, let’s talk about getting there. You’ve got a few options, each offering a slightly different experience. Taxis are generally prohibited from entering Namsan Park all the way to the tower, so you’ll usually have to get off and take another mode of transport or walk the rest of the way.

1. The Namsan Cable Car: A Scenic Ride

One of the most popular and scenic ways to reach the tower is by taking the Namsan Cable Car. It’s a classic choice that offers stunning views as you ascend the mountain. To get to the cable car station, you can:

• Walk from Myeongdong Station Line 4, Exit 3: It’s about a 15-minute walk. Just head left past the 7-11, go straight, and walk past the Pacific Hotel uphill to the cable car station.
• Use the Namsan Oreumi Inclined Elevator: This is a super convenient, free outdoor escalator! From Myeongdong Station Line 4, Exit 4, walk straight for about 300 meters, turn left at the main junction near Shinsegae Department Store, and you’ll see the Namsan Oreumi about 300 meters ahead. It takes you directly to the Namsan Cable Car Station in about 2 minutes.
• The cable car usually operates from 10:00 to 23:00 daily, but it’s always good to check their official website for the latest hours and ticket prices. A round-trip ticket will cost you around ₩15,000 for adults.

2. Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus: Convenient and Affordable

If you prefer to skip the cable car or want a more budget-friendly option, the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus Bus No. 01A is a fantastic choice. These circular buses run regularly and take you directly to the base of the tower.

• You can catch the bus from various subway stations. For example, from Myeongdong Station Exit 1, or Seoul Station Exit 9, you can find a shuttle bus stop. The bus ride itself from near Myeongdong can take about 20-30 minutes.
• The shuttle bus is generally cheaper than the cable car, often around ₩1,100 to ₩1,400, and usually accepts T-Money cards. This is a great option if you want to avoid lines, especially during peak seasons.

3. Walking to Namsan Tower: The Adventurous Route

For those who love a good stroll and want to immerse themselves in nature, walking up Namsan Mountain to the tower is a truly rewarding experience. There are several trails, and the hike itself can take anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes depending on your pace and the route you choose.

• From Myeongdong: You can start walking from Myeongdong Station. There are several paths through Namsan Park. One common way is to walk towards the Namsan Cable Car station area and then continue uphill.
• From Hoehyeon Station or Seoul Station: These stations also offer direct trails to Namsan Park and up to the tower.
• The trails are well-maintained, with paved paths and wooden walkways, and you’ll find plenty of viewpoints along the way to stop and admire the city. It’s a great way to enjoy the changing seasons, especially beautiful during spring with cherry blossoms or in autumn with colorful foliage. Plus, it’s free! Just remember, it can be a bit steep, so wear comfortable shoes.

Many people recommend going up near sunset to catch both the daytime and nighttime views of Seoul, which is truly magical as the city lights begin to twinkle. Does Your Domain Name Really Affect SEO? Let’s Break It Down!

What to Expect at the Top of Namsan Tower

Once you reach the top of Namsan Mountain and the base of N Seoul Tower, you’ll find a lively plaza area and, of course, the tower itself.

The Namsan Seoul Tower complex is typically divided into two main sections: the Lower Seoul Tower Plaza and the Upper N Seoul Tower. The plaza usually spans from the 1st to the 4th floor and features various attractions, including art galleries, lounges, and a game plaza. You might even see cool media art installations on large OLED panels.

Inside the actual N Seoul Tower, usually from the 5th floor upwards to the T7 floor, you’ll find the main observation decks, gift shops, and a variety of dining options. There’s a Korean restaurant called Hancook, and even a French restaurant that slowly rotates, giving you a constantly changing view as you dine – pretty neat, right?

Of course, one of the most famous attractions here is the “Locks of Love”. Thousands upon thousands of padlocks, inscribed with names and messages from couples, adorn the fences around the plaza, symbolizing enduring affection. It’s a really charming and romantic tradition to witness. How Much Should SEO Cost in 2025? Your Complete Guide to Smart Investment

Beyond the views and the locks, Namsan Tower also hosts various events and features OLED displays that tell stories about Korea’s history. It’s a multi-cultural venue that combines tourism with its original broadcasting purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Namsan Tower and N Seoul Tower the same?

Yes, they are the same! The landmark you see perched on Namsan Mountain is officially called N Seoul Tower, but many locals and tourists still lovingly refer to it as Namsan Tower or simply Seoul Tower. The “N” was added in 2005 during renovations and stands for “new,” “Namsan Mountain,” and “nature”.

How high is Seoul Tower above sea level?

The N Seoul Tower itself is 236.7 meters 777 feet tall from its base. However, because it sits on top of Namsan Mountain, which is about 243 to 270 meters high, the tower’s peak reaches approximately 479.7 meters 1,574 feet above sea level. This combined elevation offers spectacular panoramic views of Seoul.

What is the tallest tower in Seoul?

The tallest building in Seoul is the Lotte World Tower, which stands at an impressive 555 meters 1,821 feet and has 123 floors. It’s significantly taller than Namsan Tower and holds the title of the tallest building in South Korea and one of the tallest in the world. How much does yoast cost

When was Namsan Tower originally built?

Construction of Namsan Tower, then known as Seoul Tower, began in 1969 and was completed on December 3, 1971. It was initially built as a broadcasting tower for TV and radio signals and only opened to the public as a tourist observatory on October 15, 1980.

How can I go to Namsan Tower by walking?

You can absolutely walk to Namsan Tower! There are several well-maintained trails through Namsan Park. Many people start walking from areas near Myeongdong Station Line 4, Hoehyeon Station, or Seoul Station. A hike can take between 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your starting point and pace, and it offers beautiful scenery along the way. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes!

Is it worth going inside Namsan Tower, or are the views from the base good enough?

This really depends on what you’re looking for! The views from the base plaza and surrounding Namsan Park are already incredible, especially at sunset, and they’re free. You’ll get fantastic photos and see the “Locks of Love.” Going inside the tower to the observatory offers a higher, enclosed 360-degree view, and access to the rotating restaurant or other cafes. Some visitors feel the views from the base are sufficient, while others enjoy the full experience of being at the very top. If you’re planning to dine at one of the upscale restaurants, your elevator ticket to the top is often included in the meal price, which can be a good value.

What is the best time to visit N Seoul Tower?

Many people agree that the best time to visit N Seoul Tower is near sunset. This way, you get to experience the city in daylight, watch the sun go down in a blaze of colors, and then see Seoul transform into a dazzling expanse of twinkling lights after dark. It can get crowded during this time, so plan accordingly!

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