Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a megacity where high-tech innovation meets 600 years of history. The city is bisected by the Han River and surrounded by eight mountains, with the N Seoul Tower providing a panoramic view from Namsan Mountain. Seoul is home to five major palace complexes from the Joseon Dynasty, the largest being Gyeongbokgung. Following the 'Miracle on the Han River'—the rapid economic growth after the Korean War—Seoul became one of the world's leading 'smart cities,' boasting the world's fastest average internet speeds and a highly advanced public transit system. A unique aspect of Seoul is its 'palli-palli' (hurry-hurry) culture, which drives its fast-paced lifestyle and efficiency. The city is also the global epicenter of K-pop and the 'Hallyu' (Korean Wave) cultural phenomenon, which has exported Korean music, film, and skincare worldwide.