The capital city of South Korea, Seoul is a vibrant mishmash of frenzied activity, bright neon lights, thumping sounds of karaoke bars, and delightful smells. The modern humdrum is contrasted by a deep-seated cultural heritage which goes back almost two-thousand years. HAPPYCAR is here to help you find the best car hire Seoul has to offer so you can take full advantage of this lively city, with convenient pick up locations at the Seoul Airport. We check the prices of international and local providers so that you don’t have to check each website to provide you with the best deals on a car hire to make your money go further on a rental car that fits your specific needs. You have the options of choosing car size, pick up location and type of insurance to ensure you get the best deal on a great car hire!
General Information
Seoul possesses a long and interesting past; following its rise to prominence at the beginning of the Three Kingdoms period, the city has been controlled by almost every major power in Korean history. In the 6th century BC, the city was assimilated by King Jinheung, who expanded the domain of his Silla kingdom far to the north. It was not until the end of the Goryeo Dynasty that Seoul rose as a prominent city in the kingdom. In 1392, King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty chose Seoul as the capital of his kingdom; over the course of the next couple of centuries, major projects were undertaken to improve the city’s status. On the eve of the 16th century, Japanese warlord Hideyoshi invaded and pillaged the city, destroying much of the city’s beautiful structures. The late 19th century and early 20th century saw Japan return to South Korea, eventually annexing the whole country cutting it off from the outside world until after WWII. Differing ideologies and shifts in power led to the outbreak of the Korean War, which effectively split the country in half, with the north following communism with the aid of Russia, and the south turning to democracy with the aid of the United States. During the 1970’s, South Korea experienced an economic boom which catapulted it into the 21st century as a financial dynamo.
South Koreans are fiercely proud of their heritage, and despite Japan’s best attempts to erase this heritage, Korean people have retained their cultural identity. Koreans are incredibly welcoming and warm; a trip to Korea will surely gain you some new friends on the peninsula. Surrounding the city center is a number of 14th century palaces; these extravagant structures include Gyeongbokgung, a former seat of power during Korea’s dynastic period, and Changdeokgung. Korean cuisine plays an important part in the culture of the city; dishes are based on rice, meat, and vegetables, with kimchi being an important dish served at almost every meal.
Take advantage of your Seoul car hire
Outdoor enthusiasts will want to take their rental car to the southeastern coast of the peninsula; here you will find Geumjeong Mountain, which offers beautiful scenic hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Take your rental car north along the coast to Seoraksan National Park, South Korea's most beloved nature reserve. Seoraksan consists of towering rock pinnacles, dense alpine forests, and is peppered with beautiful wild flowers.
Just north of Seoul you will find a valley officially described as, “the loveliest village on earth/all artists are dreaming.” Paju, a village which lies in the valley, has been carefully created and decorated by nearly 400 artists. The formerly desolate expanse of land has now become a haven for artists from all over the place; visitors can see first hand how the painters, photographers, musicians and other artists who live and work there create and thrive, and can even join in and learn a few crafts themselves. You will also find several museums, book stores, cafes, and restaurants to pass the time.
Book now with HAPPYCAR and take full advantage of the flexibility and freedom your Seoul car rental grants you. Our quick and hassle free service provides you with a great springboard into your adventures. The HAPPYCAR team wishes you a pleasant journey!