Seoul, South Korea
Wealthy, modern district with good safety and upscale dining. More expensive than other areas but has high-end restaurants and shopping. Professional atmosphere.
Gangnam is the wealthy district from PSY's song - designer shops, expensive cars, Michelin restaurants mixed with regular spots. Around Gangnam Station exits 10 and 11 is packed with restaurants, bars, and cafes going until 3am on weekends. Women eating alone or working on laptops in cafes is normal. Garosu-gil has trendy cafes and boutiques that's more laid-back. English is common since there's a lot of business here. Streets are well-lit with police around constantly, making it safe even late. The crowd is older and richer than Hongdae - professionals and business types, not students. Everything costs more but service and quality are higher.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
ExcellentHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
ExcellentPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
Very HighHomelessness Visibility
Very HighGetting By in English
Excellent"Safe walking around at midnight - lots of people and good lighting"
"Expensive but staff speak English and service is good"
"Saw other women eating alone so felt normal"
"Clean and modern, almost too polished - not much character"
"Good for upscale dining and safe nightlife but you pay for it"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Main shopping and tourist area with Korean beauty stores and street food. Very safe with heavy police but no local atmosphere. Good for shopping and cosmetics.
Traditional arts area with tea houses, galleries, craft shops. Peaceful and safe, good for cultural stuff and quiet time away from Seoul's usual pace.
Student nightlife area with tons of bars, clubs, live music. Safe, energetic, good for meeting people and partying. Cheaper and more casual than Gangnam.
Help other women stay safe in Gangnam
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.