Explore 63 Square (63 Building), Seoul’s iconic skyscraper – a cultural hotspot with breathtaking views of the city!
The 63 Square or 63 Building is a prominent Seoul landmark in Yeouido. The building stands tall at 249 meters (817 feet) and 60 floors with three basement levels, making it a total of 63 floors. It was one of the tallest buildings in Korea at one time but it remains as one of the most recognizable skyscraper. It is a must-visit destination for locals and tourist alike, thanks to the many entertainment, dining, and attractions in the building.
Beyond its striking golden facade, 63 Square is home to a world-class observatory, an art gallery, a massive aquarium, fine dining experiences, and even an IMAX theater. Whether you are a cultural enthusiast, foodie, or just a tourist looking for gorgeous views of Seoul, 63 Square offers something for everyone.
The Architectural Marvel of 63 Square
The building construction started in 1980 and was finished in 1985. The 63 Square was designed to symbolize South Korea’s economic growth during its rapid industrialization. Originally, it was home to the headquarters of the Daehan Life Insurance Company (now Hanwha Group).
Key Highlights
- A Golden Silhouette: The exterior of the building is coated with gold-tinted glass, creating a shimmering golden glow at sunrise and sunset.
- 24-carat Gold Plating: The 14,000 glass panes are not just gold-tinted, they are coated with a thin film of 24-carat gold.
- Impressive Height: Standing at 249 meters with 63 floors (including basement levels), it held the title of Korea’s tallest building for over two decades (until 2002).
- Superfast Elevators: The glass elevators move at a speed of 460 meters per minute, taking just 25 seconds to reach the top, feeling almost like a rocket launch.
- Strategic Location: Overlooking the Han River, the building offers unparalleled panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline, making it a top destination for sightseeing.
Despite it not being the tallest building anymore in South Korea, it is still an iconic landmark in the city.
Top Attractions at 63 Square
63 IMAX Theater: A Next-Level Movie Experience
For an immersive cinematic experience, 63 IMAX is one of Korea’s largest IMAX screens. While most of the time is shows high-quality IMAX documentaries and nature films, there are occasional screenings of blockbuster movies.
Attractions that have ceased operations recently
Aqua Planet 63
One of Seoul’s most impressive aquariums, Aqua Planet 63 was home to over 30,000 marine creatures across over 400 species. It ceased operations on June 30, 2024.
63 Sky Art
The unique art gallery and observatory hybrid was on the 60th floor of 63 Building. Along with beautiful art, 63 Art also had mesmerizing 360-degree views of Seoul, including Namsan Tower, Lotte World Tower, and the Han River bridges.
In 2025, the Centre Pompidou Hanwha Seoul is scheduled to open in 63 Square.
Dining and Shopping at 63 Square
Fine Dining with a View
There are quite a few fine dining restaurants in the 63 Building where you can enjoy delicious food with a spectacular view.
Walk in the Cloud is one such luxury fine dining restaurant on the 59th floor. The European-style restaurant is perfect for romantic date and other special occasions. 63 Buffet Pavillion is a high-end buffet featuring Korean, Japanese, and Western cuisine. The place is famous for its premium seafood and grilled meat selections. Tutin is another famous spot, a stylish Italian bistro which offers authentic pasta, wine, and gourmet desserts.
Shopping at 63 Square
You can find unique Korean souvenirs, including Hanwha’s premium gold bar-inspired merchandise at the Hanwha Gift Shop.
Visitor Information: How to Get to 63 Square?
Subway
- Take Subway Line 5 to Yeouinaru Station (Exit 4) and walk 15 minutes.
- Alternatively, take Subway Line 9 to Saetgang Station (Exit 1) and walk 10 minutes.
Bus
- Take Blue Bus 261, 262, 5633, or 5713 and get off at 63 Square Bus Stop.
Taxi
- Tell the driver “Yook-sam Building” (육삼빌딩) for easy directions.
Best Time to Visit 63 Square
While there are no restrictions on when to visit the 63 Square, there are certain times at which you can make the most out of your visit. Usually, if you plan your visit between late afternoon and night, you can enjoy a mix of daytime views, sunset, and nighttime city lights all in one visit.
As for the season and months, spring and fall will give you the best views with clear skies, but it will be crowded. Winter, on the other hand, is less crowded and you can see the stunning snowy Seoul scenery.
Why 63 Square is a Must-Visit in Seoul?
- Unparalleled panoramic views of Seoul
- Home to many family-friendly attractions
- Luxury dining experiences with breathtaking views
- Easily accessible from central Seoul
- Perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and relaxation
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