Virgin Atlantic has announced the launch of a new daily flight route from London Heathrow to Seoul, beginning on March 29, 2025. This new service aims to connect travelers to a vibrant city that has recently been recognized as the Favorite Worldwide City at the 2025 Trazees Awards. The award highlights destinations favored by millennials and Gen Z travelers, reinforcing Seoul’s appeal among the under-40 demographic.
Seoul has secured this accolade for the fourth consecutive year, a testament to its growing popularity. One significant factor attracting younger visitors is the global rise of K-Pop. With groups like BTS dominating music charts and shows like “K-Pop Demon Hunters” becoming Netflix’s most-watched film, the influence of this genre is unmistakable. Fans can explore K-Star Road in the trendy Gangnam district, a vibrant area famous for its striking bear statues representing various successful K-Pop bands.
Attractions and Experiences Await in Seoul
Seoul’s allure extends beyond music, featuring an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. The Starfield COEX Mall, a sprawling shopping destination, includes KTown4U, a store filled with K-Pop merchandise and a giant statue depicting the iconic crossed hands from the “Gangnam Style” dance, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
For those seeking a blend of modernity and history, Seoul offers stunning architectural feats alongside traditional sites. The Lotte World Tower, soaring at 555 metres and comprising 123 storeys, is the tallest building in South Korea. Visitors can experience breathtaking views from the Seoul Sky observatory and, for the daring, walk on the glass floor that provides a view straight down.
On the historical front, Gyeongbokgung, a former royal palace dating back to 1395, showcases traditional Korean architecture and art. The palace hosts the National Folk Museum of Korea and the National Palace Museum of Korea, where visitors can delve into the country’s rich heritage. Nearby, Bukchon Hanok Village features over 900 traditional homes, offering a glimpse into the lives of past generations through artisan shops and preserved architecture.
Vibrant Neighborhoods and Culinary Delights
Seoul’s neighborhoods each possess unique characteristics, catering to various preferences. For luxury travelers, Gangnam is an ideal choice, while Myeongdong is perfect for those eager to shop and explore. This bustling area is also home to the Myeongdong Night Market, which operates until 01:00. Here, visitors can sample local delicacies such as tteok-bokki, spicy rice cakes, and cheese-coated Korean hot dogs, all while shopping for colorful souvenirs.
Itaewon, known for its lively atmosphere and international vibe, contrasts with the more traditional feel of Insa-dong, where street performances and weekend markets abound. This diversity ensures that every traveler can find a spot in Seoul that resonates with their travel style.
Virgin Atlantic’s new flights will utilize the airline’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, offering a range of seating options including economy, premium economy, and upper class. This route is part of the airline’s strategy to diversify its destinations, complementing new services to Ghana and the Caribbean.
As the airline expands its offerings, travelers can look forward to exploring Seoul, a city that beautifully blends the traditional with the contemporary.
