An online portal operated by CNN recently introduced 50 reasons why Seoul is the world’s greatest city. Written from the perspective of a non-Korean, the list is beginning to grab international attention.

Concerning the fact that Asian tourists have designated Seoul the first city to visit, CNNGo selected several reasons why.

At the very top of the list was galbi, a typical BBQ in Korea with beef soaked in traditional sauce. The scene where one person from the group must focus on flipping meat was new to non-Koreans. Other treats on the list were kalguksu (Korean noodle soup), bibimbap, soju, green tiramisu, hangover stew and live squid. McDonalds’ delivery was also something new for foreigners.

The Korean tradition of serving guests was also in the list. Not only were the superb service, random freebies, no tipping and free side dishes on the list, but also the hospitality at Korean and Asiana Airlines made Seoul attractive. The free information call center 120, which operates 24 hours a day in different languages, was included too.

Entertainment such as booking (speed dating at night clubs), screen golf, jjimjilbang (Korean spa) and bang (rooms for different occasions, such as games, movies, singing, etc.) were a few other examples on the list.

Categories such as “wildest celebrity scandal” were also included, reflecting the popularity of hallyu, the Korean wave, around the world.

The list also said Seoulites “have never met a job they couldn’t finish ahead of schedule.

By Kang Yoon-seung
(koreacolin@gmail.com)
Intern reporter
Edited by Rob York


Full list:
http://www.cnngo.com/seoul/life/50-reasons-why-seoul-worlds-greatest-city-534720?page=0,0