Gangnamgu

Gangnam-gu, officially Gangnam District, is one of Seoul’s 25 districts (gu). Located south of the Han River, it forms a major part of the city’s southern metropolitan area. The district is known for a modern skyline, dense commercial activity, and affluent residential neighborhoods. It encompasses notable areas such as Apgujeong-dong, Cheongdam-dong, Sinsa-dong, Yeoksam-dong, and Daechi-dong, with major transit corridors along Gangnam-daero and Teheran-ro that link offices, retail, and neighborhoods.

Economy and commerce are central to Gangnam-gu, which hosts regional headquarters, technology and media firms, and a wide range of retail and entertainment venues. The Gangnam Station area acts as a central business and transportation hub, while Teheran-ro is recognized as a major corridor for tech and corporate offices. The district also serves as a popular destination for shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Landmarks and culture include Bongeunsa Temple in Samseong-dong and the COEX complex, which houses an exhibition center, mall, and convention venues. Garosugil in Sinsa-dong and various fashion and entertainment clusters contribute to the district’s cultural profile. The area gained global attention with the rise of the “Gangnam Style” phenomenon in the early 2010s, highlighting the district’s association with contemporary Korean culture.

History and administration: Gangnam-gu was established as a separate district in 1988, formed through administrative reorganization to accommodate rapid growth in the southern part of the city. It is governed as part of Seoul Special City and is subdivided into multiple administrative dongs for local governance.

Demographics and education: The district is characterized by a high standard of living and diverse communities. It includes Daechi-dong, known for its concentration of private academies and its emphasis on education, contributing to the district’s overall educational prominence.