"Seoul was once one of Asia's most underrated cities, but thanks to the Korean pop culture wave that has swept the fashion and entertainment industries from Beijing to Bangkok recent years, the South Korean capital is currently reveling in a tourism boom."
- Justin Bergman <The New York Times>
Good restaurants, cafes and shopping spots in Seoul where locals frequent
When traveling with limited time, every choice matters. Seoulshopper was created to share the places locals truly love and frequent, from hidden cafés to must-try restaurants. We hope every traveler leaves Korea with unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.
Welcome to Seoul. Share this with any Bibimbap or Kimchi lover!
Restaurant
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Anam
The word Gukbap (pork rice soup) gives me a sense of comfort and stability. I don't think there are many men who live and work in Seoul who dislike... -
Daedo Sikdang (main store)
On our way to the theater, my friend and I decided to stop by Daedo Sikdang (Wangsimni, Seoul) for lunch. It had been a long time since my last vis... -
Myeongdong Kyoja (main store)
Myeong-dong (Seoul) is one of Seoul’s most iconic tourist spots, bustling with both locals and international visitors. I usually avoid the crowds w...
Attractions
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Seoul Museum of Art (Seokpajeong)
I visited the Seoul Museum of Art (Seokpajeong) to see Kawashima Kotori’s exhibition [Saranran], and found that the ticket included access to the o... -
Namsan (Autumn Season, Seoul Tower)
As autumn arrives, the recent pictures of maple leaves and ginkgo trees that people have taken were so gorgeous. I had been thinking that I should... -
Jeongdong Observatory
Stepping outside, I noticed everyone bundled up in winter clothing. The recent unpredictable weather has made it impossible to transition wardrobe...
Cafe
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Tenné
Seongsu-dong is undoubtedly one of the trendiest areas in Seoul right now. Despite its growing popularity, it still feels less hectic compared to... -
Café Elak
When people think of Sindang-dong, many think of the famous Sindang-dong Tteokbokki. But for me, when I think of Sindang-dong now, this place comes... -
Champ Coffee (3rd workroom)
Yesterday, I went on a date in Jongno, and we decided to check out Champ Coffee (Euljiro, Seoul), a café known for its strong reputation among coff...
Shopping
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Common Ground
If you’re looking for an exciting place to explore near Konkuk University Station, Common Ground (Seongsu, Seoul) is a top recommendation. This vib... -
BoMarket (seoul forest)
BoMarket (Seoul Forest, Seoul) is a well-loved brunch café and lifestyle shop with a unique, curated aesthetic. I had no idea there was a location ... -
Nonfiction (hannam store)
Located in the Itaewon area, the Nonfiction (hannam, Seoul) has become even more delightful and fragrant since relocating to its current, more spac...
Hotels
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Westin Josun (Executive deluxe)
After spending a night at the Westin Josun Seoul Hotel, I felt compelled to share my experience. Though it is one of Seoul’s oldest hotels, it rema... -
Sofitel Ambassador Seoul (Magnifique room, City view)
Thanks to its proximity to Jamsil Subway Station, getting to Sofitel Ambassador (Jamsil, Seoul) was effortless. The hotel is just a short walk from... -
Aloft (myeongdong)
Myeongdong is filled with countless hotels, but when it comes to accessibility, facilities, and value for money, only a select few consistently re...
Tips
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Google Map / Naver Map / Kakao Map
When you travel in Korea, one of the first apps you might open is Google Maps. It works perfectly almost everywhere in the world — from navigation ... -
WiFi Router / eSIM (Incheon Airport)
Staying Connected in Korea Made Simple When you land in Korea, one of the first things you need is reliable internet. Whether it’s checking maps,... -
Luggage Lockers (Seoul station)
When it comes to train stations in Korea, Seoul Station is the first one that comes to mind. It’s super spacious, always crowded 24/7, and just fe...
Fun
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SMTOWN LIVE 2025
SM Entertainment’s 30th-anniversary concert, SMTOWN LIVE 2025! At first, I booked a seat on the first floor, but later exchanged it for the seco... -
G-Dragon 2025 World Tour [Ubermensch]
After eight long years, G-DRAGON finally returned with his solo concert, and I got to see the second show. It was absolutely incredible. Even bef... -
T1 Base Camp (pc room)
I was once really into TFT (Teamfight tactics) gaming and was watching a few videos on YouTube, and at some point, the algorithm kicked in and star...