"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 places in Seoul where locals go
When traveling with limited time, we always want to choose and visit delicious, attractive, and satisfying locations. Seoulshopper would like to introduce the places that the locals really like, not the places that have become famous for advertisements and sponsorships from travel agencies.
Welcome to Seoul. Share this with any Bibimbap or Kimchi lover!
Attractions
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Seoul Sky
I visited Seoul Sky (Jamsil Seoul), the observation deck at Lotte World Tower where you can see the entire city from the highest point in Seoul! I... -
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... -
National Museum of Korea
Even though I grew up in Seoul and totally love exhibitions, galleries, and art museums, this is my first time visiting the National Museum of Ko...
Cafe
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Coffee and Cigarettes
I finally visited Coffee & Cigarettes, a café near City Hall Station (Seoul) that I’ve been wanting to check out for ages. I had a reason to b... -
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... -
Brewing Ceremony
Seongsu-dong, now younger than ever. Even late on a Sunday afternoon, the area was packed with people. From adults to young people, everyone in S...
Hotels
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Voco (Myeongdong)
Lately, I’ve been craving a staycation, somewhere near Seoul, where I could lounge around with a book, enjoy a peaceful morning swim, and take a b... -
Hangaroum
While searching for a charming Hanok (traditional Korean house) accommodation to host an overnight party with friends, I stumbled upon Hangaroum, a... -
Stay Dayoff
During my recent trip to Seoul, my friends and I spent a night at During my recent trip to Seoul, my friends and I spent a night at Hanok (Korean t...
Restaurant
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Mingles (2-star Michelin)
With the year ending and the holiday season in full swing, my friends and I decided to treat ourselves to a special dining experience. We had been ... -
Woo Lae Oak (Bulgogi)
Woo Lae Oak (Euljiro, Seoul) is famously known for its long wait times, especially in the summer. If you’re planning a visit, here are some tips a... -
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...
Shopping
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Point of View (seongsu)
Lately, I’ve been exploring different neighborhoods in Seoul, and today, I’m sharing my experience at Point of View, a specialty stationery shop l... -
Nonfiction (samcheong store)
It had been ages since I last visited Samcheong-dong, a place I used to frequent but hadn’t been to in a while due to my changing routines. This ti... -
H559 (outlet)
I recently came across an exciting announcement on Instagram that Sculp Store has opened an outlet store called H559. This store offers discounted...
Tips
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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... -
Luggage Lockers (Hongdae)
A perfect guide to using luggage storage (lockers) when visiting Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong, and Yeonhui-dong in Seoul. Hongik University Station is a ... -
Free luggage storage lockers (The Hyundai Seoul, Yeouido)
While in Seoul last week, I stayed in Yeouido, so after checking out of my hotel, I headed to The Hyundai Seoul (department store). I considered le...
Fun
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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... -
Sinheung Market (Haebangchon)
Maybe the wet season is about to start, the weather is already really humid. It's been a long time since I last visited Haebangchon (Seoul). As a... -
Namdaemun Market
After a long and exhausting workweek, I just wanted to relax this weekend. But with the change of seasons, I felt restless, tired of staying indo...