Ling Ling: Futuristic Cafe With Retro Cakes & Ice Cream Floats

Ling Ling cafe in Seoul

Science fiction is a popular theme in many forms of media, so much so that it even extends into unexpected areas such as fashion and cafes. Ling Ling is one such cafe in Seoul that embodies this aesthetic, from its decor to its menu items.

Futuristic theme with a chrometype aesthetic

ling ling - cafe wall
Image credit: @uniiiiiiiii10.04

When you step into the cafe, the first thing you will notice is the monochrome colour scheme of the interior.

Image credit: @o__3__o__

The tables, chairs, pillows, and even decor of the cafe are in black and white. Cow print patterns are also a common theme in the cafe, adorning everything from pillows to wall frames.

Image credit: @uniiiiiiiii10.04

Ling Ling combines a monochrome colour scheme with a futuristic theme for their interior design – the cafe is clutter-free and uses metallic elements to channel a chrometype aesthetic.

Image credit: @uniiiiiiiii10.04

Though metal may seem cold and sterile, the cafe cancels this out by injecting a heavy dose of cute into their menu offerings. To top it all off, there are shelves filled with adorable plushies, fully cementing the harmonious balance of contradictions.

Image credit: @melk1ts

Decorative electric guitars, including a transparent one, are hung on the walls to further emphasise the experimental elements of the cafe.

Splash of adorability within a stern architecture

ling ling - desserts counter
Image adapted from: @y.j.n.k

At the counter, there are glass shelves full of retro Sanrio collectibles and other colourful toys. Besides being an antithesis to the cold, metallic elements of the cafe, these cute collectibles also serve to invoke nostalgia in visitors. There’s just something so undeniably Y2K about the decor.

Image credit: @o__3__o__

The cafe is also equipped with a gashapon machine that dispenses capsules containing vintage Hello Kitty figurine toys.

Due to its charming interior design and tasty-looking desserts, Ling Ling is a popular choice for many K-pop fans looking to hold cafe events for their favourite idols.

Image adapted from: @ready_set_q___

Flashy desserts and drinks

Image adapted from: @lingling.kr

The cafe specialises in cakes decorated with frilly designs made from piped cream. Their cake slices range from KRW7,500 (~USD5.82) to KRW11,800 (~USD9.16).

A crowd favourite is the ice cream sodas, which cost KRW8,000 (~USD6.21) to KRW8,500 (~USD6.60). The drink consists of coloured soda, a scoop of ice cream, and a cherry, and the result is a concoction that wouldn’t look out of place in a futuristic, sci-fi world.

Image credit: @lingling.kr

Customised cakes are available for sale upon request. All their cakes are designed by their in-house bakers, and each design is unique and personalised.

Getting to Ling Ling

If you’re a big fan of the girl group aespa and their signature aesthetic, Ling Ling’s futuristic interior decor and menu items might just be your cup of tea.

How to get there: