Seongsu-dong Guide: 20 Places To Visit And Things To Do In The “Brooklyn Of Seoul”

Things to do in Seongsu-dong

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Unknown to many foreigners, Seongsu-dong is a trendy neighbourhood popular amongst locals. It used to be a thriving district filled with small-scale shoe factories in the late 20th century, but has since been redeveloped to include stylish cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops. 

Whether you’re a regular cafe-hopper or an artsy soul who loves to visit galleries, there’s something in Seongsu-dong for you. We’ve curated a list of 20 places you have to visit in Seongsu-dong to explore the neighbourhood like never before. Read till the end to find out where you can enjoy some art installations free of charge. 

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Seongsu Yeonbang 성수연방

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Image adapted from (left to right): @chloe____9 and @sooji_da

Seongsu Yeonbang used to be an old factory building that has since been turned into a 3-storey all-in-one complex. Here, you can expect to find everything under one roof, from cafes and restaurants to a bookstore and lifestyle shop.

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1. Thingool Store 띵굴스토어 – lifestyle shop

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Image credit: @park_joon_kyu

Whether you’re looking to spruce up your new home or simply want to window shop, Thingool has got you covered. 

Image credit: @park_joon_kyu

The shop’s kitchenware section is worth a shout out. Apart from sleek and modern products, they also have traditional Korean aluminium bowls, pots, and lunchboxes. 

Image credit: @park_joon_kyu

Instead of mainstream Korean beauty products, the shop carries harder to find local beauty brands like URANG and 1025. A moisturiser from 1025 costs only KRW19,200 (~USD15) and is said to be able to keep your skin hydrated for an entire day. 

Image adapted from (left to right): Thingool and Thingool

Address: Seongsuiro 14(sipsa)-gil, Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 11AM-10PM, Daily
Website

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2. Arc N Book – bookstore

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Image credit: @melong8006

Arc N Book has multiple outlets across Seoul and they are known to carry a plethora of books of different genres. No matter what genre you’re in search of, be it fantasy, adventure, mystery, or romance, there’s definitely one that will suit you. 

Image credit: @liveyhiver

Grab a copy and take your time to browse – there are plenty of seats in the bookstore.

Image adapted from: @lawyer_nasuyeon

Besides offering a large collection of books that will satisfy all bookworms out there, the store also has plenty of stationery and craft supplies on display as well. We love that all the products are separated into neat categories so you’ll have an easy time browsing through. 

Address: 2F, Seongsu-i 14-gil, Seongsu-ro 14-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 10AM-10PM, Daily
Telephone: 070-8822-2406

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3. Chang Hwa Dang 창화당 – Authentic Korean food

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Image adapted from: @viva_ny

If you find Chang Hwa Dang familiar, it’s likely due to its appearance in the 2019 hit drama Hotel Del Luna. The outlet at Seongsu Yeonbang isn’t the one featured in the drama, but the menu is the same. 

If you want to make a trip down to the actual outlet featured in the drama, check out our article here. 

Image credit: @viva_ny

The restaurant serves affordable and mouth-watering traditional Korean dishes. Crowd favourites include the colourful mandu assortment (KRW10,000, ~USD8.20) and spicy tteokbokki (KRW7,500, ~USD6.05). The former comes with 8 pieces of dumplings made with different fillings such as kimchi, pepper, and shrimp. 

Address: 14 Seongsuiro 14-gil, Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 11.30AM-9PM, Daily
Telephone: 070-4189-0908

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4. Cheonsang Gaok 천상가옥 – cafe that serves pepper honey latte

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Image adapted from: @ruyen8888

Cheonsang Gaok is one of the most popular cafes to hit up in Seongsu Yeonbang. Bask in the natural sunlight coming through the glass roof while enjoying a good cup of joe. 

Image adapted from: @yunhk_89

The drinks are affordable, with a cup of cafe latte and cappuccino going for KRW4,800 (~USD3.90) each. If you’re up for a challenge, try its cafe latte with honey and ground pepper (KRW5,300, ~USD4.30). It’s an interesting mix of flavours where the sweetness of the honey balances out the bitterness of the coffee, while the ground pepper adds a kick towards the end. 

There are two house blends to choose from for all coffee orders – corsica or nizza. Corsica is made from fully-roasted coffee beans and tastes a tad more chocolaty. On the other hand, nizza is suitable for those who like a more fruity touch. 

Image adapted from: @yoomso_

The bakes at Cheonsang Gaok are not only visually captivating but also delicious. We’re talking cloud-like puff pastries where every bite of a croissant (KRW5,200, ~USD4.20) is flaky and buttery. Some classic flavours include custard and chocolate. 

Address: 322-4, Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 11AM-11PM, Daily
Telephone: 070-8866-0213

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5. Index Caramel – handmade caramel candies

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Image credit: @index_caramel

Index Caramel sells handmade caramel candies made with 100% refined sugar and natural flavouring. 

Image credit: @glowhyun_

This store’s aesthetic is simple yet attractive. The caramel candies on sale are displayed on top of dainty holders, showing the flavours available – maldon salt, truffle & salt, jujube, earl grey, matcha, peppermint, strawberry, blueberry, roasted brown rice, almond, mascarpone, and cereal. 

Image credit: @index_caramel

Each piece will set you back KRW2,900 (~USD2.30). The 12-piece original gift set only retails for KRW33,000 (~USD26.50).

Those who prefer something more interesting can look out for the shop’s sea salt caramel and truffle caramel spreads (KRW9,500, ~USD7.60).  

Image credit: @trevary_korea

The store also offers a variety of drinks that go well with its caramel candy. At only KRW6,000 (~USD4.80), you can have either a hot or iced Americano with a piece of caramel without breaking the bank. For something lighter, opt for an earl grey tea, rooibos tea, English breakfast tea, or kombucha (KRW7,500, ~USD6 each). 

Note: If you’ve left the shop and would really love to purchase more caramel candies, you can make an online purchase here.

Address: 1F, 14 Seongsui-ro 14-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 11AM-10PM, Daily
Telephone: 02-790-8399
Website

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Cafes

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6. Oo Di Jip (우디집) – old-school vintage cafe

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Image credit: @iam__juya

Oo Di Jip is a cafe hidden in an alley away from the bustling main road, making it the perfect place to go to if you’re in need of some alone time. 

Image adapted from: @napignono

Head inside the cafe and you’ll see that its interior is simple yet charming. It’s filled with mismatched teak wood furniture, artwork, and potted plants. Grab a book and put your AirPods on, then sit back and relax in this old-school space. 

Image credit: @napignono

The cafe offers quite a variety of drinks, ranging from an all-time favourite latte KRW5,000 (~USD4) to a refreshing cup of green grape ade KRW5,500 (~USD4,40). 

Address: 314 Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 12PM-9PM, Daily
Telephone: 010-3917-0456 

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7. Center Coffee (센터 커피) – cafe situated on the edge of Seoul Forest

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Image credit: @cest_tres_bien_486

Unlike other minimalist cafes found across Seoul, Center Coffee is situated right at the edge of Seoul Forest, boasting an impressive view of lush greenery. 

Image credit: @machance._

Grab a window seat and order either a cup of latte or cappuccino (KRW6,000, ~USD4.80 each) while you enjoy the scenery right before your eyes. 

Image credit: @eunn316

If it’s too late into the day for caffeine, have a go at the cafe’s best-selling desserts. Pick either the lemon or chocolate cake (KRW4,700, ~USD3.80). Packaged like candy in a wrapper, it’s convenient to have it to-go if you can’t finish a portion in one seating. 

Address: 28-11, Seoulsup 2-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Tue – Sun 10AM-9PM, Closed on Mon
Telephone: 070-8868-2008

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8. Matchacha 맛차차 – matcha lovers’ heaven

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Image credit: @matchacha_seoul

Matcha lovers will find themselves right at home at Matchacha, a teahouse that specialises in all things matcha. 

Image credit: @captainmarvel0117

There’s no doubt that Matchacha serves top-quality matcha drinks, and its menu is relatively extensive. If you’re looking for something unique, choose between matcha genmaicha and matcha yuzu green tea (KRW7,500, ~USD6 each).

On hotter days, try the iced matcha blanc (KRW6,500, ~USD5.20). It’s on the sweeter side with a thick layer of milk foam that balances out bitter notes from the matcha. 

Image credit: @wildyriftian

Tip: Make a reservation in advance to avoid waiting in line. Plus, you can choose your preferred seating area – tatami, terrace, or bar seats. 

Address: 685-450 Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Tue – Sun 11AM-7PM, Closed on Mon
Telephone: 010-9719-8707
Website

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9. Baesan Daerim Warehouse Cafe (바이산 대림창고) – industrial cafe

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Image credit: @loveartlove_zoe

Don’t be fooled by Baesan Daerim Warehouse Cafe‘s unassuming exterior because behind the front door lies an industrial-chic warehouse cafe filled with lots of edgy personality. 

Image credit: @noru0726

Once inside, you’ll first notice a striking mural that takes the centre stage of the cafe. The area is filled with tables of all sizes and some can even accommodate up to 10 people. 

Image credit: @_paekyuri

Its lattes are worth a try as there are unconventional flavours like latte pu’er tea (KRW6,900, ~USD5.50 for small, KRW9,000, ~USD7.20 for regular) – a seamless fusion of East and West. 

On days when you need an additional caffeine boost, we recommend having a cup of double latte pu’er tea (KRW10,300, ~USD8.20), double latte green tea (KRW9,500, ~USD7.60), or double latte black tea (KRW9,500, ~USD7.60).

As a final touch, you can opt to add pecan (KRW600, ~USD0.50), pine nut kernel (KRW600, ~USD0.50), or pumpkin seed (KRW500, ~USD0.40) to enhance the flavour of your tea. 

Image credit: @ryeong2cafe

For a sweet accompaniment, we recommend having the famous lamington cake (KRW8,000, ~USD6.40), which comes in chocolate and matcha flavours. They are made of sponge cakes with an outer layer of chocolate or matcha coating and then sprinkled with delectable coconut shavings.  

Address: 322-32 Seongsu 2(i)-ga 1(il)-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 11AM-12AM, Daily
Telephone: 02-6238-8130
Website

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10. Cafe Onion – open roof terrace

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Image adapted from: @hazellevilladelgado

This rustic cafe is no stranger to the scene in Seoul. Cafe Onion has multiple stores across the city but this particular outlet in Seongsu is the OG outlet, opened back in 2016. 

Check out our visit to the other outlet, Cafe Onion Anguk, here. 

Image credit: MANGOPLATE

Perfect for those who like to enjoy a good brew while enjoying some fresh air, the cafe has a huge seating area on the rooftop for an al-fresco dining experience. 

You can never go wrong with a classic flat white or cafe latte (KRW5,000, ~USD4). But for something more refreshing on a hot summer day, a cold-brewed green tea (KRW7,000, ~USD5.60) is a perfect choice. 

Image credit: @aegisgatx103

It would be a sin to leave Cafe Onion without getting your hands on their hearty bakes. While a savoury must-have is the olive bacon bread (KRW4,500, ~USD3.60), customers have raved about sweeter options such as strawberry custard bread and pandoro (KRW5,000, ~USD4 each). A pandoro is a conical Italian pastry made from egg, flour, and powdered sugar. 

Address: 8 Achasan-ro 9(gu)-gil, Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Mon – Fri 8AM-10PM | Sat & Sun 10AM-10PM
Telephone: 02-1644-1941
Website

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11. Daelim Changgo Gallery Co:Lumn (대림창고 갤러리 컬럼) – cafe with art gallery

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Image credit: @nowsee

Daelim Changgo Gallery Co:Lumn brings a wow factor to the cafe scene in Seoul by doubling up as an art gallery. 

Image credit: @frda.c

What used to be an old factory has since been turned into an industrial-chic space to accommodate art installations and paintings from aspiring artists. The exhibits change from time to time so you can visit the cafe regularly to check out for new art pieces.

Image credit: @h__naaaa

Apart from the usual cafe latte and cappuccino (KRW6,000, ~USD4.80 each), the cafe also offers unusual drinks like con panna (KRW5,000, ~USD4). It’s a drink that features a thick layer of whisked whipped cream on top of two shots of espresso.

Food-wise, the beef salad bowl (KRW19,000, ~USD15) is an obvious winner. The beef cubes are seared to perfection while the fresh greens add a crunch to every bite.

Read more about Daelim Changgo Gallery Co:Lumn in our article here.

Address: 78 Seongsui-ro, Seongsu 2(i)-ga 1(il)-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours: 11AM-11PM, Daily
Telephone: 02-498-7474
Website

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12. Grandpa Factory (할아버지공장) – cafe with a treehouse

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Image credit: @grandpa.factory

There’s no denying that we’ve all dreamt about living in a treehouse once, and you can realise this fantasy at Grandpa Factory. 

Image adapted from: @mannycoffee

Besides having a treehouse in the front yard of the 2-storey cafe, this expansive area also boasts full-length windows and exposed wooden beams that bring natural lighting into the space.

Image credit: @breadbeen

Apart from your usual go-to Americano (KRW5,000, ~USD3.90) or milk tea (KRW6,000, ~USD4.70), the cafe offers alcoholic drinks like Hoegaarden beer (KRW8,500, ~USD6.70). 

Image credit: @world_daughter

Make sure to leave some space for their brunch staples. Its salad bowl (KRW16,000, ~USD12.60) comes in a size equivalent to a personal pan pizza and makes for a filling meal.

Address: 9 Seongsuiro 7(chil)ga-gil, Seongsu 2(i)-ga 1(il)-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 11AM-10.30PM, Daily
Telephone: 070-7642-1113
Website

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Eateries

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13. Girl’s Mill (소녀방앗간) – healthy Korean set meals

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Image credit: @dicajh

If you’re looking to have a healthy yet fulfilling meal, Girl’s Mill is definitely the spot to head to. It specialises in creating healthy Korean set meals that consist of rice and an array of banchan (side dishes).

Image credit: @cogus_diet

The restaurant changes its menu daily but there are a few items that remain the same throughout the week. Wild vegetable rice set (KRW7,000, ~USD5.50) is one of them. It may look simple but every side dish is seasoned till perfection – neither too salty nor too sweet. 

Image adapted from: @bbora_h

Diners flock to Girl’s Mill on the weekends and it’s not without reason. You can only get your hands on the highly coveted cod roe wild vegetable rice set (KRW8,000, ~USD6.30) on Saturday and Sunday. Topped with a generous amount of fresh cod roe, spring onion, seaweed flakes and raw egg yolk, every mouthful of this rice bowl is guaranteed to be rich and creamy. 

Address: 9-16, Wangsimni-ro 5-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Mon – Fri 11AM-3PM, 5PM-9PM | Sat & Sun 11AM-9PM
Telephone: 02-6268-0778
Website

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14. Grandmother’s Recipe 할머니의 레시피 – home-style cooking

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Image credit: @freddwlee

Behind the brick walls of a traditional Korean house lies a Michelin Guide’s recommendation, Grandmother’s Recipe. This restaurant serves traditional Korean home-cooked dishes that keep diners coming back. 

Image credit: @sim___gs

Try out their bestselling bibimbap set (KRW15,000, ~USD11.70) and ssambap set (KRW13,000, ~USD10.10). Ssambap literally means wrap, and you can customise a wrap to your liking by adding ingredients that come with this set. We recommend adding a little of everything – a slice of stir-fried pork, rice, kimchi, marinated zucchini, and a little dollop of gochujang (red chilli paste).

Image credit: @kimsooja_sooja

All dishes here look appetising. However, if you’re looking to treat yourself, opt for the hamburger steak (KRW17,000, ~USD13.20) made from Hanwoo beef. It’s rich in texture and sweeter in flavour, and even said to be similar to Kobe beef. 

Address: 44-12 Seoulsup 2(i)-gil, Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Wed – Mon 11.30AM-3PM, 5PM-10PM, Closed on Tue
Telephone: 02-467-5101
Website

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15. Hanoi 102 – classy Vietnamese restaurant

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Image adapted from (left to right): @hae92ing and @amy_hs

Step into this Vietnamese restaurant Hanoi 102 and it’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back to old Vietnam.

Aesthetics aside, you can look forward to having authentic Vietnamese dishes over here, made with the freshest greens and well-marinated meat. 

Image credit: @a_hyeonyy

You can never go wrong with a comforting bowl of Pho Bo (KRW9,000, ~USD7 for medium, KRW11,000, ~USD8.60 for large) and an all-time favourite Vietnamese breakfast, Banh Mi (KRW7,000, ~USD5.50 for pork, KRW6,000, ~USD4.70 for vegetarian). 

A side dish worth trying is Bun Cha (KRW9,000, ~USD7 for medium, KRW11,000, ~USD8.60 for large) – a dish made of grilled pork with herbs and rice noodles on the side. 

Address: Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seoul
Opening hours: Wed – Mon 11AM-10PM, Closed on Tue
Telephone: 02-469-5101

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16. Seongsu-dong Galbi Alley

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Image adapted from: @kyliejuyeonlee

Seongsu-dong’s Galbi Alley is one of the best-kept secrets among locals. Situated right outside of Seoul Forest, the street is lined with Korean barbecue restaurants, and filled with tables and chairs for the most authentic al-fresco dining experience. 

Image credit: @byjun23

Most of the stalls offer the same cuts of meat, but you can’t leave the alley without getting some of its famous grilled spare ribs into your belly. Order a portion of it with sweet soy sauce marinade – perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and savoury. 

Address: 27 Seoulsup 4-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
How to get there: Alight at either Ttukseom station found on subway line 2 and take exit 8, or Seoul Forest station found on Bundang line and take exit 4.

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Museums/Sights/Shops

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17. SIMMIAN 심미안 – Handmade vintage shop

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Image credit: @jinhui1357

It’s not all about food over here at Seongsu-dong as there are many other shops and sights not to be missed. SIMMIAN is one of them and this quaint little shop has a plethora of unique handmade vintage items for you to check out. 

Image credit: @zzi2n2

Here, you can get souvenirs such as scented candles and one-of-a-kind earrings (from KRW10,000, ~USD7.80) for your loved ones back home. But if you have time to spare, try your hand at making your own candles by attending the shop’s one-day candle making class (KRW66,000, ~USD51.40). 

Class schedule can be viewed here

Image credit: @jinhui1357

Address: 42, Achasan-ro 7-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Mon & Tue, Thu – Sat 2PM-7PM, Closed on Wed & Sun
Telephone: 070-4233-4066
Website

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18. Amorepacific Showroom (아모레 성수) – with a man-made stream

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Image adapted from (left to right) @juste_pour_montrer and @miu.25

Amorepacific is a South Korean beauty and cosmetic giant that owns major brands like Sulwhasoo, Laniege, and Innisfree. They’ve recently opened a beauty lounge in Seongsu to enhance the beauty experience offered to their customers. 

Enter the space and you’ll notice a jaw-dropping man-made stream in the middle of the Amorepacific Showroom. The garden lounge faces the stream and it’s an area where customers can have a seat and try on products to their hearts’ content without forking out a single cent.  

Image credit: @cloud.o.cloud

Those looking to bag items from Amorepacific brands can head to Seongsu market, an area where signature products are sold. 

Image credit: @hola_mi_primavera

To make your experience at the showroom even better, the ever-famous Osulloc Cafe operates within the showroom as well. Here, you can have drinks and desserts while you’re trying on the products at the garden lounge or just chilling on the terrace.

Image credit: @hongsymon

One must-try drink is its green tea latte (KRW7,000, ~USD5.40). Not only does the fragrance of the tea come through, the froth adds an additional layer of milkiness to the drink. But on days when you need something to cool you down real quick, its green tea ice cream (KRW4,500, ~USD3.50 for a cone, KRW5,000, ~USD3.90 for a cup) will certainly do the trick.

Address: 277-52 Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: Tue – Sun 10.30AM-8.30PM, Closed on Mon
Telephone: 02-469-8600
Website

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19. Seoul Forest – third-largest park in Seoul

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Image credit: @samuel.haughton.42

Similar to Hyde Park in London and Central Park in New York, Seoul Forest offers plenty of space to relax and unwind. 

Image credit: @jennyclicks

It’s the third-largest park in Seoul and each season brings about different sights and scenery. 

Image credit: @shkhrkh07

On top of the scenery, the park offers many other activities for free. Located in the Eco Forest is a large enclosed area where the deers roam around freely. Visitors are allowed to purchase deer feed from vending machines located at the entrance of the Eco Forest. 

Image credit: @khansa5234

Educational exhibits such as the butterfly garden and wildflower garden can be found in the park as well. Not only are they suitable for kids, adults will also find them informative. 

Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 12AM-12PM, Daily
Telephone: 02-460-2905

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20. Veranda Industrial (베란다 인더스트리얼) – free art gallery

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Image credit: @gommee4

While it looks like an abandoned factory on the outside, Veranda Industrial is actually an art gallery that does not charge an entrance fee. 

Image adapted from (left to right): @__mizza and @seuyuni

This space is owned by a local interior designer who sets out to display quirky and imaginative artwork. The pieces on display are changed regularly so pop by to check them out whenever you’re around the area.

Address: 309-59 Seongsu-dong 2(i)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 12PM-6PM, Daily
Telephone: 070-7527-1778

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Places to visit in Seongsu-dong

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The next time you scoot off to Seoul, don’t forget to check Seongsu-dong out. Whether you’re a foodie, shopaholic, or just a culture vulture, there’s always something in store for you in this trendy neighbourhood.

Here are other Seoul-related articles:

• 9 Korean clothing stores for vintage lovers 
• 9 Hidden cafes to visit in Seoul
• 15 Korean phrases for shopping
• 9 Bars in Seoul 
• Korean drinking culture

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Image adapted from (clockwise from top-right): @matchacha_seoul, @thesoulofseoulblog, @gommee4 and @liveyhiver

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