It seems like everywhere you turn in Seoul, people are talking about Seongsu. Whether it’s great cafes, personalized shopping experiences or attending the latest pop-ups, it’s on everyone’s must-visit list (locals & tourists alike). Once known as Seoul’s hub for shoemaking, Seongsu has reinvented itself into one of the city’s coolest neighborhoods.
With its industrial-chic aesthetic, converted warehouses, and a thriving café culture, Seongsu is often called “the Brooklyn of Seoul.” Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion lover, or amateur photographer, this neighborhood has something unique to offer. I have had a few opportunities to check it out and I will say, it lives up to the hype. It’s a neighborhood you want to keep returning to because there is always something more to explore.
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Why Seongsu Has Become So Popular
Seongsu is located on the eastern side of Seoul, near the Han River. In recent years, its old shoe factories and warehouses have been transformed into cafés, designer boutiques, pop-up art installations, and cultural spaces. The blend of history and creativity gives the area its unique personality with all the style that Seoulites crave. Seongsu is easily accessible (via subway) and fairly centrally located, making it an easy destination to meet up with friends or kill an afternoon cafe hopping all on your own.
Shopping in Seongsu: Best Shops & Stores
Seongsu is a shopping paradise, full of high-end designer stores, indie boutique shops, and rotating pop-ups that offer amazing shopping experiences. Here are some of my favorite must-visit locations include:
- Musinsa Standard Flagship Store – A minimalist fashion haven for trendy, affordable basics.
- Daelim Changgo – A repurposed warehouse turned cultural space and bookstore.
- NYU NYU House – Accessories and more accessories.
- Marylebone – 2 cozy floors full of treasures for gift hunters, homebodies and pet parents.
- Amore Seongsu – A 3 story beauty hub for global cosmetics brands: shop, sample and stay awhile.
- Olive Young – The 4 story makeup and skincare mega store is THE place to get everything you wanted and more.
- Monami Seongsu – For all the pen snobs out there, you can create personalized pens (including engraving) and get the matching stationary.
If you like to plan some destination experiences, (and who doesn’t) Seoul is known for having some fun and personalized shopping encounters. A few great options for personalized experiences in Seongsu:
- Personalized Perfume Making at .NOTE – Book it Here
- Personal Color Consulting – Book it Here
- Ring Making Workshop at UNIU Rings – Book it Here
- Laneige – Personalized Lip Product 1:1 – Book it Here!
Favorite Foodie Hotspots
Some of the best food I have had has come from this neighborhood. There are endless side streets with cafes and restaurants to match your mood. Come hungry and enjoy every signature dish you can find! Get to your destinations early if you don’t want to fuss with lines. Here are some must-try spots in Seongsu:
- Onion Café Seongsu – A café inside a renovated metal factory, serving up beautifully baked goods.
- Must-Try: Pandoro (towering sugar-dusted brioche)
- Daelim Changgo Café – Industrial, artsy café perfect for a long coffee break.
- Must-Try: Signature Cold Brew
- Nudake Seongsu – Creative desserts by Gentle Monster’s culinary brand.
- Must-Try: Black Chestnut Cake
- Oatt Brunch – European inspired brunch cafe with all the charm.
- Must-Try: Apple Compote French Toast
- Jayeondo Salt Bread – quite literally the best salt bread I’ve ever had.
- Must-Try: Freshly baked, buttery salt bread
- Café Layered – A dessert café specializing in British-style scones and cakes.
- Must-Try: Classic Cream Scone with Jam
- Maple Top – A retro inspired brunch spot with some fantastic Western dishes!
- The Breakfast Charcuterie – it’s shareable and has something for everyone!
How & When to Get to Seongsu
The easiest way to reach Seongsu is by Seoul Metro Line 2:
- Take the subway to Seongsu Station and use Exit 3 or Exit 4.
- Most of the trendy cafés and shops are within walking distance from the station.
Best Times to Visit
- Morning (10 AM – Noon): Since most cafes don’t open until 10am or later, be the first in line for the best selection!
- Afternoons & Weekends: Bustling, lively, and best for people-watching, but also the most crowded.
- Evenings: Many cafés close by 10 PM, but restaurants and bars stay open late—perfect for a casual night out.
Nature Thats Nearby
If all that shopping and sipping has you needing a little nature break, here are two great options for some nature stops near Seongsu. Seoul Forest is a beautiful respite in the middle of the city, with winding trails and a serene feel. Find a picnic bench and enjoy the scenery!
- Seoul Forest
A large green space with several themed zones. Perfect for walking, picnics, and people-watching. They have a butterfly park and deer exhibits to round out your nature encounters. - Ttukseom Hangang Park
Riverside park along the Han River. Bike paths, skate ramps, river views, especially beautiful at sunset. Great place to relax after café hopping.
Final Thoughts
The atmosphere in Seongsu is effortlessly cool—think exposed brick walls and a mix of creatives working on laptops or friends chatting over artisanal lattes, a hipster paradise. It’s a place to slow down, explore side streets, and stumble upon hidden gems. Whether you’re here for a coffee crawl, boutique shopping, or simply to soak in the neighborhood’s artsy atmosphere, Seongsu is the perfect place to visit. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and get ready to fall in love with one of Seoul’s most fun districts.
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I am currently planning my first Korea trip and this Soeongsu travel guide has all the main spots! Definitely saving those cafes!
Sounds like a great place for foodies. Being there in the morning for the opening of the cafés sounds ideal.
This looks wonderful. What a great place to visit.
Never been to South Korea but I am enjoying all your posts on this country and peaking into your life here. Bookmarking this for whenever we go to Seoul.
That food looks amazing. I can see why it is where you’ve gotten some of the best food you’ve had!