"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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Hannam Bugeotguk
I only recently discovered Hannam Bugeotguk (Hannam, Seoul), and to my surprise, it turns out to be a well-known, long-standing local gem in Hannam... -
Godosik (Jamsil store)
Godosik (Jamsil, Seoul), located in the vibrant Songnidan-gil, is one of those barbecue gems that locals rave about. It’s no surprise that the res... -
Baek Nyun Ok
Across from the Seoul Arts Center, Baek Nyun Ok (Seocho, Seoul) is a beloved Tofu restaurant celebrated in the Michelin Guide Seoul. Renowned for ...
Cafe
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3F/Lobby
I showed my friend a picture of a café I wanted to visit, and she immediately suggested we go. The place? 3F/Lobby (Yongsan, Seoul) a café that per... -
Café Tung
The Yulgok-ro area has recently become one of Seoul’s trendiest spots. While the Royal Building’s roastery café on the ground floor is also quite ... -
MTL (Hannam store)
MTL (Hannam, Seoul) is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Hangangjin Station and near the Leeum Museum of Art. If you're driving, th...
Shopping
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Sienne (seongsu)
Seongsu-dong has quickly become a hub for flagship stores, with all the well-known brands setting up shop in this trendy neighborhood. Among them i... -
Ader error (Seongsu space)
Ader Error (Seongsu, Seoul) has become a staple of Seongsu, and is often referred to as the next “Gentle Monster” for its unique and immersive bran... -
Andersson Bell (gyeongbokgung store)
Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Andersson Bell (Bukchon, Seoul) exudes the charm of a luxurious house, blending contemporary design with art...
Attractions
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Art Archives of Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA AA)
The Art Archives of the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) is a branch of SeMA (Seoul Museum of Art ), dedicated to preserving art records and artworks. No... -
Bukchon Hanok Village
It had been a long time since my last visit to Bukchon Hanok Village. Ever since I was a child, the Jongno (Seoul) district has held a special pl... -
Myeongdong Cathedral
I recently visited Myeongdong Cathedral, Seoul, a place that holds many cherished memories from my school days. Walking through its grounds again f...
Hotels
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Josun Palace Seoul (Fitness center, Pool)
Josun Wellness Club, 26F During my stay at Josun Palace Hotel, I experienced everything from indulgent wellness facilities to a delightful culi... -
Ibis Styles Ambassador, Yongsan (Double, Superior)
Even though I visit Seoul fairly often, each trip always feels like it's been ages since my last visit. On this trip, since I was short on time, I ... -
Conrad Seoul (Premium riverview, King bed)
It was a beautiful Friday in April, and Yeouido, Seoul, was painted in soft pink hues with cherry blossoms in full bloom. After a refreshing stro...
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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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... -
Tongin Market Seoul
Tongin Market (Seochon, Seoul) had been on my must-visit list for a while. I had wanted to go several times but never found the opportunity, until ...