French
DeutschSeodaemun (서대문) and Mapo (마포) are districts in northwestern Seoul, by the banks of the Han River. They're most notable for their colleges and universities, resulting in a distinctly youthful culture, especially in the twin subdistricts of Hongdae (홍대) and Sinchon (신촌), separated by a single subway stop, a 10-minute bus ride, or a 20-minute walk. These two districts are home to some of Seoul's most boisterous nightlife, and Hongdae in particular is unique for having a strong underground indie music and arts scene, a welcome break from the sometimes-unbearable monotony and conformity of the rest of the city.
Seodaemun gets its name from the Great West Gate of Joseon-era Hanseong. The gate is now gone, having been dismantled by the Japanese during the colonial period, but the name has stuck as a reminder of the past.
Understand
[edit | edit source]The area around Seodaemun-gu has been inhabited and settled since the Stone Age, and received its current name in 1396 when Donmun, or Seodaemun, one of the four gates of Seoul, was built in the early Joseon Dynasty. In the Joseon Dynasty, King Taejo renamed Hanyang as Hansungbu and categorized it into five administrative districts of 52 rooms, and Seodaemun-gu was part of the western part, including Bansongbang, Banseokbang, Sangpyeongbang, Yeonheebang, and Yeongunbang, and served as an entry point for exchanges with China.
The Mapo area, located on the coast of the Han River in the central-western part of Seoul, is where the Wausan hilly mountain range, the Nogosan hilly mountain range, and the Yongsan hilly mountain range, which diverged from Ansan, stretched into the river, and developed like a lake on the shores of the three mountain ranges: Seoho, Mapo, and Yongho, and these three lakes were called Sampo (Three Lakes), and of these three, the present-day Mapo was called Mapo River, Mapo Port, and so on, and the name Mapo was derived from this.
Orientation
[edit | edit source]Seoul/Seodaemun–Mapo consists of two districts (구 ''gu''): Seodaemun (서대문) and Mapo (마포). This area lies to the northwest of central Seoul and combines important historical sites, major university neighborhoods, riverside parks, and some of the city’s most active cultural and nightlife districts.
Mapo-gu is one of Seoul’s most dynamic and youth-oriented areas. It is home to Hongdae, Sinchon, and Hapjeong, known for indie music venues, clubs, cafés, street performances, and creative subcultures. The district also borders the Han River and includes popular riverside parks and modern residential developments.
Seodaemun-gu has a quieter and more residential character, but plays an important historical and educational role. The district is known for Seodaemun Independence Park, former prison history sites from the Japanese colonial period, major universities such as Yonsei and Ewha nearby, and long-established neighborhoods with local markets and traditional eateries.
| Seodaemun (서대문) (Seodaemun-gu) A historically significant district featuring independence movement sites, residential neighborhoods, universities, and local markets, with convenient access to central Seoul. |
| Mapo (마포) (Mapo-gu) A lively cultural hub centered around Hongdae and Sinchon, famous for nightlife, live music, creative spaces, cafés, and Han River parks. |
Climate
[edit | edit source]Seoul/Seodaemun–Mapo experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, typical of the Seoul metropolitan area.
Winters are cold and dry, with January temperatures generally ranging from −5°C to 2°C. Snowfall is occasional but not heavy. Summers are hot and humid, with July and August being the warmest months, when temperatures often reach 30°C.
July receives the highest amount of rainfall due to the East Asian monsoon season, with precipitation peaking during this period. Spring and autumn are relatively mild and are considered the best times to visit, offering comfortable temperatures and clearer skiesJuly receives the most precipitation, with 414.4 millimeters of rainfall. Snow is not common in eastern Seoul.
Tourist information
[edit | edit source]- Seodaemun tourism website
- Mapo district website website
Get in
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By rail
[edit | edit source]Subway lines 2, 5, and 6 pass through this part of Seoul, as do some commuter trains and the AREX from Incheon International Airport.
When you are heading for Sinchon station, be aware that there are two Sinchon stations: one on the Metro Line 2 and the other on the Gyeongui–Jungang branch line. They are separate stations, and this Gyeongui–Jungang branch line has very large intervals (1 per hour). Although it has a direct connection to Seoul Station, it is generally much better to use the Line 2.
See
[edit | edit source]- 1 Seodaemun Prison, 101 Hyeonjeo-dong, Seodaemun-gu (Metro Line 3, Dongnimmun stn, exit 5). Tu-Su 09:30-18:00 (closes 17:00 from November–February). The prison was built in 1908, and became infamous during the Japanese occupation when it was used to torture, starve and execute Korean political prisoners. Actual prison cells, wax figures and videos are used to demonstrate the shocking brutality experienced there. Most signs are in Korean although volunteer guides can describe the sights in English. The content may not be suitable for those of a sensitive nature. ₩1,500.
- 2 World Cup Stadium. It was South Korea's main stadium in the 2002 World Cup and is home to FC Seoul.
- 3 Seodaemun Museum of Natural History, 51, Yeonhui-ro 32-gil. At this museum you can learn more about geology, archeology and biology. Plenty of fossils on display, interactive exhibitions and various activities for kids.
- 4 Worldcup Park (월드컵공원), 108-1, Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu. Worldcup Park has several sections. Sky Park is the most popular for the Silver Grass Festival. The park used to be a waste landfill.
- 5 Trickeye Museum (Trickeye), Hongikro 3gil 20, ☏ +82 231447742, [email protected]. Daily 08:00-21:00 (Last admission at 20:00). Trickeye Museum features optical illusion paintings and installations. Divided into six themed galleries, visitors can freely touch, step inside 3D exhibits and take photos. ₩15,000.
- 6 Castle Praha. A Czech brewery and restaurant, with outside facade being a replica of Prague's Astronomical clock.
- 7 Korean Film Museum (한국영화박물관), 400 World Cup Buk-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 1st floor of the Korea Film Archive, ☏ +82 2 3153 2072. 10:30~18:30 (10:30~17:30 on Saturday and Sunday, Closed on Monday). The Korean Film Museum is divided into a permanent exhibition and a planned exhibitions. The permanent exhibition introduces the history of Korean films in chronological order and operates an experience zone. The exhibitions are held under various themes so that you can watch and enjoy Korean movies from a new perspective. Free.
- 8 The Hyundai Seoul, 108 Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, ☏ +82 2-767-2233. 10:30-20:30. A Hyundai Department Store brand, it's home to all things fashion, hip-hop, food, and dessert.
- 9 Nanji Hangang Park, 162 Hanangnan-ro, Mapo-gu (487-116 Sangam-dong), ☏ +82 2-3780-0611. Nanji Hangang Park is one of South Korea's famous Han River parks, known for its water features, fountains, festivals, and camping.
- 10 Mang-Won Hangang Park, 467 Maponaru-gil, Mapo-gu (205-4 Mangwon-dong), ☏ +82 2-3780-0601. Seoul's first Hamsang Theme Park, Hangang Park is famous for its water-based leisure activities.
- 11 Yeouido Hangang Park, 330, Yeouido-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu (8 Yeouido-dong), ☏ +82 2-3780-0561. Yeouido Hangang Park is famous for being the site of the World Fireworks Festival, held every October.
Do
[edit | edit source]- 1 Hongdae Playground, Seogyodong, Mapo-gu (subway line 2, Hongik University Station, Exit 9). The area around here in Hongik University is completely packed with shops and restaurants aimed solely at University students. Definitely an interesting way to spend some hours exploring the streets and see how Korean students let their hair down. Dinner can be had in this area at student prices, or avail yourself to one of the many street stalls serving Korean student street food.
- Many clothes in there are cheap, also clothes that reflect the latest trends are on display.
- 2 Hongjecheon Stream (홍제천), Hongjecheon, Seodaemun-gu and Mapo-gu. Hongjecheon Stream is an urban stream in Seoul, South Korea, flowing through the districts of Seodaemun-gu and Mapo-gu. It provides a recreational space for residents with walking paths, greenery, and scenic views along its banks.
Buy
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- 1 Ewha Women's University Market (EDAE). At the front gate of Ewha Women's University, visitors can find a dense market geared towards young women. You can find stores that sell clothes, shoes, hats, handbags, and so on. There are also clothes for men, and franchise stores. The campus itself is beautiful.
- 2 Kakao Friends Hongdae Flagship Store (카카오프렌즈 홍대플래그쉽), 165-5 Donggyo-dong Mapo-gu. A merchandise store for mascots of the omnipresent KakaoTalk messenger app. Very cute Character designs.
Music & records
[edit | edit source]There are still a few records stores alive after the advent of MP3. Most shops are in the Hongdae area. Price range is between ₩10,000 and ₩20,000 for vinyl and ₩5,000 to ₩10,000 for CDs.
- 3 Hyang music (향뮤직), Changcheon dong 33-16. Mostly CDs. All genres.
- Purple records (메타복스), Donggyo dong 158-24. Newly issued vinyls, CDs. Pop and Indies.
- Metavox (메타복스), Donggyo dong 158-24. Mostly second hand. CDs are main. Vinyl records covers also exist.
- Gimbab records (김밥레코드), Donggyodong 155-36. Mostly indie vinyls. Small but beautiful shop.
Eat
[edit | edit source]- 1 Jamdubong the 9 (잠두봉더나인), 582, Maponaru-gil, Mapo-gu (10 minutes from exit 7 of Hapjeong Station), ☏ +82 10-7259-8876. 12:00-21:50. Korean pork belly with river views. It is located on a dock floating on the river.
- 2 Sosinitsso (소신이쏘), 19, Yeonsero 5-ga-gil, Seodaemun-gu, ☏ +82 507-1409-3245. 12:00-22:00. This fusion galbi restaurant serves spicy Korean short ribs with cheese.
- 3 DamSan (담산), 72-5 Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, ☏ +82 507-1357-8469. 11:00-22:00. This is the place to go for loin ribs, Korean gondre namulbap, and kimchi jeon.
- 4 GoSamE (고삼이), 53-8 Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, ☏ +82 507-1376-1403. 11:00-20:50. This local restaurant serves Korean-style grilled fish and stir-fried squid.
- 5 GonangZi (고냉지), 110-15 Daehyeon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, ☏ +82 2-313-0845. 10:00-22:00. The restaurant's signature dishes are bibimbap and kimchi stew.
- 6 HanLimDonGa (한림돈가), 52-124 Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, ☏ +82 507-1416-6604. 16:30-24:00. This is the place to go for samgyeopsal, a Korean-style barbecue.
- 7 Miga, 47 Sungmun-gil, 염리동 Mapo-gu (Near Daeheung station in commercial street), ☏ +82 2-703-5297. 11:00-21:30. ₩ 8000-45000, Jeyuk Ssambap ₩20,000 for 2 or more persons (₩12,000 if single person), Osam Bulgogi ₩26,000 for 2 or more (₩15,000 if alone).
- 8 okmyeonga (옥면가), 4-5 백범로26길, Baekbeom-ro 26-gil, Yeomni-dong, Mapo-gu (hidden at the end of a small lane between Daeheung station and Gondeog station), ☏ +82 070-8822-5773. 11:00-15:00, 17:00-21:00. chicken-specialized small restaurant with different types of noodles. meal ₩12,500-13,500.
- 9 Grain Seoul (그레인서울), 53 Yeonhui-ro 11ga-gil, ☏ +82 23365559. 09:00-16:00 daily. Build-your-own brunches and all-day mains in a thoughtful open space. English spoken.
- 10 Shin Migyeong Hongdae Dakgalbi (신미경 홍대닭갈비), 31-10 Wausan-ro 21-gil, Mapo-gu (just off Hongdae food street). 11:00-22:30 daily. Great dakgalbi place just off the main night market street. Simple menu, cook it at your table. Good value and big portions!
- 11 jinjin (진진), Seogyo-dong 375-35, ☏ +82 507-1447-8879. 11:30-21:00. Jinjin is a Chinese restaurant in Seoul's Mapo-gu, offering a focused menu of about 10 dishes, known for its quality and traditional flavors. It has received the Michelin Bib Gourmand award for its good value. Signature dishes include Menbosha (shrimp toast) and stir-fried crab with egg white. ₩29,000.
- 12 tianmimi (티엔미미), Donggyo-dong 162-5, ☏ +82 10-8823-1070. 11:00-22:00. 35000₩. Attached to Mercure Ambassador hotel. Chinese style food.
- 13 spaccanapoli (스파카나폴리), Hapjeong-dong 413-2, ☏ +82 2-326-2323. 11:30-21:30. Known for authentic Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza, this restaurant is highly praised for its use of traditional methods, including a real wood-fired oven. Popular menu items include the Margherita and Gorgonzola pizzas, and the ambiance is often described as vibrant and lively. 26000₩.
- 14 Uwa (우와), Seogyo-dong 364-10, ☏ +82 507-1414-9500. 12:00-22:00. Located in the bustling Hongdae area, Uwa offers a modern dining experience with a focus on casual yet trendy dishes. It is often visited for its eclectic menu and relaxed atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for younger crowds and students.
- 15 Hongdae SsiBooOng (훙대씨부), Seogyo-dong 358-39, ☏ +82 507-1378-5253. 11:00-23:00. A cozy café known for its desserts and drinks, this spot is famous for its photogenic ambiance. It’s a popular location for both locals and tourists looking for a quiet spot to relax in the busy Hongdae district. 12000₩.
- 16 yakitorimook (야키토리 묵), Yeonnam-dong 223-102, ☏ +82 507-1405-2840. 17:00-23:00. The restaurant handles fresh native chicken every day, grills it with the finest splints, and serves customers immediately 25000₩.
- 17 sevenpub (세븐 펍), Donggyo-dong 198-13, ☏ +82 507-1385-6177. 16:00-02:00. 19000₩.
- 18 woomijip1947 (우미집1947), Yeonnam-dong 240-38, ☏ +82 507-1325-1947. 11:30-22:00. 28000₩.
- 19 Analog Garden (Charming mom-and-pop brunch place), 145 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu. 09:00~17:00 or 08:00~18:00. Brunch menu has just one item: omelette-on-toast, but can be customized with add-ons. Rather popular with foreigners, service can be a bit chaotic but food is worth it. About 17000₩ for brunch with coffee. 10000₩.
Drink
[edit | edit source]The nightlife is why you come here! This is where travelers will find some of the best nightlife anywhere, and will discover the reason why Koreans are some of the heaviest drinkers in the world. Even on weekdays, Sinchon and Hongdae are loud and alive well into the early morning.
- 1 lodge 190 (롯지 190), 190, Hongjecheon-ro, Seodaemun-gu. Daily 11:00-20:00. Lodge 190 is a cozy café located along the Hongjecheon Stream in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. Known for its signature French toast made with baguette and topped with seasonal fruits, the café offers a relaxing ambiance with views of Hongjecheon. The menu includes a variety of desserts, such as matcha shaved ice and yogurt bowls. Lodge 190 is also pet-friendly, making it a popular spot for visitors who wish to enjoy a tranquil café experience with their pets. Below ₩10,000.
Sinchon
[edit | edit source]Sinchon (신촌), home to universities including Yonsei University (연세대학교) and Ewha Woman's University, is a great place to soak up a more Korean environment. Not to be confused with Sincheon, which is in Songpa at the other end of the city, Sinchon is set up like many Korean entertainment areas in which bars, clubs, restaurants, karaoke boxes and sometimes even motels are structured in a grid-like fashion. The only way to familiarize yourself with the area is to stroll the alleys and discover all of the different places. Korean bars tend to be rather anti-social compared with their Western counterparts, with people sitting at tables with friends and not tending to mix. Yet a number of Western-style bars in the area have opened up.
- 2 Beer O'Clock (비어어클락), 7 Yonsel-ro 7an-gil, Seodaemun-gu. This Canadian-run bar serves great pizzas and other grub in addition to showing sports on the big screen and offering darts. Weekends are pretty wild at this joint.
- 3 Woodstock (우드스탁), 53, Dongmak-ro 7-gil, Mapo-gu, ☏ +82 10-8723-3553. 19:00-03:00. Around since 1991, the bar has prompted a slew of copycats but is the best place to hear classic rock and pop. The sound system is awesome and the owner/DJ knows his stuff. Expect large crowds Friday and Saturday nights and seeing people dance next to their tables. Great place to mix with Koreans of all ages.
Hongdae
[edit | edit source]Hongdae (홍대), short for Hongik University, is the premier club area in Seoul by far. Located around Hongik University, clubs and bars are strewn everywhere around the place. The place is huge and you could party for a whole week in all the bars and clubs. The best way to see it is to stroll around and find something you like. An interesting note: the entire club district of Hongdae is officially off-limits to U.S. military personnel, Federal employees and their dependents. However, it is not unusual to see crew-cuts here on the weekends since it is rarely enforced.
On a Friday or Saturday expect all of these to be packed tight. Last Friday of every month is Club Day where ₩15,000 will get you into those clubs who are part of the "Club Day". Expect a packed crowd. The clubs aren't near the station, but aren't hard to find. The most popular clubs are:
- 4 Miroir, 405-5 Seokyo-dong (from exit 4 at Hapjeong station walk in the direction that the traffic flows, when you reach the fake airplane towards the minimart on your right, follow this road (watch out for taxis creeping from behind), turn right at main crossing, follow until you see Family Mart), ☏ +82 11 218-7043. Psychedelic hippie hangout with psytrance F and Sa, 1960s and 70s rock during the week. No cover charge.
- 5 17°C (17도씨), mapogu yanghwa street 19gil 22-16 yutieldonggyobuilding 1st floor (73 m from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 2-337-1706. 12:30-21:00. Located in Hongdae, chocolate bingsu and dark chocolate drinks are especially popular, making it an attractive space to serve a variety of chocolate drinks and desserts. The inside of the store is cozy and neat. ₩10,000.
- 6 Before Blooming (비포블루밍), mapogu yanghwaro23gil 28 3rd floor (117m from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 2-332-5517. It is a cake specialty cafe that offers a variety of cakes using seasonal fruits. Especially, fig cakes are popular, and the store provides a cozy and clean atmosphere to communicate with. It features a convenient ordering system through a kiosk and friendly service. In addition, it is known as a perfect place for special days with the availability of holecakes. ₩5,300.
- 7 Cafe Gongmyeong Yeonnam Branch (카페공명 연남점), mapogu yeonhuiro 11 Korea Patent and Technology Promotion Agency Building 1st floor (172 m from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 70-8869-6304. 10:00-22:00. It is a large cafe that offers top-class coffee and fresh baked bakery with cozy interior design. This is a space where customers can enjoy a variety of desserts, with ample seats and cozy lighting to help them relax. In particular, the signature drink 'Rise Latte' and the signature dessert 'Biscuit Shoe' are receiving positive reviews from many visitors. Also, various books are available throughout the cafe, making it an attractive place to spend a leisurely time while reading. ₩6,500.
- 8 Sweet Hz (스윗헤르츠), mapogu donggyoro34gil 3 3rd floor (283m from Hongik University Station Exit 3). 13:00-22:00. This cafe offers a variety of matcha and hojicha drinks and desserts with its cute interior and Japanese sensibility. In particular, matcha basque cheesecake and whipped cream cake are popular, and the dessert is not sweet and features the original taste of the ingredients. The interior of the cafe is decorated with warm lights and cute props, providing a comfortable atmosphere. ₩5,000.
- 9 Mandongjegwa (만동제과), seodaemungu yeonhui street 32 1st floor (372m from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 2-6489-2334. 11:00-21:00. Located in Yeonnam-dong, this takeaway specialty store offers a wide variety of bread. The interior of the store is compact, neat, and full of savory bread. The staff kindly provides tasting bread to help customers choose. Specifically, garlic baguette is a signature menu, featuring a rich garlic sauce and a soft texture. There is a wide variety of menus, and reservations are also available for convenience. ₩7,200.
- 10 Orangji (오랑지), mapogu donggyoro38gil 13 2nd floor (387m from Hongik University Station Exit 3). 12:00-20:00. It is a cafe famous for its cute interior design and cute desserts. Serving various matcha drinks and desserts, heart pancakes and kitty matcha tiramisu are especially popular. The inside of the cafe is white-toned and cozy, with props everywhere, making it a great place to take pictures. It is a place to enjoy dessert with friendly service. ₩5,000.
- 11 Joaendoseun (조앤도슨), mapogu donggyoro41gil 31 1st floor (593 meters from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 10-7663-1002. 12:00-21:00. It is a cafe famous for French toast and milk tea. It is decorated with a cozy and emotional interior, and customers appreciate the moist texture and unique taste of French toast. In particular, the combination of Maldon salt and maple syrup is impressive as French toast has a crispy outside and soft inside. Customers can have a special time here, enjoying conversations with their loved ones. ₩9,000.
- 12 Peullemmeu (플렘므), mapogu seongmisanro29gil 3 1st floor (670m from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 2-332-3844. 12:00-21:00. Located in Yeonnam-dong, the cafe offers a variety of desserts, such as souffle pancakes and croffles. This cafe has a cozy and quiet atmosphere, and it has various amenities for customers to spend their time comfortably. Souffles are cooked on the spot and take about 20-30 minutes. Specifically, souffle pancakes feature a soft and fluffy texture. ₩19,000.
- 13 Turn down service (턴다운서비스), mapogu donggyoro50gil 7 jiha1st floor (593 meters from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 10-2221-8030. 12:00-23:00. It's a quiet Woody emotional cafe, where LP music plays. Inside, it's compact and spacious, and offers a variety of handmade tarts and coffee menus. Specifically, the signature menu, Kernel Latte, boasts a savory and sweet taste with homemade nut creams on it. There is a two-hour limit. ₩6,500.
- 14 4:04 (네시사분), mapogu seongmisanro 190-8 1st floor (466m from Hongik University Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 2-6405-3877. 13:00-22:00. Located in Yeonnam-dong, the cafe offers a variety of desserts according to the four seasons and boasts a cozy and warm atmosphere. It is decorated with an emotional interior, and the menu changes from season to season, and desserts using figs and corn are especially popular. Beverages and desserts are being evaluated for their excellent visuals and taste. ₩6,500.
- 15 Maybe Cake (메이비 케이크 홍대 본점), mapogu wausanro30gil 15 1st floor (307m from Hongik University Station Exit 6), ☏ +82 70-4025-9624. 12:00-20:00. It is famous for whipped cream cakes that use fresh strawberries, and it is operated by reservation, so advance reservations are required. The cake is made with 100 percent animal whipped cream, which boasts a moderately sweet taste without being greasy. Also, the interior is decorated with a cute and pretty atmosphere, providing visitors with visual pleasure.
- 16 Think Fruit (띵크프룻), mapogu wausanro29gil 14-12 (Hongik University Station Exit 7 is 242m), ☏ +82 70-4147-8282. 11:00-22:00. It is a cafe that specializes in souffles and various fruit desserts in Hongdae. The inside is neatly decorated in white tone, and it boasts a bright atmosphere with full glass. Souffles are made right on order and of high quality using Hagen-Dazs ice cream. It is especially popular with customers as it offers a wide variety of menus using seasonal fruits. ₩21,000.
- 17 Rahel's kitchen Hongik Univ. Branch (라헬의 부엌 홍대점), mapogu wausanro29gil 47 (147m from Hongik University Station Exit 7), ☏ +82 2-332-4325. 10:00-22:00. It is a cafe that offers soft souffles and a variety of brunch menus. Inside, it is decorated with cute white and pink-toned interiors, and it is a space that feels open through the window. There are many kinds of souffles, and they are handmade and have a fresh taste. In addition, they can be accompanied by pets and come with chairs for infants, making them perfect for family visits. ₩4,200.
- 18 Cafe Jang Ssam (카페장썜), mapogu wausanro29magil 5 (145m from Hongik University Station Exit 7), ☏ +82 70-4084-3414. 12:00-21:00. Located in Hongik University, this cozy dessert cafe serves a wide variety of dacquoise and cakes. Specifically, dacquoise is loved by many visitors for its fluffy texture and the combination of chewy cream, and the price is also reasonable. The interior is decorated with warm wood-tone interiors, providing a comfortable atmosphere. ₩7,500.
- 19 Kitchen 205 (키친 205), mapogu wausanro 101 eseuembuilding (Hongik University Station Exit 9 is 352 m), ☏ +82 2-336-8273. 10:30-21:00. It is a place that provides desserts produced and sold on the same day using fresh strawberries throughout the four seasons. Strawberry cakes here are especially loved for their freshness and quality. The store has a clean and cozy atmosphere, and it is a space where customers can enjoy dessert comfortably. ₩32,500.
- 20 Thrive Hongik Univ. Branch (트라이브 홍대점), mapogu eoulmadangro 100-12 (Hongik University Station Exit 9 is 284m), ☏ +82 2-334-1033. 12:00-22:00. It is a cafe famous for its unique interior design and various souffle menus that contain Jeju's sensibility. In particular, souffle is loved by many visitors for its soft and fluffy texture, and it is an attractive space to enjoy with various drinks. ₩18,000.
- 21 Just Danbi (저스트 단비), seoul mapogu jandariro6gil 30 (463 meters from Hapjeong Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 70-7670-7745. 11:30-21:30. It's a real-time live place to deliver freshly baked crepes as soon as you order. ₩7,000.
- 22 Judimari Hongik Univ. Branch (주디마리 홍대점), mapogu hongikro5angil 63 (408m from Hapjeong Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 2-336-5794. 11:00-22:00. It is a dessert cafe famous for its cute interior and various pudding menus. In particular, the soft texture and rich taste of the pudding are loved by many visitors. The interior of the store is decorated with cute props, making it a great place to take pictures. ₩8,700.
- 23 Cafe Letter (카페레터), dokmakro3gil 28-20 (206 meters from Hapjeong Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 503-7151-7936. It is a bakery cafe that boasts a warm sensibility and cozy atmosphere, offering various kinds of bakery and specialty coffee. Especially, strawberry vanilla bun and croissant sandwiches are recommended as signature menus, and the cozy interior and meticulous service provide a comfortable experience for visitors. ₩3,800.
- 24 Pioni Hongik Univ. Branch (피오니 홍대점), mapogu dokmakro7gil 51 (345m from Hapjeong Station Exit 3), ☏ +82 2-333-5325. 12:00-22:00. A cake specialty store that has been in operation since 2008, it is famous for its fresh strawberry cream cake made using 100 percent animal whipped cream and fresh strawberries. The interior of the store is cozy and clean, and it is a popular destination for many customers as it offers a variety of drinks and cakes. In particular, cakes that are carefully made with all ingredients boast reliable and edible quality. ₩4,500.
- Pig Company Hongdae Korean BBQ (강남돼지상회 홍대직영점), 28 Hongik-ro 5an-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, ☏ +82 23228891. 11:30-00:00. Pig Company is a pork-focused Korean BBQ spot in Myeongdong, known for cauldron lid grilling and crispy Korean fried chicken made fresh in-house. Built for sharing at the table. ₩17,900-23,900.
Sleep
[edit | edit source]Budget
[edit | edit source]Because of this area's youthful nature, there are a large number of hostels and motels in this neighborhood, particularly south of Sinchon Station.
- Bangrang Hostel, 397-12 Chungnim-Dong, Chung ku (Metro Line 2, Chungjeongro stn, exit 5), ☏ +82 2 6614-2246. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 11:30. 1 min from subway station, 2 min from airport bus stop. ₩18,000.
- Hongdae Guesthouse (홍대게스트하우스), 159-6 Dongkyo-dong 159-6, Paradisetel unit 302, Mapo-gu (Next to Line 2 Hongdae stn exit 1), ☏ +82 2 336-0003, [email protected]. Check-in: anytime, check-out: 11:00. Clean, spacious rooms with high ceilings, ondol heating, aircon, hot water. English spoken. From ₩19,000.
- Seoul Walker Guesthouse, 441-31, Hapjeong--dong, Mapo-gu (nearest to Hapjeon Station, line 2. Directions are on the website and business cards.), ☏ +82 70-4028-6904. Check-in: 14:00-22:00, check-out: 11:00. The owner, Mr. Yoo, speaks Korean, Japanese, and English. He is very friendly and always asks where you will go (in the morning) and where you went (at night). Laundry service is available for ₩5,000/cycle, which he will operate. He offers taxi service to and from Gimpo and Incheon airports, for ₩30,000 and ₩60,000, respectively. He has many pamphlets in different languages, books, a computer and printer, and WiFi. KakaoTalk and KakaoStory are available for communication. No curfew, but keep silence after 23:00. There is a code lock for security. ₩14,000 dorm, ₩70,000 family.
- 1 The Win Boutique Hotel (더 윈 부티크 호텔) (from Hapjeong Station, take Exit 1; go half a block NW and turn north down a narrow alley; the hotel and affiliated coffee shop has a neon blue sign), ☏ +82 23339815. The basement dorm has a large common area and several bathrooms. Everything is clean, and access is 24-hr. Staff presence is minimal; reservations are recommended. ₩35,000.
Mid-range
[edit | edit source]- Best Western Premier Seoul Garden Hotel. Formerly the Holiday Inn, located in the Mapo area across from Yeouido Island.
- Chocolate Tree, ☏ +82 2 3275-1115. 109-91 Nogosan-dong, Mapo-gu (4 min from Line 2 Sinchon stn exit 7). Friendly and adorable English- and Chinese-speaking staff, free breakfast (toast, jam, peanut butter, eggs, coffee and tea), free wifi, free international phone call, free laundry, dryer, A/C, hot water, rooftop terrace, common area with kitchen. All rooms are equipped with desktop computer, refrigerator, big flat TV with cable TV on the wall. you can get some chocolates at the reception at anytime. private from ₩50,000/night with own bathroom.
- 2 Shilla Stay Seodaemun (신라스테이 서대문), 76 Chungjeong-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, ☏ +82 2 6388 9000. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00.
Splurge
[edit | edit source]- Mercure Ambassador Hongdae Seoul 162-5 Donggyo-dong Mapo-gu Seoul, +82 2-3774-1101. Midrange, modern hotel just one block from the Hongik University station, in the Mapo-Gu area. Coin-operated laundry in basement, staff are professional and speak English, rooms are sleek and modern, bathrooms have bidets. Lobby is actually on the fourth floor but lifts are marked accordingly. Gym is small and basic but functional, no meeting rooms, computers are in common area with a cafe, free WiFi throughout. Breakfast is extra.
Connect
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