Seoul is the vibrant capital of South Korea with a ton of things to see and do. The metropolis is comprised of different districts each with its own unique vibe. Having lived abroad in Seoul for 2 years, here is my list of the 10 best neighborhoods in the city.
1. Hongdae
Hongdae is a hip and bustling neighborhood near Hongik University. You’ll find a line of buskers performing on the streets. There’s lots of eateries, shops, and cafes in the area. It also has a buzzing party scene with many bars and clubs around.
Wander Tip: Dance the night away at NB2 a cool hip hop night club.
2. Myeongdong
Myeongdong is a shopping paradise lined with clothing boutiques, make-up shops, and skin care stores. There are many restaurants in the area and it’s also great for street food with many vendors selling tasty Korean snacks. Just a fair warning that it is always packed with tourists.
Wander Tip: Shop for the latest Korean fashion trends at SPAO.
3. Itaewon
There are a growing number of waygookins (foreigners) living in Korea from English teachers to U.S. military and Itaewon is the ultimate expat scene. It’s the best place to get your fill of international cuisine and entertainment catering to foreigners. It’s also great for nightlife as there are many bars in the area.
Wander Tip: Swing by Shenanigans for a low-key night out at a local Irish pub.
4. Insadong
Insadong showcases the historical side of the city blended with the modern world. There are plenty of tea houses, traditional Korean restaurants, and cultural souvenir shops in the neighborhood.
Wander Tip: For a quirky cafe experience head over to Ddong Cafe for “poo” themed decor and menu items.
5. Hyewha
Daehangno in Hyewha is an artsy area with charming cafes and a thriving performing arts scene.
Wander Tip: Watch a play at one of the many theaters in the neighborhood.
6. Ikseondong
Ikseondong is a traditional hanok village. Wander the maze of alleyways filled with trendy boutique shops, cute cafes, and delicious eateries.
Wander Tip: Unwind at Tteuran a traditional tea house with a quaint ambience.
7. Dongdaemun
Dongdaemun is a major district home to Seoul’s iconic Design Plaza (DDP). The area is jam-packed with stores, restaurants, and attractions.
Wander Tip: Shop till you drop at Dongdaemun Market Korea’s largest wholesale and retail shopping site.
8. Gangnam
Visit Gangnam for a taste of the glitz and glamor in this luxurious upscale part of town. There are loads of designer shops, fancy restaurants, plastic surgery clinics, and extravagant night clubs in the neighborhood.
Wander Tip: Bargain shop for chic Korean outfits at the underground shopping center.
9. Kondae
Kondae, located near Konkuk University, is a hot spot for dining, fashion, and entertainment. It’s where the locals truly like to hang out.
Wander Tip: Sing your heart out at one of the many noraebangs in the area.
10. Nowon
Nowon was the closest big hub near where I used to live so it will always be a special place for me. There are a decent number of restaurants and shops in the area.
Wander Tip: Enjoy a delightful brunch at Ugly Stove.
My #1 Pick
I spent the most time in Hongdae as it was my favorite neighborhood in Seoul. It’s super lively and there’s always something fun happening.
So if you’re visiting Seoul you definitely won’t want to miss these 10 popular neighborhoods. There are numerous other neighborhoods worth checking out but this is a great starting point.
For additional content on Korea, read my guide on 25 local must-eat foods and my list of Seoul’s top 10 attractions.
If you’re interested in teaching English abroad in South Korea, check out my overview of the benefits of teaching with EPIK, my break down of the EPIK application timeline, my list of EPIK interview questions, and a tour of my EPIK apartment.
What’s your favorite neighborhood in Seoul? Which ones would you like to visit from this list? Let me know in the comments!
