7 Days in Seoul with our Senior Art Director Nerissa Douglas

The best places to visit in Seoul for the design-conscious traveller according to our Senior Art Director, Nerissa Douglas.

Above L to R: Pop up galleries in the district of Gangnam showcase art to the public; The entrance to Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art and Unlimited Edition Seoul Art Book Fair.

Gangnam

Gangnam, meaning ‘South of the River’—named after the Han River, which runs directly through the South Korean capital—is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Seoul, and rightly so. It boasts a high concentration of wealth, Asia’s largest underground retail precinct, and lively streets filled with restaurants, bars, and boutique brands.

Stay: Hotel Anteroom, Gangnam features ever changing gallery exhibitions, an Artbook Cafe and a roof top bar with stunning views of the Han River.

Eat: Try Bibimbap, a colorful and nutritious rice bowl topped with an array of vegetables, beef, and a fried egg.

Visit: Starfield COEX Mall is a shopping paradise and an architectural marvel. This expansive underground retail space features a glass ceiling that allows natural light to flood the area and is also home to Seoul’s most Instagram-worthy library. It also hosts large-scale events, such as the Seoul Design Festival and Design Korea.

Above: A giant golden statue of the unique hand gesture from the song 'Gangnam Style'.

Garosu-gil

The stunning ginkgo tree-lined Garosu-gil initially gained fame as a destination for upscale stores but is now better known as the unofficial cosmetic surgery capital of the world. However, venture beyond the main street to Apgujeong-ro, and you’ll find flagship Korean stores like Tamburins, Gentle Monster, and Ader Error—each a visual delight with avant-garde designs and unique approaches to retail interior design and architecture.

Above L-R: Gentle Monster store; Hotel Anteroom Seoul.

Above: Korean beauty brand Tamburins is well known for its unique blend of fashion, creativity and art.

Above: 'It' brand Ader Error is a visual delight, blending fashion, art and interior design over six levels.

Seongsu

With warehouses converted into art spaces, cafes, and ever-changing pop-up retail spots, Seongsu is the place to see and be seen in Seoul.

Eat: Roll & Bun serves the most delicious baked goods, reimagining traditional British classics—both delicious and visually appealing.

Visit:

  • Point of View: A three-story stationery store offering a curated selection of everyday essentials, high-end collectibles, and an independent bookstore.
  • Drop Drop Drop: This brand brings graphic pattern-inspired designs to lifestyle products—Seoul’s answer to Sweden’s Marimekko.
  • Kinfolk: Best known for its magazine series, Kinfolk launched Kinfolk Notes in 2022—a beauty brand that marries Danish design, Korean beauty expertise, and French fragrances. Seongsu is home to Kinfolk Notes’ flagship store, which includes a flower shop, garden café, and design store offering the latest issues and books from Kinfolk.

Above: Roll & Bun serving delicious baked goods on the streets of Seongsu.

Above L-R: Kinfolk concept store and Velvet Trunk, both examples of stores blending modern design with industrial heritage in this unique warehouse district.

Above: L-R 'Drop, Drop, Drop' fashion and homewares; Artists, designers and entrepreneurs are drawn to the ever changing industrial facades of Seongsu.

Above: Trendy cafes, restaurants and bakeries abound on the streets of Seongsu.

Mapo

Located in the western part of Seoul, Mapo-gu is home to Hongik University, renowned for its art, architecture, and design education. It’s also where all three of the creative studios I visited are based, which makes sense, as many of the designers also teach at the university.

Eat: Hedone, Seongmisan-ro. While not traditional Korean cuisine, I had the pleasure of dining at Hedone, a Korean-Italian restaurant, with Minjae from Studio Double-D. The food did not disappoint, with Korean beef being a standout.

Visit: Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a linear park created from an urban regeneration project that transformed the old Gyeongui Line into a green oasis. The park is divided into several themed sections and links nearby cafes, restaurants, and retail stores.

Above: Interior details of the creative studio at 'Everyday Practice'.

Above L-R: The smallest of design details can be found in Seoul's steel road plates; Interior details of the creative studio at 'Ordinary People'.

Above L-R: Korean Beef tartare at Hedone Restaurant; sunset on the streets of Mapo District.

Dongdaemun

Dongdaemun is best known for its bustling shopping precincts, many of which stay open until the early hours of the morning. It’s a district of contrasts, from traditional markets serving Korean street food to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), the world’s largest amorphous architectural structure.

Visit: Undoubtedly, the DDP is the most visually striking building I’ve ever visited. Its architecture features dynamic curves and slopes both inside and out. The DDP hosts a diverse range of cultural events, including design exhibitions and fashion shows.

The DDP Design Store is a must-see, showcasing products and creative brands designed and made in South Korea.

Above: The Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition in the Design Plaza

Above: More patterns emerge from the Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition as you ascend the long, curved walkway

Above: The entrance to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Above L-R: An internal stairwell in the DDP; Posters exhibited in the DDP Art Hall

Jongno

The Jongno district, located north of Seoul, has long been considered the historical heart of the city, as it was where the Joseon imperial dynasty established its capital.

Eat: Try Seoul’s traditional salt-butter bread in its many forms at Artist Bakery. With more than a dozen flavors to choose from, it’s a tough decision to pick just one. Not far from Artist Bakery is Café Onion, located in a traditional Hanok building, offering an abundant selection of pastries and baked goods.

Visit:

Above: Artist Bakery in Jongno is well worth the wait.

Above: The interior of Artist Bakery and self serve baskets filled with their famous salt-butter bread flavours

Above: The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) boasts some of the most experimental artists emerging from South Korea.

Above: Traditional Hanok houses line the streets of Bukchon Village in the district of Jongno

Above: Cafe Onion is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike for its insta worthy baked goods served in a traditional Hanok building

After more creative inspiration?

Visit:

Lastly, if you’re traveling to Seoul in November, be sure to check out the Unlimited Edition/Seoul Art Book Fair at the Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art. This annual festival celebrates independent publishing, art books, and risograph prints, providing artists and publishers a platform to showcase and sell their works.

Above: The Seoul Museum of Art

Above: The Seoul Museum of Craft Art

Above L to R: Pop up galleries in the district of Gangnam showcase art to the public; The entrance to Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art and Unlimited Edition Seoul Art Book Fair.

Gangnam

Gangnam, meaning ‘South of the River’—named after the Han River, which runs directly through the South Korean capital—is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Seoul, and rightly so. It boasts a high concentration of wealth, Asia’s largest underground retail precinct, and lively streets filled with restaurants, bars, and boutique brands.

Stay: Hotel Anteroom, Gangnam features ever changing gallery exhibitions, an Artbook Cafe and a roof top bar with stunning views of the Han River.

Eat: Try Bibimbap, a colorful and nutritious rice bowl topped with an array of vegetables, beef, and a fried egg.

Visit: Starfield COEX Mall is a shopping paradise and an architectural marvel. This expansive underground retail space features a glass ceiling that allows natural light to flood the area and is also home to Seoul’s most Instagram-worthy library. It also hosts large-scale events, such as the Seoul Design Festival and Design Korea.

Above: A giant golden statue of the unique hand gesture from the song 'Gangnam Style'.

Garosu-gil

The stunning ginkgo tree-lined Garosu-gil initially gained fame as a destination for upscale stores but is now better known as the unofficial cosmetic surgery capital of the world. However, venture beyond the main street to Apgujeong-ro, and you’ll find flagship Korean stores like Tamburins, Gentle Monster, and Ader Error—each a visual delight with avant-garde designs and unique approaches to retail interior design and architecture.

Above L-R: Gentle Monster store; Hotel Anteroom Seoul.

Above: Korean beauty brand Tamburins is well known for its unique blend of fashion, creativity and art.

Above: 'It' brand Ader Error is a visual delight, blending fashion, art and interior design over six levels.

Seongsu

With warehouses converted into art spaces, cafes, and ever-changing pop-up retail spots, Seongsu is the place to see and be seen in Seoul.

Eat: Roll & Bun serves the most delicious baked goods, reimagining traditional British classics—both delicious and visually appealing.

Visit:

  • Point of View: A three-story stationery store offering a curated selection of everyday essentials, high-end collectibles, and an independent bookstore.
  • Drop Drop Drop: This brand brings graphic pattern-inspired designs to lifestyle products—Seoul’s answer to Sweden’s Marimekko.
  • Kinfolk: Best known for its magazine series, Kinfolk launched Kinfolk Notes in 2022—a beauty brand that marries Danish design, Korean beauty expertise, and French fragrances. Seongsu is home to Kinfolk Notes’ flagship store, which includes a flower shop, garden café, and design store offering the latest issues and books from Kinfolk.

Above: Roll & Bun serving delicious baked goods on the streets of Seongsu.

Above L-R: Kinfolk concept store and Velvet Trunk, both examples of stores blending modern design with industrial heritage in this unique warehouse district.

Above: L-R 'Drop, Drop, Drop' fashion and homewares; Artists, designers and entrepreneurs are drawn to the ever changing industrial facades of Seongsu.

Above: Trendy cafes, restaurants and bakeries abound on the streets of Seongsu.

Mapo

Located in the western part of Seoul, Mapo-gu is home to Hongik University, renowned for its art, architecture, and design education. It’s also where all three of the creative studios I visited are based, which makes sense, as many of the designers also teach at the university.

Eat: Hedone, Seongmisan-ro. While not traditional Korean cuisine, I had the pleasure of dining at Hedone, a Korean-Italian restaurant, with Minjae from Studio Double-D. The food did not disappoint, with Korean beef being a standout.

Visit: Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a linear park created from an urban regeneration project that transformed the old Gyeongui Line into a green oasis. The park is divided into several themed sections and links nearby cafes, restaurants, and retail stores.

Above: Interior details of the creative studio at 'Everyday Practice'.

Above L-R: The smallest of design details can be found in Seoul's steel road plates; Interior details of the creative studio at 'Ordinary People'.

Above L-R: Korean Beef tartare at Hedone Restaurant; sunset on the streets of Mapo District.

Dongdaemun

Dongdaemun is best known for its bustling shopping precincts, many of which stay open until the early hours of the morning. It’s a district of contrasts, from traditional markets serving Korean street food to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), the world’s largest amorphous architectural structure.

Visit: Undoubtedly, the DDP is the most visually striking building I’ve ever visited. Its architecture features dynamic curves and slopes both inside and out. The DDP hosts a diverse range of cultural events, including design exhibitions and fashion shows.

The DDP Design Store is a must-see, showcasing products and creative brands designed and made in South Korea.

Above: The Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition in the Design Plaza

Above: More patterns emerge from the Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition as you ascend the long, curved walkway

Above: The entrance to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Above L-R: An internal stairwell in the DDP; Posters exhibited in the DDP Art Hall

Jongno

The Jongno district, located north of Seoul, has long been considered the historical heart of the city, as it was where the Joseon imperial dynasty established its capital.

Eat: Try Seoul’s traditional salt-butter bread in its many forms at Artist Bakery. With more than a dozen flavors to choose from, it’s a tough decision to pick just one. Not far from Artist Bakery is Café Onion, located in a traditional Hanok building, offering an abundant selection of pastries and baked goods.

Visit:

Above: Artist Bakery in Jongno is well worth the wait.

Above: The interior of Artist Bakery and self serve baskets filled with their famous salt-butter bread flavours

Above: The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) boasts some of the most experimental artists emerging from South Korea.

Above: Traditional Hanok houses line the streets of Bukchon Village in the district of Jongno

Above: Cafe Onion is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike for its insta worthy baked goods served in a traditional Hanok building

After more creative inspiration?

Visit:

Lastly, if you’re traveling to Seoul in November, be sure to check out the Unlimited Edition/Seoul Art Book Fair at the Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art. This annual festival celebrates independent publishing, art books, and risograph prints, providing artists and publishers a platform to showcase and sell their works.

Above: The Seoul Museum of Art

Above: The Seoul Museum of Craft Art

Above L to R: Pop up galleries in the district of Gangnam showcase art to the public; The entrance to Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art and Unlimited Edition Seoul Art Book Fair.

Gangnam

Gangnam, meaning ‘South of the River’—named after the Han River, which runs directly through the South Korean capital—is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Seoul, and rightly so. It boasts a high concentration of wealth, Asia’s largest underground retail precinct, and lively streets filled with restaurants, bars, and boutique brands.

Stay: Hotel Anteroom, Gangnam features ever changing gallery exhibitions, an Artbook Cafe and a roof top bar with stunning views of the Han River.

Eat: Try Bibimbap, a colorful and nutritious rice bowl topped with an array of vegetables, beef, and a fried egg.

Visit: Starfield COEX Mall is a shopping paradise and an architectural marvel. This expansive underground retail space features a glass ceiling that allows natural light to flood the area and is also home to Seoul’s most Instagram-worthy library. It also hosts large-scale events, such as the Seoul Design Festival and Design Korea.

Above: A giant golden statue of the unique hand gesture from the song 'Gangnam Style'.

Garosu-gil

The stunning ginkgo tree-lined Garosu-gil initially gained fame as a destination for upscale stores but is now better known as the unofficial cosmetic surgery capital of the world. However, venture beyond the main street to Apgujeong-ro, and you’ll find flagship Korean stores like Tamburins, Gentle Monster, and Ader Error—each a visual delight with avant-garde designs and unique approaches to retail interior design and architecture.

Above L-R: Gentle Monster store; Hotel Anteroom Seoul.

Above: Korean beauty brand Tamburins is well known for its unique blend of fashion, creativity and art.

Above: 'It' brand Ader Error is a visual delight, blending fashion, art and interior design over six levels.

Seongsu

With warehouses converted into art spaces, cafes, and ever-changing pop-up retail spots, Seongsu is the place to see and be seen in Seoul.

Eat: Roll & Bun serves the most delicious baked goods, reimagining traditional British classics—both delicious and visually appealing.

Visit:

  • Point of View: A three-story stationery store offering a curated selection of everyday essentials, high-end collectibles, and an independent bookstore.
  • Drop Drop Drop: This brand brings graphic pattern-inspired designs to lifestyle products—Seoul’s answer to Sweden’s Marimekko.
  • Kinfolk: Best known for its magazine series, Kinfolk launched Kinfolk Notes in 2022—a beauty brand that marries Danish design, Korean beauty expertise, and French fragrances. Seongsu is home to Kinfolk Notes’ flagship store, which includes a flower shop, garden café, and design store offering the latest issues and books from Kinfolk.

Above: Roll & Bun serving delicious baked goods on the streets of Seongsu.

Above L-R: Kinfolk concept store and Velvet Trunk, both examples of stores blending modern design with industrial heritage in this unique warehouse district.

Above: L-R 'Drop, Drop, Drop' fashion and homewares; Artists, designers and entrepreneurs are drawn to the ever changing industrial facades of Seongsu.

Above: Trendy cafes, restaurants and bakeries abound on the streets of Seongsu.

Mapo

Located in the western part of Seoul, Mapo-gu is home to Hongik University, renowned for its art, architecture, and design education. It’s also where all three of the creative studios I visited are based, which makes sense, as many of the designers also teach at the university.

Eat: Hedone, Seongmisan-ro. While not traditional Korean cuisine, I had the pleasure of dining at Hedone, a Korean-Italian restaurant, with Minjae from Studio Double-D. The food did not disappoint, with Korean beef being a standout.

Visit: Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a linear park created from an urban regeneration project that transformed the old Gyeongui Line into a green oasis. The park is divided into several themed sections and links nearby cafes, restaurants, and retail stores.

Above: Interior details of the creative studio at 'Everyday Practice'.

Above L-R: The smallest of design details can be found in Seoul's steel road plates; Interior details of the creative studio at 'Ordinary People'.

Above L-R: Korean Beef tartare at Hedone Restaurant; sunset on the streets of Mapo District.

Dongdaemun

Dongdaemun is best known for its bustling shopping precincts, many of which stay open until the early hours of the morning. It’s a district of contrasts, from traditional markets serving Korean street food to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), the world’s largest amorphous architectural structure.

Visit: Undoubtedly, the DDP is the most visually striking building I’ve ever visited. Its architecture features dynamic curves and slopes both inside and out. The DDP hosts a diverse range of cultural events, including design exhibitions and fashion shows.

The DDP Design Store is a must-see, showcasing products and creative brands designed and made in South Korea.

Above: The Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition in the Design Plaza

Above: More patterns emerge from the Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition as you ascend the long, curved walkway

Above: The entrance to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Above L-R: An internal stairwell in the DDP; Posters exhibited in the DDP Art Hall

Jongno

The Jongno district, located north of Seoul, has long been considered the historical heart of the city, as it was where the Joseon imperial dynasty established its capital.

Eat: Try Seoul’s traditional salt-butter bread in its many forms at Artist Bakery. With more than a dozen flavors to choose from, it’s a tough decision to pick just one. Not far from Artist Bakery is Café Onion, located in a traditional Hanok building, offering an abundant selection of pastries and baked goods.

Visit:

Above: Artist Bakery in Jongno is well worth the wait.

Above: The interior of Artist Bakery and self serve baskets filled with their famous salt-butter bread flavours

Above: The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) boasts some of the most experimental artists emerging from South Korea.

Above: Traditional Hanok houses line the streets of Bukchon Village in the district of Jongno

Above: Cafe Onion is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike for its insta worthy baked goods served in a traditional Hanok building

After more creative inspiration?

Visit:

Lastly, if you’re traveling to Seoul in November, be sure to check out the Unlimited Edition/Seoul Art Book Fair at the Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art. This annual festival celebrates independent publishing, art books, and risograph prints, providing artists and publishers a platform to showcase and sell their works.

Above: The Seoul Museum of Art

Above: The Seoul Museum of Craft Art

Above L to R: Pop up galleries in the district of Gangnam showcase art to the public; The entrance to Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art and Unlimited Edition Seoul Art Book Fair.

Gangnam

Gangnam, meaning ‘South of the River’—named after the Han River, which runs directly through the South Korean capital—is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Seoul, and rightly so. It boasts a high concentration of wealth, Asia’s largest underground retail precinct, and lively streets filled with restaurants, bars, and boutique brands.

Stay: Hotel Anteroom, Gangnam features ever changing gallery exhibitions, an Artbook Cafe and a roof top bar with stunning views of the Han River.

Eat: Try Bibimbap, a colorful and nutritious rice bowl topped with an array of vegetables, beef, and a fried egg.

Visit: Starfield COEX Mall is a shopping paradise and an architectural marvel. This expansive underground retail space features a glass ceiling that allows natural light to flood the area and is also home to Seoul’s most Instagram-worthy library. It also hosts large-scale events, such as the Seoul Design Festival and Design Korea.

Above: A giant golden statue of the unique hand gesture from the song 'Gangnam Style'.

Garosu-gil

The stunning ginkgo tree-lined Garosu-gil initially gained fame as a destination for upscale stores but is now better known as the unofficial cosmetic surgery capital of the world. However, venture beyond the main street to Apgujeong-ro, and you’ll find flagship Korean stores like Tamburins, Gentle Monster, and Ader Error—each a visual delight with avant-garde designs and unique approaches to retail interior design and architecture.

Above L-R: Gentle Monster store; Hotel Anteroom Seoul.

Above: Korean beauty brand Tamburins is well known for its unique blend of fashion, creativity and art.

Above: 'It' brand Ader Error is a visual delight, blending fashion, art and interior design over six levels.

Seongsu

With warehouses converted into art spaces, cafes, and ever-changing pop-up retail spots, Seongsu is the place to see and be seen in Seoul.

Eat: Roll & Bun serves the most delicious baked goods, reimagining traditional British classics—both delicious and visually appealing.

Visit:

  • Point of View: A three-story stationery store offering a curated selection of everyday essentials, high-end collectibles, and an independent bookstore.
  • Drop Drop Drop: This brand brings graphic pattern-inspired designs to lifestyle products—Seoul’s answer to Sweden’s Marimekko.
  • Kinfolk: Best known for its magazine series, Kinfolk launched Kinfolk Notes in 2022—a beauty brand that marries Danish design, Korean beauty expertise, and French fragrances. Seongsu is home to Kinfolk Notes’ flagship store, which includes a flower shop, garden café, and design store offering the latest issues and books from Kinfolk.

Above: Roll & Bun serving delicious baked goods on the streets of Seongsu.

Above L-R: Kinfolk concept store and Velvet Trunk, both examples of stores blending modern design with industrial heritage in this unique warehouse district.

Above: L-R 'Drop, Drop, Drop' fashion and homewares; Artists, designers and entrepreneurs are drawn to the ever changing industrial facades of Seongsu.

Above: Trendy cafes, restaurants and bakeries abound on the streets of Seongsu.

Mapo

Located in the western part of Seoul, Mapo-gu is home to Hongik University, renowned for its art, architecture, and design education. It’s also where all three of the creative studios I visited are based, which makes sense, as many of the designers also teach at the university.

Eat: Hedone, Seongmisan-ro. While not traditional Korean cuisine, I had the pleasure of dining at Hedone, a Korean-Italian restaurant, with Minjae from Studio Double-D. The food did not disappoint, with Korean beef being a standout.

Visit: Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a linear park created from an urban regeneration project that transformed the old Gyeongui Line into a green oasis. The park is divided into several themed sections and links nearby cafes, restaurants, and retail stores.

Above: Interior details of the creative studio at 'Everyday Practice'.

Above L-R: The smallest of design details can be found in Seoul's steel road plates; Interior details of the creative studio at 'Ordinary People'.

Above L-R: Korean Beef tartare at Hedone Restaurant; sunset on the streets of Mapo District.

Dongdaemun

Dongdaemun is best known for its bustling shopping precincts, many of which stay open until the early hours of the morning. It’s a district of contrasts, from traditional markets serving Korean street food to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), the world’s largest amorphous architectural structure.

Visit: Undoubtedly, the DDP is the most visually striking building I’ve ever visited. Its architecture features dynamic curves and slopes both inside and out. The DDP hosts a diverse range of cultural events, including design exhibitions and fashion shows.

The DDP Design Store is a must-see, showcasing products and creative brands designed and made in South Korea.

Above: The Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition in the Design Plaza

Above: More patterns emerge from the Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition as you ascend the long, curved walkway

Above: The entrance to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Above L-R: An internal stairwell in the DDP; Posters exhibited in the DDP Art Hall

Jongno

The Jongno district, located north of Seoul, has long been considered the historical heart of the city, as it was where the Joseon imperial dynasty established its capital.

Eat: Try Seoul’s traditional salt-butter bread in its many forms at Artist Bakery. With more than a dozen flavors to choose from, it’s a tough decision to pick just one. Not far from Artist Bakery is Café Onion, located in a traditional Hanok building, offering an abundant selection of pastries and baked goods.

Visit:

Above: Artist Bakery in Jongno is well worth the wait.

Above: The interior of Artist Bakery and self serve baskets filled with their famous salt-butter bread flavours

Above: The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) boasts some of the most experimental artists emerging from South Korea.

Above: Traditional Hanok houses line the streets of Bukchon Village in the district of Jongno

Above: Cafe Onion is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike for its insta worthy baked goods served in a traditional Hanok building

After more creative inspiration?

Visit:

Lastly, if you’re traveling to Seoul in November, be sure to check out the Unlimited Edition/Seoul Art Book Fair at the Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art. This annual festival celebrates independent publishing, art books, and risograph prints, providing artists and publishers a platform to showcase and sell their works.

Above: The Seoul Museum of Art

Above: The Seoul Museum of Craft Art

Above L to R: Pop up galleries in the district of Gangnam showcase art to the public; The entrance to Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art and Unlimited Edition Seoul Art Book Fair.

Gangnam

Gangnam, meaning ‘South of the River’—named after the Han River, which runs directly through the South Korean capital—is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Seoul, and rightly so. It boasts a high concentration of wealth, Asia’s largest underground retail precinct, and lively streets filled with restaurants, bars, and boutique brands.

Stay: Hotel Anteroom, Gangnam features ever changing gallery exhibitions, an Artbook Cafe and a roof top bar with stunning views of the Han River.

Eat: Try Bibimbap, a colorful and nutritious rice bowl topped with an array of vegetables, beef, and a fried egg.

Visit: Starfield COEX Mall is a shopping paradise and an architectural marvel. This expansive underground retail space features a glass ceiling that allows natural light to flood the area and is also home to Seoul’s most Instagram-worthy library. It also hosts large-scale events, such as the Seoul Design Festival and Design Korea.

Above: A giant golden statue of the unique hand gesture from the song 'Gangnam Style'.

Garosu-gil

The stunning ginkgo tree-lined Garosu-gil initially gained fame as a destination for upscale stores but is now better known as the unofficial cosmetic surgery capital of the world. However, venture beyond the main street to Apgujeong-ro, and you’ll find flagship Korean stores like Tamburins, Gentle Monster, and Ader Error—each a visual delight with avant-garde designs and unique approaches to retail interior design and architecture.

Above L-R: Gentle Monster store; Hotel Anteroom Seoul.

Above: Korean beauty brand Tamburins is well known for its unique blend of fashion, creativity and art.

Above: 'It' brand Ader Error is a visual delight, blending fashion, art and interior design over six levels.

Seongsu

With warehouses converted into art spaces, cafes, and ever-changing pop-up retail spots, Seongsu is the place to see and be seen in Seoul.

Eat: Roll & Bun serves the most delicious baked goods, reimagining traditional British classics—both delicious and visually appealing.

Visit:

  • Point of View: A three-story stationery store offering a curated selection of everyday essentials, high-end collectibles, and an independent bookstore.
  • Drop Drop Drop: This brand brings graphic pattern-inspired designs to lifestyle products—Seoul’s answer to Sweden’s Marimekko.
  • Kinfolk: Best known for its magazine series, Kinfolk launched Kinfolk Notes in 2022—a beauty brand that marries Danish design, Korean beauty expertise, and French fragrances. Seongsu is home to Kinfolk Notes’ flagship store, which includes a flower shop, garden café, and design store offering the latest issues and books from Kinfolk.

Above: Roll & Bun serving delicious baked goods on the streets of Seongsu.

Above L-R: Kinfolk concept store and Velvet Trunk, both examples of stores blending modern design with industrial heritage in this unique warehouse district.

Above: L-R 'Drop, Drop, Drop' fashion and homewares; Artists, designers and entrepreneurs are drawn to the ever changing industrial facades of Seongsu.

Above: Trendy cafes, restaurants and bakeries abound on the streets of Seongsu.

Mapo

Located in the western part of Seoul, Mapo-gu is home to Hongik University, renowned for its art, architecture, and design education. It’s also where all three of the creative studios I visited are based, which makes sense, as many of the designers also teach at the university.

Eat: Hedone, Seongmisan-ro. While not traditional Korean cuisine, I had the pleasure of dining at Hedone, a Korean-Italian restaurant, with Minjae from Studio Double-D. The food did not disappoint, with Korean beef being a standout.

Visit: Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a linear park created from an urban regeneration project that transformed the old Gyeongui Line into a green oasis. The park is divided into several themed sections and links nearby cafes, restaurants, and retail stores.

Above: Interior details of the creative studio at 'Everyday Practice'.

Above L-R: The smallest of design details can be found in Seoul's steel road plates; Interior details of the creative studio at 'Ordinary People'.

Above L-R: Korean Beef tartare at Hedone Restaurant; sunset on the streets of Mapo District.

Dongdaemun

Dongdaemun is best known for its bustling shopping precincts, many of which stay open until the early hours of the morning. It’s a district of contrasts, from traditional markets serving Korean street food to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), the world’s largest amorphous architectural structure.

Visit: Undoubtedly, the DDP is the most visually striking building I’ve ever visited. Its architecture features dynamic curves and slopes both inside and out. The DDP hosts a diverse range of cultural events, including design exhibitions and fashion shows.

The DDP Design Store is a must-see, showcasing products and creative brands designed and made in South Korea.

Above: The Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition in the Design Plaza

Above: More patterns emerge from the Colours, Shapes, Movements Exhibition as you ascend the long, curved walkway

Above: The entrance to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Above L-R: An internal stairwell in the DDP; Posters exhibited in the DDP Art Hall

Jongno

The Jongno district, located north of Seoul, has long been considered the historical heart of the city, as it was where the Joseon imperial dynasty established its capital.

Eat: Try Seoul’s traditional salt-butter bread in its many forms at Artist Bakery. With more than a dozen flavors to choose from, it’s a tough decision to pick just one. Not far from Artist Bakery is Café Onion, located in a traditional Hanok building, offering an abundant selection of pastries and baked goods.

Visit:

Above: Artist Bakery in Jongno is well worth the wait.

Above: The interior of Artist Bakery and self serve baskets filled with their famous salt-butter bread flavours

Above: The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) boasts some of the most experimental artists emerging from South Korea.

Above: Traditional Hanok houses line the streets of Bukchon Village in the district of Jongno

Above: Cafe Onion is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike for its insta worthy baked goods served in a traditional Hanok building

After more creative inspiration?

Visit:

Lastly, if you’re traveling to Seoul in November, be sure to check out the Unlimited Edition/Seoul Art Book Fair at the Seoul North Metropolitan Museum of Art. This annual festival celebrates independent publishing, art books, and risograph prints, providing artists and publishers a platform to showcase and sell their works.

Above: The Seoul Museum of Art

Above: The Seoul Museum of Craft Art