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8 newly opened cafes to visit within 1 km from Hapjeong & Mangwon Stations in Seoul, South Korea

Not your first time traveling to South Korea and want to visit other neighborhoods apart from those touristy ones?

You’re in luck!

I’ve searched high and low, left and right, and zoomed in and out on the maps to find you the latest cafes that have just opened not too long ago.

Hapjeong and Mangwon Stations are not too far away from Hongdae (Hongik University Station) so if you’re in that area or planning to visit, don’t forget to swing by Mangwon and Hapjeong for these cafes.

Within 0.6 km from Hapjeong Station

폴드 베이커리 | Fold Bakery

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Opening hours:

Closed on Mondays

11 am to 8 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 3,800 KRW (3.80 SGD) for drinks

Address: 31 Dongmak-ro 2-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 257 m from Exit 7 of Hapjeong Station

릴 트리츠 | Lil Treats

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/colorlesss/223370818289

Opening hours:

11 am to 8 pm (Monday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,300 KRW (4.30 SGD) for drinks

Address: 126 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor, No. 105)

Distance: 560 m from Exit 2 of Hapjeong Station

Within 0.9 km from Mangwon Station

도파민 | Dopamin

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Opening hours:

Closed on Mondays

9 am to 6 pm (Tuesday to Friday)

10 pm to 7 pm (Saturday & Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000 KRW (4.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 22 World Cup-ro 15-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 225 m from Exit 2 of Mangwon Station

47625 Coffee

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Opening hours:

9 am to 9 pm (Monday to Friday)

12 pm to 9 pm (Saturday)

1 pm to 6 pm (Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000/5,000 KRW (4.01/5.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 9 World Cup-ro 10-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 270 m from Exit 1 of Mangwon Station

카페 공명 | Cafe Gong Myoung

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Opening hours:

7 am to 9 pm (Monday to Friday)

10 am to 9 pm (Saturday & Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 5,000 KRW (5.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 99-2 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 483 m from Exit 1 of Mangwon Station

비번 | Bibun

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/cogus0544/223378936350

Opening hours:

12 pm to 8 pm (Monday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000/4,500 KRW (4.01/4.50 SGD) for drinks

Address: 54 Huiujeong-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (3rd floor)

Distance: 538 m from Exit 2 of Mangwon Station

앤드앤드 | Andand

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/byk6268/223344840707

Opening hours:

Closed on Mondays

10 am to 8 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000 (4.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 14 Seongmisan-ro 10-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 645 m from Exit 1 of Mangwon Station

캐롯뜨 | Carrotte

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Opening hours:

Closed on Tuesdays

10 am to 8 pm (Monday, Wednesday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000 KRW (4.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 47 Poeun-ro 5-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 801 m from Exit 2 of Mangwon Station

3 accommodations under $99/night near Korea’s tourist hotspot, Myeong-dong, Seoul

Have your flight tickets booked for Seoul, South Korea already?

Now, planning the trip is an exciting task, and we all know that finding the right accommodation is key to ensuring an unforgettable stay.

If you’re considering staying in and around the tourist hotspot, Myeong-dong, you’re in luck! We’ve picked out three fantastic accommodations with good ratings, all under $99/night.

Let’s start the ball rolling!

Minimalist serviced studio room near Jonggak Station

Price: $85/night

A minimalist traveler’s dream, this serviced studio room is just a short walk from both Jonggak Station and Myeong-dong’s shopping and nightlife.

The queen bed makes it perfect for solo travelers/buddies/couples looking for a convenient stay in the heart of the city. The mini kitchenette has everything needed for light meals, with an induction cooktop, a small refrigerator, basic pots and pans, and tableware. The washer sits right beneath the cooktop for easy laundry.

While seasonings are not provided for hygiene reasons, the location and nearby food options mean you may not need to cook much. After a day of exploring the nearby sights, relax in the shower and climb into that comfy queen bed for a good night’s snooze.

Fully furnished spacious one-bedroom home

Price: $89/night (for 3 persons)

Nestled in the heart of bustling Myeong-dong lies this one-bedroom home, just steps from the subway and the neighborhood’s countless shops and restaurants.

The open layout gives this abode an airy feel, with a full kitchenette and all the essentials for your stay. The bedroom comes with 3 beds–a double and two single beds, just right for 3 guests. Laundry essentials like detergent and an in-unit washing machine mean you can travel light.

The host who is an ex-hotel manager has thought of everything to make your stay easy and enjoyable.

Cozy studio home for 3 guests

Price: $97/night

Last but not least, we have this cozy studio home perfect for up to three guests just steps from Myeong-dong Station.

Behind the private front door awaits comfort, from the three single beds to the kitchenette stocked with essentials and a full bathroom. Your Airbnb host lives on the ground floor and will be available to assist with anything necessary to make your Seoul stay a breeze.

Located in the city’s heart, you will be just minutes from the shopping, dining, and nightlife that draws tourists to Myeong-dong. But once back “home,” snuggle up in the comfort of this studio sanctuary—your home base for exploring everything this city has to offer.

These three accommodations in and around Myeong-dong provide excellent value for your money, ensuring a pleasant and wallet-friendly stay. Book your accommodation today if you want to be guaranteed a spot when it’s time for you to check-in. Have a lovely time to come!

5 hanok houses under $205/night in Seoul, South Korea, for a stay like no other

Want a travel experience where tradition meets comfort? Then join us as we guide you through a selection of hanok houses in Seoul, South Korea, that are pretty affordable.

These architectural gems, steeped in history, offer a unique blend of age-old Korean culture and modern amenities, delivering an unparalleled stay experience.

From their quaint tiled roofs to their warming ondol floors, these hanoks under $205/night are not just accommodations, but a journey into the heart of Korea’s heritage.

Let’s roll with the list!

2-bedroom hanok home in the well-known Gangnam district

Price: $133/night

This tranquil retreat offers easy access to Seoul’s central area, with the nearest train station, Daechong Station, just 10 minutes away.

If you book a stay here, you will enjoy exclusive use of the entire second floor, accessible via a separate entrance, ensuring utmost privacy. This space features two bedrooms, a living room for you to unwind in, and a spacious terrace that offers fresh air. A bathroom equipped with a bathtub offers the ideal space for a soothing soak or bubble bath after a long day out exploring.

To sweeten your stay, the host also provides a complimentary breakfast for the first 5 days. This isn’t just a place to rest your head, it’s a doorway into the soul of Seoul. Embrace a unique blend of tradition and modernity in one of the city’s most sought-after districts, in Gangnam style 😉

Remodeled hanok house with a yard in Yongdu-dong

Price: $147/night

Delve into a blend of tradition and modernity at Koji Hanok, a beautifully remodeled private house complete with a welcoming yard. While this accommodation retains its historical charm, it has been renovated to meet contemporary standards.

You get two bedrooms, a comfortable living room, a modern kitchen, and a practical bathroom. The house, despite its age, is well-equipped with a floor heating system, ensuring warmth even on the chilliest days of winter. The kitchen, fitted with modern appliances, allows for simple cooking, offering you the opportunity to whip up a quick snack or meal when you need it.

Experience the essence of Seoul at Koji Hanok, where your stay is a rare encounter with Korean culture.

MUJI-style hanok stay in Gongdeok-dong

Price: $162/night

Sodam Stay is a delightful hanok tucked away in the residential area of Gongdeok-dong. It’s a hideaway, strategically positioned and a testament to the timeless allure of traditional Korean architecture.

Start your day basking in the golden sun rays as they dance across the quaint yard, or enjoy the rhythmic patter of the rain from the comfort of your hanok on a rainy day. Sodam Stay is your perfect retreat for a serene and rejuvenating stay.

The hanok features two bedrooms, giving you the choice between a double bed or two single beds, catering to your travel squad and preferences. Indulge in the simplicity of traditional Korean living coupled with modern comforts at Sodam Stay on your next visit to the land of kimchi.

Hanok with a garden near Hansung University Station

Price: $201/night

Nestled in the heart of an old neighborhood that blossomed in 1936, Space MODA is a petite yet private hanok house exuding charisma.

As a testament to its heritage, this standalone hanok has been tastefully refurbished over time, blending the old with the new for an amazing stay experience.

Accommodating two guests, this property boasts a small garden, providing a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling city. The bedroom features classic Korean bedding for an authentic feel.

While the kitchen is well-appointed, full-scale cooking is not permitted. However, you are welcome to whip up a quick toast or brew a warm cup of coffee or tea.

A mini hanok stay in Bukchon Hanok Village

Price: $204/night

This mini hanok is a modernized treasure that brings the 1920s back to life, located within the captivating lanes of Bukchon Gedong Road.

This unique property, one of the few in Bukchon that retains its original wooden structure from the 1920s, has been thoughtfully remodeled to exude a contemporary flair while still honoring its history.

Stepping into the home, you will be welcomed by an interior adorned minimalist-style, creating a harmonious blend of the past and present. This Airbnb space has been designed with relaxation in mind, right in a residential area, so it will sit very well for folks looking for a quiet stay.

These hanok houses, each under $205/night, offer an opportunity to immerse in Seoul’s rich history and culture without breaking the bank. Each place combines the charm of traditional Korean architecture with the comforts of modern living, ensuring a stay like no other. Whether you want to soak in the morning sun in a tranquil yard or listen to the rain pitter-patter on traditional roof tiles, secure your stay today, and get ready to step into an abode where the past and present coexist in harmony.

5 purple numbers to wear to Korea because Seoul’s landmarks are turning purple in June 2023 for BTS

As the vibrant city of Seoul prepares to celebrate BTS’ 10th anniversary in June 2023 by transforming its iconic landmarks into a sea of purple, there’s no better time to flaunt your love for the K-pop sensation in style.

Let’s take a look at 5 eye-catching purple numbers that will not only help you pay the ultimate tribute to your favorite K-pop band but also ensure you fit in among the picturesque purple backdrops.

Get ready to make a statement while exploring the stunning sights of Seoul!

Danice Floral Skorts in Purple

Price: $38.90 or 3 payments of $12.97 with atome

Step up your purple-style game with The Stage Walk’s Danice Floral Skorts in Purple. Made from beautiful cotton eyelet and featuring delicate floral embroidery, these skorts are a non-sheer fully lined design with pockets at the sides and an asymmetrical overlap front. They also come with a concealed back zip. Pair it with a cropped top for an effortlessly chic ensemble—perfect for your upcoming summer trip to Korea.

Melanie Elastic Waistband Flare Maxi Skirt

Price: $46

Get ready to set sail for the high seas of ARMY fashion with Love & Bravery’s Melanie Elastic Waistband Flare Maxi Skirt. This skirt is made with premium linen blend fabric and features a comfortable elastic waistband and hidden side pockets. Lined with smooth polyester, it’s designed for comfort. The versatile flare style is great for strutting around on your casual day out in the land of kimchi.

Chamomile Embroidered Babydoll Dress

Price: $48.90

Get your cuteness overload with this adorable baby doll dress from Fayth. Transform into a dainty doll with this ultra-feminine dress that has a square neckline, puff sleeves, and detailed floral embroideries for extra charm. The double bow accentuates the sweet babydoll silhouette and comes with functional side pockets to complete your look. Get yours now in pretty pastel periwinkle.

Philippa Cotton Ruffle Maxi Dress

Price: $59 or pay 3 installments of $19.67 with ShopBack PayLater

Slip into this lilac dress that’s apt for capturing that whimsical, carefree vibe. Crafted from comfy material, this sweeping maxi creation showcases a flowing trapeze shape and an effortlessly chic scoop neckline. Enhanced with elegant panel accents and customizable slider straps, this charming piece offers both style and practicality. Fully lined and adorned with convenient side pockets, prepare to be the epitome of poise among your fellow ARMY troops.

Marcelyn Linen Utility Pants

Price: $59

Embrace your practical side with these effortlessly stylish and versatile pants, ideal for the eco-conscious BTS ARMY fashionista. Made using lightweight, breezy 100% linen, these trousers boast a soft, tailored structure that’s perfect for staying cool on warm days. With belt loops and generously cut straight legs, these pants are the embodiment of functional chic. The oversized flap pockets add a fashionable touch while providing ample “storage space”. What’s more, the environmentally friendly linen material proves that you can look great and be kind to the planet at the same time!

Embracing the purple wave sweeping through Seoul in June 2023 for the BTS celebration is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the city and its love for the K-pop phenomenon. These 5 stunning purple outfits under $60 will not only help you pay homage to your favorite K-pop band but also make you feel stylish and confident as you explore the picturesque cityscape. So, go ahead and don these eye-catching ensembles with your fashion staples as you make unforgettable memories in the heart of the BTS fandom.

13 “Oraegage” to visit the next time you hit the streets of Seoul

Taking advantage of the vaccinated travel lane (VTL) scheme that started on 15 November to travel to South Korea soon? You must be researching what to do in Seoul.

If you don’t already know, Seoul is a metropolis that is always evolving. In the pursuit of urbanization, low-rise buildings and old infrastructures have been bulldozed, skyscrapers have sprung up everywhere, and historic lanes have been substituted with straighter routes. The Seoul you’ve seen a few years back could have been very different by now.

But still, some businesses have existed for a long time in the fresher, wealthier districts south of the Han River, which are more renowned for high-end restaurants and upscale shops with designer items. These are the spots filled with years of meaningful memories right around the corner of Seoul’s flashy complexes.

That is why before you urgently book a train to Busan or a flight out to Jeju, you will want to visit these newly added “Oraegage” or “Historical Stores” in Seoul’s southeastern areas.

Worthy of its title

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

Stores with a heritage of over 30 years in the Seoul area, have been passed down for two or more generations, and where experts and craftsmen practice their specialty are accorded the status by the city government. Since 2017, about 100 over spots have received the worthy label.

Here are the recent “Oraegage” or “Historical Stores” added this time:

Guro District: Jinsun Audio
Dongjak District: Apple House
Songpa District: Myungga Tteokjip
Gangnam District: Manna Dang, Manna Snack, Motungijip, Sangsindang, and Gembros
Seocho District: Doosung Paper, Seowoo Confectionery, Ewha Myeong Joo, Hill String, and Dongyang Korea Oriental Instruments

The metropolitan area has grouped the 13 locations into 4 themes and offers 4 itineraries in which travelers can visit the stores associated with each concept.

#1: Rediscovery of Market

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

This tour takes you to shops in a market and a mall in an old apartment block that has retained its attractiveness for decades.

You will be visiting Manna Snack, a snack bar at Eunma Shopping Center that has been selling noodles and spicy rice cakes since 1990. You will also stop by Myeongga Tteokjip, which started in 1980 and is famous for its fist-sized glutinous rice cakes with red bean paste at Saemaul Market in the Songpa District of Jamsil area.

#2: Rediscovery of Walking

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

If you book this package, you will be in the compounds of Bangbaesai-gil and Naebang. Enter Ewha Myeong Joo, a hanbok store that has been retailing Korean traditional apparel since 1978 and has seen many foreigners as its customers. It is located in Seorae Village, which is recognized as a French enclave consisting of stylish restaurants and boutiques.

You will also make stops at Apple House, a snack shop that started in 1986 serving spicy fried dumplings, and Seowoo Confectionery, which has been operating since 1980, selling cookies consisting of overcooked rice crust with garlic.

#3: Rediscovery of Emotions

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

Connect with your artistic side via this tour. Jinsun Audio in Guro District is recommendable for individuals who like the rich and detailed tone of vinyl recordings. You can also get your hands on some valuable handmade turntables from the store, which first opened in 1988.

Thereafter, head to Ationery, a stationery and office equipment business established by Doosung Paper in 1982 that sells high-quality paper products. Hill String, which has been selling Western instruments since 1967, and Dong Korea Oriental Instruments, which has been producing and retailing traditional Korean instruments since 1991, are among the stores you will see too.

#4: Rediscovery of Gangnam

Image Credits: mangoplate.com

On this journey, the locals will show you diverse views of Gangnam Station and Garosu-gil in Sinsa-dong. The journey begins at Motungijib, a little snack business just around the bend from Gangnam Station that has been serving spicy fish cake rice rolls wrapped in seaweed since 1988.

You will also get to witness for yourself Sangsindang, a business that has been creating stamps and seals since 1977; Gembros, a jewelry store that started in 1984; and Mannadang, a place that has been selling Korean traditional sweets since 1963.

We heard that there is more information on these rediscovery-themed travel packages at Tripadvisor so do an online search over there if you’re curious! Have a safe trip.