Discovering the Cool Vibes of Seongsu: Seoul’s Trendy Hidden Gem
- Joanne Colman-Bown
- Apr 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 29
Seongsu-dong is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. Once an industrial hub filled with old factories and warehouses, it’s now one of the coolest, most creative neighbourhoods in Seoul. Often dubbed the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” Seongsu is buzzing with indie boutiques, arty spaces, and cafés that look straight out of your Instagram feed. Whether you’re here for the coffee, the culture, or just to soak up the effortlessly cool vibes, there’s plenty to explore.
Hip Cafés in Unexpected Places
If you love a good coffee shop (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), Seongsu is an absolute dream. What makes it special? A lot of the cafés here are tucked away inside converted warehouses, giving them a super edgy, industrial feel. Think exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and stylishly mismatched furniture. But it’s not just about the aesthetics—the coffee is top-tier too! Here are a few standout spots:
Anthracite Coffee – This place is all about strong, flavourful brews and a seriously laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for slow mornings with a book.
ZAPANGI – A quirky, pink-themed café that you literally enter through a vending machine door. It’s fun, it’s different, and yes, the drinks are as pretty as the interior.
Daelim Changgo Gallery Café – A massive, industrial-style space where art meets coffee. It’s got a rotating selection of exhibitions, so you can sip your latte while getting a bit of culture in.
Onion - Café Onion is a trendy industrial-style café known for its rustic vibes, amazing pastries, and smooth coffee. A must-visit for café lovers looking to experience Seoul’s hipster scene! ☕🥐
Creative Spaces & Hidden Art Galleries
Seongsu is packed with creative energy, and it shows in the number of art spaces dotted around the area. Whether you’re into modern art, graphic design, or just want to browse through some unique exhibitions, there’s plenty to check out. A few highlights include:
Seoul Forest D Museum – This spot is always worth a visit, with its ever-changing exhibitions that focus on everything from photography to digital art.
The Workroom – More than just a gallery, this place doubles as a bookshop and design studio. If you love indie magazines and beautifully designed books, this is your kind of place.
Takeout Drawing – A café-meets-art-space where creative minds come together. Expect interesting conversations, cool art, and a great cup of coffee.
Street Art & Murals Around Every Corner
If you love a good mural moment, you’re in the right place. Seongsu’s walls are covered in vibrant street art, with new pieces popping up all the time. Whether it’s giant, colourful murals or hidden graffiti in alleyways, it adds to the creative, free-spirited feel of the area. Definitely worth a wander with your camera at the ready.
Old Warehouses Turned into Trendy Boutiques
Seongsu isn’t just about coffee and art—it’s also a fantastic shopping spot. The area is full of independent boutiques, many of them set up inside old warehouse spaces. The focus here is on craftsmanship and sustainability, with a lot of stores selling upcycled, handmade, or locally designed pieces. Some must-visit shops include:
Post Poetics – A sleek, minimalist bookshop and design store that stocks a carefully curated selection of indie magazines and art books.
Worksout – If you love high-end streetwear, this is the place to be. It’s got an effortlessly cool vibe, and the industrial setting makes it even more unique.
Kommune – A lifestyle store packed with handmade homeware, accessories, and unique finds from Korean designers. Perfect for picking up something a bit different.
Common Ground - A favourite place of mine! A vibrant cultural hub built from stacked shipping containers, creating a unique and edgy shopping experience. This trendy space is home to independent fashion brands, stylish pop-up stores, and artisanal cafés, making it a hotspot for Seoul’s creative scene. Whether you're looking for streetwear, unique accessories, or just a great spot to grab coffee and people-watch, Common Ground has something for every trendsetter. Perfect for Instagram-worthy snaps and soaking up Seongsu’s effortlessly cool atmosphere! 🚀👕☕
Planning Your Seongsu Adventure
Getting to Seongsu is easy—just hop on the subway to Seongsu Station (Line 2), and you’re right in the middle of the action. The best way to explore? On foot! Wear comfy shoes, grab a coffee, and just wander. The beauty of this area is in the unexpected finds—the tiny workshops, hidden bookstores, and cool little alleyways you’d never notice unless you’re really looking.
So, if you’re after a side of Seoul that’s creative, trendy, and just the right amount of edgy, Seongsu should be at the top of your list. It’s got the kind of energy that makes you want to stay all day—and trust me, once you’re here, you’ll probably want to.
