Seoul Through the Lens

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SEOUL THROUGH THE LENS 

taking an image, freezing a moment O

ne of the greatest joy in life is traveling. We life in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and

adventure. However, no matter how amazing the adventure is, everything will always come to an end. A way we can keep those moments forever is to capture them with a camera.

SEOUL ia a city of adventure. Let this book takes you on an extraordinary adventure where you can freeze some beautiful moments, right here, in Seoul.

inside FA S H I O N

URBAN

Common Ground

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Korean Folk Village

23

Stylenanda Pink Hotel

13

Furniture Museum

25

Gwangjang Market

27

Gentle Monster

15

Namdaemun Market

29

Apgujeong Rodeo Street

17

Insa-dong

31

Yongma Land

19

ARCHITECTURE Dongdaemun Design Plaza

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Ewha Women University

37

Lotte World Tower

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National Museum

41

Matryoshka

43

LANDSCAPE

FOOD

Haneul Sky Park

47

Alex the Coffee

59

Bukhansan Park

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Billy Angel Cake Co

61

Seoul Fortress Wall

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Okrumong

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Yeouido Park

53

Dore Dore

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Dosan Park

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Frank’s

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DOBONG GU GANGBUKGU

EUNPYEONG GU

NOWON GU

2

2 1 GANGSEO-GU

3 5

2

5

3 2 3 4

YANGCHEONG GU YONGDEUNGPO GU

DONGDAEMUN GU

3

2

1 JUNG GU

5

SEONGDONG GU

5

4

4

4

3

5 GANGNAM GU

GEUM CHEON GU

GANGDONG GU

GWANGJIN GU

1

YONGSAN-GU

DONGJAK GU

GURO GU

5

JONGNO GU

SEODAEMUN GU

MAPO GU

JUNGNANG GU

SEONGBUK GU

1

SONGPA GU

SEOCHO GU GWANAK GU

SEONGNAM

1 YONGIN

FAS H I O N

LA NDSC A PE

FOOD

1 Common Ground

1 Haneul Sky Park

1 Alex the Coffee

2 Stylenanda Hotel

2 Bukhansan Park

2 Billy Angel Cake

3 Gentle Monster

3 Seoul Fortress Wall

3 Okrumong

4 Apgujeong

4 Yeouido Park

4 Dore Dore

5 Yongma Land

5 Dosan Park

5 Frank’s

U R B AN

A RC HITECTURE

1 Folk Village

1 DDP

2 Furniture Museum

2 Ewha Women Univ

3 Gwangjang Market

3 Lotte World Tower

4 Namdaemun Market

4 National Museum

5 Insa-dong

5 Matryoshka

S

eoul is increasingly viewed as the burgeoning fashion market in Asia for the past few decade. Koreans are

fearless when it comes to trying out new things. Some fashion critics have linked Korean street fashion to the New York’s fashion style. New trends come and go seamlessly and it is the key of Korean fashion. It is all about mixing and matching splashes of color with different types of garment to create the chic, yet distinct style of fashion.

That is why some called Seoul as the heart of fashion, as it offers many fascinating places to capture your #OOTDs or even just to make you look more dazzling in your pictures.

fash·ion fash·i on

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200 Achasanro Jayang 4(sa)-dong Gwangjingu 11 AM - 10 PM +82 2-467-2747 Free None Any season (sunny day recommended) Konkuk University (Seoul Subway LINE 2 or 7), Exit 6

01

common ground W

ho knows that 200 blue shipping containers can look so vivid together? The building itself already shows

the uniqueness and moreover this place also carries over 50 fashion brands, food and drink stalls, along with a spacious cultural space.

It is located near Konkuk University, which makes it a popular attraction to the youths in the vicinity. This place is perfect to satisfy your photogasm as you can find many photo spots and strike some crazy poses.

Other activities: Fashion & accessories haul, food terrace

fash¡i o n

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37-8 Myeongdong 8-gil Jung-gu 11 AM - 11 PM +82 2-752-4546 Free None Any season Myeongdong Station (Seoul Subway LINE 4), Exit 6

02

stylenanda pink hotel T

here is this cute hotel all covered in pink where you can take a break after all the shopping you did in

Myeongdong. But you may actually start another round of shopping right here! This 5-storey flagship store is split into different areas: LOBBY (1st), ROOMS (2nd), ROOMS (3rd), LAUNDRY (4th), POOL CAFE (5th).

It is the most quirky, yet instagrammable makeup, fashion, and coffee shop all in one. Every part of this place is just so stylish that it makes the perfect background for your photos.

Other activities: Makeup haul (3CE), fashion haul, dessert

fash¡i on

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404-5 Seogyo-dong Mapo-gu 12 AM - 9 PM +82 2-3144-0864 Free None Any season Hongik University (Seoul Subway LINE 2), Exit 9

03

gentle monster W

ith the brand already branched out to international scale, the flagship of this Korean eyewear brand can be

found in several locations. At first glance, this boldly designed space feels like an art gallery. Each showroom carried different artistic concept. Earlier last year, it carried the “Kitchen” theme and theme for the past summer was “Home and Recovery” combined with fragrance-themed interior.

There is no better place for you who love to take avant garde x futuristic fashion shots to hang around.

Other activities: Eyewear shopping

fash·i on

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Apgujeong-dong Gangnam-gu 11 AM - 3 AM (following day) +82-2-3445-0111 Free None Any season Apgujeong Station (Seoul Subway LINE 3), Exit 6

04

apgujeong rodeo street N

amed the leading fashion Mecca of Seoul. The street is lined up with fashion shops, Korean or foreign brands,

restaurants from all around Asia, along with beauty clinics.

It is a popular high-end fashion shopping area and cultural zone. The name itself was based on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hill. Rodeo Street is the centerpiece of Apgujeong. It is where you can find the newest trends of fashion.

You can never go out of style in this place! The street features splendid atmosphere for your next trendy #OOTD

Other activities: Luxury brand shopping, flea market, theatre, restaurants

fash¡i on

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69-1 Mangu-dong Jungnang-gu (not listed) +82 10-9671-6104 W5.000 None Any season (fall recommended) Mangu Station (Seoul Subway Gyeongchun/ Jungang LINE), Exit 1

05

yongma land A

bandoned amusement park is definitely the uncommon yet fun place to visit. Unlike other popular spots, you

get totally different experience here. These days this place is loaded with photographers who want to take those vintage and nostalgic pictures. There are a few rides which you can still enjoy today such as merry-go-round. Make sure to prepare food & drink beforehand as there is none sold there.

This place takes you to the 80s music videos with pop of color everywhere to add an interesting twist to your shot

Other activities: Enjoying some rides, water park

fash¡i on

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Y

ou will find yourself falling in love with this fascinating metropolis that prides itself on offering a modern

lifestyle that is perfectly balanced with its customs and traditions from the past. Seoul basically has everything covered for you from service, food, and even free internet!

You can while away the hours wandering through neverending shopping district, party all night with glasses of soju, and encounter some secret gardens or palaces that each has its own story to tell. Enjoy quiet nights at home or exploring the city until the sun rises. And most importantly, do not forget to capture those moments.

ur¡ban ur¡ban

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90 Minsokchon-ro Giheung-gu Yongin-si Gyeonggi-do 9.30 AM - 7 PM +82 31-288-0000 W18.000 (adults) W15.000 (teenagers) W13.000 (children) None Any season Suwon Station (Seoul Subway LINE 1), Exit 5 Bus no 10-5 or 37 to Korean Folk Village

01

korean folk village E

xperience a time travel adventure in this 40 years old built village that displays the everlasting beauty of Korean

culture. Real houses from accross the country are relocated to create the replica of a village from the late Joseon period.

This is the perfect recreational destination. It introduces traditional culture from the late Joseon era to the visitors.

This place gives you chance to capture a glimpse of the past with the suited background and visitors wearing Korean traditional outfit (Hanbok)

Other activities: Traditional music performance, kids amusement park, street food

ur¡ban

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330-577 Seongbuk-dong Seongbok-gu Tue, Thur, Fri, Sat 11 AM, 2 - 4 PM (tour & afternoon tea) *All by reservation +82-2-745-0181 W20.000 (tour only) W40.000 (tour + tea) Take photos inside Any season Hansung University (Seoul Subway LINE 4), Exit 6

02

korea furniture museum D

eclared as the most beautiful museum in Seoul, it tells a story of traditional Korean furniture design

with more than 2.000 pieces of collection including chests, bookcases, chairs, and dining tables made of varieties of wood. The museum itself has hosted variety of events for the government, as well as international institutions.

The museum’s elegance and rare beauty is reflected in its beautifully groomed landscape and exquisite interior, waiting to be captured.

Other activities: Museum tour, afternoon tea

ur¡ban

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88 Changgyeonggung Jongno 1,3,4 Jongno-gu 9 AM - 6 PM (most shops are closed on Sun) +82 2-2267-0291 Free None Any season Jongno 5-ga Station (Seoul Subway LINE 1), Exit 7

03

gwangjang market E

stablished as 1 of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, it offers an authentic Korean cultural experience and

street food under 1 roof. It is also the largest and most famous market for silk, satin, and linen in Seoul. Thousands of flock here each day to experience the side of the city that can not be found nor replicated elsewhere.

Look no further to see the real urban side of Seoul. There are endless scenes you can capture in a traditional market that shows the heart and soul of Seoul people.

Other activities: Street food, clothes material, agricultural & marine, handicrafts market

ur¡ban

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21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil Namchang-dong Jung-gu 11 PM - 5 PM (following day, closed on Sun) +82-2-753-2805 Free None Any season Hoehyeon Station (Seoul Subway LINE 4), Exit 5

04

namdaemun market O

pened in 1964, this market is largest traditional market in Korea with over 10.000 retailers, vendors, and

wholesalers. It is a fantastic place to get clothes, jewelry, housewares, fabrics, and basically everything you need. When day breaks, we can see busy shoppers bustling around the market. There is nowhere else in Korea like this place!

Another perfect place to pick up your camera for urban photographers out there! Just be careful as everywhere is crazily crowded.

Other activities: Street food, clothes material, handicrafts market, camera shops

ur¡ban

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21 Insadong-gil Jongno-gu 24 hours (vary per shop) *Car Free Day on 2 - 10 PM (Sat) & 10 AM - 10 PM (Sun) +82-2-734-0222 Free None Any season Anguk Station (Seoul Subway LINE 3), Exit 6

05

insa-dong I

n the midst of this rapidly changing world, this one street still retains the essence of Korea. Insa-dong is the home to

Korean handicrafts, traditional tea, temple food, and many other things that pop into your mind when you think of Korea.

Galleries are the heartbeat of Insa-dong, there are about 100 in the area where traditional goods are on display. It is a spot that carries precious stories of the people in the past.

Is there anywhere else more photogenic than the in between spot between modern and traditional?

Other activities: Street food, tea houses, craft shops, Hanok (traditional Korean house)

ur¡ban

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I

n the past decade, Seoul has been polishing its skyline with many architectural advanced and taller buildings

more than ever to complement its fascinating historical and cultural landmarks. From grand palaces and fortresses, to World Trade Center and stadium that combine Korean authentic style with modern styles.

If you admire innovative and breathtaking architecture, you come to the right place. Seoul will offer you amazing architectural views that will give both you and your camera eyegasm. The cityscape of Seoul can be appreciated both by the erudite architecture buff or the inquisitive tourist.

ar·chi·tec·ture ar·chi ·te c·ture

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281 Eulji-ro Euljiro 7-ga Jung-gu 10 AM - 7 PM (Tue-Sun) *Extended to 9 PM on Wed & Fri +82-2-2153-0000 Vary None Any season Dongdaemun History - Culture Park Station (Seoul Subway LINE 2, 4, 5), Exit 1

01

dongdaemun design plaza D

ream, Design, and Play! It is the newest and most iconic landmark of Korean design industry. Designed by

architect Zaha Hadid with the neo-futuristic concept. The building is a curvaceous concrete structure with a silvery facade that rise up on to its roof. It comprises multiple galleries, exhibition spaces, design shops, and event halls.

The park is the restored parts of Seoul’s 600 years old fortress wall. A reminder of the past, and a look into the future.

No more words needed, just let your camera rolls!

Other activities: Art exhibition, museum, park, coffee shops

ar·chi ·te c·ture

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52 Ewhayeodaegil Daehyeondong Seodaemun-gu 10 AM - 11 PM (shopping street) +82 2-3277-2114 Free None Any season (Fall recommended) Ewha Women University (Seoul Subway LINE 2), Exit 2 or 3

02

ewha women university T

he streets around Ewha Women University are known as a shopping haven. But do not miss out the beautiful

compound and architecture of the university itself. The university itself is known as Korea’s first women university.

Enjoy strolling around the campus area which offers great manicured gardens and scenery.

The campus complex is part bulding, part green space, part sculpture that was designed in the European neoclassical style that never goes out of style.

Other activities: Street food, affordable clothes shopping, park

ar·chi ·te c·ture

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300 Olympic-ro Sincheon-dong Songpa-gu 10 AM - 10 PM +82-2-3213-5000 W27.000 (adults) W24.000 (children) *W50.000 (fast pass, all ages) None Any season Jamsil Station (Seoul Subway LINE 2, 8), Exit 1, 2, 10, 11

03

lotte world tower I

nspired by Korean ceramics and writing brushes, it is 5th tallest building in the world with 123 floors in total. It is

home to Avenuel, the largest luxurious department store in Korea. On the upper floors, there is Seoul Sky, which is the 3rd highest obervatory deck in the world. The tower contains galleries, cafes, and a luxury hotel.

It is the best spot to appreciate the breathtaking view of Seoul’s vibrant city lights. You surely do not want to miss out this place, right?

Other activities: Luxury shopping, aquarium, theme restaurants, theatre

ar·chi ·te c·ture

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137 Seobinggo-ro Seobinggo-dong Yongsan-gu 10 AM - 7 PM +82 2-2077-9000 Free (main exhibition hall & children museum) Smoking Any season Ichon Station (Seoul Subway LINE 4, GyeonguiJonggang LINE), Exit 2

04

national museum of korea T

his is a place for you if you enjoy contemporary art.

It is the largest museum in Korea and it is the only

one that accomodates both contemporary art of Korea and international art of different time spans. It houses

precious Korean cultural assets that tells the story of Korea’s fascinating history.

This museum is far from being boring as this grand, marble lined, modernist building along with its interior are highly photogenic to the eyes.

Other activities: Musical & dance theatre, cultural art space, children museum

ar·chi ·te c·ture

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18-2 Nonhyun-dong Gangnam-gu Not listed Not listed Free None Any season Nonhyeon Station (Seoul Subway LINE 7), Exit 6

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matryoshka I

nspired by the Russian doll matryoshka, this multipurpose building is made of stacked volumes using various

materials. It is a repeating and overlapping ‘Object-Within-aSimilar-Object’. The architect, L’eau Design aimed to include facilities including a photo studio, coffee shops, restaurants, and office. The terraces provide views out accross the surrounding streets and skyline.

This is a unique and elegant spot that is not widely known, you surely will take dazzling photographs right here.

Other activities: Strolling around Gangnam district neighborhood

ar·chi ·te c·ture

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B

eing a huge metropolis city, sometimes you may feel overwhelm by the neverending crowds passing by.

But you do not need to go far to reconnect with the nature.

Seoul offers many natural attractions including mountain, river, stream, parks, and even pureun arboretum (botanical garden) that will give you calmness and relaxation.

Do not think of Seoul only as a modern fast-moving city, in fact, Seoul is where the nature and man-made coexist in harmony. There are more natural attractions in Seoul than you think. After all those amazing photographs at the heart of Seoul, it is now time to go back to nature.

land¡scape land¡scape

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467-48 Sangam-dong Mapo-gu 9 AM - 6 PM +82 2-300-5501 W3.000 (bus ticket) to the park None Any season (Spring/Fall recommended) World Cup Stadium Station (Seoul Subway LINE 6), Exit 1

01

haneul sky park O

ne of the small parks that made up the World Cup Park.

This park was once a low-flat land where peanuts and

sorghum grow. However, it eventually became an enormous mountain of garbage. Later on the government decided to turn this area into an ecological park. It shows that something beautiful happens when nature is allowed to reclaim the land.

The silver grass field is utterly stunning from every angle. The park itself is lifted high into the sky, so it offers a wide-open view from horizon to horizon which is quite rare.

Other activities: Strolling around the park, Eutalia festival

land¡scape

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262 Bogukmun-ro Jeongneung 4(sa)-dong Seongbuk-gu 4 AM - 5 PM +82 2-909-0497 Free None Any season Gireum Station (Seoul Subway LINE 4), Exit 3 Bus no 110B or 143, to the last bus stop

02

bukhansan national park B

ukhansan is rich in history, there are Bukhansanseong Fortress and Sangunsa Temple near the area. It is perfect

for hiking all seasons. In the spring, all kind flowers bloom.

In summer, lush forests carpet the numerous valleys. In fall, it is perfect to visit the temple and get a spectacular view of the mountain from the fortress. And in winter, the snow-covered mountain is stunning.

The hike to the top is definitely worth it to get some amazing shots at the top of the Bukhansan granite peaks.

Other activities: Bukhansanseong Fortress, Sangunsa Temple, hiking

land¡scape

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03038 283 Yulgok-ro Jongno-gu (Jongno 6-ga) Not listed +82-2-120 Free None Any season (Fall recommended) Anguk Station (Seoul Subway LINE 3), Exit 6

03

seoul fortress wall O

riginally built in 1936 surrounding Seoul (formerly known as Hanyang). The wall stretches for 18.6 km

along the ranges of mountains. Along the wall, there were 8 gates but now only 6 remains. This hiking area is also an architectural treasure and contender for Unesco World Heritage status. The Naksan trail offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings below since it is on high ground.

Fill your lungs with fresh air while taking another series of beautiful photographs of Seoul from the top.

Other activities: Hiking

land¡scape

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120 Yeouigongwon-ro Yeongdeungpo-gu 24 hours +82-2-2670-3758 Free Pets must be on leash at all times Any season (Spring recommended) Yeouido Station (Seoul Subway LINE 5), Exit 3

04

yeouido park A

large recreational area that was once covered with black asphalt where people came for cycling and roller-skating.

The park is divided into theme-based sections: Traditional Korean forest, Grass Square, Culture Square, Nature’s Ecosystem Forest. One must see area is the Yunjuro Street, behind the National Assembly Building. It is famous for having the loveliest cherry blossom street.

A wonderful destination to capture some wonderful sights of cherry blossom in the spring time.

Other activities: Cycling, strolling the park, sport activities

land¡scape

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20 Dosan-daero 45-gil, Sinsa-dong Gangnam-gu 24 hours (closed on Sun) +82-2-543-2558 Free Pets Any season (Fall recommended) Apgujeong Station (Seoul Subway LINE 3), Exit 2 Bus no 3422 to Dosan Park

05

dosan park W

as built in memorial of Dosan An Changho’s patriotism.

He was a Korean independence activist. This is a small,

tranquil, yet beautiful park located in the heart of Gangnam.

It has Dosan An Changho’s Memorial Hall, tomb, his wife’s tomb, and statues. His historical information on display are 70 photos, 20 letters, 50 documents, and his diary. The park also offers several walking trails, flower garden, and benches.

Whenever you need some tranquility or just a moment to breath, only with your camera, this is the place for you.

Other activities: Strolling the park, sport activities, historical museum

land·scape

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K

orean food is some of the healthiest in the world.

With an emphasis on vegetables, simply cooked meats

without much oils, and obsession with fermented dishes.

We all know and enjoy eating some traditional along with street food all around Seoul. Most of them have come from royal cuisine back in the day. Food is a study in balance with careful consideration for Korean people.

However this time, let’s visit some eyecatching yet delicious modern cuisines offered from all over Seoul that will satisfy your sweet tooth and also take some food-o-genic photographs afterwards.

fo·od fo ·o d

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260-38 Seongbuk-dong Seongbuk-gu 10 AM - 9 PM +82 70-7520-7714 W5.000-10.000 None Any season Hansung University (Seoul Subway LINE 4), Exit 6

01

alex the coffee W

ell known for its simple designs and fresh high quality coffee. The location from where the coffee beans

are brought daily was awarded for its ability to convey the authenticity of coffee. It is surrounded by the greens and the second floor resembles a greenhouse where you can enjoy your drink anywhere you want accompanied by lounge jazz music that plays throughout the cafe.

In this cozy and beautiful atmosphere, before taking your first sip of the coffee, do not forget to capture the moment.

Other activities: Reading, doing works

fo ¡o d

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343-9 Seogyeo-dong Mapo-gu 1 - 11 PM +82-2-323-0020 W5.000-7.000 None Any season Hongik University (Seoul Subway LINE 2), Exit 9 Located next to Starbucks

02

billy angel cake co L

ife is sweeter with a piece of cake! This place is known for its minimalist white decor. It is a quaint hideout to

relax over sweet treats and assorted drinks. The must order item will be its Rainbow Crepe Cake for sure. That slice of cake is indeed heavenly. Another popular choice is their Red Velvet Cake. There are also many other variety of cakes and instagrammable drinks to order.

It must be so satisfying to capture some eye-catching sights of a bunch of vibrant colored delicious cakes.

Other activities: Reading, doing works

fo ¡o d

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39 Eoulmadang-ro Seogyeo-dong Mapo-gu 11 AM - 11.30 PM (Sun-Thur) *Extended to 12.30 PM on Fri-Sat + 82 2-325-4040 W8.000-10.000 None Any season Sangsu Station (Seoul Subway LINE 6), Exit 1

03

okrumong L

et’s revisit this authentic Korean dessert that has withstood the test of time, Patbingsoo. It is a well-loved summer

treat that now has many new variations with modern touch.

This place, however, serves a classic Patbingsoo that not only tasted delicious, but also looks photogenic in every shot. The cafe interior is spacious with a minimalist design, showed in their whitewashed wall and dark brown furnishings.

Quick, take a shot before it melts down. Do not forget to include this classic vintage interior in the background.

Other activities: Healthy sweets (baked rice cakes, read bean porridge), reading

fo ¡o d

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544-4 Sinsa-dong Gangnam-gu 11 AM - 11 PM +82 2-540-4553 W5.000-10.000 None Any season Sinsa Station (Seoul Subway LINE 3), Exit 8

04

dore dore T

he word “Dore” means gold in French. The taste of the food served by this place is indeed gold. Their rainbow

cake is still the heart and soul of the area. The whole building is made of 4 storeys, including basement floor to try out some food. On contrary of the colorful cakes, the interior gives a warm-homey feeling with its the brown painted walls and black furnitures.

The cafe is aesthetically dark, but filled with abundance of natural light. Another retro spot to make your shots stand out.

Other activities: Street food, tea houses, craft shops, Hanok (traditional Korean house)

fo ·o d

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258-228 Itaewon 2(i)-dong, Yongsan-gu 12 - 10 PM (Sun) *Extended to 11 PM on Tue-Sat +82 70-8156-5459 W7.000-16.000 None Any season Itaewon Station (Seoul Subway LINE 6), Exit 1, 4

05 68

frank’s O

ne hidden gems amidst the overflowing diverse and colorful coffee shops and restaurants in Itaewon. The

cafe looks European-quaint on the outside, painted in mustard yellow, and surrounded with dried flowers and plants. They serve pastel-colored cakes made of natural ingredients only.

It also serves the famous Mendl’s Couresan au Chocolat from the Grand Budapest Hotel movie.

You can never go wrong with cakes, but more than looking super cute in photos, they also taste heavenly delicious.

Other activities: Strolling around Itaewon street

fo ·o d

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