06/13/2025
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Once in a while, you may crave a slower day in Seoul. Step away from the city’s fast pace and stroll in rhythm with the timeless charm of old alleyways—let’s head to Sinseol-dong.
Follow Cheonggyecheon Stream and explore Seoul Folk Flea Market, Dongmyo Flea Market, Dongdaemun Stationery Street, Heunginjimun Park, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), where the warmth of old Seoul blends seamlessly with modern flair. Along the way, tucked inside a quiet alley, you’ll find a true place of rest: Hanok Stay Unnie House.
Hanok Stay Unnie House → Seoul Folk Flea Market → Dongmyo Flea Market →
Dongdaemun Stationery Street → Heunginjimun Park → Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Just a 3-minute walk from Sinseol-dong Station, Hanok Stay Unnie House is a private traditional Korean home nestled at the end of a quiet alley. With its courtyard, wind chimes, classic hanok architecture, and modern amenities, this serene space offers a restful escape in the heart of the bustling city. It features two beds, a cozy living room with a kitchen, a theater room, a tea room, and a bathroom—all thoughtfully arranged for comfort.
In the theater room, equipped with a beam projector and speakers, you can sink into the sofa and enjoy a theater-like movie experience. A variety of board games—such as Jenga, Rummikub, and Halli Galli—are also available.
At night, you can unwind in the quiet tea room with a cup of tea, or enjoy a special moment soaking in the tub with bath salts, gazing out at the courtyard. You can also take the stairs next to the supply room to a small overlook, discovering another side of Seoul, where the sky, alleys, and the sound of wind chimes come together in harmony.
It’s also fun to snap photos at the numerous hidden spots throughout the house. From the bedroom window and tea room to the courtyard, there are plenty of charming corners to capture. Hanok Stay Unnie House is more than just a place to sleep. It’s a space where you can slow down and truly unwind.
Filled with traditional instruments, antiques, and vintage household items, Seoul Folk Flea Market feels like a journey through time. More than just a public market, it remains a living space that preserves the spirit of the city’s traditional marketplace culture. It’s a delight to browse through rare finds such as vintage radios, manual sewing machines, and old ceramics.
Dongmyo Flea Market, one of Seoul’s most famous vintage spots, is packed with everything from secondhand clothes and shoes to old electronics, analog cameras, and vinyl records. On weekends, the market bustles with people hunting for hidden treasures. The joy of bargaining and the thrill of unexpected discoveries are what make this place truly special.
Located in the alleys of Changsin-dong, Dongdaemun Stationery Street evokes the nostalgia of childhood stationery stores. Here, you can find a wide range of products—stationery, toys, character dolls—at wholesale prices. It attracts many families with young children, as well as visitors looking to snap trendy photos for social media. The narrow alleyways lined with colorful signs and displays make it a visually delightful place to explore.
Centered around Heunginjimun Gate, which once guarded the eastern section of Seoul City Wall, Heunginjimun Park offers a quiet space to reflect on the city’s history as you stroll through it.
The atmosphere changes with the seasons, making it a great spot for photography.
At night, soft lighting enhances its serene charm. The park is a classic walking route where you can truly feel the connection between Seoul’s past and present.
Boasting its eye-catching curved façade, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a modern architectural landmark of the Dongdaemun area. Inside, you’ll find design exhibitions, markets, and lifestyle shops—offering plenty to explore, depending on your interests.
At night, the plaza is beautifully illuminated, and the outdoor space transforms into an open walkway for all to enjoy. It’s a place where history and modernity blend seamlessly—perfect for experiencing Seoul’s stylish side.