DIARY

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization - Anyeonggwan

Nestled west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seochon is a charming neighborhood where traditional hanok homes blend seamlessly with a modern vibe. Its easy accessibility and a wide selection of nearby restaurants make it a popular spot for international tourists. It's equally cherished by Koreans, as seen in vlogs by celebrities like Red Velvet’s Seulgi and former Wonder Girls member So Hee. Wander through the quaint streets of Seochon, where traces of your favorite stars await around every corner.

| Tongin Market

Credit: Tongin Market Association

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Tongin Market is a historic traditional market offering a unique culinary experience—the iconic Coin Lunchbox. Visitors can purchase old-style brass coins (Yeopjeon) at the Coin Lunchbox Café, where they also receive a lunchbox container. Use these coins to pick out popular Korean street foods like stir-fried tteokbokki, rice cake skewers, and gimbap from various vendors. After filling your lunchbox, enjoy your meal at the café. And don’t worry about unused coins—they can either be refunded or kept as a souvenir!

| Daeo Bookstore

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Established in 1951, Daeo Bookstore is Seoul’s oldest bookstore and a designated Seoul Future Heritage site, steeped in history and nostalgia. For older generations, it’s a reminder of its secondhand bookstore days, while Gen Z recognizes it as the backdrop for IU’s "Kkot-Galpi" album cover. Today, the bookstore has transformed into a cozy book café, where purchasing a drink or postcard grants access to its delightful interior. Behind the counter lies a cozy, open courtyard in a square layout, where celebrities like IU and BTS’s RM have captured memorable photos. Visit to create your own timeless moments in this charming and artistic space.

| Chebudong Sujebi and Barley Rice

Credit: Naver Blog-healthcare913

Credit: Naver Blog-healthcare913

Chebudong Sujebi and Barley Rice is a Korean restaurant renowned for its unique pairing: order the hand-pulled dough soup, and you’ll also receive a small serving of barley rice—and vice versa. The warm, earthy aroma of the scorched rice tea served in place of water is the perfect way to whet your appetite. The hand-pulled dough soup features thin, tender dough, creating a light and comforting dish. For a personal twist, mix fresh young summer radish and red chili paste into the barley rice to craft your own bibimbap. Highlighted in a vlog by Red Velvet’s Seulgi, this cozy spot is perfect for savoring a warm, wholesome meal—especially as the weather cools.

| Classic Gotaek

Credit: Classic Gotaek

Credit: Classic Gotaek

Classic Gotaek is a beautifully renovated hanok that now serves as a private accommodation. This historic house gained fame as a key location in the film “Architecture 101,” where it was depicted as the secret hideout of Seo-yeon (played by Suzy) and Seung-min (played by Lee Je-hoon). It’s also the spot where they promised to reunite on the first snowfall. While the house has undergone several renovations since the film, the wooden porch floor where the two characters shared a poignant moment remains intact. In addition to lodging, the venue hosts music concerts featuring classical, traditional Korean, and film scores, making it a worthwhile destination for a brief visit, even without an overnight stay.

* This column was last updated in November 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to confirm details before visiting.