Seoul, South Korea—a city where ancient palaces coexist with futuristic skyscrapers—offers far more than the usual tourist destinations. If you’re a traveler searching for a unique, authentic, and stylish experience away from the crowds, Seongsu-dong and nearby Seoul Forest are the perfect combination. From industrial-style cafés to lush parks and independent boutiques, this hip neighborhood is quickly becoming one of Seoul’s most beloved hidden gems.
Why Visit Seongsu-dong? The Brooklyn of Seoul
Often referred to as the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” Seongsu-dong has evolved from a gritty industrial area into a creative hub full of local cafés, art studios, and design-forward shops. While areas like Garosu-gil focus on high-end luxury, Seongsu keeps things raw, artistic, and laid-back.
Here, old shoe factories and warehouses have been transformed into cultural spaces. It’s a place where Seoul’s creative youth—baristas, designers, artists, and entrepreneurs—have built a vibrant neighborhood full of energy and inspiration.
Best Cafés in Seongsu-dong: A Coffee Lover’s Guide
One of Seongsu-dong’s biggest draws is its famous Café Street, centered around Yeonmujang-gil. Whether you’re into pour-over perfection, unique interior design, or just a good pastry, you’ll find a spot that suits you.
Here are the top cafés in Seongsu-dong:
Cafe Onion Seongsu
A must-visit café in a renovated warehouse. Known for its industrial chic design, fresh-baked pastries, and scenic rooftop seating.
5to7
Wood-accented interiors and a cozy rooftop. Famous for its soufflés and weekend brunch.
THOUSAND
A retro-style café specializing in American-style pies like banana cream and blueberry cheesecake.
Center Coffee
Overlooking Seoul Forest, this two-story café is ideal for enjoying specialty coffee with a view.
Blue Bottle Seongsu
The very first Korean location of the iconic Blue Bottle Coffee. Spacious, minimal, and packed with unique Seoul-exclusive drinks.
Rain Report Croissant
A café themed around the sound of rain. Come for the croissants, stay for the peaceful ambiance.
Foreplan
Architect-designed café-bar hybrid with a stunning glass ceiling. Transforms into a chic bar in the evening.
Lowide Coffee Bakery
Loved for its house-made bread, pastries, and cozy indoor-outdoor space—especially pleasant during spring and autumn.
Each café reflects the local identity and small-business spirit of Seongsu-dong. No cookie-cutter chains—just originality and passion.
More Things to Do in Seongsu-dong
While café hopping is a highlight, Seongsu-dong offers plenty more:
Independent Boutiques
From Korean streetwear to handmade accessories, local stores line the backstreets. Expect one-of-a-kind finds, not mass-produced goods.
Art Galleries & Studios
Browse pop-up exhibitions and artist-run spaces that feature Seoul’s emerging creative talents.
Street Art & Architecture
Look for murals, graffiti, and buildings that blend concrete, brick, and glass in visually striking ways—perfect for Instagram photos.
Seongsu Shoe Street
Paying homage to the neighborhood’s shoemaking past, this street features custom leather shops where you can watch artisans at work.
Local Eats
Beyond cafés, Seongsu offers a diverse food scene—fusion Korean, vegan, ramen, and even European-style bistros.
Seoul Forest: Green Escape Just Minutes Away
Only a 10–15 minute walk from Seongsu Café Street lies Seoul Forest, one of the city’s largest and most diverse green spaces. Think of it as Seoul’s version of Central Park—only more compact and local.
Things to Do in Seoul Forest:
- Culture & Arts Park: Cherry blossoms in spring, outdoor sculptures, and live performance spaces.
- Eco Forest: Home to deer, elks, and other wildlife you can observe from elevated walkways.
- Butterfly Garden & Botanical Spaces: Seasonal gardens that delight kids and nature lovers.
- Ttukseom Hangang Park: Riverside paths, bike rentals, and picnic spots with Han River views.
- Walking & Biking Trails: Perfect for escaping the city noise and enjoying Seoul at a slower pace.
Tip: Visit during cherry blossom season or fall foliage for the best views and photo ops.
How to Get There
- To Seongsu-dong: Take Seoul Subway Line 2 to Seongsu Station or Ttukseom Station. Café Street is a 5–10 minute walk.
- To Seoul Forest: Ride the Suin–Bundang Line to Seoul Forest Station, or walk from Ttukseom.
Why Foreign Visitors Love Seongsu-dong & Seoul Forest
- Authentic Local Culture: Less touristy than Myeongdong or Hongdae, and far more grounded in Seoul’s real life.
- Photogenic Everywhere: Industrial buildings, art murals, scenic park views—all camera-ready.
- Relaxed Vibe: Ideal for slow travel and discovering places at your own pace.
- All in One Day: Eat, shop, chill, and explore—all within walking distance.
Seongsu-dong and Seoul Forest show Seoul at its best—creative, cozy, and full of contrast. From sipping coffee in a converted warehouse to watching deer in the middle of the city, this area offers something that few tourist districts can: a real, unfiltered slice of local life.