Yeonnam-dong is a stronghold for artists, musicians and fashionistas. Hip cafes, boutiques and galleries line narrow alleyways and attract trendsetters from across the city. Shop for treasures at the flea market, dine at Instagram-worthy cafes and relax in one of the city’s most popular urban parks.
Things to do in Yeonnam-dong
Yeonnam-dong boasts some of the best shopping in Seoul. Whether you’re hunting for treasures in second-hand bookstores or browsing designer clothing in independent boutiques, it’s easy to splash cash in this neighbourhood. You’ll find everything from vintage clothes and antiques to handmade jewellery and accessories at Dongjin Market. The flea market opens on weekends and is a great place to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
You can find some of the best restaurants in Seoul in Yeonnam-dong. From European-style cafes serving croissants and espresso to Asian eateries housed in traditional “hanok” wooden houses, there’s a huge variety on offer. Kickstart your day with vegan fare at a plant-filled brunch café and purchase rainbow-coloured cakes from artisan bakeries. Wind up a day of sightseeing with pizza, pasta and wine at an Italian trattorias or a steaming bowl of noodles at a hole-in-the-wall eatery in the Chinatown district.
Stretch your legs and escape the traffic in Gyeongui Line Forest Park. The narrow park follows the route of an old railway for six kilometres and is lined with trees, flowers and grassy areas. Cafes dot the park and serve Korean specialties iced banana milk and “sunggnyung” rice tea. You’ll also see beer carts where you can purchase ice-cold Hite lager.
Getting around Yeonnam-dong
Yeonnam-dong is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Access the neighbourhood via Hongik University Station on Line 2 and Gajwa Station on the Gyeongui–Jungang Line of the Seoul Subway. Incheon International Airport is one hour away by car or train.