Hanbok Rental

Did you know you can enter the Seoul's palaces for free if you're wearing a Hanbok?

Wearing a hanbok, Korea’s traditional dress, is one of the most memorable cultural experiences you can have in Seoul. You’ll find rental shops around popular landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village where you can choose from vibrant modern styles or more traditional designs.

Most shops offer packages that include hairstyling, accessories (like hairpieces, hats, or handbags), and even lockers for your belongings. Rentals are typically available for 2–4 hours or a full day, making it easy to take photos while exploring the palaces and historic streets.

Prices range from ₩15,000–₩40,000 ($12–$30 USD) depending on the style and rental duration, with couple and group discounts often available. For the best experience, visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds and have more time to explore in your hanbok.

You are also required to bring a deposit. This is so the shop can ensure you return your hanbok. A deposit will typically be 50,000 won or your passport. Rental costs vary depending on what style and accessories you choose.

There are two types of hanbok rental places (premium & standard).

Premium Hanboks

• Higher quality fabrics, intricate embroidery, and elegant details.

• Wider selection of styles, including modernized hanbok, special couple sets, or themed designs (like royal costumes).

• Often includes extra services: hairstyling, accessories, handbags, and professional draping assistance.

Standard Hanboks

• More budget-friendly (₩10,000–₩20,000 / $8–$15 USD for 2–4 hours).

• Simple designs with lighter fabrics and fewer layers.

• A good option if you just want the experience of taking photos at the palaces or around Bukchon Hanok Village.

• Limited selection, with popular sizes sometimes running out during busy times.

Here are a few Hanbok companies I recommend:

Hanbok Lina (Premium Hanbok)

• https://www.instagram.com/hanboklina/

• https://www.tiktok.com/@kimlina.kr

• WhatsApp: +82 10-9886-5239

Moahanbok (Premium Hanbok)

• https://www.instagram.com/moahanbok/

Hanboknam (standard hanbok)

One Day Hanbok (standard hanbok)

FAQ

Is wearing hanbok cultural appropriation?
No — it’s actually encouraged! Many Koreans love it when foreigners wear hanbok and appreciate their culture. The Korean Tourism Organization even promotes hanbok rental as part of the cultural experience. In my own experience, people often compliment how beautiful hanbok looks on foreigners. Just remember to be respectful.

1. Can I make a hanbok reservation for the same day?
Yes. Some shops, like Hanboknam (one of the larger studios), accept same-day bookings. You can even walk in without a reservation, though the later you go, the fewer choices you’ll have. For the best selection, it’s smarter to book ahead.

2. Can I leave my belongings in the store?
Most hanbok rental shops provide lockers or secure storage behind the counter. You’ll get a key or a claim tag so you can explore hands-free.

3. Can I wear hanbok year-round?
Absolutely! Hanbok is worn in every season. Shops sometimes provide seasonal accessories (like shawls in winter or lighter fabrics in summer) so you’ll be comfortable.

4. How long does it take to get ready?
Plan on up to an hour. Choosing your hanbok, trying on a couple of options, and having your hair styled all takes time — but it’s part of the fun.

5. Can I choose my own hanbok and accessories?
Yes! You’ll be able to browse and pick your own colors, styles, and accessories like hairpieces, headbands, or bags. If you’re unsure, staff are great at recommending combinations.

6. Can I rent a hanbok on a rainy day?
Yes. Shops often adjust the length of the skirt or provide clips so it won’t drag on wet ground. Just be careful when walking outdoors.

Seochon Hanok Village (also called Sejong Village) (서촌마을) sits just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace — which is where the name “West Village” comes from. It’s one of the oldest neighborhoods dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, and walking around feels like stepping back into old Seoul with its charming hanok houses tucked into little alleys.

Directions & Location

• Address: 서울특별시 종로구 자하문로7길 | Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/xBwJpbkz

What to see & do

Jahamun-ro Main Road
Hop out of Gyeongbokgung Station (line 3, exit 2) and you’ll land right on Jahamun-ro, a street lined with tall ginkgo trees that look especially magical in autumn.

You’ll spot familiar shops like Olive Young and Paris Baguette, and from here you can easily duck into Sejong Village Food Street, Jahamun-ro 7-gil Café Street, or Tongin Market.

✨ Pro tip: If it’s your first time and you’re not sure where to go, just follow the younger crowd from Jahamun-ro once the sun sets — they’ll lead you straight into the busiest alleys of Seochon.

Ogin-gil
Right across the road from Jahamun-ro 7-gil is Ogin-gil, where you’ll find old Western-style houses mixed with cozy cafes, quirky shops, and little workshops. This street eventually leads you to Suseongdong Valley — a scenic spot that also doubles as the trailhead for hikes up Inwangsan Mountain.

Park No-soo Art Museum 박노수미술관
Tucked along Ogin-gil, this house-turned-museum once belonged to Park No-soo (1927–2013), one of Korea’s most celebrated artists. Inside, you’ll find his donated works, antique furniture, and sculptures. Just note — no photos allowed inside!
⏰ 10am–6pm (closed Mondays & major holidays)
💸 ₩3,000 adults, ₩1,800 youth, ₩1,200 children

Suseongdong Valley 수성동계곡
At the very end of Ogin-gil, you’ll hit the Suseongdong Valley, sitting at the foot of Inwangsan. It’s a peaceful little nature escape right in the middle of Seoul, perfect for resting your legs or kicking off a hike deeper into the mountain trails.

Restaurant & Cafe Recommendations

Tosokchon Samgyetang 토속촌 삼계탕

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로5길 5 | 5 Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/FW6hFEuf

• One of the most famous Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) restaurants in Seoul. There is always a long line, but it moves quickly.

Scooper Gelato 스쿠퍼젤라또 경복궁점

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로7길 10 1층 | 1st floor, 10 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/xhzCDTMJ

• Know for its gelato & affogato (Italian dessert of gelato with espresso).

• Order and payment is made at the on-site kiosk with its menu.

Seochon Geumsang Croquette 서촌금상고로케

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로9길 24 1층 103호 | 103, 1st floor, 24 Jahamun-ro 9-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5k7fk9y5

• Known for their freshly-made potato croquettes. TKnown for their freshly fried potato croquettes — no flour, just pure potato goodness with fun fillings like shrimp, mozzarella, and even wasabi.
  💡Box packaging is available for 5 or more croquettes purchased

SCOFF (Seochon 2nd Branch) 서촌스코프 2호점

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로7길 54 | 54 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/GTn3ixcY

• 10:00 - 19:00 (Mon - Fri), 10:00 - 20:00 (Sat - Sun)

• Bakes amazingly good pound cakes, brownies, and scones.

Daeo Bookstore 대오서점

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로7길 55 | 55 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/Fio7kkSQ

• 12:00 - 21:00

The oldest bookstore in Seoul, now a café and cultural space. Famous for its blue storefront, TV drama cameos, and even a BTS RM visit. The bookstore was the filming location for several TV shows and also appeared on the album cover for Singer IU’s "A Flower Bookmark". BTS RM visited the store too.
💡You must purchase a drink (per person) if you want to look inside.

Hyoja Bakery 효자베이커리

• Address: 서울 종로구 필운대로 54 | 54 Pilundae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/Gn0ysJpl

• 8:00 - 20:20. Closed on Mondays.

Since 1985, this old-school bakery has been serving bread to the Blue House (Korea’s presidential residence). Their corn bread, onion cream cheese soboro bread, and fermented fig bread are top sellers.

Jalppajin Buckwheat Noodles Seochon 잘빠진메밀 서촌 본점

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로11길 4 | 4, Jahamun-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5chuoVpg

• 100% buckwheat noodles (also known as Makguksu) are made in-house.

• Menu includes buckwheat noodles, pancakes, boiled pork, Korean beef tartare, buckwheat crepe, steamed/fried buckwheat dumplings, and buckwheat dumpling stew.

  • Makgeolli fans — don’t miss their sampler with 6 different kinds to try.

  • Tip: Join the waitlist on the Catchtable app before you go. The restaurant is small, so there’s always a wait. (You can also use the kiosk on-site.)

  • Look for the yellow tent out front — it’s set up with seats so you can wait comfortably until your table is ready.

La Farina 라파리나 서촌본점

• Seoul locals swear by this bagel shop. With 30+ bagel flavors, it’s a great alternative if you don’t want to wait hours at London Bagel Museum in Anguk.

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로 44 | 44 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/xf5AiD0T

• 10:00 - 21:00 (1F), 10:00 - 20:00 (2F)

• www.instagram.com/lafarina.bagel

The largest and most iconic of Seoul’s five royal palaces, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-visit if your into history, culture, and photography. Built in 1395, it served as the main seat of the Joseon Dynasty and remains one of the most important cultural landmarks in Korea.

Location & Hours

• Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 사직로 161)

• Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) → Exit 4 (u-turn) or Exit 5 (straight to main gate)

• Closed: Tuesdays

• Hours:

  • Jan–Feb: 9:00am – 5:00pm

  • Mar–May: 9:00am – 6:00pm

  • Jun–Aug: 9:00am – 6:30pm

  • Sep–Oct: 9:00am – 6:00pm

  • Nov–Dec: 9:00am – 5:00pm

• Changing of the Guard: 10:00am & 2:00pm at Gwanghwamun Gate (free to watch)

  The ceremony is a reenactment of this custom of the royal court which was performed during the Joseon Dynasty to ensure security of the king and his court.
  

Pricing

• Admission: Adults ₩3,000 | Youth (7–18) ₩1,500 | Under 7 & Over 64: Free

• Free Entry: Wear a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for free admission — dozens of rental shops are nearby.
  

Tips:

1. Arrive Early → Be at the gates by 8:45am. Enter as soon as it opens at 9:00am. This way you beat the tour buses & you'll have better photos.

2. Start at Geunjeongjeon Hall (근정전) → The throne room. Fewer crowds early on.

3. Head West to Gyeonghoeru Pavilion (경회루) → The iconic banquet hall on water.

4. Go North Through the Residences → Gangnyeongjeon (king’s quarters), Gyotaejeon (queen’s quarters), and inner court halls.

5. Hyangwonjeong Pavilion (향원정) → Cross the small bridge to this photogenic pond pavilion. By this time, crowds will be moving the opposite direction.

6. Wrap Up → Visit the National Folk Museum inside the palace grounds, or exit north to Seochon/Tongin Market for lunch.

7. Don’t skip the Changing of the Guard at Gwanghwamun Gate — it’s colorful and free.

8. A Royal Palace Pass (₩10,000) covers Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung (with Secret Garden), Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Jongmyo Shrine — great value if you’re visiting multiple sites.

9. The palace is mostly outdoors, so bring water in summer and bundle up in winter.

Tours

• Free Guided Tours: Start at Heungnyemun Gate Information Center.

  • English: 11:00am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm (daily, except Tuesdays)

  • Japanese: 10:00am, 2:30pm

  • Chinese: 10:30am, 3:00pm

  • Other languages (Vietnamese/Spanish) at select times.

• Special Events: Moonlight Tours, concerts, and cultural performances (book via Creatrip).

• Photo Tip: Hire a local photographer or rent a hanbok for stunning palace shots.

Whats nearby

• Bukchon Hanok Village → Traditional neighborhood with cafes & galleries.

• Tongin Market → Try the famous dosirak (lunchbox) cafeteria.

• Insadong → Souvenirs, tea houses, and Jogyesa Temple.

• MMCA Seoul (Modern & Contemporary Art Museum) → Next to the east gate.

• Bugaksan Trail → Scenic hike behind the palace with fortress wall views.
  

If you want to dive deeper into Korea’s traditions and everyday life through history, then stop at National Folk Museum. It’s located right inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, so it’s really easy to tack onto a palace visit. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on old Korean houses, agricultural tools, folk beliefs, clothing, and more — all giving you a deeper understanding of how Koreans lived through the ages. There are also outdoor exhibit spaces and reconstructed heritage buildings on site.

Address: 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (inside Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds)

Naver map: https://naver.me/5XJIkKAd
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry 5:00 PM)
Admission: Free with your Gyeongbokgung Palace ticket (or you may pay separately depending on exhibits)
Tip: Set aside 45 minutes to 1 hour to walk it fully, especially if you want to step into the outdoor areas. Try to visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) so you can browse more quietly.

Cheong Wa Dae, better known as the Blue House, was the official presidential office and residence from 1948–2022. Sitting against the backdrop of Bugaksan Mountain, it has hosted presidents from Syngman Rhee all the way to Moon Jae-in. Today, it’s open to the public for free tours — a rare chance to walk inside what used to be the heart of Korean politics.

Location & address

• Address: 서울특별시 종로구 청와대로 1 (세종로) | 1, Cheongwadae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Subway:

  • Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 4) → 15 min walk

  • Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 1) → 20 min walk

• Admission: Free (reservation required)

• Official Website
  

Touring Cheong Wa Dae

You can enter through three gates: Yeongbinmun Gate (west), the Main Gate (center), or Chunchumun (Spring & Autumn) Gate (east).

Online Reservations

• 🕒 Hours: 09:00 – 18:00 (last entry 17:30)

• ❌ Closed: Tuesdays

• Book up to 4 weeks in advance

• Up to 6 people per reservation

• Requires a local Korean mobile number for verification

👉 Best for locals or visitors with a Korean SIM.

On-site Applications (best option for tourists)

• Available at the General Info Center near the Main Gate

• 🕒 Issued at 09:00 & 13:30 daily

• Max 500 visitors per session

Tips

• 🚭 No smoking anywhere on the grounds

• ☔ If it rains, access to building interiors may be restricted

• 😷 Masks optional outdoors, required indoors

If you like nature, then make sure you also walk the Bugaksan Mountain Trail

When Cheong Wa Dae opened, the once-restricted southern trails of Bugaksan (Baegaksan) opened too — for the first time in 54 years!

• Short scenic loop starting behind the Presidential Residence

• Highlights: Stone Buddha from Gyeongju + Ounjeong Pavilion

• Longer routes: Enter/exit at Samcheong Info Center or Chigung Info Center

Perfect for adding a nature walk to your cultural visit.

The road from Gyeongbokgung’s Sinmumun Gate to Cheong Wa Dae is lined with towering ginkgo trees. Come in autumn and you’ll be treated to golden yellow foliage — one of Seoul’s prettiest seasonal walks.

Tongin Market is one of Seoul’s most unique traditional markets, known for its Lunchbox Café where you can buy Korean street food with old-style brass coins (yeopjeon).

• Founded in 1941 during Japanese occupation, it was originally built for Japanese residents.

• After the Korean War, it became a community hub for Korean street vendors.

• Today, it has about 75 stalls, selling everything from home-cooked side dishes to fresh produce and fruit.

Location details

• Address: 18, Jahamun-ro 15-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 자하문로15길 18)

• Naver map: https://naver.me/xs3GxpjH

• Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 2). 10 min walk.

• Hours: Market stores: 7:00 – 21:00 (varies by stall)

• Lunchbox Café: 11:00 – 15:00 (Mon–Fri) / until 16:00 (Sat–Sun, public holidays)

  • Closed Tuesdays & every 3rd Sunday

• Admission: Free to enter

• tonginmarket.modoo.at

Must do

The highlight of Tongin Market is making your own custom lunchbox.

How it works:

1. Go to the 2F Lunchbox Café → buy a set of brass coins (₩500 each). A typical set is 20 coins (₩10,000).

2. You’ll get an empty lunchbox tray. Walk around the market and pay for food at participating stalls (look for the “Lunchbox Café” sign).

   • Most dishes = 2–4 coins.

   • Popular options: tteokbokki, fried chicken, dumplings, pancakes, japchae, gimbap, braised dishes, and side dishes.

3. Return to the café (2F or 3F) to sit down, grab utensils, and eat. Beverages available for purchase.

💡 Tip: If you run out of coins, you can pay cash at most stalls. Unused coins can be refunded.

One of the most famous Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) restaurants in Seoul. There is always a long line, but it moves quickly.

Address & Location

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로5길 5 | 5 Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/FW6hFEuf

If you’ve never had gamja-tang before, I highly recommend you change that when you go to Korea. And if you think it’s “potato soup” like I did for years, it’s actually pork backbone soup and it’s…insane. This place near Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung is a perfect spot for your walk around day seeing the sites!

Must hit bites: Just get a 2-3 serving size of the gamja-tang and be sure to leave room for the fried rice at the end!

Address: 서울 종로구 사직로12길 1-5

Naver map: https://naver.me/FsRs1fdA

Known for their freshly fried potato croquettes — no flour, just pure potato goodness with fun fillings like shrimp, mozzarella, and even wasabi. Box packaging is available for 5 or more croquettes purchased

Address & Location

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로9길 24 1층 103호 | 103, 1st floor, 24 Jahamun-ro 9-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5k7fk9y5

Famous for their 100% buckwheat noodles (also known as Makguksu) are made in-house. Menu includes buckwheat noodles, pancakes, boiled pork, Korean beef tartare, buckwheat crepe, steamed/fried buckwheat dumplings, and buckwheat dumpling stew.

Address & Location

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로11길 4 | 4, Jahamun-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5chuoVpg

Tips

• Makgeolli fans — don’t miss their sampler with 6 different kinds to try.

• Join the waitlist on the Catchtable app before you go. The restaurant is small, so there’s always a wait. (You can also use the kiosk on-site.)

• Look for the yellow tent out front — it’s set up with seats so you can wait comfortably until your table is read

Italian Cuisine in a Hanok Setting; famous for Truffle Pasta and Tiramisu

Naver map: https://naver.me/xZVbsXVc

Know for its gelato & affogato (Italian dessert of gelato with espresso).

Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로7길 10 1층 | 1st floor, 10 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Naver map: https://naver.me/xhzCDTMJ

💡Order and payment is made at the on-site kiosk with its menu.

A homestyle Korean spot loved for its comforting dishes like Perilla Seed Kalguksu (깨칼국수), Seafood & Green Onion Pancake, Acorn Jelly, and a solid selection of makgeolli (Korean rice wine). Featured in many local TV programs.

Address & Location

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로1길 16 | 16 Jahamun-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5D8tud6f

• Hours: 11:00 – 22:30

Known for gopchang (곱창, beef small intestines), daechang (대창, large intestines), and soyeomtong (소염통, beef heart). A must-visit if you want to try the famous Korean-style grilled intestines you see in mukbangs.

If the restaurant at this main building is full, they may guide you to its Garden Annex 서촌뜰애우별관 (115-1 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul) located 1 min walk away.

Address & Location

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로1나길 1 | 1 Jahamun-ro 1na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/xExWVQeA

• Hours: 11:00 – 23:00

• www.instagram.com/sechongopchang

A super popular seafood restaurant (Blue RibbonAward) with lines that can last hours. Signature dishes include Herring Roe Bibimbap, Squid Sashimi, East Sea Shrimp Sashimi, and the Yeosu Water Parsley & Clam Pancake.

• On-site queueing at the Catchtable kiosk starts at 11:00 AM, while the app’s remote waitlist opens at 3:00 PM. The restaurant itself opens at 12:30 PM.

Address & Location:

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5oE5C2uX

• Hours: 12:30 – 23:00 (Closed Sun) | Catchtable waitlist available

Sejong Village Food Street is a 280m stretch of restaurants and bars in Seochon Hanok Village, just steps from Gyeongbokgung Palace. Once called Geumcheon Market, the area was officially renamed in 2011. Sejong Village Food Street is where locals eat after visiting Gyeongbokgung. It feels authentic but accessible, with something for everyone: raw seafood lovers, BBQ fans, and travelers wanting casual Korean noodles and pancakes with makgeolli.

The street mixes old-school eateries with trendy renovated spots. Expect menus taped to doors, posters showing TV features, and plenty of locals and tourists queuing up for their favorites.

Location Details

📍 Address: Jahamun-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 자하문로1길)

• Naver map: https://naver.me/Fr7xMsjA

• Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 2). Walk straight, turn left onto Jahamun-ro 1-gil. 1 min walk

• Hours: Vary by restaurant (most open late morning → late evening).

• Closed to traffic: Daily from 11:00 – 22:00 → fully pedestrian-friendly.

Recommended Restaurants

Anju Maeul (안주마을) – Seafood & Raw Specialties

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5oE5C2uX

• Hours: 12:30 – 23:00 (Closed Sun) | Catchtable waitlist available

• Blue Ribbon Survey (2020–2025)

• What to order:

  • Herring Roe Bibimbap (signature)

  • Squid sashimi & East Sea shrimp sashimi

  • Yeosu clam pancake

  • Pollack roe & tofu soup

• Expect long queues — remote waitlist opens at 3:00pm, doors at 12:30pm.

Bonefire Grill (뼈탄집) – Pork BBQ & Stews

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5D8tutpm

• Hours: 12:00 – 23:00 | bornpig.co.kr

• Blue Ribbon Survey 2025

• What to order:

  • Aged pork belly (charcoal grilled)

  • Spicy pork bone stew

  • Charcoal rice (nurungji style)

  • Naengmyeon & doenjang-jjigae side dishes

Seochon Tteulaeu Gopchang Town (서촌뜰애우곱창타운) – Grilled Intestines

• Hours: 11:00 – 23:00 |

• Instagram

• Naver map: https://naver.me/xExWVQeA

What to order:

• Assorted set: small intestines, large intestines, heart

• Beef tripe hot pot

• Fried rice with chives

• If full, staff may guide you to their nearby annex (별관).

Chebudong Janchijip (체부동잔치집) – Noodles, Pancakes, & Makgeolli

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5D8tud6f

• Hours: 11:00 – 22:30

• What to order:

  • Perilla seed kalguksu (creamy broth)

  • Seafood & green onion pancake

  • Acorn jelly (dotorimuk)

  • Dumplings, kimchi pancakes, potato pancakes, mung bean pancakes

  • Great spot for makgeolli + pancake pairing.
    

💡 Other popular stops:

• Kimjin Moksam (김진목삼) – Pork BBQ

• XUZIKX Gyeongbokgung (우직 경복궁점) – Beef BBQ
  

Tips

• Many restaurants don’t display English names → use Naver Maps or Catchtable for accurate listings.

• Come hungry — portions are generous, and sharing dishes is common.

• Expect lines at peak hours (especially dinner and weekends). If possible, use Catchtable for reservations.

A famous pork BBQ restaurant that’s been featured on local TV. Bestsellers include Aged Pork Belly, Spicy Grilled Pork Bone, and Charcoal-Grilled Rice. Selected for the Blue Ribbon Survey in 2025.

Address & Location

• Naver map: https://naver.me/5D8tutpm

• Hours: 12:00 – 23:00 | bornpig.co.kr

• Blue Ribbon Survey 2025

• www.bornpig.co.kr

• What to order:

  • Aged pork belly (charcoal grilled)

  • Spicy pork bone stew

  • Charcoal rice (nurungji style)

  • Naengmyeon & doenjang-jjigae side dishes

Tucked away in Tongui-dong near Gyeongbokgung Palace, this restaurant has been serving high-end traditional Korean cuisine since 1978. It’s often chosen for state banquets, so you know you’re in for something special.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kukbingwan_official/

Reservations: DM their instagram account for reservations or book via catch table.

📍 Location & Hours

• Address: 14 Jahamun-ro 9-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 자하문로9길 14)

• Nearest Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 3)

• Hours: 11:30am – 10:00pm (break time 3pm – 5pm)

• Naver map: https://naver.me/FO9omQ5I
  

What to Order

Kukbingwan specializes in set-course meals (hanjeongsik, 한정식), showcasing seasonal ingredients and classic Korean flavors presented beautifully. Expect:

• Jeon (전): Lightly pan-fried pancakes, usually seafood or vegetable-based.

• Galbijjim (갈비찜): Tender braised short ribs, sweet-savory perfection.

• Jeongol (전골): Hot pot dishes that arrive bubbling at your table.

• Assorted Banchan (반찬): A colorful array of side dishes, from kimchi to namul.

If you’re looking for premium Korean beef in a stylish yet approachable setting, Anyway Beef (기승전우) is a must-visit. The name itself is a playful nod to the phrase “기승전결” (the structure of storytelling), but here it’s all about beef from start to finish.

The restaurant specializes in high-quality Hanwoo (Korean beef), offering everything from tender cuts of sirloin to beautifully marbled ribeye. The experience is elevated with tableside grilling done to perfection—whether you prefer it rare or with that golden-brown crust.

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anywaybeef/

• Book reservation here: https://www.catchtable.net/shop/anywaybeef

• Address: 서울시 종로구 사직로8길 15-3 1층

• Naver map: https://naver.me/FPn5W0HN

• Hours: 11:30~23:00 (break time 15:00~17:00)

Since 1985, this old-school bakery has been serving bread to the Blue House (Korea’s presidential residence). Their corn bread, onion cream cheese soboro bread, and fermented fig bread are top sellers.

Address & Directions

• Address: 서울 종로구 필운대로 54 | 54 Pilundae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/Gn0ysJpl

• 8:00 - 20:20. Closed on Mondays.

The oldest bookstore in Seoul, now a café and cultural space. Famous for its blue storefront, TV drama cameos, and even a BTS RM visit. The bookstore was the filming location for several TV shows and also appeared on the album cover for Singer IU’s "A Flower Bookmark". BTS RM visited the store too.

Address & Location

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로7길 55 | 55 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/Fio7kkSQ

• Hours: 12:00 - 21:00

• You must purchase a drink (per person) if you want to look inside

Bakery with amazingly good pound cakes, brownies, and scones.

Address & Location

• Address: 서울 종로구 자하문로7길 54 | 54 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Naver map: https://naver.me/GTn3ixcY

• Hours: 10:00 - 19:00 (Mon - Fri), 10:00 - 20:00 (Sat - Sun)

Bar Pomme is the sister to Bar Cham. The name means “apple” in French, and you’ll notice the fruit theme running through the menu. The space itself is cozy and low-lit, with a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to settle in for a couple of drinks.

What to try:

• The Corn Butterble is their signature — a mix of roasted corn, whisky, and cacao nibs that somehow tastes indulgent but balanced.

• Definitely go for one of their apple or fruit-forward cocktails — that’s what they do best.

• If you’re not sure what to order, just chat with the bartenders. They’re friendly and love customizing based on what flavors you’re into.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomme_bar/?hl=en

Naver map: https://naver.me/Fuz5xq6U

Bar Cham is my favorite cocktail bar in Seoul. It's tucked inside a traditional hanok near Jongno. The menu changes seasonally, and each drink is based off of Korean culture or ingredients. You can just tell the bartenders are obsessed with their craft.

Bar Cham ranked 6th on Asia’s 50 Best Bars and 53rd on the World’s 50 Best Bars list — making it one of the top cocktail bars not just in Korea, but globally. It gets busy, especially on weekends, so definitely make a reservation.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bar.cham/

Cobbler is a speakeasy-style bar hidden in a hanok near Gyeongbokgung. There’s no menu — the bartender asks what flavors you like and makes something tailored to you. Drinks are polished, the whiskey list is solid, and you even get a small cobbler dessert when you sit down. It’s cozy, intimate, and best if you want a quieter night with well-crafted cocktails. Go early since seating is limited.