10 Instagram-worthy cafes in South Korea
Feast your eyes as you embark on a “Seoul searching” journey for the finest chillout hotspots
From unmatched beauty standards, foodie paradise and to an insanely thriving pop culture, South Korea is a fast-rising international lifestyle icon. It’s no surprise that its capital, Seoul, is now *the* hottest city in Asia that people are flocking to see and be seen in 📸 - a definite keepsake for the albums is their one-of-a-kind cafes. The interiors are nothing short of awe-inspiring, the atmosphere is on a league of its own and a fine selection of good-looking food & beverage just waiting to be savoured.
Here are our top 10 picks that will make your eyes and tummies never go hungry 😍 and guarantee that you'll find yourself going back to:
1) C.Through – A cuppa of artworks
Fancy to purchase art and drink it too? C.Through is helmed by local Instagram sensation and charming barista Lee Kang Bin (@leekangbin91), who hand-draws wicked art-in-a-cup designs like Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night and life-like depictions of nature. Go on and take our “Monet”! 💵
2) Daerim Warehouse – Stores only the good memories
Lovers of industrial-styled décor will come flocking to this quaint gallery-cafe-restaurant, which was converted from an old warehouse (can’t get more legit than this). Its roomy layout and high ceilings welcome natural light to filter in, and is home to healthy, tall trees. Come on in to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life to a unique kind of calm alongside nature.
3) Hoho Myoll – A whimsical tale as old as time
Hop on this time-machine for a ride of your life! A retro Volkswagen minivan takes centrestage as you enter – and surprise – it doubles up as seats if being cosy is your thing. Walk further in and you’ll be mesmerised by the hodgepodge of Christmas and fairylights ✨that is an oddly-beautiful blend of miniature toys decked along the sides and colourful posters on the wall. Your fairytale story begins here. 📖
4) Midnight in Seoul – All-day breakfast, cereal-ously!
An endearing oxymoron, Midnight in Seoul is the country’s first cereal cafe and lovingly pays tribute to the staple breakfast many of us had as kids (and now too, there’s no shame in it). Your pets are welcome here and you may even catch a glimpse of owner Jo Kwon, singer of the K-pop band 2AM, and his celebrity friends making surprise visits. Get ready to whip out those cameras 📷 and spoons 🥄!
5) StyleNanda Pink Pool Cafe – Dive right in!
Like a scene out of the movie “The Grand Budapest Hotel” 🎟, the cafe’s pink interior and too-cute-to-eat sweet drinks and treats come together in a gorgeous symphony of colours. Dip your toes at the make-believe pool or chill on deck chairs comfortably away from the Sun’s rays. For the ultimate pool party, head on up to the floor above it and bask in the open-air rooftop terrace. Hey DJ, drop that beat!
#Stay: Can't get enough of the waters? Then you’ll love staying at Citadines Han River Seoul, located alongside one of the country’s most historically iconic bodies of water, the island of Seonyudo. Stretch your legs and breathe in the crisp air of Seonyudo Park, while oogling its many geological features, ecosystems and seasonal plants and flowers.
6) Urban Source - Play is the name of the game
Herein lies a legendary “ballroom” (aka ball pit), where with the latest club music plays and throbbing neon lights invite you to lounge and make merry 🎉. Keep your dancing shoes at home and take your fun side out for a spin!
7) Ver’s House – Stress is forbidden
It need only take a second to cultivate an inexplicable love for this unassuming floral paradise 🌹🌺. Indulge in fresh nature’s air as you step into the garden-inspired cafe and try your best not to get lost in the luscious floral displays found just about every corner. Spend quality time alone or with friends, and savour the #priceless sense of peace.
#Stay: Nestled in the Gangbuk area, Somerset Palace Seoul offers a tranquil environment teeming with picturesque gardens and sprawling city views yet away from it all.
8) Ms Yoon in Wonderland – Keeping your heads on (top)
Calling all Alice in Wonderland fans! 📢This is the oh-so perfect spot for the tea-party that you can imagine your #fav characters White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, March Hare and friends come together. Step into the Rabbit Hole and brace yourself for an escapade where crazy is the new normal. 🐰
9) Zapangi – Enter here for a magical time
Forget everything you’ve learnt about doors. The vending machine-entrance here will be an eyeopener. What’s even more fantastic is what’s inside – from unicorn beverages 🦄 to mermaid cakes, the daydreamer in you'll never stop believing.
10) Untitled, 2017 (designed by G-Dragon) – Gem 💎
by the sea
One cannot talk about South Korea without mentioning the scenic Jeju Island. Opened by K-pop sensation G-Dragon, the cafe boasts envious views of the sea through its impressively tall glass windows. Enjoy a cuppa by the seaside 🌊, a picturesque end to a full-filling (pun intended) trip.
#Stay: Somerset Jeju Shinhwa World is located in the south-western part of Jeju. Part of Jeju Shinhwa World Theme Park, it is set to be a world-class premium integrated resort where the fun never ends. #Daebak!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to South Korea and you'll be on your way to collect Instaworthy shots and unforgettable memories ❤
In our next issue, we’ll come closer to home as we feature the launch of South Korea’s highly popular sandwich chain Isaac Toast, which is opening its first store in Singapore’s Plaza Singapura shopping mall. Get ready to whet your appetite 😋
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