Yongsan is one stop from Seoul Station and is Seoul's emerging hotspot where K-POP and local vibes coexist, home to the HYBE headquarters. While classic tourist attractions are great, how about exploring places where authentic local vibes are still alive?
What kind of place is Yongsan?
Close to Seoul Station and next to Yongsan Station where KTX operates, there's a large shopping complex I'PARK Mall, and the HYBE headquarters, home to K-POP stars including BTS. The back alleys extending to Samgakji Station are called 'Yongnidan-gil' and are packed with trendy restaurants and cafes.
Why Yongsan is special right now
Yongsan is an area where 'newness and nostalgia' coexist. While modern buildings have been constructed through redevelopment, the alleyways still retain murals, restaurants with warm old-fashioned atmospheres, and beautifully renovated cafes.
How to get to Yongsan from popular areas
- From Myeongdong: About 10 minutes by subway line 4
- From Seoul Station: Just 1 stop
- From Itaewon: Easily accessible by walking or bus
Popular Yongsan Spots — Must-visit for K-POP Fans
HYBE headquarters
Yongsan is famous for being home to the HYBE global headquarters. Just walking past the building makes you feel one step closer to your favorite artists. There are also fan-focused concept cafes nearby. Check out our K-POP idol cafe guide as well.
Recommended Yongsan Local Restaurants — Where locals dine
There's a reason locals keep coming back. We've carefully selected from legendary restaurants to rising new hotspots!
- SAM SAM SAM (Yongsan branch) — Run by a chef who appeared on Culinary Class Wars Season 2. San Francisco-style restaurant
- Mush — A restaurant where Korean aesthetics shine. Excellent atmosphere, food, and service
- FERMENTS — Rich vegan options. Unique 'chicken-flavored cauliflower' recommended
- Mongtan — One of Korea's top 3 BBQ restaurants. Need to register on waiting list from 11 AM, definitely worth the wait
Yongsan Lifestyle Shops & Shopping
- PATH B.EXIT6 General Store — Interior/plant accessory shop in front of Samgakji Station Exit 6
- LOFA SEOUL — Select shop run by TABAC PRESS. From original interior products to artist works
Smart Transportation & Payment Tips — NAMANE Card
When exploring unfamiliar streets, the biggest concerns are transportation and payment. With the NAMANE card, you can solve everything from subway, bus, taxi to convenience store payments all in one.
- Pre-purchase: Qoo10 / Klook / Creatrip / KKday
- Purchase in Korea: Convenience stores or subway station vending machines
NAMANE card getting started guide | Complete transportation card guide
Yongsan Travel FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can you recommend a half-day course in Yongsan?
The most popular course is visiting HYBE headquarters, then having brunch in Yongnidan-gil, exploring Samgakji restaurants, and shopping at select shops. Total time required is about 4-5 hours, and you can also continue exploring to Itaewon.
Q. Can I go to Mongtan without a reservation?
Mongtan does not accept online reservations, and you must register on the on-site waiting list from 11 AM. It's so popular that some people start lining up from 10 AM, but as it's considered one of Korea's top 3 BBQ places, it's definitely worth the wait.
Q. Are there more K-POP related attractions in Yongsan?
Besides HYBE headquarters, there are numerous K-POP concept cafes and merchandise shops nearby. Also, the famous crosswalk photo spot where actor Byeon Woo-seok filmed is located nearby, continuing to attract fans.
