5 Trendy Shopping Areas in Seoul

Selected by CNN as one of the “world’s best shopping cities”, Seoul attracts tourists all year round. I have girlfriends who visit Korea at least once a year, kind of like how I visit Bangkok at least once annually for a shopping spree. Flashy urban department stores, shopping malls that are open until dawn, and fashion avenues with the latest trends show Seoul’s appeal in ways no other place can match. Here are 5 top shopping destinations you should not skip when visiting Seoul.

MYEONGDONG

Rated the number one tourist destination by international visitors every year, Myeongdong is home to Korea’s Lotte and Shinsegae flagship department stores, as well as being a battlefield for international brands such as Zara and Uniqlo. Over 100 cosmetics and clothing stores can be found densely packed in each alley, selling imported clothing and the latest trends at quite a reasonable price. If you’re hungry, there’s a stretch of street food stalls to fill your tummies, but they don’t come as cheap as you expect.

Details
Address: Jung-gu, Seoul
Nearest Train Station: Myeong-dong Station (Line 4) Exit 6 or Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Line 2) Exits 6 and 7

HONGDAE

Youth street culture has shaped this area as a direct result of nearby Hongik University which sits at its centre. The alleys are lined with fashion boutiques like A-Land and Bike Repair Shop, many other clothing stores, design shops, and more. The “Free Market” which opens up every Saturday at the playground in front of the main gate of the university sells handmade items by young artists. Want the best Korean fried chicken? There’s a Kyochon chicken outlet located here. Churros 101 can also be found in Hongdae for those with a sweet tooth!

Details
Address: Mapo-gu, Seoul
Nearest Train Station: Hongik University Station (Line 2) Exit 9

EWHA WOMANS UNIVERSITY

Ewha Womans University was founded in 1886 as Korea’s first woman’s college and today, it is Korea’s largest university for women. The high-tech Ewha Campus Complex, designed by world-renowned architect, Dominique Perrault, is famous for its unique and sophisticated façade. Around Ewha Womans University, there is a popular shopping area for young women, selling clothes, shoes, accessories, and houses beauty parlours, and more. Take a break at Issac Toast, or have a hearty meal of army stew!

Details
Address: Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Nearest Train Station: Ewha Womans University Station (Line 2) Exits 2 and 3

SINCHON

Located just a stone’s throw away from Ewha Womans University, the area of Sinchon has many famous restaurants and attractions popular among students. This place also boasts a vibrant atmosphere during Christmas period, with its street lined up with pop-up stalls selling delicately crafted goods and delicious eats.

Details
Address: Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Nearest Train Station: Sinchon Station (Line 2) Exits 2 and 3

DONGDAEMUN FASHION TOWN

This is a large fashion town where modern shopping malls and traditional wholesale markets coexist. Dongdaemun Fashion Town is open 24 hours, making it an excellent place for nighttime shopping. Malls such as Doota, Migliore, and FITIN have not only the latest trends, but also original items by local designers, but expect these places to be pricier.

Details
Address: Jung-gu, Seoul
Nearest Train Station: Dongdaemun Station (Line 1 and 4) Exit 8

To be honest, I really liked Myeongdong and Hongdae! Although many people have told me how good Dongdaemun Fashion Town is, I didn’t find my trip there enjoyable. Happy breaking the bank with your shopping loots!