Seoul is a real shopaholic’s paradise. Moreover, South Korea is famous for the excellent quality of local goods, which, moreover, are not so easy to find in other countries. All conditions are created for pleasant shopping in Seoul. The range of goods offered in local shopping centers is very wide, and the price categories will suit almost any buyer. Therefore, it is not surprising that most visitors specifically set aside two or three days for shopping.
Myeongdong
Myeongdong is a shopping area located in the center of Seoul. This shopping center offer a huge selection of international brands and locally made clothing, cosmetics, perfumery stores, footwear, jewelry, and other accessories. Unlike Namdaemun and Dongdaemun markets, which are also well-known shopping spots, Myeongdong is home to both luxury brand boutiques and inexpensive brands.
There are also such large shopping centers as the Migliore shopping center and the Shinsegae department store. In addition to shopping, this area has many Korean, Western, and Japanese restaurants, fast food restaurants, and other places to eat after shopping. You should definitely try the Korean street food. The two main dishes are “Tteokbokki” and “Eomuk”.
How to get there: get off at Myeongdong subway station (blue subway line, exits 5, 6, 7, and 8).
Dongdaemun
Dongdaemun Market is one of the largest markets in the capital of South Korea. The market got its name from the nearby ancient Dongdaemun Gate, built at the end of the 14th century. You can find literally everything here! Dongdaemun Market is full of a series of retail and wholesale pavilions. The wholesale zone, located in the eastern part of the market directly under the sky attracts with its low prices. In the western part is the retail center, centered around the Doota shopping tower and the Migliore shopping center. The luxury goods on offer in this part of the market are not cheap at all. However, finding the desired item in multi-story centers is easier than on the open market. Since each floor only sells one type of goods.
You can get to the Dongdaemun Market by getting off at the Dongdaemun Stadium subway station on lines 2.4 or 5.
Hongdae
Hongdae area got its name from the abbreviation of Honik University. It is a hot cultural spot for students and talented artists. You can find here the KT&G Sangsangmadang Cultural Center – the 11-story building houses an art gallery, concert hall, cinema, and art area where Seoul people display and sell art and handicrafts. This area is full of unique cloth, shoes, and accessories for those who want to look different. There are many small galleries, interesting cafés, fashion stores, popular restaurants, etc. The Hongdae area is often the site of various events, festivals, street concerts, and performances. Due to its versatility and abundance of entertainment programs, the area attracts numerous people.
Another shopping attraction is Freemarket which is a place where residents communicate with craftsmen who make handicrafts, including works of art. It is a kind of cultural space where you can buy unique works and exchange creative ideas.
To reach the destination take Line 2 Green subway to Hongik University station, exit 9.
Apgujeong
Apgujeong is the high-end shopping district. On its main street, Rodeo Street, you will find many fashion boutiques and accessories of many famous world brands. For example, you can find the famous Galleria department store, and the luxury brands: Cartier Maison, MCM Haus, 10 Corso Como, Ermenegildo Zegna, Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry.
To get to Apgujeong you need to take Subway Line 3 to Apgujeong Station, exit 2.
Insadong
Insadong shopping district is an area of antique shops, art galleries, and tea houses. This place is for you if you want to buy unique Korean souvenirs. You can find the traditional hanbok costumes, folk crafts, traditional teas, vintage toys, as well as works by local artists and potters.
I also suggest you take a break and visit authentic tea-houses. The famous and the old one is the Dawon tea-house.
How to get there: Take subway line 3 to Anguk Station, exit 6. Alternatively, take subway line 1 to Anguk Station, exit 3.
+5 underground shopping malls
Korea also can be distinguished from other countries with its underground life full of shopping malls, as well as restaurants and cafés. So, I am going to introduce you to 5 underground shopping worlds with many shops, entertainment establishments, and dining places. So, take note!
1) Shopping complex Starfield COEX Mall
How to get there: Get off at Exit 5 or 6 of Samseong Station of Seoul Subway Line 2 and walk along the walkway leading to the entrance of Starfield COEX Mall.
Website: www.starfield.co.kr
2) Underground Shopping Center at Gangnam Station
How to get there: Gangnam Station of Seoul Subway Line 2 or Sinbundang Line
3) Goto Mall
How to get there: Express Bus Terminal Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, 7, 9), Exit 8-1.
Website: www.gotomall.kr
Read more: Goto mall (Gangnam Terminal Underground Shopping)
4) Time Square
How to get there: Yeongdeungpo Station (Seoul Subway Line 1).
Website: www.timessquare.co.k
5) Chamsil Underground Shopping Center and Lotte World Mall Tower and Shopping Mall
How to get there: Jamsil Station, Seoul Subway Line 2 and 8.
Website: www.lwt.co.kr
