Seongsu is no longer just a “rising” neighborhood. Once lined with factories, this area has transformed into Seoul’s most creative and trend-driven district. Old brick buildings now house design cafés, warehouses have turned into galleries, and the charm lies in the contrast between old and new. This walking guide introduces 7 hand-picked locations that let…
1. Café Onion Seongsu
Address: 8, Achasan-ro 9-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Subway: Line 2, Seongsu Station Exit 2 – 5 min walk
Café Onion is the perfect place to start your day in Seongsu.
Housed in a former metal workshop, this café embodies the industrial charm the neighborhood is known for.
Exposed concrete walls, rusted steel frames, and abundant natural light create a rough yet cozy atmosphere.
Inside, the space is open and filled with long tables and the warm scent of fresh-baked bread.
The garlic baguette and croissants are signature favorites—crispy on the outside, soft and rich on the inside.
There’s even a backyard terrace that catches the morning sun, making it a peaceful start to your trip.
Why Visit:
- Photogenic industrial interior
- Must-try garlic baguette and cube croissants
- Outdoor terrace for a relaxing morning
2. Daelim Changgo Gallery
Address: 78, Seongsui-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Subway: Seongsu Station Exit 3 – 5 min walk
Once a rice warehouse, this renovated building now serves as a cultural complex.
From the outside, it looks like a historic brick storage facility.
Step inside, and you’ll find a spacious gallery, café, and a curated bookstore—all under one roof.
Art exhibitions rotate regularly, focusing on photography, contemporary art, and design, and admission is free.
The café area is tranquil and spacious, ideal for working, journaling, or simply recharging with a drink.
It’s a great place to slow down and take a break from fast-paced city life.
Why Visit:
- Free contemporary art exhibitions
- Calm, spacious, photogenic interior
- Coffee + culture experience in one stop
3. Seongsu Yeonbang
Address: 14, Seongsui-ro 14-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Subway: Seongsu Station Exit 3 – 6 min walk
Seongsu Yeonbang is a multi-brand lifestyle space that brings together Seoul’s trendiest local labels.
Inside, you’ll find fashion, home goods, stationery, dessert shops, and more.
Each store has its own interior design, making the whole building feel like a mini design village.
There’s even a rooftop terrace with a view of Seoul Forest.
It’s a perfect stop for travelers who want to experience Seoul’s creative lifestyle culture, beyond tourist souvenirs.
Why Visit:
- Shop brands like GRASO, Grandpa Factory, and more
- Local lifestyle and concept stores in one place
- Rooftop terrace with great views
4. MUUT Seongsu Flagship
Address: 2F, 94 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu
Subway: Seongsu Station Exit 4 – 7 min walk
Contrary to previous errors, MUUT is not a perfume shop—it’s a flagship eyewear and lifestyle store.
Under the “Cracked Earth” theme, the space features sculptural fixtures, rock-shaped benches, and display walls showcasing MUUT’s distinctive glasses and sunglasses.
Why Visit:
- Browse unique, art-forward eyewear
- Marvel at sculptural, gallery-style interiors
- A stylish photo opportunity in an aesthetic space
5. note Perfume Workshop
Address: 2F, 6 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu
Walk: 3 min from MUUT
This hands-on perfume class is one of the most popular experiences in Seongsu.
Over 1 to 1.5 hours, you’ll learn about fragrance notes and blend your own scent with a professional instructor.
Workshops are available in both English and Korean, and the final product is a 50ml bottle of your personalized perfume.
It’s a perfect activity for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking to create a meaningful souvenir.
Why Visit:
- Hands-on 1~1.5 hour workshop (English/Korean)
- Choose base, middle, and top notes
- Bring home your custom fragrance
- Book via Klook:
note Perfume Workshop on Klook
6. Zesty Saloon
Address: 13, Seoulsup 4-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Walk: 3 min walk from note Perfume Workshop
Zesty Saloon is a trendy burger spot just a few steps from Seoul Forest’s back gate.
Famous for its handcrafted burgers—like the signature Wasabi Shrimp Burger—it also offers a cozy, intimate dining vibe with a minimal yet inviting interior.
Why Visit:
- Popular handcrafted burgers, including unique flavors like Wasabi Shrimp
- Cozy 2nd-floor setting ideal for a casual lunch
- Close proximity to Seoul Forest makes it perfect for a walk+meal combo
7. Seoul Forest Waterside Path
Location: Along the stream, near 33, Ttukseom-ro 17-gil, Seongdong-gu
Walk: 4 min walk from Zesty Saloon
After a day full of food, shopping, and galleries, this quiet walking path is the perfect ending.
Less crowded than the main forest areas, the back gate offers shaded trails, benches, and a calm atmosphere.
You’ll see locals walking dogs, taking photos, and just enjoying the peaceful vibe.
It’s an ideal way to wind down and reflect on your Seongsu day.
Why Visit:
- Calm and shaded walking route
- Great sunset photo spot
- Ideal way to end your itinerary
| Time | Location | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 | Café Onion | Morning coffee & croissant |
| 11:00 | Daelim Changgo | Art gallery and quiet café |
| 12:00 | Seongsu Yeonbang | Design shop browsing |
| 13:00 | Zesty Saloon | Handcrafted burger lunch |
| 14:00 | MUUT | Minimalist perfume gallery |
| 14:30 | note Perfume Workshop | Make your own custom fragrance |
| 16:00 | Seoul Forest Waterside | Calm, golden-hour walk by the stream |
Final Thoughts
Seongsu isn’t just “trendy”—it’s a different rhythm of Seoul.
It’s where forgotten factories become culture, and where design lives in every corner.
Take your time. Walk slow. Smell everything.
That’s how you truly experience Seongsu.
This post was automatically translated from the original English version.
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