Hapjeong & Sangsu Seoul
Hapjeong & Sangsu: Seoul's artistic heart, offering a relaxed vibe with unique cafes, boutiques, and creative experiences away from the crowds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Hapjeong & Sangsu Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hapjeong & Sangsu: Seoul's artistic heart, offering a relaxed vibe with unique cafes, boutiques, and creative experiences away from the crowds.
"Escape the hustle and discover Seoul's creative soul in Hapjeong & Sangsu's charming streets."
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Get lost in the charming streets; the best finds are often off the beaten path. :camerawithflash:
💇♀️ Book Hair Appointments
Popular salons fill up fast! Book your magic straight perm or other treatments in advance. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artistic Cafes & Boutiques
Throughout Hapjeong & Sangsu
Discover hidden gem cafes and independent shops with a distinct artistic flair. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Unique Photo Booths
Hapjeong
Capture fun memories with innovative photo booths offering unique angles and styles. A must-try for a quirky souvenir.
Specialty Hair Salons
Hapjeong
Experience top-tier Korean hair treatments, like the popular magic straight perm, at highly-rated salons.

Independent Music Scene
Hapjeong
Explore live music venues and discover emerging Korean artists in this vibrant district.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Plan for Unique Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Get lost in the charming streets; the best finds are often off the beaten path. :camerawithflash:
💇♀️ Book Hair Appointments
Popular salons fill up fast! Book your magic straight perm or other treatments in advance. :admission_tickets:
📸 Try Unique Photo Booths
Experiment with different photo booth concepts for fun, memorable souvenirs. :iphone:
☕️ Cafe Hop Delicately
Many cafes are renovated houses; enjoy the cozy ambiance and unique decor. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Get lost in the charming streets; the best finds are often off the beaten path. :camerawithflash:
💇♀️ Book Hair Appointments
Popular salons fill up fast! Book your magic straight perm or other treatments in advance. :admission_tickets:
📸 Try Unique Photo Booths
Experiment with different photo booth concepts for fun, memorable souvenirs. :iphone:
☕️ Cafe Hop Delicately
Many cafes are renovated houses; enjoy the cozy ambiance and unique decor. :coffee:
🌮 Savor Global Flavors
Don't miss out on diverse food options, from Mexican to unique ice cream. :ice_cream:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Hapjeong & Sangsu for their relaxed, artistic atmosphere and abundance of unique cafes and boutiques, offering a refreshing alternative to busier Seoul districts. The area is praised for its creative vibe and opportunities for discovery, though some find it can be a bit too quiet on weekdays.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hapjeong and Sangsu are easily accessible via the Seoul Subway. Take Line 2 or Line 6 to Hapjeong Station, or Line 6 to Sangsu Station. These stations place you right in the heart of the neighborhoods, making it simple to start exploring on foot. Many visitors find this the most convenient way to reach the area, avoiding traffic.
Yes, the neighborhoods are very walkable and best explored on foot. The streets are filled with independent shops, cafes, and galleries, encouraging leisurely strolls. Wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your exploration.
Taxis are generally available in Hapjeong & Sangsu, especially around the subway stations. However, during peak hours or on weekend nights, you might experience longer wait times. Using a ride-sharing app or the subway is often more reliable.
Yes, you can reach Hapjeong & Sangsu from Incheon Airport by taking the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) to Hongik University Station and then transferring to Subway Line 2 to Hapjeong Station. Alternatively, airport limousine buses also serve the Hongdae/Hapjeong area.
Absolutely! Hapjeong & Sangsu are perfect for a day trip. You can easily spend several hours exploring the unique cafes, boutiques, and street art without feeling rushed. It offers a different vibe compared to more tourist-heavy areas like Myeongdong.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no general admission tickets required to enter the Hapjeong & Sangsu neighborhoods. You are free to wander and explore the streets, shops, and public spaces. However, individual attractions like cafes, boutiques, or specific experiences (like photo booths or hair salons) will have their own costs.
Typically, there are no entrance fees for cafes or shops in Hapjeong & Sangsu. You are expected to purchase something if you wish to stay and enjoy the ambiance, such as a drink or a product. Some specialty experiences, like photo booths, may have a per-session fee.
For popular hair salons in Hapjeong, it's highly recommended to book appointments in advance, especially for services like the 'magic straight perm' mentioned in TikTok videos.
You can usually book through their website, social media direct messages, or by calling them directly. Some salons may also use booking apps.While not as frequent as in larger districts, Hapjeong & Sangsu do host occasional pop-up events, art exhibitions, and small festivals, particularly in the spring and fall. It's best to check local event listings or social media for any ongoing happenings during your visit.
Most cafes and shops in Hapjeong & Sangsu operate from late morning (around 10-11 AM) to late evening (around 9-10 PM). Some smaller boutiques might have slightly shorter hours. It's always a good idea to check the specific hours of any place you plan to visit, especially on weekdays.
📸 📸 Photography
Hapjeong & Sangsu are incredibly photogenic! Look for unique cafe interiors, colorful street art, independent shop facades, and the quirky 'Movement' photo booth for low-angle shots.
The general vibe of the area, with its artistic murals and charming alleys, makes for great candid shots.One trending photo style is the 'low-angle' shot from the 'Movement' photo booth in Hapjeong.
Additionally, capturing the aesthetic of renovated traditional houses turned into cafes is popular. Many visitors also enjoy photographing their stylish outfits against the backdrop of the area's unique streetscapes.Generally, yes, you can take photos inside cafes and shops, especially of your food, drinks, or purchases. However, always be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive photography. Some establishments might have specific policies, so it's polite to observe or ask if unsure.
A versatile setup is best. A standard zoom lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for street scenes and cafe interiors. A prime lens (like a 35mm or 50mm) is excellent for low-light cafe shots and capturing details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the unique photo booths.
There are no widespread restrictions on photography in the public areas of Hapjeong & Sangsu. However, always respect private property and individuals. Some businesses might request you refrain from taking photos of their staff or proprietary displays. The 'Movement' photo booth has specific instructions for its unique low-angle shots.
🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining
Hapjeong & Sangsu offer a diverse culinary scene. You'll find trendy cafes serving unique drinks and desserts,
popular spots for Korean comfort food, and international options like Mexican cuisine. There are also unique dessert places, such as marble ice cream shops.While not as abundant as in some other Seoul neighborhoods, you can find vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, especially in cafes that offer plant-based milk alternatives or have dedicated vegan dishes. It's advisable to check menus online or ask staff for specific recommendations.
The area is renowned for its aesthetic and cozy cafes.
Look for places that have renovated traditional houses or offer unique interior designs. Many cafes serve specialty coffee, teas, and visually appealing desserts. Exploring and stumbling upon a hidden gem is part of the charm.Salsa Rica in Hapjeong is highly recommended for its delicious Mexican food and friendly service, with staff even speaking Spanish.
It's a popular spot for those craving authentic flavors in Seoul.Yes, Hapjeong has unique dessert spots like marble ice cream shops, where the ice cream is made to look like small crystals or marbles.
These offer a visually interesting and tasty treat.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Heart of Hapjeong & Sangsu
Visitors often praise the area for its 'hidden gem' quality, where stumbling upon a charming cafe or a quirky shop feels like a personal discovery. The streets are lined with murals and street art, adding to the bohemian atmosphere. It's a place where you can spend an afternoon simply wandering, soaking in the creative energy, and enjoying the unique aesthetic that defines Hapjeong & Sangsu.
This artistic spirit extends to specialized services. For instance, Hapjeong is known for its high-quality hair salons offering trendy treatments like the 'magic straight perm', showcasing the area's commitment to style and innovation. The presence of independent music venues also contributes to the district's cultural richness, making it a hub for emerging artists and a great spot for those interested in Seoul's underground music scene.
Experiencing Unique Photo Booths
These photo booths are more than just a quick snapshot; they are an activity in themselves. Visitors enjoy the novelty of the different camera positions and the creative possibilities they offer. It's a great way to capture memories with friends or partners, creating a personalized keepsake that reflects the trendy and playful spirit of the neighborhood.
Beyond 'Movement,' the area is dotted with various photo booths, each offering its own style and theme. Whether you're looking for cute, quirky, or artistic shots, you're likely to find a booth that suits your taste. It's a popular activity, especially among younger visitors and couples, looking for a fun, interactive way to document their time in Seoul.
A Culinary Journey Through Hapjeong & Sangsu
For those craving international flavors, Salsa Rica in Hapjeong is a highly recommended spot for delicious Mexican food, noted for its friendly service and authentic taste. On the more unique side, you can discover places serving 'marble ice cream,' a visually striking dessert that resembles small crystals or marbles. This highlights the area's penchant for offering novel and interesting food experiences.
Beyond these specific examples, the neighborhoods are filled with small eateries and restaurants catering to various tastes. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a cozy cafe meal, or a more substantial dinner, Hapjeong & Sangsu provide a delightful culinary adventure for every palate. Exploring these streets often leads to delicious discoveries.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit