20 Best Cafés in Seoul You Should Visit in 2025

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Seoul is famous for its incredible café culture, stylish interiors, creative drinks, and mouthwatering desserts. Every neighborhood has unique cafés where you can relax, take great photos, and enjoy high-quality coffee. In this guide to the 20 Best Coffee Shops in Seoul, you will discover what makes each place special, including the ambience and interior design, menu highlights, the overall visitor experience, and the main reasons people love to visit. If you are looking for delicious drinks, yummy pastries, or charming spots to unwind, this guide will show you the top cafés to check out in Seoul.

Korea’s Coffee Origin Story

Emperor Gojong of the Korean Empire

Coffee in Korea began with King Gojong (1852–1919). In 1896, after Japan’s aggression and the death of Queen Min, King Gojong escaped from Gyeongbokgung Palace and stayed at the Russian Embassy for safety. During his stay, he tasted coffee for the first time and quickly fell in love with it. However, he wasn’t the first Korean to drink coffee—years earlier, some Korean officials had already served coffee aboard foreign warships during diplomatic visits.

By the mid-1880s, coffee was even being served to foreign guests in the royal palace. When King Gojong later returned to Deoksugung Palace, he enjoyed coffee so much that he built a small building called Jeonggwang-heon, where he and his guests could relax and drink coffee together. This spot is believed to be Korea’s first café. Even during the Japanese Occupation, when the king was confined to Changdeokgung Palace, coffee remained his favorite drink.

Back then, coffee symbolized modernity and Western influence, and the royal family, elites, and intellectuals mostly enjoyed it. Since Koreans found the taste bitter, they often drank it like alcohol—served in small glasses and consumed in one shot.

Dabangs: Korea’s First Cafés

The word “dabang” (다방) means “tearoom” (da meaning tea and bang meaning room*). The first Dabang opened around 1923 inside the Sontag Hotel, managed by Antoinette Sontag, who was close to King Gojong. It served foreign diplomats and became one of the first places in Korea where coffee was enjoyed socially. Later, dabangs began opening in Myeongdong and Jongno, attracting writers, artists, politicians, and intellectuals who gathered there to share ideas. These early dabangs were similar to European coffeehouses—warm, creative spaces filled with art, music, and conversation. Because coffee was still expensive, dabangs were mostly for the wealthy or educated. During World War II, coffee imports stopped, and many dabangs closed or turned into simple tea rooms. After the Korean War (1950–1953), people focused on rebuilding their lives, and visiting cafés became rare for a while.

The Rise of Instant Coffee

During the Korean War, American soldiers brought instant coffee to Korea, introducing it to locals. In the 1960s and 1970s, coffee became more common as dabangs reopened, offering a friendly place for people to meet, rest, or go on dates. Because there weren’t many public spaces at the time, dabangs became important social spots. In 1976, Dongsuh Foods released the first 3-in-1 instant coffee mix—a single packet combining coffee, sugar, and creamer. It became a national favorite and made coffee a daily drink for everyone. By the late 1970s, South Korea had become one of the biggest consumers of instant coffee in the world. Even today, instant coffee mixes are still loved for their sweet, nostalgic flavor, while brewed coffee is often enjoyed as a more special or trendy treat.

Modern Coffee Culture

In the 1980s, new-style cafés began opening in Seoul, offering espresso, tea, and desserts in cozy, stylish settings. These cafés were peaceful places where people could escape from city life. As Korea’s economy grew in 1989, more Koreans were able to travel abroad and experience global coffee culture firsthand. When they returned, they brought back fresh ideas about cafés and coffee styles. This led to the rise of Korean-style cafés, known for their beautiful interiors and relaxing atmosphere. People started to see cafés not just as places to drink coffee, but also as spaces to study, work, or spend time with friends. This shift marked the start of Korea’s modern coffee lifestyle.

The Starbucks Era

In 1999, Korea’s coffee culture changed forever when Starbucks opened its first branch in front of Ewha Womans University in Seoul. The café’s modern style and takeaway drinks introduced a new kind of coffee experience to Koreans. Soon after, other American brands like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf arrived, and Korean chains such as Ediya, Mega, and Compose, which have a large number of outlets.

Today’s Korean Cafés

Today, Korea is recognized for its distinctive and innovative cafés. From animal cafés featuring cats, dogs, or sheep to themed cafés like those inspired by Harry Potter or Hello Kitty, each establishment offers something unique. Many cafés focus not just on drinks but also on design, comfort, and experience. Seoul’s cafés are often cozy, photogenic, and filled with personality. For many Koreans, visiting a café is more than drinking coffee. It’s a way to unwind, think, or enjoy quiet time alone.

5 Useful Tips for Visiting Coffee Shops in Seoul

Seoul has one of the most exciting café cultures in the world, and knowing a few simple tips can make your visit even better.

1. Expect cafés to get busy in the afternoons and on weekends, especially in trendy areas like Hongdae or Ikseon-dong.

2. Most places use self-service, so you pick up your drinks when the buzzer rings and return trays before leaving. During peak hours, seating time may be limited, so check the signs if you plan to stay long.

3. Be sure to try signature menu items or seasonal specials since Korean cafés love creative flavors like injeolmi, black sesame, or matcha.

4. Payments are mostly cashless, and many cafés have Wi-Fi and outlets, making them great for studying or working, although laptops might be restricted at busy times. Read my article on How to Pay in Korea.

5. Bring your own tumbler to get a small discount, and try local cafés, not just big chains, to find cool hidden spots in each neighborhood.

20 Best Cafés in South Korea You Need to Try in 2025

1. Thanks Nature Café

Address: 10 Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Instagram: @thanks_nature_cafe_

thanks nature cafe restaurant1

Located in the busy Hongdae area, Thanks Nature Café is a special sheep café where you can enjoy coffee and meet real sheep. The owner takes care of weak or tired sheep, helps them get healthy, and then sends them back to the farm. Visitors must follow some simple rules: sit down, stay calm, let the sheep come to you, and don’t try to feed or chase them. The sheep also have break times when they rest inside, away from people. They are always clean, well-cared for, and loved, making the café a peaceful and happy place to visit.

thanks nature cafe menu

Must Try: If you visit Thanks Nature Café, don’t miss their signature waffles and croffles — crispy, buttery, and served with ice cream, fruits, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Pair it with their Honey Latte or Caramel Macchiato for the perfect cozy treat while enjoying the calm atmosphere and adorable sheep nearby.

2. 943 King’s Cross

Address: 24 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, B1- 4

Instagram: @943kingscross

943 King’s Cross Café in Hongdae has four themed floors, each offering a different magical experience inspired by the Harry Potter universe.

943 Kings Cross cafe 1

1st Floor: Café counter and main seating area — where you order drinks and desserts.

943 Kings Cross cafe 7

2nd Floor: Decorated like a Hogwarts common room, with cozy seats and photo zones.

943 Kings Cross cafe 9

3rd Floor: Themed rooms inspired by different Hogwarts houses, great for group photos

943 Kings Cross cafe 10

4th Floor: A special exhibition and costume area where visitors can try on wizard robes and take photos with props.

943 Kings Cross cafe 10 1

Must Try: Their Butterbeer Latte is a sweet, creamy drink inspired by the wizarding world, or enjoy a slice of their Chocolate Fudge Cake for a rich, indulgent treat. Pair it with a signature potion drink for the full magical experience.

3. Mouse Rabbit Coffee

Address: 10 Neungdong-ro 11-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @mouserabbit_official

mouse rabbit coffee yesung 1
Yesung of Super Junior

It is a multi-floor café operated by Yesung of Super Junior along with his brother. The café is known both for its relaxed café vibe and its appeal to fans of K-pop, given the celebrity affiliation. The first floor is for an ordering counter and an outdoor terrace, while the second floor offers a more decorative interior. The café also sells handcrafted merchandise such as toys, phone cases, mugs, and eco-bags, which are specially designed by Mouse Rabbit and highly popular among fans.

mouse rabbit coffee 1

Must Try: The café serves coffee, tea, juices, cakes, and desserts. Signature items include Americano, Lemon Mojito, Strawberry Bingsu, and Chocolate Bingsu.


Getting There: Nearest subway is Konkuk University Station, Exit 3 (or Exit 2 in some directions) — about 3–5 minutes walk.

4. Café Gong Myoung

Address: 32-4 Dosan-daero 15-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul

Instagram: @cafegm

cafe gongmyoung

Café Gong Myoung is a three-floor café in the Hongdae area of Seoul. It has a lot of space to sit, including large tables where you can use a laptop. The building is easy to spot because of its red bricks and round entrance.

Must Try: The signature Gongmyeong Latte features a rich coffee topped with a soft, chewy cream. Sipping it with the cinnamon along the cup’s rim enhances the aroma and elevates the overall flavor.

5. The Spot Fabulous

Address: 22 Myeongdong 2-gil, Jung District, Seoul

Instagram: @the_spot_fabulous

the spot fabulous cafe3

The Spot Fabulous is housed in a historic building (built in the early 1950s) directly across from the Chinese Embassy in the Myeongdong district. The café has a mix of old and modern design, with wood beams, high ceilings, big windows, and mirrors that make the place bright and cozy.

cafe gongmyoung menu

Must Try: It offers many homemade desserts like fig and tiramisu tarts, financiers, macarons, cookies, and cheesecakes. Since the desserts are high quality, the prices are a bit higher than regular cafés, so it feels more like a special treat.

Getting There: Take the subway to Jongno 3-ga Station (종로3가역) on Lines 1, 3, or 5, and leave through Exit 6. From there, walk straight for about 3 to 5 minutes into the alleyways of Ikseon-dong

6. Café Onion

Address: 5 Gyedong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul

Instagram: @café.onion

cafe onion seoul

Café Onion Anguk is located in a historic area close to Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, so it is easy to visit while exploring Seoul. The café is inside a restored hanok, a traditional Korean house, where you can still see features like the main hall and the courtyard. Inside, the design mixes old and new styles, with wooden beams and traditional roof tiles together with open space, glass, and modern touches.

Must Try: The bakery is very popular, especially the Pandoro, a big bread covered in powdered sugar, and the Angel Bread filled with sweet red bean paste and butter. The café is also known for its delicious coffee. Drinks like the vanilla latte are praised for having a rich and well-balanced taste.

Getting There: Take the Seoul Subway Line 3 to Anguk Station (안국역) and exit through Exit 3. From there, walk straight along Bukchon-ro for about 2 to 3 minutes until you see the café on your left.

7. Fritz Coffee Company (Dohwa)

Address: 17 Saechang-ro 2-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @fritzcoffeecompany

fritz coffee dohwa

This café is situated in a beautifully renovated old house that combines traditional Korean style with a cool modern vibe, creating a warm and stylish space to relax. Dohwa, as the main branch of FRITZ Coffee Company, is renowned for its excellent coffee, made from high-quality beans that they roast in-house. Whether you prefer espresso, drip coffee, or creamy lattes, the drinks are always flavorful and well-made.

fritz coffee dohwa merch

You will also find fun retro-style merchandise and freshly packed beans that make great souvenirs. Located in Mapo-gu near Gongdeok and Mapo Station, it is a perfect stop for coffee lovers exploring the area.

8. Sinleedoga

Address: 20-12 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Tucked away in a quiet alley near Hongik University, this Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong café feels like a secret spot. It is inside a restored hanok, so you get that traditional Korean vibe mixed with a cool, modern look. There are wooden beams, roof tiles, large windows, and charming corners that are perfect for photos. If you want a calm break from Hongdae’s busy streets, this place is such a good pick. You can sit in the courtyard or on the terrace and just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Make sure to try their injeolmi cake, black sesame latte, or jujube tea. They are super popular for a reason!

Sinleedoga cafe seoul

9. KOTTON.SEOUL

Address: 17 Insadong 12-gil, Jongno District, Seoul

Instagram: @kotton.seoul

kotton seoul cafe

This café is inside a modernized hanok, so you get that cool mix of traditional Korean style and a clean, modern look. Think white walls, dark wood, and a simple but very aesthetic design. There are big windows, comfy seats with cushions, and even power outlets, so it is perfect whether you want to chill or get a little work done. 

kotton seoul cafe menu2

You must try the Tarae-Einspanner. It is espresso with whipped cream, honey, and a fun Korean candy called sil-tarae on top. It looks amazing and tastes even better. 

Since the café is in a small alley and not very big, it can get crowded during busy times, so visiting earlier is a smart idea.

Nearest station: Anguk Station (Line 3) and go out through Exit 5.

10.  Nuldam Space

Address: 24 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @nuldam_space

nuladam space cafe gyeongbukgong

Nuldam Space is easy to visit if you are exploring Jongno, Insadong, or Gyeongbokgung Palace, so it fits perfectly into a walking trip. The café has several floors, cozy corners, and big windows that make the place feel calm and thoughtful.

It is the perfect spot if you want to slow down, relax, and enjoy something creative. It can get busy during peak times, and desserts sometimes sell out, so visiting earlier is a smart idea.

nuladam space cafe letter station

What makes it really special are the letter-writing stations where you can write a message, seal it with wax, and send it to yourself in the future. 

Try their vegan-friendly options with yummy options like croissants, croffles, black sesame lattes, and strawberry lattes.

nuladam space cafe
nuladam space cafe1


11. Humming Bella

Address: 57 Dongmak-ro 7-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @hummingbella

If you are exploring the Hongdae and Hapjeong area, Humming Bella Café is a great stop. It is very close to Hongik University Station and Hapjeong Station, so getting here is super easy. The café has several floors, including a bakery section and a big terrace if you want to enjoy the weather outside. The interior feels modern and bright, perfect for a relaxed hangout with friends.

Humming Bella cafe seoul
Humming Bella cafe seoul4

They offer a great selection of drinks and desserts, but the real star here is their freshly baked pastries. The chocolate-cream-filled croissant is a fan favorite. Make sure you grab one while it is still warm because it sells out fast. Since their pastries are quite popular, it is best to come earlier in the day to get the fresh ones before they sell out.
This place is perfect if you are café-hopping around Hongdae and want somewhere stylish to chill and take photos.

Getting There: Take the subway to Hapjeong Station (Line 2 or Line 6) → use Exit 3

12. Cheong Su Dang

Address: 31-9 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno District, Seoul

Instagram: @cheongsudang_

cheongdusang cafe

Cheongsudang is located in the beautiful Ikseon-dong hanok neighborhood. This café is super easy to visit while exploring the cute traditional streets and shops around it. The place is made up of several connected hanok houses, and the vibe is like a peaceful garden. You will see bamboo, little streams, stepping stones, and lanterns that make the whole space feel calm and magical.

Their desserts are a must-try. The most popular ones are the Soufflé Castella, which is a warm and fluffy sponge cake made fresh when you order, and their creamy Fromage Cakes in flavors like black sesame, matcha, and strawberry. Perfect for dessert lovers and photo lovers at the same time.

cheongdusang cafe castela cake
Strawberry Soufflé Castella

Getting There: You can get to Cheongsudang from either Apgujeong Station (압구정역) or Sinsa Station (신사역).

13. Coffee Nap Roasters

Address: 70 Seongmisan-ro 27-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @coffeenap_roasters

Coffee Nap Roasters in Yeonnam is a popular café in Seoul, known for its excellent coffee and creative interior. Floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the café, giving a clear view of its most unique feature: a hill-like structure made of more than 7,000 red bricks. Baristas are known to be friendly and skilled, serving drinks with perfectly textured milk that makes the latte art stand out. There are many types of beans to choose from, and each coffee comes with a small card that shares the story behind the beans you ordered.

coffee nap roasters

Getting There: The closest subway stop for Coffee Nap Roasters is Gajwa Station (가좌역). You’ll want to leave from Exit 1 and walk for about 10 minutes. For the Bus, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park Entrance (경의선숲길공원입구) stop is even closer.

14. Cộng Cà Phê

Address: 233-114, Yeonnam, Mapo–gu, Seoul

Instagram: @congcaphe_kr

Cộng Cà Phê is a well-known Vietnamese coffee chain, and its Yeonnam-dong branch was the first international location when it opened in 2018. The café’s interior has a nostalgic, vintage Vietnamese style with olive-green walls, retro furniture, military-inspired décor, and classic enamel mugs.

This is where I first discovered the amazing cà phê cốt dừa, a frozen coconut coffee that tastes more like a sweet dessert than a drink. It is rich, creamy, and absolutely unforgettable.

cot dua ca phe lon
cà phê cốt dừa

Getting There: Cong Caffe in Yeonnam-dong is not very close to the subway, so walking from Hongdae Station or Gajwa Station can take almost 20 minutes. If possible, take a bus and get off at the Eden Jiwoo Apartment stop. From there, it is only a short walk to the café.

15. Perception

Address: 16 Eoulmadang-ro 1-gil, Hapdžong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @perception.coffee

Perception Café is famous for its award-winning design, especially the beautiful wooden ceiling that curves like waves above the seating area.

perception cafe seoul2

This café is perfect for those who value both stylish interiors and high-quality coffee. Because seating is limited, which means it often becomes crowded at peak times. It is best to visit earlier for a more relaxed experience.

perception cafe seoul coffee

Coffee lovers should try their signature drinks, including Chemex filter brews, expertly made espresso, and creatively named specialties like “Atmosphere of the Place”, “Temperature of the Day”, and “Memory of the Moment” .

Getting There: The closest subway stop is Sangsu Station (상수역). Use Exit 4, and it should be less than a 10-minute walk.

16. Ver’s Garden

Address: 44 Seongmisan-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @vers_garden

VER’S GARDEN feels like a little jungle in the city. When you walk inside, you will see plants and flowers everywhere: on the walls, hanging from the ceiling, and decorating every corner. Part of the café is also a flower shop, so it looks super cute and fresh.

VersGarden cafe seoul2
VersGarden cafe seoul3

Must Try: They serve coffee, tea, and desserts, and some of them even use flowers or herbs, which is really fun to try.

Getting There: You can walk there in about 10 minutes from Gajwa Station (가좌역), Exit 1. If you take the bus, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park Entrance stop (경의선숲길공원입구) is even closer.

17. Thanks, Oat

Address: 68 Seongmisan-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @thanksoat

thanks oat cafe

Thanks, Oat is a popular café in Yeonnam-dong that focuses on healthy and delicious oat-based dishes. The interior is bright, minimal, and calming, giving the feeling of a cozy brunch spot tucked beside the Gyeongui Line Forest Park.

Must Try: The signature menu includes creamy oat bowls with fresh fruit, yogurt, homemade granola, and seasonal toppings. They also serve coffee, smoothies, and light brunch items, which makes it a great stop for breakfast or a mid-day recharge.

thanks oat cafe2

Getting There: Thanks, Oat is located near Coffee Nap Roasters in Yeonnam. The closest subway stop is Gajwa Station (가좌역). Take Exit 1 and walk for around 10 minutes to reach the café. If you prefer the bus, get off at the Gyeongui Line Forest Park Entrance (경의선숲길공원입구) stop, which is just a short walk away.

18. Ongozisin

Address: 2nd floor, 101 Gwanak-ro 14-gil, Gwanak-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @ongozisin

ongozisin cafe

This café has a super cool look, especially the big, round window that lets in a lot of light. The inside feels like a modern Korean tea house, with bamboo mats, warm lighting, and clean, minimal décor. It is such a relaxing space, perfect if you want a quiet break away from the busy café crowds.

ongozisin ongo ice

Make sure to try their signature dessert: Ongo Ice. It has injeolmi ice cream, crunchy sesame rice puffs, and fresh fruit. It tastes like a modern twist on Korean flavors.

ongozisin latte

They also have delicious house-blended teas and creative lattes like the Ongozisin Latte.

Getting There: Head to Seoul National University Station (서울대입구역) and take Exit 1 or 2. From there, it is just an 8–10 minute walk. Perfect stop if you are exploring the area!

19. Grain Seoul

Address: 53 Yeonhui-ro 11ga-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

Instagram: @grain_seoul

GRAIN SEOUL is a trendy brunch café in the Yeonnam-dong and Hongdae area, known for its delicious modern brunch dishes, friendly service, and relaxed but stylish vibe. The space is bright with big windows and simple décor, offering both indoor seating and some outdoor-style spots that make it perfect for a slow, cozy brunch.

grain seoul

One of the most popular options here is the Build-Your-Own Brunch, where you can pick 4 to 6 items like scrambled eggs, avocado toast, smoked salmon, or yogurt with fruit to create your own plate.

Getting There: It is a bit of a walk from the subway, about 20 to 25 minutes from Hongdae Station (Exits 2 or 4) or Gajwa Station, but totally worth the trip if you love a good brunch in a cute setting.

20. Green Mile Coffee

Address: 64 Bukchon-ro, Gahoe-dong, Jongno District, Seoul

Instagram: @green_mile_coffee

greenmile coffee

Green Mile Coffee is a cute café right in Bukchon Hanok Village. It is a peaceful place to take a break while exploring the area. The inside is clean and simple with warm wood designs. The best part is the rooftop, where you can see the beautiful traditional hanok rooftops. It is a great spot for photos and relaxing after walking around Bukchon.

greenmile coffee menu

They serve really good coffee, like siphon brews and single-origin beans. Their handmade tiramisu is also very popular, and you can buy coffee beans to take home, too.

Getting There: From Anguk Station (Exit 3), just walk straight for about 10 minutes toward Bukchon.

Korean Coffee Mix 101

Korean instant coffee is a huge part of everyday life in South Korea. It is loved for its convenience, balanced taste, and affordable price, making it a go-to drink whether at home, in offices, or even outdoors during trips. Most instant coffee in Korea comes in single-serve sticks designed for quick mixing. These usually include coffee, sugar, and creamer all in one packet, known as the “3-in-1” style. This Korean innovation became so popular that it spread worldwide.


Instant coffee culture is also tied to Korea’s fast-paced lifestyle. People often enjoy it during work breaks, at convenience stores, or via vending machines found in subways and small shops. Despite the rise of specialty coffee and cafés, instant coffee remains a beloved staple. You can find them almost everywhere in Korea, from convenience stores to supermarkets, and they make excellent souvenirs for travelers.

Here are the most popular Korean instant coffee brands worth trying:

1. Maxim

Maxim is the most iconic instant coffee brand in Korea, known for its smooth and mild flavors that appeal to many tastes.
Popular picks:
• Mocha Gold Mild: sweet, creamy, and easy to drink
• White Gold: slightly richer and softer in flavor

Where to buy: convenience stores, supermarkets, Daiso, and airport duty-free shops

2. Ediya Beanist

ediya beanist

Created by the popular Korean café brand Ediya, Beanist is praised for its richer and more authentic brewed coffee taste.

Best options:
• Americano Black
• Latte / Flat White
• Mocha or Vanilla Latte sticks
 Where to buy: Ediya branches, major supermarkets

3. Nescafé Korea

nescafe korea

Although global, Nescafé is widely enjoyed in Korea thanks to flavors suited to local preferences.
Common choices:
• Nescafé Original
• Nescafé Latte
• Arabic Latte (sweet and creamy)

Where to buy: convenience stores and grocery stores nationwide

4. Namyang French Café

french cafe korea

French Café is known for its sweet, coffee-shop style blends, offering a smooth and soft finish.
Top flavors:
• Mild Latte
• Arabica Gold

6. Kanu (by Maxim)

kanu coffee

Kanu offers premium instant coffee that tastes closer to café-style Americanos. It has a stronger and less sweet profile, ideal for black coffee lovers.
Popular flavors:
• Dark Americano
• Mild Americano
• Kanu Latte
• Seasonal editions such as Vanilla Latte or Hazelnut
Where to buy: convenience stores, supermarkets, some café chains

A Perfect Souvenir from Korea

Korean instant coffee sticks are inexpensive, easy to pack, and enjoyable for almost everyone. They make great gifts for friends back home because they offer a small taste of Korea’s café culture without needing any fancy brewing equipment.

Where to Buy (Best for Tourists)

LocationWhat You’ll Find
DaisoCheap multi-packs
Olive YoungTrendy and premium blends
Emart, Lotte Mart, HomeplusFull flavor selection at the best prices
GS25, CU, 7-ElevenSingle sticks or small packs for tasting

Flavor Recommendations Based on Taste

Taste PreferenceRecommended Brands & FlavorsWhy It Fits You
Sweet and creamyMaxim Mocha Gold Mild, Maxim White GoldSmooth, milky, easy to drink
Strong black coffee (café-style)Strong black coffee (café-style)
Kanu Dark Roast, Kanu Americano
Richer coffee flavor, less sweet
Rich bean taste with light sweetnessEdiya Beanist Americano, Beanist LatteBetter bean quality and balanced taste
Traveler or gift optionMixed variety packsLet you try multiple flavors and brands

Key Takeaways

Honestly, exploring these cafés is one of the best things to do in the city. Every spot has its own vibe, story, and flavor. From modern coffee houses to cozy hanok cafés tucked in quiet alleys, there’s always something new (and super Instagrammable) to discover.

Before you head out, just a quick tip: check the opening hours since some cafés open later in the morning or get packed on weekends. Try to go early if you want that peaceful, cozy moment with your coffee. And don’t miss out on Korean-style drinks like injeolmi lattes, black sesame cream, or anything matcha — they’re seriously next-level.

So, grab your camera, comfy shoes, and of course, your caffeine craving. Seoul’s café scene is waiting for you, one cup at a time.

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About the author

Hi! My name is Joel, I'm the author of In My Korea and writer of this article. I've lived, worked and travelled in Korea since 2015 and want to share my insights, stories and tips to help you have the best experience during your trip to Korea.

I love learning more about Korean culture, hiking the many mountains, and visiting all the coolest places in Korea, both modern and traditional. If you want to know more about my story, check out the 'about me' section to learn why I love living in Korea.

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