Things to do in Hongdae

Last Updated on November 7, 2024 by Alex

Hongdae might be one of the most popular areas in Seoul, especially among youngsters. Because no trip to South Korea’s capital would be complete without a stroll in this area, I have put together the top things to do in Hongdae in one day.

Home to some of Seoul’s most prestigious universities, ideally linked to the airport, and packed with quirky cafes and countless shops, Hongdae is the place to go for a day of fun.

Since we lived relatively close, I loved going out and simply strolling around this area. There is something for everyone, and you cannot get bored in Hongdae!

You don’t have to be traveling with teenagers to enjoy this area. Moreover, because it is easily reached from the airport and only two subway stops away from the city center, Hongdae is also one of the best areas to stay in Seoul.

Thus, without further ado, here are my top 17 favorite things to do in Hongdae.

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Table of Contents

Top things to do in Hongdae, Seoul

How to get to Hongdae and an overview

If traveling from Incheon Airport, the easiest and fastest way to Hongdae is to take the Airport Railroad. It is marked with blue on the subway app.

The line is direct from Incheon Airport (or Gimpo Airport) to Hongik University Station (respectively Hongdae area).

You will find luggage storage inside the subway station. Depending on where you want to go, take different exits. I will try to specify the correct exit for each of the activities on the list.

Hongdae area can be split into more “regions,” each with distinct appeal and attractions.

The area around Hongik Station is packed with bars, restaurants, and shops and is where you will want to go for the K-Pop street show.

Across the street, around subway exit 3, you will enter the Yeonnam-dong area. Come for fancier restaurants, cafes, and photo booths.

A bit further away, yet within walking distance, lies the Yenhui area. The hippest of the three, it is popular with locals but not so much with tourists. However, it was one of my favorite areas to get lost in.

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Top things to do

Shop for K-beauty cosmetics

An area packed with students and tourists is one of the main places to go for cosmetics. Here, you will find any Korean beauty brand you can think of.

The good news is that most shops in this area always have special offers on display. You can try some of your favorite products without walking too much.

Olive Young, Innisfree, Banila, Chicor, Aritaum, and much more will be within walking distance. Come prepared to shop until you drop and have extra space in your luggage.

Participate in a K-pop street show

On my first visit to Seoul as a tourist, I walked from one end to the other of the main street in Hongdae and stopped in awe to watch all the various street performances.

Even though I am not a huge K-Pop fan, I find it hard not to be distracted by the crowds watching these young people perform. South Korea has a strong K-Pop culture, and you will hear the most popular songs of the moment wherever you go.

No wonder most young people dream of becoming the next big thing in music.

Where to go: take Exit 8 and walk on the first street on the right

Visit Kakao Friends Hongik Univ. Branch

Even if you are not a Kakao Friends fan, visiting this shop will offer some cuteness overload. Because of the huge toys on display, this is also a popular Instagram spot.

Shop here for some souvenirs or feel like a child looking around.

Where is it: in front of exit 8, next to Starbucks.

Go for a beauty treatment

It’s one thing to buy cosmetics and another to experience authentic Korean beauty treatment.

South Korea has the highest number of cosmetic procedures performed every year, and you will be amazed by the number of beauty clinics you will see around.

While most clinics specialize in fillers and surgeries, there are those where you can go for a facial or laser treatment.

In my opinion, if you don’t want to splurge on a luxury treatment at Sulwhasoo or SPA 1899, a clinic in Hongdae is the best and most affordable option.

I used to go to Shine Beam and enjoyed the treatments they offer. Unlike in many places, the people in the Hongdae branch speak English, and I never felt lost for words.

Because facials are normal in South Korea, in places like Shine Beam, you will enjoy your treatment in a room with many beds. However, laser treatments are performed in a separate room, where you will have privacy.

Prices don’t even compare to those in many countries; thus, I encourage you not to skip this experience.

Where it is: exit 1, in the building with Hana Bank.

Stroll on the Gyeongui Line Book Street

An old railway has been transformed into a beautiful pedestrian park in the middle of residential buildings. This area is one of my favorite places to go for a stroll. Apart from the many bookstores, you will find beautiful flowers and cool cafes and restaurants.

Some of the buildings along the trail have murals or are painted in vibrant colors. Especially during sunny weather, one should not miss a walk from one end to the other of the Gyeongui Line Book Street.

Have coffee at one of the many cool cafes

You will find countless cafes everywhere you turn, but especially as you cross the street towards Yeonnam-dong or Yenhui. Some of them have made it to my best cafes and coffee in Seoul, and some are simply unique in their own way.

The above cove is located along the Gyeongui Line Book Street and supports the neighborhood’s cats. They have a donation box, and you will see cats hanging around for food or rest.

In Yeonnam-dong, you will find plenty of Instagram-worthy cafes and specialty coffee places. With such a vast variety of places to choose from, I couldn’t possibly tell you where to go. Allow yourself to get lost and enter the cafe that catches your eye.

Shop for K-Fashion

If you are into pastel dresses, short skirts, and unique shirts, the small shops around Hongdae should be on your list.

K-fashion, like K-beauty, has taken the world by storm, and you should at least try on a few items.

Things might be challenging with dresses or skirts that come in only one universal size, but it is worth checking them out. You might find some hidden gems.

Try Korean street food

Or Korean barbeque. There are plenty of restaurants around Hongdae, most offering delicious food at an affordable price. This is the area popular with students, after all.

Chicken and beer, pork belly BBQ, soups, seafood, and much more – choose your favorite and enjoy a fun evening out. Everything with soju, of course.

Visit a cat cafe

I love this about Asia! While with other larger animals, I would argue it is hard to keep them in a closed space. Most cats are lazy and enjoy sitting around, having food, and being comforted.

Moreover, people in South Korea are passionate about cats, and you will see that everywhere: on T-shirts, statues, bags, you name it.

Right next to exit 3, you will find the Yeonnamdong Cat Cafe, and I think you should give it a try—only if you are a cat person.

Taste one of the best pho bo in town

We have spoken about Korean food, and pho bo is not a local dish. However, this Vietnamese soup is popular in Seoul and one of our all-time favorites.

After searching for the best pho in Seoul for quite a while, we have found two restaurants worth trying in Hongdae. Both are set in Yeonnam-dong and are within walking distance of one another.

Moreover, one is a popular Instagram location.

Pho Ga Le is 5 minutes from subway line 2, exit 3, on the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail Park. While the menu is limited and the place is small, the pho is delicious.

Ban Mi Peueong is the second option set only a few minutes away.

With a unique design that takes us back to Hoi An, this place is popular for its Ban Mi (Vietnamese sandwich). Their pho is delicious and comes in a large portion.

Go to the 3D Cafe

Since you are in the area, the popular Cafe Yeonnam-dong 239-20 3D Cafe (Geurim Cafe) is a few blocks from the Vietnamese restaurants.

You might want to get there early as soon as they open or come prepared to wait in line for some time. Even though their menu wasn’t impressive, the interior and mugs and cutlery are designed to offer an optical illusion.

It is worth knowing that you cannot simply walk in and take a picture. They only allow photos after you have ordered.

Take fun pictures in one of the photo booths

In this area in particular, everywhere you turn,, you will see a photo booth. These booths come with props and different settings, making them a fun way to spend 15-20 minutes fooling around with your travel partner.

You will have a fun memory to take home and put on your refrigerator.

See a fortune teller or tarot

To my surprise, tarot and fortune tellers are huge in South Korea. They are popular not only with the older generation, but you will also find plenty of popular ones around Hongdae.

Even though many might not speak English, you could at least ask and have a fun memory. Some have pictures of celebrities visiting them on their walls, making them even more appealing to youngsters who want to learn about their luck in love.

Go back to childhood at one of the play zones

It is really fun how grown-ups don’t shy away from feeling like children and playing when they feel like it.

Around Hongdae, you will see plenty of play zones where you can spend minutes or hours having fun.

K-pop Photoshoot with K-beauty makeup and Hair Styling

Korean women are internationally known for their beauty and looks, and who wouldn’t want to feel like a Korean princess for a day?

A make-up artist will transform your looks according to the latest Korean beauty standards, someone will do your hair, and you will spend a few hours with a professional photographer.

See more here!

End your day with a pub crawl

One thing is certain: Koreans know how to party! And you will find countless pubs and karaoke places around Hongdae. Because here is where students go out!

Where to stay in Hongdae

Luxury hotels in Hongdae

L7 Hongdae by LOTTE is a 4–star hotel on the main boulevard, steps away from the subway station. The hotel has a stunning rooftop restaurant and bar from which you can admire the city, as well as a rooftop swimming pool for the hot days of summer.

Book your stay here!

Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae—This international chain hotel is right across the street from L7 Hotel and won’t disappoint. It is ideally located. The rooms offer stunning city views, and the hotel has a currency exchange service for guests.

Book your stay here!

Mid-range hotels in Hongdae

Amanti Hotel Seoul – only a bit further away from the melting hot pot, this hotel will offer a relaxing stay in Hongdae. Guests can access the rooftop pool and the fitness center without any additional fee.

Book your stay here!

Budget accommodation in Hongdae

Cocoa Guesthouse – tucked away relatively closer to Sangsu Station, offers accommodation in traditional rooms. You will be close to cafes, restaurants, and the streets with public performances.

Book your stay here!

Read also: Where to stay in Hongdae, best hotels.