Hongdae is short for Hongik University — “Hong” comes from the first part of Hongik, and “Dae” means “university.” It’s one of the most vibrant and dynamic neighbourhoods in Seoul, overflowing with Korea’s energetic youth culture.
In addition to Hongik University, nearby schools such as Ewha Womans University and Yonsei University contribute to Hongdae’s lively, college-town atmosphere. This constant stream of students keeps the streets buzzing with the latest trends in shopping, fashion, and lifestyle — it’s a place where new styles are born every day.
Hongdae is also famous for its street performances, indie culture, trendy fashion, and endless food spots. By day, you can stroll through the Gyeongui Line Forest Park and enjoy coffee at Instagram-worthy cafés. By night, the neon-lit streets come alive with busking performances and a wide variety of late-night eats. The area is also packed with fantastic cafés and bustling food alleys that stay lively until late. This guide covers the Top 5 Attractions, Shopping Streets, and Must-Try Restaurants in Hongdae, complete with pros & cons so you can plan your itinerary efficiently.
(Base location: Hongik Univ. Station Exit 8 or 9 — where most hotspots are within walking distance.)
If you’re visiting Seoul, Hongdae is a must — full of energy, creativity, and flavours you won’t forget. You definitely won’t regret adding it to your itinerary.
👇The photos of Yeonnam-dong, which is the main street in Hongdae.
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Top 5 Attractions
1) Gyeongui Line Forest Park (a.k.a. Yeonnam-dong “Yeontral Park”)
A linear park built on an old railway track, lined with grass, benches, and cozy cafés. Perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and photography — especially around the Yeonnam-dong section.
- Ideal for a calm stroll with plenty of photo spots
- Surrounded by trendy cafés, bakeries, and boutique shops
- Crowded on weekends and peak hours
- Remember to bring a picnic mat and clean up after yourself
📹 Youtube source: Korea – Walking in Gyeongui Line Forest Park in fall | Hongdae | Seoul – 4K HDR by tripCheckiner
2) Hongdae Walking Street & Busking Zone
From sunset to late night, this pedestrian street becomes an open stage for K-pop dance covers and live busking. Start from Exit 9 and walk straight to Eoulmadang-ro for the full experience.
- Free street performances every evening
- Shops, food stalls, and photo spots all in one stretch
- Noise and heavy crowds (not stroller-friendly)
- Popular acts attract large, competitive audiences
📹 Youtube source: Walk on Hongdae Street in Seoul on Friday Night | Korea Travel 4K HDR by Seoul Walker
3) Hongdae Playground & Weekend Free Market
A small park in front of Hongik University where artists sell handmade goods at the Hongdae Free Market (Saturdays, March–November).
- Unique, handmade items directly from local artists
- Combine market browsing with nearby street performances
- Closed in bad weather or winter months
- Items are more about uniqueness than bargain prices
📹 Youtube source: Hongdae Free Market in Seoul, South Korea by “The Seoul Guide”
4) KT&G Sangsangmadang Hongdae
A cultural complex with galleries, indie film screenings, and a stylish design shop on the first floor.
- Great indoor option for rainy or cold days
- High-quality, design-focused goods are perfect for gifts
- Exhibits and screenings often require tickets
- Expect queues for popular events
5) Kakao Friends Hongdae Flagship Store
A must-visit for fans of Ryan and other Kakao characters. Features themed photo zones, exclusive goods, and seasonal displays.
- Perfect for souvenirs and gifts
- Fun photo opportunities inside the store
- Long queues during weekends and holidays
- Limited editions sell out quickly
Top 5 Shopping Streets
1) Eoulmadang-ro & Hongdae Shopping Street
The main shopping hub is packed with fashion boutiques, K-beauty stores, accessory shops, photo booths, and street snacks — all within a short walk from Exit 9.
- Everything in one compact area
- Many stores open until late evening
- Heavy pedestrian traffic on weekends
- Long waits for popular photo booths
📹 Youtube source: SHOPPING IN KOREA 🇰🇷 | HONGDAE STREET | SHOPPING IN HONGDAE | HONGDAE WALKERS by “Walk Tourist”
2) AK Plaza (formerly AK& Hongdae)
Directly connected to the station, this mall features K-fashion, lifestyle goods, cafés, and WITHMUU, a K-pop official merchandise store.
- Weather-proof indoor shopping
- One-stop shop for fashion, lifestyle, and K-pop goods
- Store lineup changes frequently
- Expect waits at the food court on weekends
3) Gyeongui Line Book Street
A cultural shopping street dedicated to bookstores and literary events along the park.
Pros
- Cozy bookstores and occasional events like author talks
- Peaceful alternative to the busy main streets
Cons - Events are seasonal and time-specific
- It can be too quiet for some travellers
4) Kakao Friends Flagship Store
Doubles as both a sightseeing spot and shopping location — great for character goods fans.
5) Dongjin Market (Yeonnam-dong)
A traditional market that transforms into a vintage/handmade flea market on weekends.
- Unique vintage finds and local snacks
- Casual, community vibe
- Operating hours vary — check ahead
- Smaller scale on rainy days
Top 5 Restaurants
(Menu, hours, and prices may change — check before visiting.)
1) Yeonnam Seo Restaurant (Standing BBQ)
A local favourite for charcoal-grilled short ribs, served standing at the counter.
- Smoky, freshly grilled flavour
- Solo diners welcome
- Long waits, especially at night
- Limited seating, not ideal for large bags
☝️Check out the review and more information about “Yeonnam Seo Restaurant”
2) Palsaek Samgyeopsal
Known for 8 flavours of Korean BBQ pork belly, perfect for first-timers.
- Try multiple marinades in one meal
- Great for groups
- Wait times vary by branch
- BBQ smell clings to clothes
☝️Check out the review and more information about “Palsaek Samgyeopsal”
3) Sarukame Ramen (Yeonnam) — Michelin Bib Gourmand
A well-loved ramen shop that keeps quality high even with long queues.
- Excellent quality at a reasonable price
- Consistent reputation
- Long waits at lunch/dinner
- Small seating capacity
☝️Check out the review and more information about “Sarukame Ramen(Yeonnam)”
4) Yakitori Mook (Yeonnam) — Michelin-listed
Specialises in expertly grilled skewers over open flames.
- Impressive live grilling performance
- Romantic, cozy dinner atmosphere
- Reservation recommended
- Higher price range
☝️Check out the review and more information about “Yakitori Mook(Yeonnam)”
5) Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai (Yeonnam) — Michelin background
Authentic Thai cuisine with minimal local adaptation.
- Broad menu and spice-level options
- Foreigners often find it authentic
- Always crowded at peak times
- Strong flavours may not suit everyone
☝️Check out the review and more information about “Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai(Yeonnam)”
Local Tips & Budget Guide
- 1-Day Beginner Route:
Gyeongui Line Forest Park (brunch) → Gyeongui Line Book Street → Kakao Friends Flagship Store → Hongdae Playground Free Market (Sat) → Evening busking street → Dinner at Palsaek Samgyeopsal or Sarukame Ramen. - Best Days to Visit:
Saturdays for the Free Market, weekends for busking (though weekdays are less crowded). - Estimated Budget (per person):
Coffee ₩6,000–8,000 / Street snacks ₩5,000–8,000 / Casual meal ₩12,000–18,000 / BBQ ₩20,000–30,000+. - Transport:
Use Hongik Univ. Station (Airport Railroad, Line 2, Gyeongui–Jungang Line). If you’re staying late, check the last train times. - Etiquette:
Always ask/confirm before filming buskers, and dispose of trash properly. - Rainy Day Plan B:
Focus on indoor spots like Sangsangmadang and AK Plaza.
FAQ
Q1. If I only have time for 3 spots, which should I choose?
A. Gyeongui Line Forest Park, Hongdae Walking Street (busking), and Hongdae Playground & Free Market (Sat).
Q2. Is Hongdae fun on a rainy day?
A. Yes — head to Sangsangmadang or AK Plaza for indoor shopping and exhibits.
Q3. Where can I buy official K-pop goods?
A. WITHMUU inside AK Plaza has official albums, lightsticks, and merch in one place.