What to See, Eat and Do in Korea (and Beyond)
If you’ve spent any time in Korea’s design scene (or just love irresistibly cute characters), you’ve probably come across Muzik Tiger. “Muzik (moo-jik)” means “no job” in Korean, so the whole vibe of this brand is about breaking free from the daily grind and traditional work-life from the perspective of this chonky tiger.
And boy am I here for it.
That’s right, in Korea Jesus gets his very own birthday cafe and it goes viral every year. This event is run by the Korea CCC (Campus Crusade for Christ), basically a Christian outreach wrapped in the fun energy of K-pop “birthday cafe” culture.
The holiday season is upon us! Seoul has traded in its autumn foliage for glittering Christmas decorations, holiday displays and festivities that are all set to to roll out from November on. For a little over two months, Seoul is engulfed in holiday cheer. So if you’re looking to take in those holly jolly Christmas vibes, here are some of our favorite cafes to visit this time of year.
Typically, Koreans aren’t really into the strong spiced flavor of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, so PSL hasn’t isn’t as popular here as it is in, say, Los Angeles. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t be found. So if you’re look for a pumpkin spice latte to complete your autumn vibes, I gotcha covered.
For my money, Mangwon Traditional Market (망원시장) has been a long time favorite of mine. It’s not massive compared to some markets, but that’s part of the charm. It’s smaller, more manageable, packed with personality and it’s been around for over 40 years. You’ll find fresh produce, dried goods, snacks, street-food stalls and even hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
If you’re a fan of old-school charm mixed with just the right amount of Seoul nostalgia, Hakrim Dabang (학림다방) is the kind of cafe you’ll never forget. Tucked away in Daehak-ro since 1956, Hakrim Dabang is the city’s oldest surviving dabang (traditional cafe), where time seems to slow down the moment you climb that creaky wooden staircase. Honestly it feels a bit like walking straight into a time capsule.
If this cafe’s name made you raise an eyebrow, you’re in good company. FUK COFFEE is a bit tongue in cheek, and intentionally so. It’s named after the IATA airport code “FUK” for Fukuoka Airport, and you’ll see that theme threaded everywhere: latte art planes, boarding-pass-inspired branding, and a vibe that’s part airport lounge, part cozy meet-up spot. In fact it’s so popular that it’s draw quite a following, that kind that will wait outside in the blazing heat just for a seat.
It’s no big secret that Korea’s cafe culture is next level. Not only do Korean’s love their tea and coffee, but foreigners and tourists flock to Seoul just to experience it. Making “cafe hopping” a popular item on most Korea itineraries these days.
Trendy cafes are a dime a dozen here, each with their own unique aesthetic, signature drinks and unforgettable desserts. And if you want something pretty for the gram, you won’t be hard pressed to find something anywhere you go. But if you want a cafe experience truly unique to Korea that will elevate your trip, then I’ve got you covered.
Seoul is an old city and rich in history. Whether you go to museums, old-school restaurants or see landmarks of a time long past, it’s a good reminder that newer isn’t always better. And if you happen to be a bit of a bookworm, Daeo Bookstore is one of those old places that needs to be on your itinerary.
Korea might be the home of webtoons, but there aren’t nearly as many events as you might expect. That’s why we were so excited to hear that the “Villains are Destined to Die” was being held for a month this summer in Mapo-gu, Seoul.
The webtoon officially ended back in 2024, but there are stilll lots of fans of the series and D&C Media, the studio behind the webtoon, still regularly holds fan pop-ups and releases merch at events like these about once a year.
It’s that time of year again, time for BTS Festa! This year not only marks the 12th anniversary of BTS, but also all the members will finally be discharged from their mandatory military service. There will be cafe events, special celebratory projects, J-Hope’s final 2 concerts and, of course, 2025 Festa which will be held at Kintex.
Every year for about one week to two weeks during spring, Yeonnamdong Cherry Blossom House becomes the most popular cafe for miles amongst locals, tourists, and overseas travelers. The wait for seating is routinely over one hour long with small crowds forming before the cafe even opens in the morning.
