10 Kpop Things to Do in Seoul
Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is known as the birthplace of Kpop music and culture. As a Kpop fan, there is no better place to visit than Seoul to immerse yourself in everything Kpop. In this blog post I discuss 10 Kpop things to do in Seoul that every Kpop fan should add to their itinerary.
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post and I am not receiving any compensation for writing this. Any links included in this post are not affiliate links and I only include them for the reader's convenience. I am writing this because I want to share my experience with you.
1. Attend a Kpop Concert
Attending a Kpop concert is an unforgettable experience that every Kpop fan must experience at least once in their lifetime. Seoul is home to some of the biggest and most popular Kpop artists in the world. From BTS to BLACKPINK to EXO and NCT, there are plenty of concerts to choose from.
Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as Kpop concerts tend to sell out quickly. Tickets are often sold out or you must enter a special ballot to get them (eg you must be part of the official fan club). Do your research!
2. Visit a Kpop Pop-Up Exhibition
There are numerous companies based in Seoul, such as SM Entertainment, Hybe JYP Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and others. In addition to permanent exhibits and attractions like HYBE INSIGHTS and Kwangya Seoul Flagship Store, keep an eye out for temporary pop-up events and promotional displays. You can almost always expect an interactive pop-up to coincide with the comeback of an NCT unit. This popup will most likely be located next to the SM offices (Under Stand Avenue) and you will have to book your timeslot online.
I visited NCT <DREAM VIBE> exhibition. There was an audioguide that guided you through the rooms where you were able to interact with different prompts and screens.
There were many photo ops where you could take photos but keep in mind that filming is usually not allowed at those events. There is of course a shop at the end with exhibition-specific merch and freebies available.
3. Eat at Kim Seokjin’s Restaurant
Kim Seokjin, a member of BTS, is known for his love of food. If you are a foodie, make sure to visit his restaurant, Ossu Seiromushi (오쓰 세이로무시), close to the Seokchon Lake.
The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including Japanese-style steamed food. As the place is really popular, I recommend booking a table in advance. You can read all about my visit to the restaurant here.
📍Address: 오쓰 세이로무시, 서울특별시 송파구 송파1동 백제고분로45길 30
4. Visit a Birthday Cafe Event
Kpop fans love celebrating their favourite idols' birthdays, and Seoul has plenty of birthday cafe events throughout the year. These cafes feature themed drinks, desserts, and decorations, all in honour of the Kpop idol's birthday. It's a great way to meet other fans and celebrate together. Visit Hongdae and there will be always something going on.
5. Shop for Kpop Albums
No trip to Seoul is complete without shopping for Kpop albums, official merchandise and other goods. Seoul has several underground shopping centres and department stores that sell Kpop albums, including Myeongdong Underground shopping centre (exit 6), Myeongdong Lotte Young Plaza (basement), and WithMuu in AK Plaza Hongdae (exit 4, 2nd floor). Make sure to check out the latest releases and exclusive merchandise while you are there and get exclusive gifts and photocards!
📍Address: Myeongdong underground shopping centre (exit 6)
📍Address: Myeongdong Lotte Young Plaza (롯데영플라자 본점), 서울특별시 중구 남대문로 67 (basement)
📍Address: WithMUU AK& Hongdae (위드뮤 홍대 AK&점), 서울특별시 마포구 양화로 188 AK플라자 2층
6. Shop for BT21 Merch
BT21 is a popular Kpop merchandise line that features characters created by BTS. You can find a wide range of BT21 merchandise, from plushies to phone cases, at the LINE Friends Stores all across Seoul.
7. Visit HiKr Ground Kpop Experience (하이커 그라운드)
Did you ever want to be in a Kpop music video? Visit Korea Tourism Organization Seoul Center (located between Euljiro 1(il)-ga and Jonggak metro station) and film your own! HiKR Ground is located on the second floor of the building and the whole place is set up as a music video studio. You can choose between different backdrops, and control the music and lights.
Entry is free and it is open daily from 10 am.
📍Address: HiKr Ground (하이커 그라운드), 서울특별시 중구 청계천로 40
💡TIP: check the cafe Knotted on the top floor and enjoy the beautiful view from the terrace.
8. Visit the SM Kwangya Seoul Flagship Store
Visiting Kwangya is a must-visit for any SM fan. A brand new store that opened in 2022 features merchandise and memorabilia from popular SM Entertainment artists, as well as offers interactive experiences and plenty of photo-ops. Maybe they will even carry that lightstick that seems to be sold out everywhere…
📍Address: KWANGYA 광야, 서울특별시 성동구 왕십리로 83-21 (basement)
9. Attend Kpop Music Show
Experience an up-close encounter with your beloved K-Pop idols at K-Pop music shows. While most music shows in Korea are typically recorded early in the morning, even before dawn, the best part is that attendance is completely FREE. As a bonus, you may even receive exclusive gifts from K-Pop idols themselves!
For a comprehensive guide on attending K-Pop music shows in Korea as a foreigner, check out this helpful guide.
10. Explore K-POP Square
The COEX Mall is a must-visit not only because of the famous Starfield library but also because of Kpop Square. Here you can find iconic Gangnam Style statue, wall with Kpop idols’ handprints, and promotional videos of the latest Kpop releases.
📍Address: 코엑스 K-POP 광장, 서울특별시 강남구 영동대로 513 (Samseong (World Trade Center Seoul) (삼성) station, exit 6)
BONUS
If you’re planning a trip to Busan, make sure to visit Cafe Magnate, run by BTS member Jimin’s dad. The cafe serves delicious coffee and desserts and is a must-visit for any BTS fan.
📍Address: MAGNATE 메그네이트, 부산 남구 진남로 135 B동 1층, 10am-10pm
