Jongno Guide

Japanese glass jewelry brand Seven takes over Seochon select shop Mosk Antenna Shop for a limited pop-up running May 8 through June 1, 2026. Tucked into a quiet hanok lane in Jongno, the show features handmade rings, earrings, and pendants with delicate light-catching details. The Seochon neighborhood pairs nicely with Gyeongbokgung and Tongin Market, making this an easy stop for travelers exploring traditional Seoul.

Korean jewelry label juï presents its first 2026 pop-up at seeksandfound in Bukchon, Jongno from May 2 to 5, unveiling a new collection called Monototem alongside archive pieces. Travelers exploring Seoul's hanok-lined heritage district can shop sculptural necklaces, rings, and bracelets that reinterpret the totem motif through structural, contemporary design — a quiet stop between palaces and traditional cafés.

Korean massage chair giant Bodyfriend partners with home interior platform Ohou.se for a four-week experiential pop-up in Bukchon Hanok Village from April 14 through May 11. The first floor of Ohou.se Bukchon showcases massage chairs, sofas, and mattresses with a 10-years-healthier-home theme. A welcome wellness break inside Seoul's most photogenic traditional neighborhood.

Korea Rainbow Gold Exchange joins a two-day Gem & Mineral pop-up in Jongno's historic jewelry district on May 9-10. Held inside Geumseong Building near Donhwamun-ro, the event showcases earrings, necklaces, and bracelets alongside raw gemstones and gold-buying consultations. A unique stop for travelers curious about Seoul's traditional jewelry trade and the dazzling artisan culture of central Jongno.

Hidden in the charming alleys of Ikseon-dong, Tteuran is a beloved traditional Korean teahouse serving handcrafted herbal teas in a beautifully preserved hanok since 2009. Each tea is made from 100% Korean ingredients, boiled for over 10 hours daily. Step through the lush garden entrance into a tranquil courtyard oasis where you can enjoy omija tea, ssanghwacha, or sweet red bean porridge while surrounded by exposed wooden beams and traditional Korean decor.

An 11km restored urban stream cutting through downtown Seoul. Year-round it’s a serene riverside walk; for the Lotus Lantern Festival (May 17–25, 2026) it transforms into a glowing tunnel with giant traditional lanterns sculpted along the water.

Headquarters of Korea’s Jogye Order — Korea’s largest Buddhist sect — and the spiritual heart of Yeon-deung-hoe (Lotus Lantern Festival, UNESCO heritage). The May 23-25 grand parade ends here under a canopy of 100,000+ lanterns.

European neo-Gothic architecture surrounded by 200+ cherry trees. The domed Grand Peace Hall framed by pink petals is the signature shot. Open campus, no entry fee.

A hilltop park in Jongno with scenic Seoul Fortress Wall trails and sweeping panoramic views of the city. In KPop Demon Hunters, Rumi and Jinu have a secret rendezvous here along the stone wall, planning their strategy for the Idol Awards as sparks fly between them.

Established in 1905, Gwangjang Market is South Korea's oldest continuously operating traditional market and a must-visit street food paradise. Famous for its bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap, and yukhoe (Korean beef tartare), the vibrant food alley is a sensory feast featured on Netflix's Street Food: Asia. Beyond food, explore the textile and vintage clothing sections for unique finds.