Paying a visit to Seoul, South Korea? You will likely end up in Myeongdong and there are plenty of awesome things to do in Myeongdong, Seoul.
Myeongdong is a popular spot for those visiting Seoul because of its central location and proximity to many of sights. The likelihood is that if you are visiting Seoul, you will end up at Myeongdong at some time or another. Shopping, eating and entertainment can all be found in the Myeongdong district.
Here are some awesome things to do in Myeongdong.
11 Fun Things To Do In Myeongdong, Seoul
1. Myeongdong Shopping Street
Orientate yourself to the district by taking a walk along the main Myeongdong shopping street. You will find it filled with international stores like Zara and H&M, along Korean brands like Innisfree and Olive Young.
Street vendors line the street selling food as well as gifts and fashion goods. Pay it a visit in the evening and you will find that the atmosphere changes as it livens up.
2. Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center
Besides the shops at street level, there is also a Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center, which is a godsend in winter. Check out the various shops that line the mall, offering items like socks and vinyl LPs for sale.
3. Lotte Department Store
The Myeongdong Lotte Department Store is where you’ll find plenty of shopping to be done, especially if you are looking for luxury good. There is a basement food court as well as different restaurants.
4. Lotte Young Plaza
Lotte Young Plaza has six floors worth of shopping and includes a Muji store. For those who like cute things, head to the basement level which is dedicated to cartoon characters and K-pop.
5. Myeongdong Night Street Food
One of the reasons to pay a visit to Myeongdong at night is to sample the street food. Up to 200 street food vendors set up in the evening, transforming the place into a feast for the eyes and the stomach. Search out popular street foods like tteokbokki and grilled meats.
6. Myeongdong Cathedral
The Myeongdong Cathedral is an impressive looking building. But there’s more reason to make a visit to the Myeongdong Cathedral part of the list of things to do in Myeongdong besides its looks. Under the cathedral is an underground shopping center which has cafes, restaurants and a large 7-Eleven convenience store. One stall of note here is Libre Coffee, a nice place to get a cuppa joe.
7. Cat Cafes
If you’re a cat person, you won’t want to miss out on a chance to spend some time with the feline residents of Cats’ Playground. It is a cute place to hang out with many different breeds of cats. You can get seated at a table and order from the menu which includes drinks and desserts.
8. Isaac Toast & Coffee
There are two Isaac Toast & Coffee locations in Myeongdong. The first is close to the Myeongdong Cathedral and the second is closer to Myeongdong Station, Exit 5. You can pick up on of these buttery sandwiches and fill up your tummy with its delicious flavors.
9. Myeongdong KyoJa
Soft hand cut noodles served in a delicious broth is one of four menu items offered by Myeongdong KyoJa. Another must try is the Michelin Bib Gourmand awarded dumplings or mandu. Myeongdong KyoJa has two outlets along the same street. Pay it a visit to treat your tastebuds to some delicious food. Read our review of Myeongdong KyoJa.
10. Chicken and Beer
There is an entire row of restaurants devoted to chicken and beer at Myeongdong. Amongst these stores is the famous BHC and others too. But arrive early as the crowd can build up as everyone simply loves the combination of Korean fried chicken and beer!
12. Nanta Show
Be treated to 90 minutes of crazy entertainment at the Cookin’ Nanta show. Its non-verbal comic approach makes it accessible to all, even if you don’t speak Korean. Expect at fun night out at the Nanta Show at the Myeongdong Theatre.
13. HBAF Stores
These snack shops can be found at multiple locations around Myeongdong. You can pick up some nuts and snacks with unusual flavors at the HBAF stores. These are great to buy home as souvenirs. Some of the popular flavors of snacks include the honey butter almonds and caramel salted pretzels.
14. Seoul Animation Center
This museum for kids has different interactive features and is both educational and entertaining. Find out more about the Seoul Animation Center.
15. Busking
If you pop by Myeongdong in the evening time, at the end of the street where the night market meets Myeongdong subway station, you may come across buskers. It can be a nice place to enjoy some music while munching on the street food that you’ve picked up from your walk around the night market.
Bonus Ideas around Myeongdong
Namsangol Hanok Village
Just a short distance away from Myeongdong is the Namsangol Hanok Village. It is a historical place that is great for taking photos. You can wander around and appreciate the various old houses. There are also shops where you can stop in for some tea too. Explore this traditional village at your own pace.
Namdaemun Market
While in the Myeongdong area, you can also take the opportunity to pay a visit to Namdaemun Market. You will find vendors selling everything from clothing to essential items.
We hope that these provide you with good ideas on things to do in Seoul around the Myeongdong area. Enjoy your visit to South Korea!
If you are looking for somewhere to stay around Myeongdong, check out our review of Days Hotel by Wyndham Seoul Myeongdong.
