The Ultimate Guide to Gangnam, Seoul: Things to Do and Eat

If you’re visiting Seoul and want a taste of modern city life with a hint of K-pop glamour, Gangnam is the place to be. My friend, a Korean local, often tells me that Gangnam is one of her go-to spots whenever she’s in the city and after exploring it myself, I can see why. With bustling shopping streets, quirky cafes, lively nightlife, and endless dining options, Gangnam perfectly combines style, convenience, and excitement.

Also read: 30 Fun Things to Do in Seoul on Your Very First Visit

Where to stay

Gangnam is not just for shopping. It’s also a fantastic area to stay in, thanks to its central location and excellent transport links. When I was in Seoul, these were some hotels I tried.

Hotel Uri&

This hotel is a bit on the smaller side, but its prime location makes up for it. Being just a short 10-minute walk away from Samseong Station, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to explore the area on foot. I enjoyed the cosy, intimate rooms, and it felt like a peaceful retreat after a day of wandering around Seoul.

Hotel Peyto Samseong

A little larger and more comfortable, this hotel offers spacious rooms and a relaxing environment after a day of shopping and sightseeing. I particularly liked how restful and calm it felt compared to the busy streets, making it a perfect place to recharge. It was also closer to Samseong Station as compared to Hotel Uri&.

L7 Gangnam

One of my earliest and most memorable stays in Seoul was at L7 Gangnam by Lotte Hotels. Just a two-minute walk from Seolleung Station, the location couldn’t be better. I loved how convenient everything was. There’s a 7-Eleven in the basement, Olive Young and Starbucks right nearby, and COEX Mall just one subway stop away. The rooms were bright, modern, and surprisingly spacious for Seoul, with a touch of Korean charm. Even after all my visits to the city, L7 Gangnam still stands out as a place that perfectly captures comfort and city convenience.

Things to do and see

Gangnam isn’t just about glitzy streets and skyscrapers; there’s a rich mix of experiences for every kind of traveller. From cultural landmarks and shopping to peaceful riverside walks and buzzing nightlife.

COEX Mall, Starfield Library & COEX Aquarium

You might have already seen the COEX starfield library on TikTok for its stunning bookshelves and bright design. Don’t just stop there, it’s also one of the largest underground shopping complexes in Asia. The COEX Mall is practically a city beneath the city. You’ll find everything from designer boutiques and bookstores to cafes and restaurants.

Right next door, the COEX Aquarium is one of Korea’s most impressive marine attractions. Home to over 40,000 sea creatures across themed zones, it’s a relaxing escape from the city rush. Ideal for families or anyone wanting a quieter moment.

Gangnam Style Statue

Pay homage to PSY’s global hit at the Gangnam Style Statue, located in front of COEX. It’s a light-hearted stop and a great photo opportunity that captures the district’s playful, trend-setting energy.

Gangnam shopping street

Stretching between Gangnam Station, this lively boulevard is lined with international brands like UNIQLO, Zara, Nike, and MUJI, as well as local favourites such as 8 Seconds, MIXXO, and SPAO. The street is smoke-free, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon of shopping and people-watching.

Kakao Friends & LINE Friends flagship stores

A short walk from Gangnam Station, the Kakao Friends and LINE Friends flagship store are a delight for fans of these beloved characters. Both are multi-storey shops filled with themed merchandise, cafés, and whimsical photo zones. Perfect for souvenirs or just a cheerful detour.

Bongeunsa Temple

For a dose of tranquillity amid Gangnam’s high-rises, visit Bongeunsa Temple. With more than 1,200 years of history, its peaceful courtyards and ornate lanterns offer a calm, reflective break from the city bustle.

Megabox Cinema Gangnam

Located near Sinnonhyeon Station, Megabox Cinema Gangnam is one of Seoul’s most popular cinemas. With comfortable seating, a sleek interior, and a great mix of local and international films, it’s the perfect spot to wind down after a day of sightseeing or shopping.

K-Star Road

If you’re a K-pop fan, K-Star Road in nearby Cheongdam-dong is unmissable. Lined with colourful bear statues representing various idol groups, the area is also home to major entertainment agencies like SM and JYP. You might even spot a celebrity on their way to work!

Cafe hopping & photo booths

By day or night, Gangnam’s cafe scene is endlessly creative. From minimalist coffee bars to themed dessert cafes, you’ll find stylish spots on almost every street. Many also feature photo booths where you can snap instant memories. It’s one of the favourite things my friends and I love doing,

Gangnam’s nightlife

When the sun goes down, Gangnam truly comes alive. The district’s nightlife is as dynamic as its daytime scene, offering everything from stylish rooftop bars to lively underground clubs. Around Sinnonhyeon and Nonhyeon, you’ll find speakeasy-style cocktail bars, trendy lounges, and late-night eateries perfect for post-drink snacks. For something more high-energy, spots like Club Octagon, Mass, and Arena draw both locals and tourists with world-class DJs and a party atmosphere that goes until dawn. Whether you prefer a quiet drink with a view or dancing the night away, Gangnam’s nightlife has you covered.

What to eat

Gangnam is a food lover’s paradise, where traditional Korean flavours meet bold modern creativity. Whether you’re craving a comforting local meal, sleek fusion dining, or a sweet pick-me-up after shopping, this district delivers.

Jangdon Tonkatsu

A true comfort food gem, Jangdon Tonkatsu serves perfectly fried, golden-crisp pork cutlets that strike the ideal balance between crunchy and juicy. Each set comes with rice, miso soup, and a fresh cabbage salad. Simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of place that feels like a warm hug after a long day out.

Hanmiok

Hanmiok is a viral Korean BBQ restaurant famous for its Chadol Gujeolpan, a beautifully presented platter of thinly sliced beef brisket, fresh vegetables, and an egg for dipping. Each bite is rich, flavourful, and perfectly balanced, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant also serves other traditional Korean dishes, but this signature BBQ experience is what keeps people coming back.

Solsot Pot Rice

There’s something special about Solsot Pot Rice, where each meal is served bubbling hot in a stone pot. The rice crisps beautifully at the edges while soaking up the flavours of assorted toppings. From marinated beef to seasonal vegetables. It’s a wholesome, hearty dish that perfectly suits Gangnam’s cooler evenings.

Bing Churr

Need a sweet interlude? Bing Churr is a dessert cafe specialising in creative twists on Korean favourites. Think bingsu (shaved ice) topped with churros, cookies, or seasonal fruits. Playful, indulgent, and just the right amount of extra.

Cafe Knotted Gangnam Kakao

For those with a sweet tooth, Cafe Knotted is a must-visit. Its pastel interiors and photogenic doughnuts (especially the cream-filled ones) have made it a social media favourite, but it’s not all looks. Everything tastes as good as it looks.

Local street food favourites

If you’re exploring the shopping streets around Gangnam Station, make sure to stop by one of the many street food stalls. Tuck into spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes), warm hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts), and freshly rolled gimbap (Korean sushi rolls). These quick bites capture the heart of Korean street culture. Simple, satisfying, and utterly addictive.

Also read: 8 Insider Seoul Travel Tips Singaporeans Must Know in 2025

Why Gangnam?

Gangnam encapsulates Seoul’s modern, fast-paced energy without losing its cultural soul. It’s a neighbourhood that perfectly balances style and substance, where sleek skyscrapers stand beside centuries-old temples. Where cafés, fashion boutiques, and food stalls hum with life at all hours.

Whether you’re shopping for the latest fashion trends, cafe-hopping with friends, or soaking up the city lights after dark, Gangnam never disappoints. With its excellent hotels, easy transport connections, and endless variety of things to see, do, and taste, it’s no wonder this district remains one of Seoul’s most iconic areas to stay in.