How to Spend a Rainy Day in Seoul: Things to Do Indoors and Food to Eat

Rainy days in Seoul don’t have to slow you down. Instead of retreating to the usual shopping malls, why not explore some of the city’s more unusual and captivating indoor experiences?

Moreover, when it comes to food, certain dishes take on an almost ritualistic comfort on wet days: hearty, warming, and perfectly suited to the mood. Here’s a carefully curated list of indoor activities paired with the best rainy day dishes to enjoy.

Also read: How to Spend a Rainy Day in Tokyo: The Best Things to Do Indoors

Things to do indoors

Museum Kimchikan

Yes, there’s a whole museum dedicated to kimchi, and it’s actually fascinating. Forget normal exhibits: Museum Kimchikan is lively and hands-on.

You’ll learn about the history of kimchi, how it differs by region, and even get to make a batch yourself, guided by friendly experts. It’s a great way to see why this staple is such a big part of Korean life.

The Lock Museum

A museum about locks sounds niche, but that’s what makes it interesting. Wander past intricate old Korean locks and curious designs from around the world.

Some are beautifully decorative while others look oddly modern despite being centuries old. It’s small, peaceful, and just quirky enough to make you glad you stopped by.

VR Station Gangnam

Step into VR Station and swap the rain for something far more exciting. Try everything from action-packed escape rooms to dreamy, slow-paced worlds.

Even if you’re new to VR, staff are on hand to help you choose what to play. After a few minutes, you’ll forget there’s even a storm outside.

Korean calligraphy workshop

Dip a brush in ink and see how calming it feels to write Korean characters. Calligraphy workshops around Seoul are welcoming even if you’ve never tried it before. It’s less about getting it perfect and more about enjoying the slow, careful strokes. You might leave with a simple piece you’re surprisingly proud of.

Traditional tea houses in Bukchon

Bukchon Hanok Village is known for its historic houses, but the real hidden gems are the tea houses tucked inside. Step in to escape the drizzle and you’ll find wooden beams, soft light through papered windows, and the soothing aroma of herbal teas. Sip on something like jujube or citron tea, paired with small sweets, and watch the rain trickle over tiled roofs.

Makgeolli tasting bars

Makgeolli is Korea’s slightly fizzy, milky rice wine, with a flavour that can be sweet, tangy, or earthy depending on the brew. On rainy days, locals flock to intimate makgeolli bars where you can sample different varieties alongside traditional snacks like savoury pancakes or kimchi.

The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, with an old-world charm that invites lingering conversations, ideal when the rain encourages slowing down.

Pottery workshops

Rolling and shaping clay can be oddly therapeutic. Many studios in Seoul offer beginner-friendly pottery classes where you can make your own bowl or cup. The quiet focus is a nice change of pace, and you’ll walk away with a handmade souvenir to remember your trip.

Digital Media City

Digital Media City is a sprawling hub of Korea’s media and technology industries. It has interactive exhibits covering everything from broadcasting to digital art. It’s sleek and high-tech, but still fun, especially when you try the hands-on displays.

Gugak Performances

Experience Korea’s traditional music, known as gugak, in intimate indoor venues that highlight the beauty and complexity of instruments like the gayageum and janggu.

These performances are rarely touristy, offering a genuine cultural experience where you can appreciate the rhythms and melodies that have been part of Korean heritage for centuries. Indeed, the calming atmosphere is perfect for a thoughtful, immersive afternoon indoors.

Cooking Classes

Why not spend a rainy afternoon learning to cook Korean food? Classes often start with a quick market tour, then move to making dishes like bibimbap or bulgogi. It’s hands-on, social, and you get to enjoy your meal at the end. A perfect combo!

Indoor Golf Simulators

Golf enthusiasts don’t have to put their swing on hold because of rain. Seoul’s indoor golf simulator centres recreate realistic courses where you can practise or compete with friends in a climate-controlled setting. It’s surprisingly addictive and a great way to stay active without battling the elements.

What to eat on a rainy day in Seoul

Rain and food go hand in hand in Seoul. Certain dishes become even more comforting when the skies are grey. These selections are widely beloved by locals for their warming qualities and deep flavours, perfect after wandering through damp streets.

Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki is the quintessential rainy day snack. The chewy rice cakes bathed in spicy-sweet gochujang sauce deliver a satisfying warmth that seeps into your bones. Additionally, look for stalls that add extras like soft boiled eggs or cheese. These little touches take the dish from good to unforgettable!

Jjigae

Whether it’s kimchi jjigae, doenjang jjigae, or sundubu jjigae, these stews bubble away with robust flavours and heartiness. Served piping hot, each spoonful offers comfort and depth, ideal for a sit-down meal that feels like a warm embrace against the rain.

Hotteok

Hotteok is the perfect rainy day street food, crispy on the outside with a molten centre of brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon. It’s an effortless treat to carry as you walk, and the mix of textures and sweetness provides a satisfying contrast to the damp weather.

Pajeon & Makgeolli

Pajeon, a savoury pancake packed with spring onions and often seafood, paired with makgeolli is a classic Korean rainy day combination. The crispy, oily pancake alongside the slightly sweet, tangy drink is a sensory match made for wet afternoons.

Ramyeon

When you need something quick and deeply comforting, a bowl of ramyeon fits the bill perfectly. Its spicy broth and chewy noodles are instantly warming and widely available, from humble street vendors to dedicated noodle shops.

Don’t let the rain touch your spirits

Seoul’s rainy days invite you to slow down and discover layers of culture, creativity, and cuisine beyond the typical tourist track. Indeed, these indoor experiences and comforting foods offer a chance to connect more deeply with the city, no matter the weather outside.