Tiffany CondeHome to artisan cafés and independent roasters, South Korea has one of the most vibrant coffee cultures in the world. But even in a nation of coffee connoisseurs, Starbucks Korea has carved out a unique identity. With over 1,800 stores nationwide as of 2025, it’s more than just a coffee chain — it’s a cultural experience.
From a floating café on the Han River to a hanok-style branch in historic Gyeongju, some Starbucks locations in Korea have become tourist attractions in their own right. Whether you’re a caffeine enthusiast or a design lover, these are the most beautiful Starbucks in South Korea in 2025.
Also read: Top 10 Cafés in Seoul for The Best Pastries & Baked Treats
Most beautiful Starbucks in South Korea
1. Starbucks Wave in Seoul Wave Art Center, Seoul
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Yes, there’s really a Starbucks floating on the Han River. Opened in 2019 inside the Seoul Wave Art Center, this café looks like a sleek cruise ship drifting on the water. Its glass façade mimics undulating waves, and at night, the entire building lights up like an art installation.
Inside, the vibe is minimalist and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering unbeatable views of the Han River and Seoul’s skyline. Perfect for sunset coffee dates or late-night conversations over an iced latte.
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Furthermore, this Korea Starbucks outlet comes with minimalist interiors, night-time illuminations, and an impressive lookout of Seoul. This way, you can bask in stunning city views without ever having to leave your seat!
Address: 149-2 Jamwon-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
2. Starbucks Famille Park in Seocho District, Seoul
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Located inside Famille Station near Express Bus Terminal, this branch feels like stepping into an urban jungle café. Marking Starbucks Korea’s 800th store, it’s filled with eco-friendly design touches: upcycled burlap, potted coffee trees, and a glass-domed ceiling where artificial birds appear to take flight.
From outside, its geometric structure is striking, while inside, cozy couches and earthy tones make it one of the most relaxing Starbucks spots in Seoul.
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Outside, you can recognise this branch by its unique geometric structure. No doubt one of the most magical Starbucks locations you’ll find in South Korea, it’s the ideal place to relax with your favourite cup of coffee or tea.
Address: 19-3 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
3. Starbucks Gyeongju Daereungwon in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province
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In the historic city of Gyeongju, known as a “museum without walls,” Starbucks fits right in with a hanok-inspired café. Featuring curved tiled roofs, wooden pillars, and interiors with traditional floor seating, this location pays homage to Korea’s cultural heritage.
It blends seamlessly into the cityscape of ancient tombs and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it a must-visit for travellers exploring Korea’s past — with a frappuccino in hand.
Also read: 10 Most Famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites You Need to Visit in South Korea
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Inside the coffee shop, the wooden interiors and floor seating area pay tribute to traditional Korean design elements as well. Factor in the colourful patterns and paintings on the walls — and you get an aesthetically pleasing environment with very little distractions.
Address: 140-2 Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
4. Starbucks Mungyeong Saejae in Mungyeong, North Gyeongsang Province
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Nestled near one of Korea’s most scenic mountain passes, this branch is another hanok-style Starbucks. The low tables and floor cushions inside give it a homely feel, while the surrounding mountains and ginkgo trees make it especially magical in autumn.
After hiking the nearby trails, it’s the perfect stop to recharge with a hot caramel macchiato while soaking in the peaceful countryside views.
Address: 288-33 Sangcho-ri, Mungyeong-eup, Mungyeong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
5. Starbucks Busan Songdo Beach in Seo District, Busan
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Few Starbucks locations can rival this oceanfront café overlooking Busan’s Songdo Beach. The wide glass windows frame panoramic views of the sand and sea, making it a dreamy stop during a coastal walk.
When you’re ready to stretch your legs, a 365-metre walkway leads directly over the bay — so you can sip your latte, watch the waves, and then dip your toes into the water.
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Beyond the coffee shop, you can follow a 365-metre walkway that approaches the bay. Anytime you feel like wiggling your toes in the sand or going for an afternoon splash, Songdo Beach is only a short walk away.
Address: 81 Songdohaebyeon-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, South Korea
6. Starbucks Jeju Jungmun in Seogwipo, Jeju Island
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Jeju Island is full of quirky attractions, and this Starbucks Jungmun branch embraces that spirit with a rainbow-colored staircase and a steampunk-inspired interior. Its playful design comes from a collaboration with the neighboring Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, giving it a one-of-a-kind look.
Even better, this location serves exclusive Jeju-only menu items, such as the Jeju Carrot Basalt Cake, Halla Cheese Volca, and Jeju Matcha Shot Cream Frappuccino. Coffee + dessert lovers, this one’s for you.
Address: 32 Jungmungwangwang-ro, 110 beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
7. Starbucks Yangpyeong in Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province
Image credit: Starbucks Korea Official Facebook Page
If size impresses you, head to Yangpyeong County, home to Korea’s largest Starbucks. This three-storey branch spans more than 1,200 square meters and overlooks the Namhan River through tall panoramic windows.
It’s not just big — it’s a multi-experience café, featuring a bakery, Teavana bar, Reserve bar, and drive-through, all under one roof. Whether you want a casual hangout or a scenic rooftop date spot, this location delivers.
Image credit: Starbucks Korea Official Facebook Page
Address: 76 Yanggeun-ro, Yangpyeong-eub, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Image credit: Starbucks Korea Official Facebook Page
From floating cafés on rivers to hanok-style heritage branches and seaside escapes, Starbucks Korea continues to surprise with designs that go far beyond its signature green mermaid. With over 1,800 branches and counting, it has become part of the fabric of Korean daily life — and a must-visit for coffee travelers in 2025.
Also read: 10 Beautiful Starbucks Branches for Coffee Lovers Across the Globe
If you love to travel for coffee, check out our personal recommendations for Tokyo, San Francisco, Ho Chi Minh, Kuala Lumpur, and Manila as well. You’ll stumble upon cafés that are visually pleasing and also worth the hype!
