Hi again! It’s your local bestie, Yeda.
If you are looking for the best hidden places in Seoul, you’ve come to the right place!
If you followed my last post—[exploring the Namsan Sky Forest Trail]—you know I love finding those quiet, soulful corners of the city. Today, however, I want to take you somewhere a little more… bizarre. —
Most tourists spend their entire trip in the bright, polished lights of Myeongdong or Hongdae.
And hey, I love those places too.
But let’s be real.
Sometimes, don’t you want to see the real Seoul?
The one that doesn’t show up in the shiny travel brochures?
If you’re tired of the usual tourist traps and searching for hidden places in Seoul, this post is for you.
We’re going to Jungnim-dong.
A place where time seems to have stopped somewhere in the 1970s.
🟢 Top Hidden Places in Seoul: Chungjeong Apartment
If you’ve seen the Netflix show Sweet Home, this building might feel oddly familiar.
Right in the middle of Jungnim-dong stands the Chungjeong Apartment.
It’s famous for being one of the oldest modern-style apartments in South Korea.
Built all the way back in the 1930s, it’s a rare piece of living history.
With its faded green walls and strange, maze-like structure, it looks like a glitch in the matrix.
It’s the definition of Seoul off the beaten path.
A quick personal note:
People actually live here!
So if you visit for those “aesthetic” photos:
Keep your voice down (the sound echoes in the courtyard).
Be respectful of the residents’ privacy.
Just enjoy the vibe from the public areas.
🗺️ The Route I Took (Mystery → Alleys → Food)
Most travelers get lost here because the alleys are so narrow.
But don’t worry, I’ve got you.
How to get there (The Easy Way):
Take the Subway Line 2 or 5 to Chungjeongno Station.
Head out through Exit 9.
Walk for about 3 minutes, and you’ll see the giant green walls.
After checking out the apartment, follow the uphill path behind it.
You’ll see old-school barbershops, tiny tailors, and cozy houses.
It’s like walking through a living museum of “Old Seoul.”
🍢 The Reward: Authentic Street Food
After wandering through those nostalgic alleys, you’re going to get hungry.
And that’s when you’ll find it.
A small, unassuming stall with steam rising into the air.
This is where I had the best local Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) you saw in my video.
Why is it special?
In Myeongdong, the food is often adjusted to be less spicy for tourists.
But here?
It’s the real deal.
Chewy. Thick.
And a deep spicy-sweet sauce that comes from hours of simmering.
How to order like a pro:
Unlike other places, this spot has a very specific rule.
Don’t just shout your order!
Go to the counter and find the small paper slips (bills) and a pen.
Write down your order on the paper and hand it to the staff.
Even if you just write “Tteokbokki 1” in English, they will understand!
Yeda’s Secret Tip:
Always ask for the “Oden-gukmul” (fish cake broth).
It’s free, it’s warm, and it’s the perfect way to wash down the spice.
☕️ The Sweet Escape: One of the Hidden places in Seoul
After that spicy kick from the Tteokbokki, you’re going to need something to smooth things over.
Just a short walk from the stall is Draw Espresso Bar, a sleek, modern oasis hidden in this old neighborhood.
I ordered their signature menu, Caffe Lieto.
It’s not just your average coffee—it’s a heavenly combination of rich espresso, velvety vanilla ice cream, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
Why I love this spot:
The Flavor Explosion: The savory olive oil actually enhances the sweetness of the ice cream and the bitterness of the espresso.
It’s a trendy, gourmet experience you wouldn’t expect to find in such a retro alley!
The Contrast: One minute you’re writing your order on a paper slip at a 40-year-old street food stall, and the next, you’re sipping a sophisticated Caffe Lieto.
🛡️ A Quick Reality Check on Safety
I know what you might be thinking.
“Yeda, these alleys look a bit dark. Is it safe to walk here alone?”
Here is my honest take:
Seoul is generally one of the safest cities in the world.
And during the day?
This neighborhood is perfectly fine to explore and very peaceful.
However, since this area is close to Seoul Station, it can feel a bit different at night.
The alleys get quite dark, and you might see some homeless neighbors around the station area.
My advice for my future friends:
Visit during daylight hours.
That’s when you get the best photos and the friendliest vibes anyway!
Stick to the main paths once the sun goes down.
Just use your basic “big city” common sense, and you’ll have a great time.
📍 Essential Info & Google Maps
To make your journey effortless, I’ve saved the exact locations for you.
Since Google Maps can be tricky for walking in Korea, use these pins:
📍 The Mysterious Green Apartment on Google Maps
📍 The Secret Tteokbokki Stall on Google Maps
📍 Draw Espresso Bar on Google Maps
Practical Tips:
Shoes: Sneakers are a must. There are some uphill sections!
Cash: These tiny stalls prefer cash or a T-money card tap.
🎬 See the Vibe for Yourself
If you want to feel the atmosphere of these alleys and hear the sizzle of the street food before you go, check out my latest vlog.
I’ve shared the full walking tour there, so you can follow my steps exactly.
Did this guide help you find Hidden Places in Seoul
Let me know in the comments!
I love chatting with my future friends. 🥰
📍 The Jungnim-dong Series
- Part 1: Walking Through Time: Seoul’s Oldest Apartment & Hidden Streets (Current Post)
- Part 2: Eating Like a Local: 50-Year-Old Cheolgil Tteokbokki Guide