Things To Do In Itaewon, Seoul | Where To Go, Eat, Drink And Stay

Itaewon in Seoul is the hot spot for foreigners. When walking around you won’t have the feeling of being in Korea as the bustling streets are filled with foreign food restaurants, foreigner bars, foreign markets, etc. Read on to find out the best things to do in Itaewon in this monster Itaewon blog post!

Things To Know About Coming To Seoul

If it’s your first time coming to Seoul or Korea there there are some things you need to know and prepare.

• Drinking Water: The tap water in South Korea is good to drink. Seoul has some of the highest quality drinking water in Asia.
• Tipping: Korea has a no tipping culture. This is slightly changing these days due to the many foreign tourist but apart from taxi drivers and tour guides, tipping is not done.
• Travel Adapters: Tourists from the US, Japan, South East Asia and UK would need a travel adapter when coming to South Korea.
• Getting Around: Make sure to get a transportation card when using Seoul public transport.
• WiFi Egg: Get yourself a WiFi egg and stay connected during your time in South Korea, it is affordable and useful when travelling around the country. Check more info here. 

Things To Do In Itaewon

The Itaewon area is mainly about food, cafes and bars. Not many cultural activities are available. Quite a lot of craft workshops are located in this area that offer classes. You can find great deals on Klookand Trazy, for things to do in Itaewon.

1. Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art

The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art is a private art museum located in the Itaewon district. The museum is run by the Samsung Foundation of Culture and has two main sections. The first one is focused completely towards traditional Korean art which includes pottery, calligraphy, traditional paintings and jewellery. The second building is based on the contemporary art, featuring both Korean and international artists.

The two sections of the museum have been designed by different architects: section one is by Mario Botta and Section two by Jean Nouvel. Rem Koolhaas created the Samsung Child Education & Culture Center which is only accessible on specific occasions or events. This is a great museum if you’re looking for that perfect Instagram picture. This used to be a paid museum but is now free. Reservations are needed for both the free permanent exhibition and paid temporary exhibitions. Make your reservation for the Leeum Art Museum in Itaewon here.

Address: 60-16 Itaewon-ro 55-gil, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening Times: Tuesday – Sunday 10:30 – 18:00
Entrance Fee: Free, reservation needed
More info: Here

2. The Itaewon Mosque

The Itaewon Mosque was constructed in the early 1900’s and is the first and biggest mosque in South Korea. It is accessible to the public but you will need to cover your shoulders and knees. Friday is a special day so around lunch time the mosque will get incredibly busy.

The mosque is located in Usandan-ro, a street that is also known as the Muslim street of Seoul city. The street is filled with middle eastern super markets, halal restaurants and Muslim accommodations. It also has some unique coffee shops and book shops which attract young Koreans.

Address: 39 Usadan-ro 10-gil, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
More info: Here

3. Itaewon Antique Street

This is the place to go if you are looking for a unique shopping experience. The street is packed with small antique shops selling all sorts of Asian and European antiques.

The history of this Seoul street dates back to the 1960s, when the US soldiers based in Korea would sell their furniture and belongings before returning back to America.

Address: Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
More info: Here

4. The Hamilton Rooftop Swimming Pool

The Hamilton Hotel Rooftop Swimming Pool is one of Itaewon’s best kept secrets. During weekends in summer it’s a place for partying and sunbathing but in early mornings and weekdays you can go for a good swim. The hotel is conveniently located on the main Itaewon shopping street just next to Itaewon station.

Address: 179 Itaewon-ro, Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Entrance Fee: 15 000 – 20 000 krw, free for hotel guests
Opening Times: Daily 10 am – 6 pm
More info: Here

5. War Museum Of Korea

Technically this is not part of Itaewon, but as it lies just on the edge and is a must go when in Seoul, so it was added to this guide on what to see in Itaewon.

The War Memorial museum opened in 1994 and exhibits materials related to the Korean War. There are more than 33 000 items of all sizes on display indoor and outdoor. Each exhibition hall has it’s own theme: Memorial Hall, War History, Korean War, Expeditionary Forces, ROK Armed Forces, Big Equipment and the outside exhibition area.

Address: 29, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Times: Tuesday – Sunday 09:30 – 18:00
More info: Here

6. Hike To Namsan Tower

From Hangangjin Station Exit 1 there is a hiking trail leading up to Namsan Tower and mountain. The first part of the trail leads to the Grand Hyatt. This part mostly exists out of wooden stairs and gives a great view overlooking Itaewon-dong, Hannam-dong and you can even see as far as the Hangang River and Gangnam.

From the Hyatt you can enter the Namsan Park which has multiple trails going all the way up to the Seoul tower.

7. Make Your Own Perfume

** The location of this activity moved and the perfume workshop is now located in Myeongdong. **

At G.N perfume studio visitors can create their own perfume scent with 150 perfume bases and 20 natural flavors to choose from. Another shop from the same branch is located in Seocho-gu. After finishing the scent, you can also pick your own bottle and label inscription.

Address: 2F, 53, Myeongdong 2-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Booking: Advanced online booking required. Check more info here.

8. Pottery Making Experience

In a small workshop just next to the Itaewon Mosque, you can enjoy a pottery experience. The owner is incredibly friendly and has a real passion for his profession. During the 2 hours lesson, you’ll be able to make your own cauldron shaped diffuser. Find more info here.

9. Visit A Wellness Center

Are you struggling with back pains or looking to have a good massage? Then check out the Wellness Health Center on the main road of Itaewon. The sports medicine clinic is focused towards expats and foreign tourists in the Itaewon area.

10. Itaewon Global Village Center

Like any area in Seoul, Itaewon has its own Village Center. At IGVC they organize multiple programs each month to help expats live comfortably in Korea, from Korean classes to social events, volunteering and other support for foreigners (lawyer/taxes/…). Most of the events are free of charge or charge a very low participation fee. Find all their activities here.

11. Photography Class + 30 Day Stay At Guesthouse

These days guesthouses are offering more and more additional activities to attract more guests. Photo Park Guesthouse in Itaewon is offering a 30 day stay in their guesthouse and a free photography class for each guest. This is an activity offered by the official Seoul City booking platform. Click here for more info.

12. Make Traditional Korean Accessories

Join a crafting class in Itaewon and learn how to make traditional Korean accessories with Korean traditional paper ‘Hanji’. You can choose between making different decorative Korean items like norigae, baessi daenggi, key holder, and wall decoration. Click here for more info.

13. More Things To Do In Itaewon

Check the video below for more things to do in Yongsan and Itaewon.

Best Restaurants In Itaewon Seoul

The Itaewon area is filled with restaurants, mainly non-Korean food. You’ll find anything from Mexican, Jordan, Thai to vegan or vegetarian food. Most of these restaurants also do delivery through Shuttle, which is great if you don’t feel like eating out.

1. Foreign Food Restaurants In Itaewon

There are so many restaurants located in Itaewon, it’s hard to pick the best one. Here is just a small selection of restaurants which are worth trying.

1.1 Buddha’s Belly

Buddha’s Belly serves yummy Thai food. There is a wide range of options to choose from including all sorts of curries, noodle dishes, fried rice dishes, soups and meat/seafood dishes. They also serve amazing cocktails for a reasonable price.

Address: 48 Noksapyeong-daero 40-gil, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Price: $$
Opening Times: Daily 11:30 – 01:00
More info: Here

1.2 Coreanos Kitchen Itaewon

Coreanos Kitchen has 5 different restaurants all over Seoul. This one in Itaewon is located next to Buddha’s Belly. The food served is a kind of Mexican fusion with a Korean flavour. This restaurant is very famous among Koreans.

Address: 46 Noksapyeong-daero 40-gil, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Price: $$
Opening Times: Daily 12:00 – 23:00
More info: Here

1.3 On The Border

On The Border on the main street in Itaewon has a wide range of Tex-Mex style dishes including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, taquitos and guacamole. They also offer a great cocktails and virgin mojito’s. Whenever you go here you get served unlimited nachos and salsa.

Address: Seoul, Yongsan-gu, 737-37 한남동
Price: $$
Opening Times: Daily 11:30 – 22:30
More info: Here

2. Halal Restaurants In Itaewon

In Itaewon you’ll find loads of Halal restaurants and supermarkets as the Usandan-ro is the Muslim street of Korea. Nowadays Korea is improving services to accommodate Muslim tourists by creating prayer halls, Halal certified restaurants, etc. Some of the restaurants below are also part of a ‘Halal’ package tour of Seoul. Check more info here.

2.1 Petra Palace

Petra Palace is a restaurant located between Noksapyeong Station and Itaewon which serves fresh and authentic Middle Eastern food, mainly focused on dishes from Jordan. All dishes are prepared with ingredients and spices imported from the Middle East and the chefs are expats from a Middle Eastern country.

Address: 124-4 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Price: $$
Opening Times: Daily 12:00 – 21:30
More info: Here

2.2 Eid Korean Halal Restaurant

Eid in Itaewon is one of the only Halal certified Korean restaurants you will find in Seoul and in Korea. The restaurant is run by a Korean Muslim family so it is rather authentic. You’ll find things on the menu like samgyetang and bulgogi which are traditional Korean dishes.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 11.30 AM to 9.00 PM. Closed on Mondays
Address: 67, Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Price: $$
More info: Here

2.3 Kervan Turkish Restaurant

The restaurant offers traditional Turkish kebab and other traditional dishes. It is one of the few certified Halal restaurants in Korea. During lunch hours there’s a special offer which is a set menu for 9900 won, this includes a main dish, bread basket, salad, soup of the day and Turkish tea.

Opening Hours: Daily 11:30 AM to 11 PM 
Address: 127-3 Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Price: $$
More info: Here

3. Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurants In Itaewon

If you are a vegetarian or vegan it might be hard to find suitable restaurants in Korea as most traditional Korean food all has some kind of meat or fish. Your best shot to find vegetarian or vegan food is in foreign food restaurants and especially in the Itaewon area.

3.1 Plant Cafe

PLANT is a 100% plant-based vegan restaurant and bakery in Itaewon. They serve mostly western dishes like veggie burgers, wraps, fries, salads and sandwiched. PLANT also serves vegan cakes, kombucha, brownies and smoothies. If you’re gluten-free you can buy gluten-free cakes or bread in this shop.  This is one of the best bakeries in Itaewon.

Address: 63-15, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Price: $$
Opening Times: Daily 11:00 – 20:00
More info: Here

3.2 Huggers

Huggers is located in the residential part of Itaewon, just behind the Cheil buiding. It is a small minimalist restaurant which serves the best vegan burgers you can find in Seoul. The burgers cost around 10 000 won each and are quite big and filling for that price.

The best part of the restaurant is the cat! A super cute black and white restaurant cat who doesn’t mind cuddles.

Address: 8 Yongsandong 4(sa)-ga, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening Times: Friday to Sunday 11:00 – 22:30
Price: $$
More info: Here

4. Korean Restaurants In Itaewon

Of course Iteawon doens’t only have foreign food restaurants, there are also some really great Korean style restaurants.

4.1 Maple Tree House

Maple Tree House first started as a small BBQ restaurant in Samchondong and has since then opened 3 different branches across Seoul. What makes this BBQ restaurant special is the use of premium, high quality meat. They serve Hanu Deungsim, Yangnyeom-galbi Kkotsal, Danpung Bulgogi, Usamgyeop and even Jeju black pork, French Rack Lamb and USDA Prime Ribeye. If your’re looking to try great Korean food, this is the place to go.

Address: 26 Itaewon-ro 27ga-gil, Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening Times: Daily 11:00 – 22:30 (friday & saturday till 0:00)
Price: $$
More info: Here

Best Bars In Itaewon

Itaewon is known as being THE party area of Seoul and has some of the best things to do in Seoul at night. Other areas include Hongdae and Gangnam.

1. Itaewon bars

Listed below is a selection of bars which are quite popular in Itaewon.

1.1 Sour Pongdang

This is the first bar in Asia to specialize in sours and it has a special place in the Korean craft beer scene. They serve 10 kinds of drafts and have more than 80 types of imported bottles. You’ll also find a selection of special domestic beers like the ‘Jeju Island Tangerine Gose’ and the ‘Seouliner Weisse’.

Address: 6 Noksapyeong-daero 54-gil, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Opening Times: Tuesday – Sunday 18:00 – 0:00

2. Seoul Nightlife Itaewon

Itaewon, Hongdae and Gangnam are the major clubbing scenes in Seoul at night. Each area is focused on a different kind of public, with Itaewon nightlife being mainly for foreigners living or travelling in Seoul. Below you’ll find some of the best clubs for experiencing Itaewon at night.

Looking for a night out at a great deal? Then join one of these Pub Crawls, which gives you access to 3 bars (+drinks) and up to 10 clubs for only 25 000 krw. Check more info here.

2.1 Cakeshop

Cakeshop is the place to be when you’re into hip-hop or electronic music. The club is rather small but it’s one of the hottest places to go as many famous DJ’s have passed by like Nosaj Thing, Étienne de Crécy, and Shlomo.

Address: 34-2 Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Entrance Fee: 10 000 – 20 000 krw
Opening Times: Thursday – Saturday 22:00 – 04:00

2.2 Boombar

This is more classy venue compared with other clubs in Itaewon. This club with chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and velvel coushes in the VIP section plays mostly hip-hop music.

Address: 34-2 Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Times: Friday – Saturday 22:00 – 05:00
Entrance Fee: Differs depending on the night

2.3 Club Made

Club Made, located just next to Boombar is a leading club when it comes to hip-hop and EDM. The club has two different sections, this means visitors can move between the hip-hop and EDM zone.

Entrance Fee: 20 000 krw
Opening Times: Thursday – Saturday 22:00 – 09:00
Address: 34-2 Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Hotels Near Itaewon, Seoul

Itaewon is a great place to stay in during your time in Seoul, especially if you want to go out in the evenings and not have to worry about how to get back home. Listed below are a selection of hotels in all price categories.

1. Hostels Or Budget Hotels In Itaewon

If you are traveling alone or are one a budget, then Iteawon has some great hostels and budget hotels.

1.1 G Guesthouse

G Guesthouse is one of the bestseller budget guesthouses in Itaewon. The modern and spacious hostel is just a 1 minute walk away from the subway station. A simple breakfast is provide for all travelers. They also organize all sorts of events like rooftop parties.

Address: 14-38, Bogwang-ro 60-gil, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04406 Seoul, South Korea
Booking & More Info: here

1.2 That House Itaewon

A really clean, comfortable and spacious guesthouse in the heart of Itaewon. That House Itaewon is a 4 minutes walk away from the subway station. The hostel surroundings are quite at night and the staff is welcoming and friendly. Guests have access to a simple but tasty breakfast.

Address: 21-20, Itaewon-ro 16-gil, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04391 Seoul, South Korea
Booking & More Info: here

2. Mid Range Accommodations In Itaewon

Are you looking for a bit more comfort and don’t have a tight budget, then why not try one of the accommodations listed below?

2.1 Near To Mosque

This serviced apartment has 3 queen size bedrooms which is perfect for a group of friends or a big family. As the name might give away, the apartment is located in the street of the central Mosque and is a 2 minute walk away from the subway station.

Address: 29, Daesagwan-ro 6-gil , Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04403 Seoul, South Korea
Booking & More Info: here

2.2 White Gold Itaewon 01 Apartments

The White Gold Apartments have different apartments for 2 up to 7 people, which is great for couples or even big groups. The location is very conveniently located close to the subway station and the rooms are spacious and clean.

Address: 17-1, Itaewon-ro 26-gil, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04391 Seoul, South Korea
Booking & More Info: here

2.3 Mosc

Mosc (stands for meeting of Seoul community) Guesthouse is a beautifully decorated accommodation which has some of the highest ratings on Booking for solo travelers. The rooms are extremely clean and the owner is welcoming and charming. There is also a small coffee shop in the Guesthouse.

Address: 29, 31-1, Usadan-ro, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04406 Seoul, South Korea
Booking & More Info: here

3. Luxury Hotels In Itaewon

There are quite a few luxury or high quality hotels located in this area too. Not all of them are located close to the subway station, so if you prefer to use public transport instead of taxis, then check their location carefully.

3.1 Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel

This 3 star hotel is a beautiful and modern place to stay in one of the most vibrant areas of Seoul. Each room has different artistic murals which stand out against the white wall. Guests of the hotel have access to cell phone rental (free of charge). Breakfast is not included but is really recommended as it’s buffet style!

Address: 221, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04349 Seoul, South Korea
Booking & More Info: here

How To Get To Itaewon?

Itaewon Subway station is located on line 6 which is easily accessible from any subway station in central Seoul. Check the Seoul subway app for the best route.

From most major areas in Seoul you can take a direct bus to Itaewon. You can check live bus times on the Kakao Map App.

There are quite a few ways of getting to Itaewon. Your mode of transport will probably depend on where you are coming from.

1. How To Go To Itaewon From Incheon Airport?

• Airport Limousiene Bus: You can take bus #6030 from the airport. This bus goes all the way to Itaewon station in about 1h and 15 minutes. The price of the ticket depends on the time of the day but costs between 12000 krw and 19000 krw.
• AREX Train: You can take the AREX express train from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station. Tickets for the AREX cost around 8000 krw and it takes 45 minutes to reach Seoul Station. At Seoul station, transfer to subway line 4 and go to Samgakji Station. At Samgakji station, transfer to line 6 to Itaewon Station.
• Subway: Instead of taking the AREX train you can also take the all stop train. Take this train till Gongdeok Station and transfer to line 6 to Itaewon station. This takes around 1h 20 minutes and a ticket costs around 4300 krw. Make sure to have a T Money transportation card.
• Taxi: The last option is to take a taxi. From the airport to Itaewon by taxi it takes just over an hour, but this depends on traffic. The taxi fare will be minimum 70 000 krw.

2. How To Go To Itaewon From The Rest Of Seoul

To find out more about using public transportation in Seoul check out my full Seoul public transport guide. This will tell you everything you need to know about navigating and getting around the huge capital of Korea.

Other Recommendations & Things To Do In Itaewon Seoul

• There are 4 distinctive seasons in Seoul, so make sure to pack appropriately. Check out this guide on ‘What To Wear In Korea‘.
• Korea has the same power outlet as most European countries. Don’t forget your travel adapter to charge all your devices.
• Each year in autumn Itaewon holds the Global Village Festival. It is a multicultural event with performances, food stands and all sorts of activities.
• You can easily get to the Hangang river from Itaewon where you can ride a bike, walk, swim, take a cruise, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Have you been to Iteawon in Seoul? Have any questions about what to do in Itaewon Korea? Other recommendations on things to do in Itaewon which should be added to the list? Let me know in the comment section below!