If you’re looking for a part of Seoul that breaks away from the traditional mold and shows you a more global, eclectic side of Korea, Itaewon (μ΄νμ) is your go-to spot. Located in Yongsan-gu, right in the heart of Seoul, this neighborhood stands out for its multicultural vibe, international cuisine, diverse communities, and vibrant nightlife.
So I decided to do a full-day walking tour starting from Itaewon Station to really experience what makes this area one of the most unique in Korea.
π Getting There: Itaewon Station Essentials
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π Subway Line: Line 6 (Brown Line)
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π Station Name: Itaewon (μ΄νμμ)
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π Best Exit: Exit 1 or 2 for food and shopping streets
The moment you step out of Itaewon Station, you can already feel the change in atmosphere. It's more relaxed, more diverse, and filled with signs in multiple languages.
π️ First Vibe: Global Energy with a Korean Heart
Unlike other parts of Seoul that are deeply traditional or hyper-modern, Itaewon blends both worlds effortlessly. You’ll hear people speaking Korean, English, Arabic, French, Tagalog, Hindi—you name it. It’s the one place in Korea where you truly feel the world has come together in one neighborhood.
π₯ Let’s Talk Food: A Global Culinary Playground
One of the main reasons people visit Itaewon? The food. You won’t find a wider range of authentic international restaurants anywhere else in Korea.
π― What I Ate:
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Turkish Kebab Wrap from a street vendor—juicy, spicy, and satisfying
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Authentic Halal Korean BBQ—yes, it exists, and it’s delicious!
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Filipino silog meal at a cozy turo-turo style eatery
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French bakery pastry and coffee from a stylish cafΓ©
You’ll also find food from India, Pakistan, Mexico, Thailand, Egypt, Italy, and more—all in one walkable stretch!
π️ Where I Shopped: Culture in Every Corner
Itaewon is home to a variety of unique shops, including:
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Custom Tailors – Offering handmade suits at affordable prices
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Antique Street – Full of vintage shops, decor, and hidden gems
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K-pop & Korean fashion boutiques – Trendy streetwear meets global style
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Import stores – Selling international groceries and hard-to-find products
If you're an expat or just a curious traveler, you'll enjoy the fusion of cultures in every store window.
π Visit to the Seoul Central Mosque
Just a short walk uphill from the main street is the Seoul Central Mosque, the first and largest mosque in South Korea. It’s open to the public and offers a peaceful view of the Itaewon area. The neighborhood surrounding the mosque is known as the Islamic Street, where you’ll find amazing halal restaurants, Turkish ice cream stands, and Arab cafΓ©s.
This is one of the best places in Seoul to learn about the diverse religious and cultural communities that live in harmony in Korea.
✨ Hidden Gems to Check Out
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Itaewon Antique Furniture Street – A haven for vintage lovers
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Gyeongnidan-gil (경리λ¨κΈΈ) – A hip side street with indie cafΓ©s, bars, and cool murals
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Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art – A must-visit for art lovers nearby
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Itaewon Book Street – Tiny bookstores with English titles and global literature
π Nightlife in Itaewon: Colorful, Fun, and Inclusive
As the sun sets, Itaewon transforms into a nightlife playground. From casual bars to high-end clubs, it’s known for its inclusive party scene—welcoming everyone regardless of background, nationality, or orientation.
You’ll find:
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Live music bars
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Rooftop lounges with views of Namsan Tower
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K-pop dance clubs
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LGBTQ+ friendly venues that are warm and vibrant
The diversity here doesn’t just stop at food and shopping—it’s in the people and experiences, too.
π Why Itaewon Is So Loved (and Sometimes Misunderstood)
Itaewon has a complex history. It used to be a U.S. military zone, which is why it became a magnet for foreign residents. Today, it’s celebrated for its open-mindedness and cultural diversity, though it’s also faced challenges balancing tradition and globalization.
Still, it remains one of the most open, welcoming, and inclusive districts in Korea.
π Final Thoughts: Is Itaewon Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. If you're someone who loves meeting people from different cultures, tasting food from around the world, and exploring unique streets off the beaten path, Itaewon is your spot.
It’s not just a tourist destination—it’s a crossroads of culture, cuisine, and community. Whether you're here to try something new or to find a taste of home in Korea, Itaewon will leave you with colorful memories.
π Quick Recap:
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π Location: Itaewon Station, Line 6
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π½️ Must-Try: Halal Korean BBQ, Turkish kebab, global street food
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π️ Shop at: Antique Street, import stores, tailor shops
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π Visit: Seoul Central Mosque and nearby cultural streets
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π Nightlife: Rooftop bars, live music, LGBTQ+ venues
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π§ Perfect for: Foodies, culture lovers, solo travelers, and global explorers
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