We Found Where K-Pop Idols Hide in Seoul—and You Can Visit Too!
- lewishooper1
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
From SEVENTEEN's secret gastropub to the cafés BTS and aespa actually frequent, we show you where these high-profile K-pop idols hang out! Maybe you'll be able to spot a celebrity on your next visit to South Korea!
The megacity of Seoul has countless places to visit, but I found out where K-pop stars actually hang out! This is the real gem and treasure, as it allows you to get up close and personal with some idols (depending on their security) and, at the same time, enjoy the relaxing vibes that most of these places offer.
Beyond the flashy stages of M Countdown, idols like the members of BTS and BLACKPINK seek out quiet pockets of the city to escape the spotlight. I mean, wouldn't you if you were in the spotlight all the time? If you know exactly where to look, you can sip the same lattes and browse the same racks as some of the most popular names in K-pop!
The Low-Key
Hannam in Seoul is the more upmarket area and, as a result, offers a more 'low-key' vibe for many K-pop stars, especially BTS members. Hannam has plenty of local coffee shops and boutiques, and if you visit, you can enjoy the afternoon sunshine, soaking up the atmosphere and quiet. Could this be why Hannam is an area that inspires some of BTS's solo projects?
Secret Gastropubs
Hannam and Hapjeong are both trendy, upmarket areas in Seoul and, as a result, are a favourite with SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan and Hoshi. These boys enjoy visiting the more secret gastropubs, like Sogeukjeok and Refine. These gastropubs offer a Korean twist on the more traditional-style pub. If you are in Seoul, then you should definitely visit these pubs, and when you enter, you can even see member autographs on the wall! How cool is that!
Escapes in Euljiro
Another popular and central area is Euljiro in Seoul. This area is a favorite with aespa members, who have been known to visit this area often, mainly for the beautiful modern aesthetic bakeries like Asoto. Asoto is a famous bakery, mostly for its famous melon bread, which has gone viral on social networking platforms. The Dojeon Media team can fully understand why this area is a favorite with the aespa members, and if you are ever in Seoul, then you MUST visit this bakery and area as well!
Flagships in Dosan Park
If you are after a more extravagant and upmarket hangout like some of the BLACKPINK members, then Dosan Park is a dream for all of you luxury shoppers. Dosan Park is home to many flagship stores and architecturally beautiful cafes like Nudake. BLACKPINK members have been spotted frequently when they are not touring or training in this area! Dosan Park offers a great mix of luxury fashion and modernity at the same time, which is why it is perfect for the girls. Especially as some of them are high-fashion brand ambassadors.
Peaceful Seoul Forest
Last on our list is Seoul Forest. This area is a favourite with our writer Lewis Hooper, but it is also a favourite with many of SM Entertainment's talents since the SM headquarters is located right next to the subway station.
If you visit any time of year, you are in with a high chance of seeing a celebrity; however, fall and spring are the perfect times to visit. If you are in Seoul and need a breath of fresh air or a space to clear your head, then Seoul Forest is the perfect place to visit. Nearby are upmarket cafes like Podong Pudding. This cafe has also been known to attract K-pop stars, who need a place to relax.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of your taste or budget, Seoul is the perfect place to hang out. If you are after experiencing some of the frequent haunts that your favourite K-pop stars often visit, then the places on this list allow you to see the city through their eyes and taste.
Whether you’re grabbing a scone at Cafe Highwaist—a known favourite for BTS's Jimin—or exploring the "acorn" treats in Yongsan, you’re stepping into the private world that fuels the global K-pop craze. Just remember, if you bump into one of your favourite stars, then keep it respectful and casual. Sometimes the best way to support an idol is to let them enjoy their "hidden" Seoul in peace without hassling them.
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