If mainstream touristy sites are not your kind of jam, hop on the subway and take a ride to Mangwon-dong where the pace is far less exhausting for a peaceful day out in the city. All you have to do is take the brown subway line to “Mangwon” Station (Line 6).

Here’s a peek at what this little neighborhood that is filled with quirky cafes and eateries has to offer:

Mangwon Sijang

 

Mangwon sijang (traditional market) is where the neighbourhood folks come to buy fresh produce that are usually fresher and cheaper than the supermarkets. Over the years, old stores have been taken over by new establishments hence a more modern feel to it than the typical traditional markets. Nonetheless, if you like the vibe and cheap eats, come here for their fried chicken coated in sauces and twisted doughnuts that are simply delectable!

More information:

Mangwon Sijang (Traditional Market)
Daily : 10:00 – 20:30

Zero per Zero

Zeroperzero is a local graphic and stationery brand that’s famous for their railway designs on maps and posters, along with cake illustrated cards and pin badges. This offline store stocks all their products from Japan, including other brands like MT masking tapes. If you are a stationery aficionado but aren’t stopping by Korea anytime soon, have a look at one of Korea’s leading stationery shops online to have our Korean Boxers deliver it to your doorstep! We love Instagrammer @dearchar_’s picks as well as some of the options found at Dear Maison and Comma B.

More information:

Zero Space
32, Huiujeong-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
02-322-7561
Mon-Fri: 13:00 – 20:00
Sat: 13:00 – 19:00 (Close on Sundays)
Instagram: @zeroperzero
Website: zeroperzero

Subaco

Subaco is a toy store that sells a mix of Japanese and American vintage toys and collectibles. They frequently update their Instagram with new arrivals—although not everything in store is available online, you still can shop a fair bit of treasures from the comfort of your own home.

More information:

Subaco
72, Huiujeong-ro 20-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Tue-Sun : 13:00-19:00 (Close on Mondays)
Instagram: @_subaco
Website: subaco

Cafe Cment

Photo from: @lee.hwayoung and @7982dh

There are plenty of charming places in Mangwon-dong that you’ll be able to get your caffeine fix—just walk along any street corners and you are bound to stumble across a few. Here is an example of a place that offers visually pleasing food and drinks that are equally Instagram worthy! Cafe Cment is situated just a few steps away from Subaco and you’ll probably be spending hours on just one tiny street.

More information:

Cafe Cment
66, Huiujeong-ro 20-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Tue-Sat : 11:00-23:00
Sun : 11:00-21:00 (Close on Mondays)
Instagram: @cafecment

Le glacier des etoiles

Photo from: @akiden82 + @lovechloe1027

This retro exterior is hard to miss! Run by a young couple from Busan, Le Glacier des Etoiles serve French fusion set meals and delicious creamy milk ice-cream made with Seoul Milk. You can opt for takeout if you are not planning to dine in for the full course. As dining spaces are limited, the waiting time can be long, so be warned. We recommend checking their Instagram hashtags to see what mains they are serving as they change the main menu offerings from time to time.

More information:

Le Glacier des Etoiles
46, Mangwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Mon-Fri : 12:00-22:00 (Break time: 16:00-18:00)
Sat: 12:00-22:00 (No break time but closes earlier when meals are sold out)
Close on Sundays.
Instagram hashtags to check out: #빙하의별