Palace / Heritage
Seochon
Seochon is an alley, hanok, cafe, and gallery district in Tongui-dong, Chebu-dong, and Pilun-dong, Jongno-gu, west of Gyeongbokgung. Quieter than Bukchon with dense restaurants, cafes, and crafts; dating and tourism traffic are heavy.
History & background
A village west of Gyeongbokgung in the Joseon period; from the late 2000s small cafes, workshops, and galleries made it a neighborhood for young people and tourists. Preserved alleys and new commerce coexist.
Why it's famous
Alleys, hanok, cafes, and restaurants create a calmer atmosphere than Bukchon; dating, walking, and photo visitors concentrate. Real-time population is high at weekend lunch and dinner.
Transport & access
Subway Line 3 Gyeongbokgung and Anguk, Line 5 Gwanghwamun. Walking to Seochon alleys and Gyeongbokgung west gate.