While Korea is essentially still a very traditional country, western consumerism seems to have a heavy influence on the country, especially in Seoul. Students are often seen hanging out all day in cafés, studying or discussing about their school projects—which probably explains why there are so many cafés in Sinchon and Edae. I randomly wondered why seat hogging in cafés isn’t a problem here (it is a problem in Singapore), and came across an interesting read about the Korean Café Culture.
Recommended Cafés in Sinchon and Edae
Gordes 고르드 (Sinchon)
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32 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Located just a few hundred metres away from Yonsei’s main gate, this has got to be the all time favourite café of many Yonsei students. They used to only serve baked foods and beverages, but they’ve since started serving pastas and risotto.
Apple Blossom (Edae)
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8 Ewhayeodae 3-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
I’m not sure why business here hasn’t multiplied fewfolds since Running Man filmed here. But all the better, because a quiet atmosphere is always better than a busy one.
Petite Reine 쁘띠렌 (Edae)
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43 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Another quiet and inconspicuous café in one of the less busy streets of Edae. The white interior, exquisitely designed cakes and drinks didn’t fail to impress.
Updated February 2016.
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