5 Most Stunning Starbucks Locations in Seoul That Coffee Lovers Must Visit!

Anyone who has been to South Korea knows that it’s a nation obsessed with coffee. You can find a café almost every few steps on the streets, and Starbucks is no exception, with branches scattered everywhere. Among them, a few stand out for their unique charm—not just places to grab a coffee, but spaces where you can pause and appreciate a different side of Korea.

Today, we’re sharing 5 of the most distinctive Starbucks locations in South Korea. If you enjoy relaxing at Starbucks, make sure not to miss these spots when you visit Korea.

1. Starbucks Seoul Wave Art Center

This is one of the most iconic Starbucks in Seoul. It’s not just an ordinary building but a gallery floating on water, resembling a sleek white ship docked along the Han River. From the large floor-to-ceiling windows inside, you can enjoy expansive views of the Han River, passing boats, and the city skyline on the opposite bank. During the day, sunlight streams in, and at night, you can admire the enchanting city lights. Although it’s slightly away from the city center, it’s easily accessible and well worth a visit. This spot is perfect for travelers looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle.
📍145-35 Jamwon-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul

2. Starbucks Gwangjang Market Branch

This Starbucks is tucked away in the historic Gwangjang Market, seamlessly blending modern coffee culture with the lively atmosphere of a traditional market. The interior design combines market elements with a contemporary aesthetic, allowing visitors to experience the authentic local vibe while finding a cozy spot amidst the bustling crowd. After shopping and enjoying local delicacies, stop by for a cup of coffee—it’s like switching between two contrasting cultural worlds, offering a unique experience.
📍88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Yejidong)

3. Starbucks Kyungdong 1960 Branch (스타벅스 경동1960점)

This branch is housed in a repurposed old cinema, the "Kyungdong Theater," located within Kyungdong Market. The interior retains the original tiered seating, high ceilings, and red brick walls, exuding a strong retro vibe. This building was a cultural hub in the 1960s and has now been reborn as a coffee shop. Sitting in the original theater seats while sipping coffee feels like traveling back in time, echoing the memories of the past. This location is not just a tourist attraction but also a community hub for locals, showcasing Starbucks’ deep integration with local culture.
📍3 Gosanja-ro 36-gil, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul (Jegidong)

4. Starbucks THE Bukhan Mountain Branch (스타벅스 더북한산점)

This Starbucks is a paradise for nature lovers. Situated at the entrance of Bukhansan National Park, it features large floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace that offer breathtaking mountain views. Whether it’s the lush greenery of spring and summer, the fiery autumn foliage, or the snowy winter landscape, the scenery here is stunning year-round. The minimalist architectural design harmonizes with the natural surroundings, and almost every seat inside faces the windows, providing a perfect view. On sunny days, enjoy your coffee on the outdoor terrace and soak in the fresh mountain air.
📍24-11 Daeseomun-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul (Jingwan-dong)

5. Starbucks Hwangudan Branch (스타벅스 환구단점)

This Starbucks perfectly combines traditional Korean hanok architecture with modern coffee shop design. Located in the city center near Deoksugung Palace and Hwangudan Altar, this branch is not just a café but also a space where you can immerse yourself in a historical and cultural atmosphere. The exterior features traditional tiled roofs and wooden structures, while the interior is adorned with wooden furnishings, exuding a rustic elegance. A small courtyard adds to the unique ambiance. Enjoying coffee here allows you to appreciate the beauty of traditional architecture in a serene setting.
📍112 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (Sogong-dong)

🍵 Starbucks is a common sight in South Korea, but these five locations offer a glimpse into different facets of Seoul. They reflect the city’s water reflections, market tranquility, echoes of old theaters, mountain breaths, and the warmth of hanok architecture.

Next time you’re in Seoul, why not pick one of these spots, sit down, and experience a different side of the city with a cup of coffee?