Seoul Like a Local: Your 2026 Guide to Beauty, Food & Hidden Gems

 

출처 : 서울시청 홈페이지

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1. "Glowmads" Trend: K-Beauty & Personal Color Analysis

The days of shopping-only tourism are over. Foreigners in Seoul are now seeking hands-on wellness and beauty experiences, with personal color analysis and skincare becoming the new must-do activities.

Search Keywords: "Personal Color Analysis Hongdae", "English speaking dermatology Seoul", "K-pharmacy tour items"

What's Happening?

Personal color consultation studios and English-speaking dermatology clinics in Hongdae are experiencing a surge in foreign visitors. The "K-pharmacy tour" at Olive Young and Daiso has become a trending way to discover must-buy skincare products and supplements.

🎨 Top Personal Color Analysis Studios in Hongdae

Vivid Hue Hongdae

• Location: 66 Wausan-ro 29-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (3 min walk from Hongik Univ. Station)
• Operating Hours: Daily appointments available
• Popular Service: 21-type personal color analysis with body shape consultation
• Cost: Starting from ₩180,000 (~$135)
• Languages: English, Chinese, Japanese
• What's Included: Color draping with 120+ swatches, lip product testing, digital style guide (PDF), makeup & fashion advice
• Pro Tip: They provide a color card for shopping - perfect for your Olive Young trip!

Cocory Color Hongdae Branch

• Location: Type Eleven 3F, 11 Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• Operating Hours: Mon-Sun (check online for specific times)
• Popular Service: Personal Color + Daily Makeup Package
• Cost: Personal Color from ₩100,000 (~$75)
• Languages: English, Chinese, Japanese
• What's Included: 12-tone analysis, personalized makeup recommendations, fashion styling tips
• Pro Tip: Book in advance during peak seasons!

🏥 English-Speaking Dermatology Clinics

Theme Dermatology (Gangnam)

• Location: Between Gangnam Station and Sinnonhyeon Station
• Operating Hours: Weekdays 10:00-23:00, Weekends vary
• Popular Treatments: Korean Glass Skin packages, anti-aging treatments, acne care
• Cost: Consultation from ₩50,000 (~$38), treatments vary
• Why It's Popular: 25+ years of experience, English-speaking staff, before-after photo consultations
• Pro Tip: Many treatments require multiple sessions - plan accordingly!

Ever Skin Clinic (Apgujeong)

• Location: 3F, 222 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (3 min walk from Apgujeong Station)
• Operating Hours: Check website for current hours
• Popular Treatments: Skin boosters, laser treatments, Korean glass skin facials
• Cost: Treatments start from ₩80,000 (~$60)
• Languages: English, Chinese
• Pro Tip: Only 2% of dermatologists in Korea are board-certified - this clinic has them!

🛍️ Olive Young Hongdae Town: Must-Buy Items

Location & Info

• Address: Near Hongik University Station
• Size: 991㎡ (second-largest Olive Young in Seoul)
• Floors: 3 floors with specialized sections
• Operating Hours: Daily 10:00-22:00
• Tax Refund: Available with passport (ask at checkout)

2026 Must-Buy List

Skincare Heroes:

• ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen (₩15,000 / ~$11) - Gentle, non-greasy, perfect for all skin types
• SKINFOOD Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pad (₩20,000 / ~$15) - Hydrating toner pads that won Olive Young awards
• Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream (₩18,000 / ~$13) - Viral for good reason, intense moisture

Makeup Favorites:

• rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint (₩8,000 / ~$6) - Shade "06 Kaya Fig" is universally flattering
• CLIO Kill Lash Mascara (₩12,000 / ~$9) - 5-year award winner, smudge-proof formula
• Peripera Ink Mood Glowy Tint (₩9,000 / ~$7) - The viral "blurry pudding" texture everyone's obsessed with

Hair Care Secret:

• UNOVE Deep Damage Treatment EX (₩25,000 / ~$19) - Found in the "Life & Health" section, Korean gold standard for damaged hair

Shopping Tips:

• Look for "1+1" deals (buy one get one)
• English-speaking staff available at Hongdae and Myeongdong branches
• Download the Olive Young app for exclusive member discounts
• Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons (2-5 PM) to avoid crowds

 

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2. Winter Pop-Up Stores & DIY Workshops

Hongdae and Sinchon's alleyways are filled with brand pop-ups and hands-on DIY classes where you can create your own unique souvenirs.

Search Keywords: "Hongdae pop-up store schedule Jan 2026", "Make your own ring Hongdae", "Neon sign workshop"

What's Trending?

Beyond browsing, visitors are creating personalized keepsakes - from custom rings and perfumes to neon signs. Yeonnam-dong and Hongdae character pop-ups require advance booking.

💍 DIY Ring Making Workshops

Atelier Hosoo Hongdae Branch

• Location: 4F Dongwon Building, 147-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00-20:00, Sat-Sun 11:00-20:00
• Cost: From ₩46,000 (~$35) per person
• Duration: ~2 hours
• What You'll Make: 925 silver ring (choose from various designs)
• Add-ons Available: Engraving (names, dates), plating (white/yellow/pink/black), birthstones
• Languages: Korean, English, Chinese
• Pro Tip: If you choose plating, you'll receive your ring by courier (not same-day)

Ring University (Hongdae & Myeongdong)

• Location: 7 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Hongdae)
• Cost: From ₩55,000 (~$42)
• What's Special: Uses 99.99% pure silver, professional jewelry-craft instructors
• Popular With: Couples making matching rings
• Included: Materials, tools, instruction, photo zone
• Pro Tip: Minimal English spoken, but English guidebook provided

Hoan Ring Workshop

• Location: Hongdae area
• Cost: From ₩50,000 (~$38)
• Unique Feature: Cozy wood-toned studio with friendly cats!
• Perfect For: LGBTQ+ friendly space, couples, friends
• Atmosphere: Jazz music, complimentary tea
• Age: 4+ years old welcome
• Pro Tip: Mention if you have cat allergies when booking

🎨 Current Pop-Up Stores (January 2026)

JISOO x Hello Kitty Collaboration

• Theme: BLACKPINK's Jisoo meets Hello Kitty
• What to Expect: Exclusive merch, limited-edition collectibles, photo zones
• Location: Check official announcements for exact venue
• Period: January 2026

Korilakkuma 20th Anniversary Pop-Up

• Location: AK Plaza Hongdae
• Period: Until January 19, 2026
• Theme: Strawberries and pink - everything Korilakkuma loves
• What to Buy: Character goods, plushies, limited edition items

Animate Hongdae (Permanent)

• Location: AK Plaza Hongdae 5F, 188 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu
• Operating Hours: 11:00-21:00 (may vary)
• What's Here: Japan's largest anime goods store in Korea
• Features: Comics, light novels, figures, J-POP albums, rotating character pop-ups
• Recent Pop-Ups: Sakamoto Days, One Piece, Demon Slayer, Detective Conan

Pro Tips for Pop-Ups:

• Check Creatrip or Naver Maps for latest pop-up schedules
• Arrive early on weekends - lines form quickly
• Many pop-ups have online reservation systems
• Limited edition items sell out fast!

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3. "Dailycation": Eat & Drink Like a Local

Korean dining culture is evolving - foreigners now seek authentic local restaurants over touristy spots.

Search Keywords: "Best Samgyeopsal Hongdae for locals", "Traditional Makgeolli bars Sinchon", "Late night delivery apps for foreigners"

🥓 Best Samgyeopsal (Korean BBQ) Spots in Hongdae

MGM Hongdae Branch

• Location: Near Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2/Airport Railroad/Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
• Specialty: Samgyeopsal grilled with minari (water parsley) on cauldron lid
• What's Special: Staff grills the meat for you, constantly refills vegetables
• Popular Orders: Samgyeopsal, galbi (ribs), moksal (pork neck)
• Side Dishes: Cold noodles, bibim noodles, stews
• Cost: ₩13,000-18,000 (~$10-14) per person
• Atmosphere: Spacious, comfortable, parking available
• Pro Tip: Perfect for groups, great service!

Musoe Kimchi Samgyeop (무쇠김치삼겹)

• Location: 20-5 Wausan-ro 21-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• Unique Feature: Grills pork in cast iron until crispy, with whole kimchi head in center
• Why Locals Love It: Pork fat flavors the kimchi incredibly
• Must-Try: Save meat and kimchi for fried rice at the end!
• Cost: ₩15,000-20,000 (~$11-15) per person
• Vibe: Authentic local spot, not heavily touristed

Pul Ddeutneun Dwaeji (풀뜯는돼지) - Yeonnam-dong

• Specialty: Minari Samgyeopsal (pork belly with Korean water parsley)
• Unique Dishes: Minari Pancake, Minari Bibimbap, Minari Ramen
• How It's Served: Staff grills meat and presses fresh minari on top
• How to Eat: Wrap pork in minari, dip in soy sauce
• Cost: ₩16,000-22,000 (~$12-17) per person
• Location: Yeonnam-dong area, near Hongdae
• Pro Tip: Herbal aroma makes it unique - must-try for health-conscious eaters!

God of Samgyeopsal (삼겹의신)

• Location: 2F, 111-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• Why It's Special: Best price-to-quality ratio in Hongdae
• Cost: ₩11,900 (~$9) for unlimited thin samgyeopsal and flavored ribs!
• Self-Service: Meat, side dishes, miso soup all self-serve
• Atmosphere: Mostly Korean locals, building looks under construction from outside but restaurant is open
• Pro Tip: Don't take more meat than you can eat, paper foil prevents burning

Baetjang (뱃장)

• Location: Near Hongik Univ. Station
• Special Feature: One of few places that serves solo diners!
• What You Get: Charcoal BBQ on mini scale, perfect portions
• Quality: Excellent meat, great service
• Cost: ₩15,000-20,000 (~$11-15) solo portion
• Pro Tip: Perfect if you're traveling alone and want Korean BBQ!

🍶 Traditional Makgeolli Bars in Sinchon

(Note: While specific makgeolli bars weren't found in search, Sinchon is known for student-friendly drinking spots near Yonsei and Ewha universities. Look for signs saying "막걸리" for traditional rice wine bars)

🍫 Latest Food Trends

Dubai Chocolate Cookie Craze: Korean bakeries and cafes are creating their own versions of the viral Dubai chocolate - look for thick, filled chocolate cookies at trendy Hongdae cafes

Samgyeopsal Fat Content Display: New regulation requires restaurants to display pork fat percentage - look for lean options if preferred!

📱 Late-Night Delivery Apps for Foreigners

• Coupang Eats: Available in English, wide restaurant selection
• Baemin (배달의민족): Most popular but Korean interface (use Papago to translate)
• Yogiyo: Some English support, good for late-night orders
• Pro Tip: Most apps accept foreign credit cards, but some require Korean phone number verification

 

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4. Winter Events & New Year's Countdown

From late December to early January, winter festivals and New Year celebrations dominate Seoul.

Search Keywords: "Sinchon Countdown Concert 2026", "Seoul Plaza Ice Rink booking", "Winter weather clothes Seoul"

🎊 New Year's Eve 2026 Countdown Events

Sinchon Countdown Concert

• Location: Yonsei-ro Star Plaza, Sinchon (Yonsei-ro 19, Seodaemun-gu)
• Date: December 31, 2025, starting at 22:00 KST
• Free Event: First-come, first-served
• Performances: M.O.N.T, Cyburger, Yook Joongwan Band, University cheerleading squads
• After Party: Walk to nearby Hongdae for clubs and late-night fun
• Atmosphere: Young, energetic crowd, street festival vibe
• Pro Tip: Arrive by 9 PM to get a good spot!

Seoul Light DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza)

• Event: New Year's Countdown with fireworks, DJ G-PARK & THE SOLUTIONS
• Date: December 31, 2025, from 23:00
• What to See: 222-meter media façade, light installations, synchronized fireworks
• Location: Dongdaemun Design Plaza
• Cost: Free
• Pro Tip: Combine with Han River Dinner Cruise for double fireworks!

Bosingak Bell Ringing Ceremony

• Location: Bosingak Pavilion, Jongno (near Jonggak Station)
• Tradition: 16 people including Seoul mayor ring the bell 33 times at midnight
• Significance: Dating back to Joseon Dynasty, marks transition to new year
• Atmosphere: Traditional, meaningful, draws thousands of locals
• Cost: Free
• Best For: Those wanting a cultural, reflective New Year experience

⛸️ Winter Activities

Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink

• Location: Seoul Plaza, in front of City Hall
• Season: December through February
• Operating: Daily (check specific hours online)
• Cost: ₩1,000 entrance + skate rental
• Size: One of Seoul's largest outdoor rinks (since 2004)
• Family Favorite: Includes winter village atmosphere
• Pro Tip: Weekday afternoons are less crowded!

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Lights

• Location: Chungryeongsan Mountain, ~35km from Seoul
• Period: Until March 15, 2026
• Hours: Daily 5:00 PM-9:00 PM (11:00 PM on Saturdays)
• What to See: 30 gardens with light tunnels, themed displays
• Transportation: Day tours available from Seoul
• Cost: ₩11,000-13,000 (~$8-10)
• Pro Tip: Combine with Nami Island day trip!

🧥 Winter Weather Preparation

Average January Temperature: -6°C to 3°C (21°F to 37°F)

Essential Items to Buy:

• Long Padding (롱패딩): Korean winter staple, available at Uniqlo, 8Seconds, Spao
• Disposable Heat Packs: Sold at convenience stores (₩1,000-2,000 / ~$1-2)
• Thermal Underlayers: Available at Daiso, Olive Young
• Where to Shop: Hongdae Shopping Street, AK Plaza Hongdae, Sinchon shopping district

Pro Tip: Koreans layer multiple thin pieces rather than one thick coat for indoor/outdoor temperature changes!

 

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5. Travel Convenience: Taxis & Transit

Seoul has introduced new policies to make travel easier for foreign visitors.

Search Keywords: "Seoul taxi English receipt", "How to report taxi overcharge", "Climate Card for tourists"

🚖 New English Taxi Receipts (Since December 2025)

What Changed:

• Bilingual Receipts: English + Korean on all taxi receipts
• Clear Breakdowns: Total fare, pickup/drop-off times, surcharges clearly marked
• Reporting Info: Instructions on how to report overcharging included on receipt
• Available Since: December 2025

What's Included on New Receipts:

• Total meter fare
• Night surcharge (10 PM - 4 AM: 20-40% extra)
• Out-of-district surcharge
• Toll fees (shown separately)
• Taxi number for complaints
• QR code for easy reporting

📱 Taxi Apps with English Support

Kakao T (K.ride for foreigners)

• English interface available
• Estimated fare shown before booking
• Credit card payment
• Most popular app in Korea
• Driver info and license plate provided

TABA

• English-friendly
• Transparent pricing
• Pre-book available

Uber / UT

• Works in Seoul and Busan
• 20-30% more expensive than Kakao T
• Good if you're used to the interface

⚠️ How to Report Taxi Overcharging

If You Suspect Overcharging:

1. Keep Evidence: Receipt, photo of license plate, payment proof
2. Call: +82-2-120 (Seoul taxi complaint hotline - English service available)
3. Or Report: Korea Tourism Organization hotline: 1330
4. Refund Process: Officials check meter records, driver refunds directly if confirmed

Common Scams to Watch For:

• Driver suggests flat rate instead of meter
• Refuses to turn on meter
• Takes unnecessarily long route
• Claims they can't make change for large bills

Prevention Tips:

• Always insist on meter use
• Use taxi apps for transparent pricing
• Keep small bills (₩10,000, ₩5,000)
• Screenshot destination before trip
• Track route on Google Maps

🚇 Climate Card for Tourists (기후동행카드)

What It Is:

• Unlimited public transit pass for Seoul
• Now available for foreign tourists!
• Covers subway, buses, and some bike-sharing

How to Get:

• Purchase at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven)
• Or at subway station kiosks
• Tourist version available with passport

Pricing:

• 30-day pass: ₩65,000 (~$49)
• 7-day pass: ₩25,000 (~$19) (check current availability)

Coverage:

• All Seoul subway lines
• Seoul city buses
• Ttareungyi bike sharing (30 mins free)

Pro Tip: Calculate if worth it based on your daily trips. Average subway trip costs ₩1,400 (~$1), so heavy users save money!

🚌 Transit Apps You Need

• Kakao Metro: Subway navigation in English
• Naver Map: Best for overall navigation (some Korean)
• Google Maps: Works for basic routes
• Seoul Bus: Real-time bus arrivals in English

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🎁 Bonus: Hidden Gems for Foreigners

Yeonnam-dong Quiet Dessert Cafes

Best for: Instagram photos, peaceful afternoon breaks

Recommendations:

• Café Onion Yeonnam: Minimalist industrial design, famous croissants
• Felt Roastery: Third-wave coffee, art gallery vibe
• Anthracite Coffee: Cozy atmosphere, specialty coffee

Location: 10-15 min walk from Hongik Univ. Station, quieter than main Hongdae area

Complete Olive Young & Daiso Shopping Checklist

Daiso Must-Buys (All ₩1,000-5,000 / ~$1-4)

• Compression face masks
• Beauty blenders and puff cleaners
• Travel-size containers (TSA approved!)
• Cute stationery and character items
• Laundry mesh bags
• Kitchen gadgets

Daiso Hongdae Location: Multiple locations near Hongik Univ. Station

Final Pro Tips for Foreign Visitors

✅ Download Before You Arrive:

• Papago (translation app - better than Google Translate for Korean)
• Kakao T (taxi app)
• Naver Map (navigation)
• Coupang Eats or Yogiyo (food delivery)

✅ Money-Saving Tips:

• Convenience store meals are actually good and cheap (₩3,000-7,000 / ~$2-5)
• Tax refund at Olive Young with passport
• "1+1" deals are everywhere - stock up!
• Many museums are free on last Wednesday of month

✅ Cultural Etiquette:

• No tipping required (can be seen as rude)
• Remove shoes in some restaurants and all homes
• Don't blow nose at dinner table
• Receive items with two hands or right hand supported by left

✅ Best Times to Visit Areas:

• Hongdae: Evenings and weekends for full energy
• Olive Young: Weekday afternoons (2-5 PM) to avoid crowds
• Personal Color Studios: Weekday mornings for relaxed experience
• Pop-ups: Arrive 30+ min before opening on weekends

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Wrapping Up Your 2026 Seoul Adventure

Seoul in 2026 is all about experiencing rather than just sightseeing. From analyzing your perfect color palette at Hongdae studios to crafting your own silver ring, from savoring authentic samgyeopsal grilled by locals to counting down to New Year at Sinchon - every moment offers a chance to connect with Korean culture on a deeper level.

The new English taxi receipts and Climate Card make getting around easier than ever, while the explosion of K-beauty experiences means you'll leave Seoul not just with souvenirs, but with knowledge about your personal style and skincare routine.

Remember: Seoul moves fast. Trends change monthly. Pop-ups rotate constantly. The best way to experience it all? Stay flexible, follow local Instagram accounts, and don't be afraid to wander down those Hongdae side streets where the real magic happens.

Ready to glow up in Seoul? Your 2026 adventure awaits! ✨

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For the latest pop-up schedules, check Creatrip.com and follow @seoul.official on Instagram. Download Naver Map and Papago before your trip - you'll thank yourself later!