Join us in exploring Ikseon-dong – a tranquil and nostalgic ancient neighborhood, a perfect haven amidst the bustling city of Seoul!

Previously, when mentioning Seoul, people only remembered a few prominent names like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, Gwanghwamun, or Insadong… However, Seoul has many other interesting destinations, and recently, Ikseon-dong has become increasingly popular, not only with locals but also with many foreign tourists.

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Taking advantage of the unique architecture of traditional Hanok houses, many young Koreans are combining them with restaurants, cafes, and craft shops, creating a space that is both modern and ancient. Now, let’s explore the charming beauty of Ikseon-dong in the article below!

Why is Ikseon-dong a Must-Visit Destination in Seoul?

Seoul Historic Walking Tour

Ikseon-dong is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down amidst the hustle and bustle of Seoul. Nestled right in the heart of the city, this small neighborhood has a unique feel, where old hanok houses are preserved and infused with new life through charming cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and craft shops. Not overly grand, Ikseon-dong is captivating in a very down-to-earth and local way.

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The most special thing about Ikseon-dong is the natural blend of tradition and modernity. You can sit and enjoy coffee in a low-roofed hanok house, order a modern twist on a dish, and then step out into a bustling alleyway just a few steps away. Everything here is just right—familiar enough to feel at home, yet fresh enough to show that Seoul isn’t just about glamorous neighborhoods.

Ikseon-dong is also a great place to experience the authentic rhythm of young Seoul life. Not a crowded tourist check-in spot, this neighborhood attracts people who come to linger, chat, and enjoy the atmosphere. If you like exploring authentic, culturally rich yet youthful and creative corners of Seoul, Ikseon-dong is a worthwhile stop to include in your itinerary.

How to Get to Ikseon-dong?

Located in the Jongno district, right in the heart of Seoul, Ikseon-dong is easy to get to, even for first-time visitors to Korea. The simplest way is to take the subway to Jongno 3 Station. There are three intersecting lines (lines 1, 3, and 5) here, making it convenient to travel from other parts of the city. From the station, exit through Exit 6 or Exit 7, then walk for about 3 to 5 minutes to reach Ikseon-dong with its rows of hanok alleys and cafes.

T-money Card

Additionally, if you’re in Insadong or the Gyeongbokgung Palace area, you can easily walk to Ikseon-dong. The distance isn’t far, a 10-15 minute walk, making it ideal for visiting multiple places in one afternoon. With its central location and clear directions, Ikseon-dong is a relatively easy destination for first-time Seoul visitors.

Must-See Check-In Spots in Ikseon-dong

Hanok Alleys in Ikseon-dong

Hanok alleys are the soul of Ikseon-dong. These small, gently winding alleys between low-roofed wooden houses create a very different atmosphere from the rest of Seoul. Walking through them, you almost forget you’re in the city center, leaving only the sound of footsteps, the faint aroma of coffee, and the slow pace of life.

Interestingly, the hanok houses aren’t “framed” like museums, but are used in their true sense in modern life. An old house might be a café, the one next door a small bakery, and a little further away a restaurant hidden behind a wooden door. Each time you turn into an alley, you’ll encounter a different space, very down-to-earth yet very stylish.

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You can choose your favorite café in the alley, sit and enjoy the taste of coffee while watching the ancient scenery and the people passing by – very romantic, isn’t it? This neighborhood is also perfect for taking photos for girls who love vintage style.

Visiting the Royal Palace

Unhyeongung palace seoul

The Unhyeongung Royal Palace was once the residence of Heungseon Daewongun, the father of King Gojong, the 26th king of the Joseon dynasty. Interestingly, despite being located right in the bustling Jongno district, Unhyeongung offers a very peaceful feeling, like a quiet haven separated from the modern life outside.

Unhyeongung is especially beautiful in autumn, when the courtyard is covered in golden leaves, creating a scene that is both ancient and romantic. The space isn’t overly large, but it’s enough for you to stroll slowly, admire the traditional architecture, and clearly feel the lingering historical atmosphere.

Besides sightseeing, the area also frequently hosts traditional events and festivals, recreating the life of the former royal family. If you want to visit during a special event, you should check the information beforehand on Unhyeongung’s official website for a more complete experience.

| things to do in ikseon dong
  • Address: 464, Samil-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 삼일대로 464 운현궁)
  • Directions: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 4. Walk approximately 100 meters (about 2 minutes) to reach the site.

Opening Hours:

  • Early April to late October: 9:00-19:00 (Last entry at 18:30)
  • Early November to late March: 9:00-18:00 (Last entry at 17:30)

Note: Free entry and closed every Monday (except for public holidays)

Rent a Hanbok and Stroll Through Ikseon-dong and Gyeongbokgung

Thanks to its location near palaces and the old town, Ikseon-dong is an ideal place to wear a hanbok and stroll through the streets. Simply put on a traditional hanbok, and you can easily travel between Ikseon-dong and Gyeongbokgung Palace, taking photos in the hanok alleys while enjoying the ancient atmosphere in the heart of modern Seoul.

“Princess Hanbok” Hanbok Rental & Snap Photoshoot Experience

Hanbok rental packages are usually quite flexible, giving you enough time to combine multiple locations in the same area. This is an easy-to-try experience that feels very “Seoul,” especially suitable for those visiting Korea for the first time. You can book in advance on Klook so you can wear a hanbok and stroll around as soon as you arrive, without wasting time searching for shops or waiting in line.

Experiencing Modern Korean-Style Restaurants

Seoul Gwangjang Market Half-Day Local Food Experience

The cuisine in Ikseon-dong is a clear blend of traditional Korean dishes and modern variations. You can still easily find bibimbap, pajeon, spicy chicken, Korean-style rice sets, or shared meals in the hanjeongsik style. However, the seasoning and presentation are often slightly adjusted to suit tourist tastes, making them easier to eat without losing their authentic flavor.

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Korean cuisine

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In terms of price, dining in Ikseon-dong is average for Seoul, quite reasonable considering its central location. A rice dish or main course usually ranges from 10,000 to 15,000 KRW, grilled dishes or more substantial sets cost from 15,000 to 30,000 KRW, and drinks and desserts start from 5,000 KRW.

What makes the restaurants here worth trying isn’t just the food, but also the cozy and stylish renovated hanok-style ambiance. Eating in Ikseon-dong is just the right experience to savor Korean cuisine in an accessible, modern way while still retaining its local spirit.

Traditional Cultural Experiences Near Ikseon-dong

Gyeongbokgung / Hanbok / N Seoul Tower/ Painters Private Tour

Around Ikseon-dong, there are many hands-on Korean cultural experiences, perfect if you want to understand the culture in a more intimate way than just sightseeing. The most popular are short classes in traditional crafts, Korean calligraphy, tea ceremony, or Korean cooking classes, easily accessible even without knowing Korean. These activities are usually designed for tourists, so the instructions are clear and not overly academic.

The great thing is that you can naturally incorporate them into your schedule. After exploring Ikseon-dong, a short walk or trip is all it takes to participate in these experiences, without needing to dedicate an entire day. This is a suitable option if you want a trip with more depth, a better understanding of how Koreans preserve and transmit traditional culture in modern life, instead of just taking photos or checking in.

Combining a Stroll Through Insadong and Jongno

Insadong
Insadong old street

From Ikseon-dong, you can walk to Insadong and Jongno in just a few minutes, making it convenient to extend your exploration of Seoul’s old town. Insadong is famous for its handicraft shops, folk paintings, hanji paper, ceramics, and souvenirs with a distinctly Korean feel, suitable if you want to find gifts with cultural significance rather than mass-produced shopping.

Beautiful Tea Museum insadong (1)

Meanwhile, Jongno has a more subdued atmosphere, focusing on historical sites, traditional tea houses, and small streets reflecting the local way of life. Combining Ikseon-dong, Insadong, and Jongno in one day is a great way to experience the transition between tradition and modernity in Seoul, without having to travel far but still enjoying a diverse range of experiences.

Hotels Around Ikseon-dong for Your Convenient Exploration

Frequently Asked Questions About Ikseon-dong

1. What is Ikseon-dong and what makes it special?

Ikseon-dong is an old hanok neighborhood located in Jongno District, central Seoul. What makes this place special is that the old hanok houses have been renovated into cafes, restaurants, and small shops, creating a clear blend of tradition and modern life.

2. Is Ikseon-dong similar to Bukchon Hanok Village?

Not exactly. Bukchon focuses more on sightseeing and taking photos of the old village, while Ikseon-dong is more about daily life and experiences. There are many restaurants, cafes, and places to sit, making it feel more intimate and accessible.

3. When is the best time to visit Ikseon-dong?

Ikseon-dong is beautiful both during the day and at night. While daytime is suitable for photographing the quiet hanok alleys, the evenings are more lively, with the shops lighting up, creating a very festive atmosphere, although it will be more crowded.

4. Is Ikseon-dong crowded with tourists?

Yes, especially on weekends and in the evenings. However, because the neighborhood has many narrow alleys, if you walk slowly and turn into less crowded lanes, you can still find some fairly quiet corners.

5. Is eating in Ikseon-dong expensive?

Eating in Ikseon-dong is considered average for Seoul. Main courses usually cost around 10,000 to 15,000 KRW, while sets or specials may be more expensive. This price is commensurate with its central location and characteristic hanok (traditional Korean house) atmosphere.

6. Who is Ikseon-dong suitable for?

Ikseon-dong is suitable for first-time Seoul visitors, those who enjoy exploring local neighborhoods, couples, groups of friends, and those who appreciate a blend of traditional and modern styles. It’s also easy to combine with visits to many nearby attractions.

7. Should I wear a hanbok when visiting Ikseon-dong?

Yes, if you enjoy taking photos and experiencing the culture. Wearing a hanbok while strolling through Ikseon-dong is very fitting, and you can combine it with visiting nearby palaces on the same day.

8. What other places can I visit in Ikseon-dong?

You can combine Ikseon-dong with Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Insadong, and Jongno in the same trip as these places are very close together and easy to walk to.

Will you be visiting Ikseon-dong on your next trip?

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