Insadong, Seoul, South Korea

Standing: High
Rank: Rank 725 of 10,017

Reviewed by Elena Voss · Roavina Travel Editor

About Insadong

Insadong is a neighbourhood in Jongno District in central Seoul. Its main street, Insadong-gil, is joined by many alleys that lead deeper into the district, lined with modern galleries and tea shops. Historically it was the largest market for antiques and artwork in Korea. The area began about 500 years ago as a residential quarter for government officials; after the Korean War it became a centre of South Korea's artistic life and café culture. Foreign visitors in the 1960s called it "Mary's Alley", and it gained popularity with international tourists during the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

Checked 2026-11-10 · Source

What's inside

Insadong holds 40 percent of Korea's antique shops and art galleries and 90 percent of its traditional stationery shops. Tongmungwan, the oldest bookstore in Seoul, is here, and there are daily calligraphy demonstrations and pansori performances. Ssamziegil, a shopping complex of specialist handicraft stores, opened in 2004. Most of the older buildings, once owned by merchants and officials, now house restaurants or shops. Historic buildings in and around the area include the Unhyeongung mansion, Jogyesa, one of Korea's most significant Buddhist temples, and Seungdong Presbyterian Church, one of the country's oldest.

Checked 2026-11-10 · Source