Myeongdong Cathedral 명동성당
Seoul · Myeongdong & Namsan · Sights
Myeongdong Cathedral is the mother church of Korean Catholicism, and its red-brick Gothic towers rise over the surrounding shopping streets. Inside, the pointed arches, stained glass and hushed atmosphere are a sharp contrast to the commercial noise outside. Visitors are welcome outside service times, but should dress modestly, keep their voices low and avoid photos during Mass.
In December, the courtyard is decorated with lights and a nativity display. Hours may change, and some areas are closed for services, so look for the posted notice.
Myeongdong Station (명동역), Line 4 Exit 8, is about a five-minute walk. The cathedral stands up a short slope from the main street.
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 명동성당
- Best time to visit
- A weekday afternoon is quiet. December evenings are special when the decorations come on.
- Pair it with
- Myeongdong Shopping Street is a minute away, and Myeongdong Kyoja Main Branch and Hadongkwan Myeongdong are close for a meal.
- Great for
- Parents
- Local tip
- A Gothic brick cathedral that offers a calm pause from the shopping streets. Dress modestly and keep your voice low during services; lights go up in December.