Hipjiro Hidden Cafes 힙지로 숨은 카페
Seoul · Dongdaemun & Euljiro · Cafe
Hipjiro is the nickname for Euljiro, the old district of printing shops and hardware stores where young entrepreneurs have turned worn upper floors into cafes, studios and bars. Many of these cafes have no obvious sign, and finding one means checking a map app, walking up a narrow stair and opening an unmarked door. Inside you may find vintage furniture, mismatched cups, good coffee and an unexpected view over old rooftops.
Because most cafes are small, they can fill quickly in the afternoon. Some close in the evening or on weekdays, so check ahead. Prices and menus are mixed and may change.
Euljiro 3-ga Station (을지로3가역), Lines 2 and 3, and walk a few minutes into the lanes. Use Naver Map or Kakao Map to find each entrance.
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 힙지로 숨은 카페
- Best time to visit
- Weekday afternoons give you a seat and some light. Dusk gives the neon signs a special glow.
- Pair it with
- Euljiro Nogari Alley and Coffee Hanyakbang are close, and Andongjang is nearby for lunch.
- Great for
- Couples, Friends, Solo travelers
- Local tip
- Cafes tucked upstairs in old printing and hardware buildings. Use Naver Map or Kakao Map to find the entrances, since signs are small.