Soviet-era plaza where Seoul's makers still work, and cool kids pretend they belong.
Why SEWOON, why now
Sewoon Sangga, the mid-century megastructure straddling Jongno and Eulji-ro, has accelerated as a creative hub in 2026, with maker spaces, rooftop bars, indie design shops, and art installations drawing heavy foot traffic distinct from the adjacent Eulji-ro scene.
1. Lione Coffee
- Seoul, Jung District, 가열 Eulji-ro, 157 3층 373호
- 4.9 · 50 reviews · 카페
We start at Lione before the plaza fills up. The espresso here is the kind you come back for, and the morning light through the windows sets the right pace for what comes next. It's a small stop, but it anchors the route.
Crew's note
We start here. No sign, no menu. Just eat.
What visitors say
it may be my high recommendation of coffee shop in Seoul/ Myeongdong. I remember cream latte is amazing and awesome, so is Tiramisu. the who…
Lione Coffee Bar has a chill and refined vibe, reminiscent of espresso bars you’d find on the streets of Spain or Italy. The coffee is high…
2. Sewoon Plaza
- 2-1 Jangsa-dong, Jongno District, Seoul
- 4.2 · 32 reviews · 데이트 장소
Sewoon Plaza closes the course because this is where the neighborhood shows its bones. The rooftop views, the camera shops on the second floor, the walkways that clear out mid-morning: this is the Sewoon most visitors miss. You finish here and decide whether to stay longer or move on.
Crew's note
This walkway clears out around now. That's when I come.
What visitors say
It was just for curiosity visiting the place. There were some small shops in the building selling used camera and lenses in 2nd floor. All o…
The sky seen from Seun Shopping Mall is really nice.
The walk between
The walk between them cuts through the plaza's lower floors, past the electronics stalls and the stairwells that still smell like the 1970s. You'll see the skyline open up as you climb.
- Hit Lione first thing, before 10 a.m. if you can. The espresso routine here works best when the neighborhood is still waking up.
- If you're into cameras or used gear, the second floor of Sewoon Plaza is where the small shops cluster. The rooftop is worth the climb for the sky alone.
FAQ
- Is this route walkable for someone short on time?
- Yes. The two stops sit close enough that you can finish the course in under two hours if you keep moving. If you have more time, the rooftop and the used book connections near Sewoon Plaza can stretch the visit.
- Does Lione allow dogs inside?
- According to visitors, yes. The cafe has been noted as dog-friendly, with regulars bringing their pets in for tea and coffee. It's a cosy setup if you're traveling with a dog.
Ask Jake
Seoul
