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Gangnam: Seoul’s Most Iconic District Past, Present, and Must-Sees
- kmj
- Jul 30
- 6 min read
Ask anyone outside Korea what they know about Seoul, and chances are you’ll hear “Gangnam.” Thanks to global K-pop stardom and a certain viral music video (hello, Psy), this glittering district south of the Han River has become shorthand for everything stylish, upscale, and ultramodern.
But Gangnam’s story didn’t start with luxury malls and skyscrapers. Just a few decades ago, this was farmland, literally. Its transformation into one of Asia’s most famous neighborhoods is one of the most dramatic urban glow-ups in recent history.
Whether you’re here to shop, cafe-hop, temple-stroll, or get a little closer to your K-pop fantasy, Gangnam blends new-school flash with old-school charm in a way only Seoul can.
Back in the Day: Gangnam Before the Boom
Before the subway lines, before the style icons, and long before it became the center of Seoul’s luxury scene, Gangnam was rice fields and quiet countryside.
Literally meaning “south of the river,” Gangnam was historically peripheral, both geographically and culturally. During the Joseon Dynasty, most of Seoul’s important political and royal institutions were located north of the Han River, in what is now Jongno and Jung-gu. The land down south? Mostly farmland and sleepy villages, with little more than agricultural significance.
Still, the area has ancient roots. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of early human settlements in the Gangnam region, dating all the way back to the Bronze Age, around 1000 BCE. Beginning in the late 20th century, as Gangnam’s rapid development unearthed long-buried soil, research teams from institutions like the National Museum of Korea and the Seoul Institute of Cultural Properties stepped in to conduct excavations.
What they found was surprisingly rich: stone axes, earthenware pottery, and dolmen-style burial sites, mostly discovered during major infrastructure projects in areas like Seocho and Apgujeong. These findings suggest that long before the skyscrapers and K-pop studios, small agrarian communities once thrived along the Han River.
Gangnam may not have played a starring role in Korea’s dynastic history, but the soil beneath its polished streets carries stories that stretch back millennia. The city above may be new, but the land has always known life.
Gangnam Goes Global: Modernization & Money
By the 1970s, Gangnam was ready for its transformation. With Seoul expanding fast after the Korean War, the city needed room to grow and the land south of the Han River offered just that: space, and lots of it.
During the Park Chung-hee administration, a series of aggressive modernization projects reshaped the southern half of Seoul. In particular, a 1970s-era development plan aimed to reduce overcrowding in northern Seoul by expanding education, housing, and infrastructure in newly zoned districts like Gangnam. Elite high schools, universities, and private academies were encouraged to relocate here. Roads were built. Utilities were laid. And real estate speculation kicked into high gear.
In 1975, Gangnam officially became Gangnam-gu, one of Seoul’s 25 districts. That same decade, the government designated it as a “speculative investment zone,” making it highly attractive for builders and business owners. What followed was a construction boom and a massive migration of wealth, education, and influence.
The opening of Subway Line 2 in the early 1980s sealed the deal. With direct connections to Seoul National University, major business districts, and the growing COEX convention area, Gangnam was no longer a satellite. It was a new center.
By the 1990s and early 2000s, Gangnam had become a symbol of wealth and ambition. Students in northern Seoul dreamed of studying in Gangnam’s hagwons (academy centers). Families aspired to live in its polished high-rises. And when Psy dropped “Gangnam Style” in 2012, the rest of the world got a glimpse (through satire) of the flashy, hyper-modern life that had become the district’s signature.
Sites That Define Gangnam
Whether you're into temple vibes or trend-hunting, Gangnam delivers. What makes this district truly special is the contrast: towering luxury malls next to ancient Buddhist temples, Instagrammable cafes just steps from underground shopping tunnels. It's the Seoul aesthetic, concentrated.
Here are the spots that define modern-day Gangnam:
COEX Mall & Starfield Library
At over 154,000 square meters, COEX is one of Asia’s largest underground shopping complexes. You’ll find global brands, indie beauty shops, a massive cinema, and an entire aquarium under one sleek roof.
But the star of the show? The Starfield Library. With its towering bookshelves, soft lighting, and open-concept reading spaces, this public library is one of Seoul’s most photogenic interiors. Come for the aesthetic—stay to flip through an art book, people-watch, or just soak in the chill energy.
Bongeunsa Temple
Right across from COEX, Bongeunsa is an unexpected pocket of peace. Founded in 794 CE, this Buddhist temple predates just about everything around it. Walk through the gates and you’re instantly in a different world. Don’t miss the 23-meter-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha, and if you’re lucky, catch a ceremony or take part in the temple’s quiet tea offerings.
Hyundai Department Store (Trade Center Branch)
Less chaotic than COEX but just as sleek, Hyundai Gangnam delivers a more curated, luxury vibe. Think: designer boutiques, aesthetic home goods, and fine dining with rooftop views. The interior design alone is worth a stop, especially if you’re into minimalist architecture and retail-as-exhibition spaces.
K-Star Road & Apgujeong
If you’re a K-pop fan, this is where the magic begins. K-Star Road, a short stretch near Apgujeong Rodeo Station, features large “GangnamDol” statues representing groups like BTS, EXO, and Girls’ Generation. Around the area, you’ll find boutique shops, idol-related cafes, and even the occasional celeb sighting.
Garosugil, Sinsa-dong
This tree-lined street (the name literally means “street with trees”) is where indie Seoul comes to play. Lined with fashion-forward boutiques, artful cafes, and concept beauty stores, Garosugil is a must for anyone chasing Seoul’s effortlessly cool side. Start your walk in the morning to avoid crowds, grab brunch at one of the many fusion cafes, and pop into Tamburins or Gentle Monster for a showroom experience that doubles as art installation.
Gangnam Station Underground Shopping & Street Food
Exit 10 of Gangnam Station opens into a maze of underground shops offering everything from trendy phone cases to affordable fashion.
Above ground, you’ll find a very different vibe: fast-paced, loud, and full of energy. Especially at night, when food stalls pop up offering tteokbokki, fried skewers, and sweet pancakes to hungry students and office workers.
Before You Go: Gangnam Travel Tips
So you're ready to hit Gangnam. Good choice. Here's what to know before you go—from the best times to visit to exactly what subway stop gets you to that TikTok-famous bookstore.
Getting There
Subway is your best friend. Most of Gangnam’s major areas are covered by Line 2 (green), Line 9 (gold), and Line 3 (orange).
Popular stops:
Gangnam Station – for underground shopping, people-watching, and night eats
Samseong Station – for COEX and Starfield Library
Bongeunsa Station – for temple access
Apgujeong Rodeo Station – for K-Star Road and boutique shopping
Sinsa Station – for Garosugil cafés and indie stores
Pro tip: Google Maps doesn’t work well in Korea. Use Naver Map or KakaoMap (available in English).
What’s Nearby
If you’ve carved out a day for Gangnam, here are a few nearby spots worth adding to your itinerary. Each is close enough to visit without crossing the city.
Seorae Village A cozy French-influenced neighborhood west of Gangnam, known for Parisian-style bakeries and quiet streets. Try Maison M’O for coffee and croissants.
How to get there: Taxi or bus from Express Bus Terminal (10–15 min)
Banpo Hangang Park Ideal for riverside views, bike rentals, and the Rainbow Fountain Bridge show at night. A great spot to unwind with a convenience store picnic.
Closest station: Express Bus Terminal (Line 3/7/9), Exit 8-1
Express Bus Terminal Underground Mall (Goto Mall) One of the largest underground shopping centers in Seoul, packed with affordable fashion, florals, and accessories.
How to get there: Connected to Express Bus Terminal Station (Line 3/7/9)
Nonhyeon Food Alley A gritty, delicious alleyway filled with Korean comfort food, BBQ joints, and fried chicken pubs that stay open late.
How to get there: Walk or short taxi ride from Gangnam Station
When to Visit
Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October) are ideal with mild weather, fewer crowds, and extra pretty streetscapes.
Cherry blossoms around Bongeunsa in April? Chef’s kiss.
Avoid: summer afternoons (humid), and holiday weekends (packed).
Tips for the Best Experience
Start early to beat the crowds, especially at COEX or Garosugil.
Plan your day by neighborhood Gangnam is massive, and hopping around eats up time.
If you're temple-hopping at Bongeunsa, be respectful: no loud convos, no flash photography, and modest clothing is appreciated.
Love K-pop? Swing by the SMTOWN Café or keep your eyes open in Apgujeong. You never know who might walk by.
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