This blog post is about the best coffee shops to work from in Seoul.
In South Korea, coffee isn’t just a beverage, it’s a cultural phenomenon. Walk through any city, and you’ll find coffee shops in Seoul on nearly every corner, each offering a unique experience.
Seoul, the nation’s bustling capital, is at the heart of this coffee culture, boasting an array of cafés that cater to every palate.
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply seeking a cozy spot to unwind, these best coffee shops to work from in Seoul have something for everyone.
Below is a curated list of some of the top coffee shops to work from in Seoul, each offering a distinctive experience to satisfy your caffeine cravings.
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This blog post is all about the best coffee shops to work from in Seoul.
Restaurant & Café Customs in South Korea for First-Time Visitors
When visiting coffee shops to work from in Seoul, there are a few customs you should keep in mind. First, you’ll often need to order at the counter, especially in smaller coffee shops.
Some places may give you a number or receipt to bring to your table, while others might deliver your order directly. It’s also common to pay upfront when you order, rather than after finishing your meal or drink.
In terms of seating, many cafes have individual chairs or small tables, but you’ll likely notice that some places offer shared seating, especially during busy times.
If you’re planning to stay for a while, it’s polite to order more than just one drink if you’re occupying a table for an extended period.
Don’t be surprised if you’re expected to give up your seat during peak hours as cafes can get crowded, and it’s common for people to rotate in and out.
Finally, remember that the café culture in South Korea is more about enjoying your time there than rushing through your order.
So take your time to relax and savour your coffee, especially if you’re visiting the trendier spots known for their artistic vibes or unique drinks. It’s all part of the experience!
The Best Coffee Shops to Work From in Seoul
Seoul’s café scene is full of unique spots, offering everything from cozy hideaways to sleek, modern venues.
Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a cool place to relax, these coffee shops to work from in Seoul provide an experience beyond just the coffee.
Here’s a list of the best coffee shops to work from in Seoul to check out on your visit!
1. Drunken Bean
Step into Drunken Bean, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to New York City. Yes, really! This was one of the most incredible spots we visited in Seoul.
The attention to detail here is incredible, with subway-themed decor and industrial-chic touches that make it feel like a slice of the Big Apple.
This café is a treasure trove of Instagram-worthy spots, from its carefully designed interiors to its artistic latte presentations.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Drunken Bean serves excellent coffee, making it a top choice for coffee shops to work from in Seoul.
As the day turns into night, the vibe changes as the café transforms into a bar, offering cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere.
2. Café Pokpo
Café Pokpo is a serene escape from Seoul’s hustle and bustle, located near the Hongjecheon Waterfall.
Its unique feature (a stunning indoor waterfall) sets it apart from other coffee shops to work from in Seoul, providing a tranquil backdrop as you sip your coffee and type out some emails.
The menu offers a variety of coffee options alongside teas and desserts, all crafted to complement the peaceful environment.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to study or a beautiful spot to photograph, Café Pokpo delivers on both fronts.
3. Thanks Nature Café
Known as the “Sheep Café,” Thanks Nature Café in Hongdae offers an experience that goes beyond great coffee.
Two adorable sheep roam the café’s outdoor seating area, making it a hit with animal lovers.
The cozy and rustic ambiance, paired with a menu of lattes, teas, and waffles, creates the perfect place to work.
It’s one of the best coffee shops to work from in Seoul for anyone looking to combine a unique experience with a tasty caffeine fix.
4. Café Komplex
If you’re looking for coffee shops to work from in Seoul that are as stylish as they are delicious, Café Komplex in Seongsu-dong is the place to go.
Housed in a repurposed industrial space, this café oozes chic, modern vibes with its minimalist design and contemporary art displays.
Every corner looks like it’s been curated for Instagram, also making it a haven for content creators and design enthusiasts.
Pair the aesthetic with perfectly brewed coffee and freshly baked pastries, and you have the ultimate café experience.
Plus, they also have a small shop inside with very cool, unique pieces which are great to browse through while you wait for your coffee to brew.
5. Nuldam Space
Nuldam Space offers more than just coffee; it provides a reflective experience. This vegan café allows you to write letters to your future self, which the café will mail at a later date.
The serene environment, coupled with plant-based beverages and desserts, makes it a unique destination for those seeking introspection alongside their caffeine fix.
When we were in Seoul, we headed here and wrote ourselves a letter to be opened in a year’s time. Who knows if we’ll receive the letter or where in the world we’ll even be when it arrives at our homes in Ireland and Wales.
You can see our experience at Nuldam Space in my TikTok post here:
6. Anthracite Coffee Roasters
With multiple locations across Seoul, Anthracite Coffee Roasters is a favourite among coffee lovers as one of the best coffee shops to work from in Seoul.
The Hannam-dong branch, set in a former shoe factory, retains its industrial charm with both exposed brick and high ceilings.
Known for their in-house roasting, Anthracite offers a variety of single-origin beans, ensuring a rich and flavourful cup.
The spacious interior and commitment to quality make it a must-visit for serious coffee lovers.
7. Fritz Coffee Company
Fritz Coffee Company combines traditional Korean aesthetics with modern coffee culture. Housed in a hanok-style building, the café exudes both warmth and charm.
Their dedication to sourcing high-quality beans and meticulous brewing methods has earned them a stellar reputation.
So, pair your coffee with one of their freshly baked pastries for a delightful experience.
8. a. Coffee
a. Coffee, located in the trendy Apgujeong area, is a minimalist café that focuses on the essentials.
The sleek, white interior provides a calm atmosphere, allowing patrons to fully appreciate the quality of their beverages.
The menu is straightforward, featuring both expertly crafted espresso-based drinks and pour-overs, catering to purists who appreciate the art of coffee.
9. Café Onion
Café Onion, with locations in Seongsu and Anguk, is renowned for its industrial-chic design and delectable pastries.
The Seongsu branch, set in a former metal factory, retains its raw aesthetic with both exposed beams and concrete walls.
The Anguk location also offers a hanok-inspired design, blending traditional Korean architecture with modern elements. Their signature pandoro and freshly brewed coffee make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
10. Coffee Hanyakbang
Stepping into Coffee Hanyakbang is like taking a journey back in time. Established in 1956, it’s one of Seoul’s oldest cafés, located in the historic area of Ikseon-dong, and one of the best coffee shops to work from in Seoul.
The interior is adorned with vintage furnishings, and the menu features classic coffee preparations.
It’s an ideal spot for those looking to experience a piece of Seoul’s coffee history in a nostalgic setting.
11. Perception Coffee
Perception Coffee, situated in the hip neighbourhood of Itaewon, is known for its sleek design and commitment to quality.
The baristas are passionate about their craft, offering a range of both single-origin pour-overs and espresso-based drinks.
The minimalist interior provides a calm environment, making it a great place to enjoy a meticulously prepared cup of coffee.
12. Café Mamas
Café Mamas has several locations throughout Seoul and is so beloved for its hearty sandwiches and fresh salads.
The coffee is equally commendable, with a menu featuring classic espresso drinks and refreshing iced beverages.
The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a popular choice for brunch, a casual lunch with friends or to work for a few hours.
13. Lattente
Located in the bustling area of Gangnam, Lattente is a specialty café that takes pride in its brewing techniques.
The baristas are skilled in latte art, and the menu also offers a variety of espresso-based drinks and hand-drip coffees.
The Best Coffee Shops to Work From in Seoul
Seoul’s coffee culture is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, with each café offering something so special.
Whether you’re drawn to minimalist aesthetics, Instagram-worthy décor, or deliciously unique drinks, there’s a café for every kind of coffee lover.
Exploring these best coffee shops to work from in Seoul not only gives you a taste of Seoul’s rich café scene but also lets you dive deeper into the city’s laid-back yet trendy atmosphere.
So, the next time you’re in Seoul, make sure to stop by a few of these coffee shops to work from in Seoul — the perfect cup of coffee (and maybe even some new memories) awaits!
RELATED Best Coffee Shops to Work From in Seoul blog posts to read:
- Space Guest House: Best Budget Hotel in Seoul, South Korea
- Ultimate Day Trip to Gyeongju Itinerary: South Korea Guide
- How to Spend An Amazing 10 Days in South Korea: Travel Route
- First Time in South Korea: Essential Tips You Need to Know
- The Best Backpacker Travel Insurance for Southeast Asia
By Orlagh Shanks
Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry in New York City and London, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.
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