The central district of Yongsan has become a rising star in Seoul’s coffee scene. A melting pot of cultures due to the large expat population in the Itaewon neighborhood and the U.S. military base that existed in the area for decades, Yongsan has a diverse coffee scene, with international coffee chains and independent cafes offering a range of styles from around the world. Here’s a guide to The Korea Herald’s pick of cafes in Yongsan.

Dotori

25-6 Hangang-daero 52-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Dotori (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Dotori (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

Dotori stands out for its warm, rustic interior, combining natural elements like wooden furniture, soft lighting and earthy tones to create a homely and inviting atmosphere.

The two-story cafe feels comfortable and unpretentious, making it an ideal place to unwind. Whether you are here to work, study or catch up with friends, the cafe provides a peaceful environment with cozy corners.

Using freshly roasted beans, the cafe offers a variety of coffee beverages, ranging from classic espresso drinks to more adventurous options. Their pour-over coffee is particularly noteworthy for its smooth, rich flavor that highlights the quality of the beans. If you're in the mood for something different, Dotori also serves cold brew coffee, lattes and seasonal specials that incorporate local or unique ingredients.

There are also Korea-inspired treats on the menu, such as matcha-flavored pastries and popular red bean-filled cakes, adding a local twist to the cafe experience.

Goonies

81-3 Hangangno 2-ga, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Goonies (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Goonies (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

Stepping into Goonies evokes an unusual feeling -- laid-back, quirky and cozy, its one-of-a-kind vibe is completed by the vintage-inspired furnishings, unique artwork and retro items that fill the cafe’s interior.

It's a hip, artistic hideaway where you can escape the busy streets of Yongsan.

Interior of Goonies (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Interior of Goonies (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

At Goonies, the focus is on high-quality coffee served in creative, fun ways. The cafe offers a variety of espresso-based drinks, from traditional cappuccinos and lattes to flavored lattes and iced drinks. Signature beverages include the salted caramel latte and the honey lavender latte.

Goonies offers a delectable selection of pastries and light snacks to pair with your coffee. Cakes, such as the fluffy cheesecake and the rich chocolate cake, are popular choices. Additionally, the cafe offers sandwiches and croissants, making it an ideal spot for a light meal or snack during the day.

Golden Ball

53-4 Hangangno 2-ga, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Golden Ball (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Golden Ball (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

At Golden Ball, the cafe's namesake desert is a unique ball-shaped, bite-sized sugar-coated cake that’s enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as Nutella, pistachios, honey chips and more. The cafe also offers a range of traditional espresso drinks, from rich cappuccinos to velvety lattes.

Golden Ball dessert with nutella and pistachios (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Golden Ball dessert with nutella and pistachios (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

The interior, painted in a cheerful yellow tone and accentuated with lemon-inspired decor, creates a fresh and inviting atmosphere. The space is compact but cozy, featuring tables that accommodate both small groups and solo visitors.

Pachamama Bakery

9 Hangang-daero 62da-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Exterior of Pachamama Bakery (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Exterior of Pachamama Bakery (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

Tucked away near Samgakji intersection, Pachamama stands out for the owner's love for high-quality coffee and wholesome food.

Pachamama Bakery (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Pachamama Bakery (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Pistachio cream croissants at Pachamama Bakery (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Pistachio cream croissants at Pachamama Bakery (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

From the moment you step into Pachamama, you feel as if you were in someone's cozy kitchen. The quiet environment is one of the cafe’s standout features. Its cozy seating and calming vibe encourage long visits, whether you’re reading, working or chatting with friends.

In addition to Pachamama’s passion for coffee, the cafe’s food menu also impresses. The offerings include a selection of freshly baked goods that pair wonderfully with its coffee, such as cakes, muffins and pies.

Befitting a cafe named for the Earth Mother goddess of the Incas, Pachamama's dishes incorporate local ingredients, supporting sustainability and promoting a farm-to-table ethos.

Engineering Club Coffee House

Hangang-daero 62da-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (runs until 9:30 p.m. on weekends)

Exterior of Engineering Club Coffee House (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Exterior of Engineering Club Coffee House (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

The name reflects the cafe’s focus on engineering and tech, offering an environment that appeals to digital aficionados and design lovers alike.

The aesthetics of the interior also suit its name. With minimalist industrial design featuring exposed concrete, metal furniture and sleek lines, the cafe feels both cutting-edge and cozy.

Engineering Club Coffee House (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)
Engineering Club Coffee House (Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald)

Engineering Club is committed to providing high-quality coffee and beverages that are expertly brewed and designed to satisfy a range of tastes. The espresso-based drinks are a standout, with a smooth, balanced flavor that coffee enthusiasts will appreciate. Whether you’re enjoying a classic cappuccino, a rich espresso, or a more creative concoction, you are sure to find something that fits your taste.

For non-coffee drinkers, Engineering Club also has refreshing iced teas and creative seasonal beverages. The matcha lattes, especially popular, provide a refreshing contrast to the standard coffee menu.