Seoul’s side streets compress layers of time into short stretches. Among the spots chosen by citizens for the 2026 ‘Seoul Edition 25,’ three walkable places—Seosunra-gil in Jongno, the Euljiro alleys in Jung-gu, and Gyeongdong Market in Dongdaemun—make good half-day or full-day walking courses. Below are suggested routes and practical notes.
Why they matter now
Seoul selected 25 representative local spots—one per district—as the ‘2026 Seoul Edition 25’ through online voting and expert review. The selection is part of a strategy to develop local commercial districts into places for longer stays, and it has renewed interest nationwide in alleyways, traditional markets, and night-view spots. The list includes Seosunra-gil along the Jongmyo stone wall, the neon-lit Euljiro alleys at night, and Gyeongdong Market where traditional market stalls and unique cultural spaces coexist, increasing on-site visitor demand.
Suggested course (walking, at an unhurried pace)
- Morning–afternoon: Start at Jongno 3-ga Station and stroll Seosunra-gil (browse hanok cafés and jewelry workshops)
- Late afternoon: Cross Cheonggyecheon and head to Euljiro (take in printing and lighting workshops and shutter-gallery spaces)
- Evening: Experience gamaek and pojangmacha culture in Euljiro, then move to Gyeongdong Market for market food and cultural spaces
Seosunra-gil — calm strolls along the stone wall
Seosunra-gil, a street that follows the stone wall west of Jongmyo, is a stroll-friendly area lined with hanok cafés and craft workshops. On weekends, a "car-free street" operation restricts vehicle traffic, making it easy to enjoy the stone wall at a relaxed pace. Visiting in the late afternoon to dusk offers soft lighting that complements the stone wall and hanok architecture, creating many photogenic moments.
– Tip: Check weekend car-free hours and whether night-time hours are extended. Alley widths are narrow, so weekends and evenings can get crowded; if you prefer less busy times, try an early weekday visit.
Euljiro alleys — where industrial traces meet retro sensibility
Euljiro was once concentrated with printing, lighting, and hardware industries. Over time, stylish cafés, wine bars and boutique shops have filled the spaces between older buildings, earning the area the nickname "Hipjiro." By day, the industrial sounds of machines and tools shape the streetscape; by night, neon signs and the bustle from pojangmacha and small bars create a lively atmosphere. Traditional drinking alleys such as Golbaengi Alley and Nogari Alley remain in places, offering a variety of experiences across generations.
– Tip: Popular spots in Euljiro often have long queues in the evening. To enjoy both long-established shops and newer places, wander the alleys in the late afternoon and plan for potential waiting times when visiting popular venues.
Gyeongdong Market — where a traditional market meets retro culture
Gyeongdong Market is a long-established market known for medicinal herbs and agricultural produce distribution. Recently, unusual cultural spaces such as a remodeled old theater now housing a Starbucks have appeared, attracting younger visitors. The market lanes connect various food stalls and herbal medicine shops associated with the nearby Yakryeongsi, making it enjoyable to explore on foot.
– Tip: If you plan to shop, bring a shopping bag and wear comfortable shoes. Unique cafés and exhibition spaces inside the market may have different opening hours, so check ahead if possible.
Getting around (brief)
- Seosunra-gil: Accessible from Jongno 3-ga or Anguk Station. The stone wall path is easy to reach on foot.
- Euljiro alleys: Close to Euljiro 3-ga and Euljiro 4-ga stations; convenient for evening travel.
- Gyeongdong Market: Near Jegi-dong and Cheongnyangni stations; well connected by public transit.
Visitor notes
- Alleyways and traditional markets can have narrow walkways. Be considerate of other visitors and merchants when passing through.
- Some alleys draw large crowds on weekends and at night. For safety, keep bags in front of you and take care with valuables.
- To support local businesses, consider purchasing something small—one drink or a souvenir can help local shops.
Final thoughts
From the tranquil stone-wall lane by Jongmyo to Euljiro’s neon-lit nightlife and the bustling pulse of Gyeongdong Market, these three streets each show a different side of Seoul. Walk slowly and you’ll discover the stories, flavors, and human touches that reveal a new face of the city.