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More than meets the eye in Korea’s unexpected interiors

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As more places try out diverse and original concepts, we’re seeing an increasing number of unique spaces.


There are also many shops with unassuming exteriors that you might easily overlook.


Let me introduce some surprising spots in Korea that you might have missed just by judging from their exteriors!


You’ll be captivated not just by the surprise, but by the perfect concept as well.




Let's begin😎



Mansoo-ok is a place where a luxurious restaurant operates behind an exterior that looks just like a logistics warehouse. From the outside, it resembles a factory or warehouse with a simple, rough signboard. But once you open the door, you’re greeted by an antique and elegant atmosphere that takes your breath away. This place even appeared in a blind date scene in the drama Extraordinary Attorney Woo and is loved as a popular date spot. It feels like stepping into a king’s castle, and many spots inside serve as perfect photo zones! The main menu centers on steak, with pasta, risotto, and other dishes available, making it perfect for a light brunch at lunch or a glass of wine in a cozy evening atmosphere. There are private rooms for group customers, and the spacious venue makes it a great choice for gatherings. Not only is the interior luxurious, but you’ll also be surprised by the variety of services offered!



Address: 8-49 Dolgoji-gil, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do

Work: 11:30AM–9PM (3–5:30PM, Break Time)




Zoosindang is a cocktail bar with a unique concept — a playground of the 12 zodiac signs guided by a cat deity. You can find it not only at the original location but also in areas like Gangnam, Hongdae, and Jamsil. After sunset, the entrance, which looks eerily like a shrine where gods are worshipped, sets an intriguing mood. If you push the side with the cat statue, you enter a dreamy and mystical cocktail bar! The ceiling is filled with plants, and traditional patterned ornate lights create the atmosphere of a forest tended by a deity, enhancing the vibe even more. The menu here is no ordinary one — it’s designed like an obanggi a five-way flag) deck, allowing you to check your fortune based on the color you draw! An English menu is also provided, making ordering easy. The signature here is the 12 zodiac cocktails, where you can choose the animal matching your Chinese zodiac or pick a flavor you prefer.



Address: 411 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Work: Mon–Fri 6PM–2AM

Sat, Sun 5PM–2AM




Millbit is a café converted from a house, featuring an exterior that might easily be mistaken for an ordinary home and a cozy interior. While the outside looks like a typical house, subtle Korean elements peek through, giving it a traditional and warm feel. The café’s signature is its over 20 varieties of bread, ranging from soft, moist raw bread to creatively paired loaves. These breads focus on the natural flavors of their ingredients, offering a clean and mild taste. Every morning, freshly baked bread is served to customers, along with fresh, homemade soups—perfect for a light brunch. Since the entire house is used, the first floor serves as the café, and the second floor is for seating. After choosing your menu, head upstairs to enjoy the pleasant sunlight and the terrace seats, creating a relaxing atmosphere!



Address: 18 Ogeum-ro 16-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Work: 11:30AM–9PM




Malbang Gukbap is an interesting place where the contrast between its old, factory-converted exterior resembling a small vintage shop and its clean, modern interior catches the eye. The small, retro sign and worn-looking door might make you imagine a cozy interior, but inside, the space is neat, spacious, and designed for comfortable dining while preserving a traditional atmosphere. The restaurant is run by someone who inherited secret recipes from a grandmother who ran a gukbap shop in Gyeongju for 50 years, and you can spot the grandmother’s memorabilia throughout the place. Notably, the hanji (traditional Korean paper) on the walls is made in Gyeongju using traditional methods, offering a close-up look at authentic hanji. The signature dish is Korean beef gukbap, cooked in the traditional Gyeongsang-do style, known for its rich and deep broth. The restaurant quickly gained recognition, receiving a Blue Ribbon award soon after opening. Enjoy a variety of Korean beef dishes at this small Gyeongju-style eatery nestled in Seongsu!



Address: 9 Gwangnaru-ro 8-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

Work: 11AM – 11PM (2:30–5PM, Break Time/10PM, Last Order)




At Armoire, you can have a unique experience of opening a wardrobe tucked in the corner of someone’s room and stepping into a café inside. When you first open the door, many people might think they’ve come to the wrong place because the atmosphere is quite different from a typical café. Take some time to enjoy the room decorated with antique and charming accessories. The warm-toned décor and lighting create a cozy setting perfect for photos. Then, when you open the wardrobe door in the corner of the room, the café truly reveals itself — it feels like stepping into a scene from The Chronicles of Narnia! The café space is large, spread across three floors including a rooftop. Whether you come with two or four people, or a larger group, you’ll find comfortable seating options from small tables to a big central table. Pair your drink with cute desserts, and you’ll find yourself even more drawn into the café’s relaxing atmosphere!



Address: 117-27 Dongil-ro 22-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul

Work: 12–11PM (10:30PM, Last Order)




At Tasting Museum, you can enjoy Western cuisine in a space where traditional and modern beauty coexist, remodeled from a hanok (traditional Korean house). This rising date spot fits perfectly with the tranquil atmosphere of Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. The building’s exterior is a remodeled hanok that is over 100 years old. Experiencing a variety of Western dishes in such a traditional setting offers a truly special experience. From the main gate to the courtyard, the traditional beauty captivates you even before entering the building. On nice days, you can use the outdoor tables or even bring your pet, making it a popular destination for many. There is also a private room that can accommodate about 20 people, ideal for group visits! Enjoy top-grade steak, a variety of pasta, risotto, and salads—all at reasonable prices. You’re sure to have a romantic day at Hwaseong Haenggung!



Address: 2-6 Hwaseomun-ro 71beon-gil, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do

Work: 10:30AM–9PM (8PM, Last Order)



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