Itaewon, located in Seoul’s Yongsan-gu district, is one of the city’s most famous and multicultural commercial areas. Historically linked to the nearby US military base, it has long served as a unique hub where Korean and international cultures merge.
This vibrancy is why it was designated as Seoul’s first Special Tourist Zone. The district buzzes with energy, evident in its lively nightlife, trend-setting fashion boutiques, and most notably, its food scene. Itaewon is famous for the World Food Street, offering authentic cuisines from across the globe, and it is home to the Seoul Central Mosque, symbolizing its diverse community.
The area blends old and new, from the charming Antique Furniture Street to modern clubs and art galleries. While its atmosphere has evolved over the decades—becoming more gentrified and popular with young Koreans—it retains its unique identity as a welcoming “international village” within Seoul. It remains a must-visit destination for shopping, dining, and experiencing a slice of global culture in the heart of the capital.
