Attraction Guide: COEX Mall, Seoul, South Korea

COEX Mall Guide

COEX Mall: Shop, Dine, and Explore in Seoul's Underground City Guide

Welcome to COEX Mall, one of Seoul's largest and most popular underground shopping and entertainment complexes! Located in the Gangnam district, COEX offers a vast array of shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions, making it a perfect destination for a day of exploration and fun. Whether you're a seasoned shopper, a foodie looking for delicious eats, or simply seeking a unique experience, COEX has something for everyone. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale and variety of this subterranean wonderland. While COEX Mall itself doesn't have a long, storied history like some of Seoul's ancient palaces, its development reflects the city's rapid modernization and its embrace of consumer culture. The mall opened in 2000 as part of the larger COEX Convention & Exhibition Center, aiming to provide a comprehensive experience for visitors attending events and exhibitions. Over the years, it has evolved into a major destination in its own right, attracting both locals and tourists with its diverse offerings and convenient location. The mall has undergone several renovations and expansions to stay current with trends and meet the evolving needs of its visitors. COEX Mall is packed with activities to keep you entertained. Shop 'til you drop at hundreds of stores selling everything from fashion and cosmetics to electronics and books. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of the COEX Aquarium, home to thousands of marine creatures. Catch the latest blockbuster at the Megabox cinema. Explore the Starfield Library, a stunning public library with towering bookshelves that have become an Instagram sensation. Indulge in a wide range of culinary delights, from Korean street food to international cuisine. Don't forget to check out the Kimchi Museum, dedicated to Korea's most famous fermented food. COEX is also known for its various events and exhibitions, so be sure to check the schedule during your visit. While COEX Mall offers a wide variety of international cuisines, it's a great place to sample modern Korean dishes and snacks. Look out for restaurants serving bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat), bulgogi (marinated beef), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). You can also find plenty of cafes serving Korean-style desserts like bingsu (shaved ice with toppings) and dalgona coffee. Don't miss the opportunity to try some Korean street food from the various vendors throughout the mall.

Transportation

The easiest way to get to COEX Mall is by subway. Take Seoul Subway Line 2 to Samseong Station (삼성역). Use exits 5 or 6, which lead directly into the COEX Mall. Several buses also stop near COEX. Some examples include: * Bus 146, 360, 362, 401, N6002 (get off at COEX Aquarium stop) * Bus 9407, 9414 (get off at Samseong Station stop)