Near 뱅뱅사거리 (Baengbaeng Sageori) in southern Seoul, 무화잠 강남점 is a long-running Korean seafood restaurant specializing in 대게 (snow crab), 킹크랩 (king crab), and 랍스터 (lobster). The Gangnam branch is at 서울 강남구 강남대로 292, close to the office-heavy area between Gangnam and Yangjae.
Chains such as Mega MGC Coffee, Compose Coffee, and Paik’s Coffee specialize in large drinks at small prices. An iced Americano generally costs around ₩1,500–₩2,000, while an iced latte is usually ₩2,700–₩3,500. Ordering is normally done at a counter or touchscreen kiosk, and drinks are prepared within minutes.
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For years, wearing socks with sandals was considered a serious fashion mistake. In Korea this summer, young people are turning that rule upside down.
Open-toe socks designed specifically for flip-flops are becoming trendy, covering the top of the foot while leaving the toes exposed. They originally had a practical purpose: preventing flip-flop straps from rubbing against bare skin. Now they come in cotton, knit and even lace versions and are being worn as a deliberate fashion statement.
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If you’re exploring Seoul beyond the famous chain bakeries, one neighborhood deserves a stop: Dogok (도곡동) in southern Seoul. Tucked among residential towers and small office buildings is La Patisserie Kim (르파티세리 김), a bakery that combines classic European techniques with Korean creativity. The bakery is run by a Korean master baker and his son, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, and has built a reputation for using quality ingredients and traditional baking methods.
Unlike many trendy cafés that focus on Instagram-worthy desserts, La Patisserie Kim feels like a neighborhood bakery where locals stop by daily. During my visit, I found shelves filled with breads, pastries, cookies, and seasonal specialties that showcased both French and Korean influences.
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In South Korea, a new café trend is growing quickly: quiet luxury cafés. Instead of loud music and crowded interiors, many new cafés in Seoul focus on calm lighting, natural wood, soft colors, and peaceful conversation. Customers often spend hours reading, studying, or simply relaxing with carefully prepared coffee and desserts.
As temperatures rise in Korea, one dessert quietly makes its seasonal comeback: bingsoo. This shaved ice treat, often topped with sweet red beans, fruit, or condensed milk, becomes a staple as spring transitions into summer.
