cafe pokpo


Discover a Waterfall in the Heart of Seoul at Hongjecheon Stream

Hongjecheon Stream runs through Seodaemun-gu in Seoul and is surrounded by walking paths, cycling routes, and public rest areas frequently used by local residents for walking and exercise. One of the most distinctive attractions along the stream is Hongje Waterfall, a large artificial waterfall that creates an unexpected natural atmosphere in the middle of the city.

Located directly beside the waterfall, Cafe Pokpo allows visitors to enjoy coffee while watching the water cascade in front of them. Unlike many Seoul cafés that focus mainly on interior design or elaborate desserts, the main attraction here is the combination of the waterfall, the sound of flowing water, and the scenery surrounding Hongjecheon Stream. Visitors can sit outside while looking toward the waterfall or stop at Cafe Pokpo after walking along the stream, making it an interesting destination for international travelers searching for something different in Seoul.

• Located beside Hongjecheon Stream in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
• Direct views of Hongje Waterfall
• A relaxing place to listen to the sound of the waterfall
• Easy to combine with a walk along Hongjecheon Stream
• Suitable for families, couples, friends, and solo travelers
• A place to enjoy both a café and outdoor scenery within Seoul


What Is Cafe Pokpo?

Cafe Pokpo is a waterfall-view café in Seodaemun-gu facing Hongje Waterfall along Hongjecheon Stream. The large waterfall immediately in front of the café creates an atmosphere that feels noticeably different from a typical urban café in Seoul. Visitors can watch the cascading water while drinking coffee or relax outdoors while listening to the continuous sound of the waterfall.

Indoor seating is available, but the outdoor area becomes especially attractive when the weather is pleasant. Cafe Pokpo is convenient for visitors walking along Hongjecheon Stream who want to take a break, take photographs, and enjoy coffee or tea before continuing their walk.

• Café type: Waterfall-view café
• Main attraction: Hongje Waterfall
• Waterfall views available from indoor and outdoor areas
• Convenient rest stop during a Hongjecheon Stream walk
• Suitable for photography and relaxation
• A distinctive option for travelers looking for a nature-focused café in Seoul


A Unique Cafe Experience with a Real Waterfall View

The biggest reason to visit Cafe Pokpo is the opportunity to sit near Hongje Waterfall and watch water cascade directly in front of the café. The combination of the large waterfall and the sound of rushing water creates an unusual atmosphere within a city filled with roads, buildings, and busy commercial districts.

During summer, the powerful waterfall creates a refreshing atmosphere, while spring and autumn are particularly suitable for combining a visit with a walk along Hongjecheon Stream. The appearance of the waterfall and surrounding landscape can also change depending on the season and time of day, making Cafe Pokpo an appealing location for photography as well as a casual coffee break.

• Refreshing waterfall scenery during summer
• Spring and autumn are ideal for combining the café with a Hongjecheon walk
• Different atmosphere depending on the season
• Photogenic destination in Seoul
• Easy to combine coffee and a riverside walk in one itinerary


Cafe Pokpo Coffee Menu and Prices

Cafe Pokpo offers coffee at relatively accessible prices compared with many destination cafés in Seoul. Americano and Espresso are priced at KRW 4,000, while familiar espresso-based drinks such as Café Latte, Cappuccino, Café Mocha, Vanilla Latte, and Caramel Latte are also available.

Visitors can customize their drinks by changing to decaffeinated coffee or adding an extra espresso shot. This provides straightforward options for travelers who want to enjoy the waterfall view while ordering familiar coffee drinks.

• Americano: KRW 4,000
• Espresso: KRW 4,000
• Café Latte: KRW 4,500
• Cappuccino: KRW 5,000
• Café Mocha: KRW 5,500
• Vanilla Latte: KRW 5,000
• Caramel Latte: KRW 5,000
• Caramel Macchiato: KRW 5,500
• Cold Brew: KRW 5,000
• Decaf option: +KRW 1,000
• Extra shot: +KRW 500


Non-Coffee Drinks and Korean Traditional Beverages

Travelers who do not drink coffee can still find a wide selection of beverages at Cafe Pokpo. The menu includes Chocolate Latte, Green Tea Latte, Milk Tea, ade drinks, iced tea, herbal teas, and several traditional Korean beverages.

International visitors may be particularly interested in drinks such as Omija Tea, Yuja Tea, Jujube Tea, Sujeonggwa, and Sikhye. These beverages provide an opportunity to try flavors commonly found in Korea while relaxing beside Hongje Waterfall.

• Chocolate Latte: KRW 4,500
• Green Tea Latte: KRW 5,000
• Milk Tea: KRW 5,000
• Ade: KRW 5,500
• Yuja Apple Tea: KRW 5,000
• Iced Tea: KRW 4,500
• Peppermint Tea: KRW 4,500
• Chamomile Tea: KRW 4,500
• Jasmine Tea: KRW 4,500
• Earl Grey Tea: KRW 4,500
• Lemon Tea: KRW 5,000
• Omija Tea: KRW 5,000
• Yuja Tea: KRW 4,500
• Jujube Tea: KRW 4,500
• Sujeonggwa: KRW 4,500
• Sikhye: KRW 4,500


Desserts from Cookies to Milk Cream Bread

Cafe Pokpo also sells simple desserts and snacks that can be enjoyed while looking at the waterfall. The selection ranges from light items such as cookies and macarons to sandwiches, baguettes, mini muffins, and milk cream bread. These items are convenient for visitors who want a small snack after walking along Hongjecheon Stream.

• Cookie: KRW 2,500
• Macaron: KRW 2,500
• Sandwich: KRW 4,500
• Baguette: KRW 4,000
• Mini Muffin: KRW 3,800
• Milk Cream Bread: KRW 3,800
• Simple dessert selection suitable for a break after walking along the stream


What Visitors Commonly Mention About Cafe Pokpo

Visitor feedback about Cafe Pokpo frequently highlights its direct waterfall view, spacious outdoor seating, and convenient location for combining a café visit with a walk along Hongjecheon Stream.

Reviews from Naver and international visitors commonly mention the waterfall scenery, sound of flowing water, outdoor seating, and the pleasant atmosphere for walking and photography. However, waiting times or slower orders may occur during busy periods.

• Distinctive setting for enjoying coffee while looking at a waterfall
• Convenient location for combining a visit with a Hongjecheon Stream walk
• Outdoor atmosphere suitable for photographs
• Weekends and public holidays may be crowded


Relax by Hongje Waterfall on the Outdoor Terrace

When the weather is good, visitors to Cafe Pokpo may want to spend time in the outdoor seating area rather than staying only indoors. Sitting close to the waterfall allows visitors to enjoy the scenery and the sound of rushing water while drinking coffee, making the surrounding environment an important part of the experience.

If photography is one of your main reasons for visiting, it is worth checking where the waterfall is most clearly visible before choosing a seat. Cafe Pokpo can become busy on weekends or during pleasant weather, so the most scenic outdoor seats may not always be immediately available.

• Outdoor seating with direct views of Hongje Waterfall
• Relax while listening to the waterfall
• Suitable for combining photography and coffee
• Outdoor seating is particularly appealing in pleasant weather
• Weekdays or earlier hours may be more convenient for avoiding crowds


Combine Cafe Pokpo with a Walk Along Hongjecheon Stream

Rather than visiting Cafe Pokpo and immediately leaving, travelers can create a more complete itinerary by adding a walk along Hongjecheon Stream. You can walk beside the stream first and then stop at the café for a break, or enjoy a drink at Cafe Pokpo before exploring the nearby walking paths.

The Hongjecheon area offers a different side of Seoul compared with internationally famous destinations such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, or Gyeongbokgung Palace. Travelers who have already explored the major tourist districts can use this area to experience a more everyday local environment where Seoul residents walk, exercise, and relax.

• Visit before or after walking along Hongjecheon Stream
• Easy to combine the café and walking path in one itinerary
• Opportunity to experience a neighborhood used by local Seoul residents
• Different atmosphere from major tourist districts
• Suitable for travelers who prefer slower sightseeing and relaxation


Cafe Pokpo Location

Cafe Pokpo is located beside Hongjecheon Stream and Hongje Waterfall in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. The address is 262-24 Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. The café is also close to Seodaemun-gu Office, which can be used as a useful landmark when navigating the area.

From central Seoul areas such as Myeongdong and Seoul Station, buses can provide convenient access. Travelers staying around Hongdae can also reach Cafe Pokpo by local bus.

• Address: 262-24 Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Area: Hongjecheon Stream, Seodaemun-gu
• Main landmark: Hongje Waterfall
• Near Seodaemun-gu Office
• Directly connected with the Hongjecheon Stream walking area

 

Cafe Pokpo Google Map

Cafe Pokpo Naver Map


How to Get to Cafe Pokpo from Hongik University Station

Travelers staying in Hongdae or Yeonnam-dong can reach Cafe Pokpo relatively quickly by local bus. From the Hongik University Station area, walk toward a bus stop around Donggyo-dong Intersection or the Yeonhui-dong direction and take Bus 7720.

Get off near Seodaemun Culture Center and Hongje Waterfall, then walk a short distance to Cafe Pokpo. Based on the provided route information, the entire journey takes approximately 20 minutes, although actual travel time may vary depending on traffic.

• Starting point: Hongik University Station
• Use a bus stop toward Donggyo-dong Intersection or Yeonhui-dong
• Take Bus 7720
• Get off near Seodaemun Culture Center and Hongje Waterfall
• Estimated journey: Approximately 20 minutes
• Actual travel time may vary depending on traffic


How to Get to Cafe Pokpo from Seoul Station

From Seoul Station, travelers can move toward the Sungnyemun and Hankook Ilbo bus stop and take Bus 7021 toward Cafe Pokpo. Get off near Seodaemun Culture & Sports Center Entrance and continue on foot toward Hongje Waterfall.

Based on the provided transportation route, the journey takes approximately 31 minutes and the public transportation fare is around KRW 1,500. This route can be convenient for visitors who want to explore Cafe Pokpo after arriving at Seoul Station or before continuing with another Seoul itinerary.

• Starting point: Seoul Station
• Main bus stop: Sungnyemun / Hankook Ilbo
• Take Bus 7021
• Get off near Seodaemun Culture & Sports Center Entrance
• Estimated journey: Approximately 31 minutes
• Public transportation fare: Approximately KRW 1,500
• Travel time may change depending on traffic conditions


How to Get to Cafe Pokpo from Myeongdong

Traveling from Myeongdong to Cafe Pokpo takes approximately 40 minutes using a bus transfer route. One of the provided routes begins near Myeongdong Station Exit 7 at the Toegye-ro 2-ga bus stop. Take Bus 104 and transfer to Bus 7021 near Sungnyemun and Hankook Ilbo.

After getting off near Seodaemun Culture & Sports Center Entrance, continue on foot toward Hongje Waterfall and Cafe Pokpo. This route can be useful for travelers who want to leave central Myeongdong and explore a quieter part of Seoul.

• Starting point: Myeongdong Station area
• Use the Toegye-ro 2-ga / Myeongdong Station Exit 7 bus stop
• Take Bus 104 → Transfer to Bus 7021
• Get off near Seodaemun Culture & Sports Center Entrance
• Estimated journey: Approximately 39 minutes
• Actual travel time may vary depending on traffic


Cafe Pokpo Parking Fees and Tips

Visitors arriving by car can use nearby paid parking facilities. According to the provided parking information, the basic fee is KRW 500 for the first five minutes, followed by an additional KRW 500 for every five minutes. The listed maximum parking charge is KRW 40,000.

Customers using Cafe Pokpo are provided with 30 minutes of free parking. However, the area around Hongje Waterfall may become crowded on weekends and public holidays, so using public transportation can also be a convenient option.

• Parking available
• First 5 minutes: KRW 500
• Additional 5 minutes: KRW 500
• Maximum fee: KRW 40,000
• Cafe Pokpo customers receive 30 minutes of free parking
• Parking may become crowded on weekends and public holidays
• Public transportation is also a practical option


Cafe Pokpo Opening Hours

According to the provided latest operating information, Cafe Pokpo generally opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 9:00 PM, with last orders accepted at 8:40 PM.

Reduced operating hours may apply on public holidays or substitute holidays. For the 2026 National Foundation Day period, special closing times have been announced, so visitors traveling during a Korean holiday should check the latest schedule before visiting.

• Regular opening hours: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM
• Regular last order: 8:40 PM
• October 3, 2026, National Foundation Day: 9:00 AM–8:00 PM
• October 5, 2026, substitute holiday: 9:00 AM–8:00 PM
• Hours may change during public holidays and special schedules
• Check the latest operating hours before visiting


Who Should Visit Cafe Pokpo in Seoul?

Cafe Pokpo offers a different experience from large cafés that primarily attract visitors through elaborate interiors or expensive desserts. Here, the main attractions are the waterfall visible behind your coffee, the sound of flowing water, the Hongjecheon walking path, and the opportunity to take a relaxing break within Seoul.

The café is particularly suitable for travelers who want to slow down between major sightseeing destinations or experience a place where Seoul residents actually walk and relax. It can also be a good addition to an itinerary around Hongdae or Yeonhui-dong for visitors interested in photography or lesser-known local destinations.

• Travelers looking for an unusual café in Seoul
• Visitors who enjoy waterfall views and outdoor scenery
• Travelers looking for a relaxing place to sit and listen to flowing water
• Visitors interested in walking along Hongjecheon Stream
• Travelers looking for something different near Hongdae and Yeonhui-dong
• Visitors who want to enjoy coffee with distinctive Seoul scenery


Tips Before Visiting Cafe Pokpo

Because Hongje Waterfall is the main attraction at Cafe Pokpo, checking the weather and choosing an appropriate time of day can make the visit more enjoyable. Outdoor seating is especially pleasant on clear days, while travelers interested in photography may prefer a relatively quiet weekday morning or an earlier time.

Weekends and public holidays can attract both local residents and tourists, which may result in longer waiting times for outdoor seating or orders. If you plan to explore Hongjecheon Stream as well, allow enough time for a relaxed walk rather than visiting only for a quick coffee.

• Check the weather if you want outdoor seating
• Consider weekdays or earlier hours for photography
• Weekends and public holidays may be crowded
• Allow additional time for a Hongjecheon Stream walk
• Check opening hours and holiday schedules before visiting


Discover Korean Hospitals, Cafes, and Travel Information with Kosmedi

Kosmedi helps international travelers and foreign patients find practical medical and travel information in Korea. Kosmedi introduces hospitals checked by local Korean staff and medical institutions with confirmed interpretation services. Visitors can explore information about dermatology, plastic surgery, health checkups, and other medical programs, including treatments, prices, special events, patient reviews, and detailed hospital introductions.

For Kosmedi partner hospitals and clinics, visitors can also check whether Kosmedi-exclusive discount coupons or special promotions are available. Real-time messaging consultation allows international patients to ask questions about medical appointments, reservations, and healthcare services before arriving in Korea or while staying in the country.

Kosmedi is not limited to medical information. The service also introduces local Seoul destinations such as Cafe Pokpo, along with Korean restaurants, cafés, festivals, pop-up stores, tourist attractions, discounts, special events, popular destinations, and places frequently visited by Korean locals. International travelers planning sightseeing between medical appointments, or visitors who simply want to explore destinations beyond the most familiar tourist routes, can use Kosmedi to discover both healthcare and travel information in one place.

• Hospital information checked by local Korean staff
• Medical institutions with confirmed interpretation services
• Treatment, health checkup, price, event, and patient review information
• Kosmedi-exclusive discount coupons and special events when available
• Real-time messaging consultation
• Korean restaurants and café information
• Festivals, pop-up stores, and tourist attraction guides
• Information about admission prices and visitor services
• Popular places for international travelers
• Local destinations frequently visited by Korean residents

 

Introduction to Squid Game and Baekun Market

baekun market

baekun market 

 

One of the places that gained global attention through Netflix’s hit series Squid Game is Baekun Market. Located in Ssangmun-dong, Dobong-gu, Seoul, Baekun Market became a notable travel spot as the background area associated with Seong Gi-hun and Cho Sang-woo in the drama. It is a place where visitors can feel the atmosphere of a real filming location, while experiencing both the charm of a traditional Korean market and its modern transformation. Baekun Market is more than just a market. It is a destination where Korean culture and drama-related travel can be experienced together.

• Famous market known as a Squid Game filming location
• Located in Ssangmun-dong, the background area of Seong Gi-hun and Cho Sang-woo
• A place where Korean traditional market culture and content meet
• A hot travel spot with growing popularity among visitors


Location and Historical Background of Baekun Market

Baekun Market is located in Ssangmun 1-dong, Dobong-gu, Seoul, and is characterized by its long formation along the Ui Stream. About 60 shops operate in the market, and it was naturally formed in the 1970s as merchants carrying bundles gradually gathered, settled down, and started selling goods. As time passed, Baekun Market grew together with local residents and continued to evolve through modernization projects while still preserving the identity of a traditional market.

• Located in Ssangmun-dong, Dobong-gu, Seoul
• Market structure formed along the Ui Stream
• Around 60 stores in operation
• A traditional market naturally formed in the 1970s


Characteristics and Atmosphere of Baekun Market

Baekun Market is a place where visitors can feel the warmth and human connection unique to a traditional Korean market. The name “Baekun” means “white cloud,” and in Buddhism it also refers to a place where guests stay for a while and then leave. Inside the market, there is a cute market character called “Baekuni,” and the market maintains a lively atmosphere through various events and modernization projects. The warm spirit created by local seniors and merchants is one of the defining features of Baekun Market.

• A name that means white cloud
• Warm atmosphere of a traditional market
• Home to the cute market character “Baekuni”
• Active through modernization projects and events


Main Attractions and Experience Points at Baekun Market

Baekun Market is not simply a shopping space. It is also a place filled with attractions and experience elements. The location known in the drama as “Sang-woo’s Fish Store” can be found here, and a Squid Game experience hall has also opened. In addition, there are many local restaurants and long-established shops where visitors can directly experience authentic Korean local culture. As also shown in the image text, this is a well-known place frequently used for Korean TV and streaming productions and is home to a wide variety of established local restaurants operated by longtime vendors.

• Visitors can experience a Squid Game filming-related location
• Home to the place known as Sang-woo’s fish store
• Various local restaurants and long-established shops
• Frequently used as a filming location for Korean productions


Transportation and How to Visit Baekun Market

Baekun Market is conveniently accessible by public transportation. It is located about 100 meters from Exit 1 of Solbat Park Station on the Ui-Sinseol Light Rail Line, and multiple bus routes are connected to the area. Visitors can also get off near Seorabeol Middle School or in front of Ui-dong Daewoo Apartments and walk to the market. Village buses also provide convenient access. The address is 11 Samyang-ro 154-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul.

• About 100 meters on foot from Solbat Park Station, Ui-Sinseol Line, Exit 1
• Accessible by multiple city bus routes
• Village buses 01 and 02 are also available
• Convenient and easy-to-reach location in Seoul

 

Google Map


Why Visit Baekun Market

Baekun Market is a unique destination where Korean traditional market culture and drama-related content come together. Along with its identity as a Squid Game filming location, it offers a different kind of travel experience filled with the daily lives and warmth of local residents. Unlike large-scale tourist attractions, Baekun Market is a small local market, which makes it even more appealing for travelers who want to experience a more realistic and grounded side of Korea.

• A place where tradition and content come together
• Great for experiencing authentic local atmosphere
• A memorable visit for drama filming location fans
• Small in scale but rich in charm


A More Convenient Korea Trip with Kosmedi

If you are planning a hospital visit along with your trip to Korea, using Kosmedi can be very efficient. Kosmedi connects only hospitals verified by local people in Korea and guides you to hospitals that clearly provide interpretation services. You can check hospital treatment events, prices, reviews, and detailed introductions all in one place, which helps reduce the time spent searching for information. In addition, exclusive discount coupons and events available only through Kosmedi allow for more practical choices, and real-time messaging consultation makes fast reservations possible. Kosmedi also helps not only with hospitals but with restaurants, tourist attractions, festivals, discounts, events, popular places, and local hidden spots in Korea, making it useful for preparing both travel and medical visits together.

• Verified hospital information provided
• Interpretation service support available
• Real-time consultation and reservation assistance
• Discount and event information available through Kosmedi