Euljiro 3-ga Complete Guide – Attractions, and Why It Became "Hipjiro"

 

📍 Location: Euljiro Area, Jung-gu, Seoul
Euljiro 3-ga is a district centered around Euljiro 3-ga Station, where Seoul Subway Lines 2, 3, and 5 intersect.

This strategic location makes it easily accessible and a key hub for both locals and tourists.

 

Euljiro 3-ga is home to a collection of unique, atmospheric cafés and bars, captivating visitors with its distinctive charm. Whether you're looking for a cozy coffee spot or a trendy bar with an industrial vibe, this area offers a perfect mix of old and new, making it an ideal place for a memorable outing.

Here are some must-visit spots that truly capture the essence of Euljiro 3-ga:

 

1. Allexroom Cafe & Bar (알렉스룸)

📍 Between Euljiro 3-ga and 4-ga
A vintage-inspired café and bar, Allexroom is known for its distinctive interior and cozy atmosphere.

By day, it operates as a café, offering a relaxing space with great coffee, and by night, it transforms into a bar, providing a different, more vibrant experience.

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2. Sunset Record (선셋레코드)

📍 Euljiro 12-gil
A stylish LP bar with a hip, nostalgic ambiance. Here, you can listen to vinyl records while enjoying drinks in a laid-back setting.

The bar also features well-designed photo zones, making it a great place for both music lovers and Instagram enthusiasts.

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3. Booth (부스)

📍 Between Euljiro 3-ga Station & Chungmuro Station
A multi-story café and bar with fourth and fifth floors plus a rooftop.

Each floor has a different vibe, allowing visitors to explore various atmospheres.

The rooftop offers a breathtaking view of Seoul’s skyline, making it a fantastic spot for nighttime drinks.

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4. Hotel Susanhwa (호텔수선화)

📍 Euljiro 3-ga
More than just a café and bar, Hotel Susanhwa is an artistic hub run by designers, frequently hosting exhibitions, performances, and creative events.

With its one-of-a-kind interior and cultural vibe, it’s a favorite among those looking for something beyond the ordinary.

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5. Coffee Hanyakbang (커피한약방)

📍 Euljiro 3-ga
A renovated traditional herbal medicine shop turned into a charming café.

With its antique decor and old-school ambiance, this spot is perfect for experiencing Euljiro’s retro charm while sipping on hand-drip coffee or unique herbal-infused drinks.

 

📌 Why Did Euljiro Become "Hipjiro"?

Euljiro, once an industrial district filled with printing shops and metal workshops, has transformed into one of Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods, earning the nickname "Hipjiro" (힙지로).

This shift was driven by a mix of old and new, cultural trends, and social media influence.

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1. The Harmony of Old and New (신구의 조화)

Euljiro uniquely blends traditional industries with modern creativity.

• Old printing shops, ironworks, and metal workshops still operate in the area.
• At the same time, trendy cafés, galleries, and restaurants have emerged inside repurposed industrial buildings.
• This mix of raw industrial charm and modern aesthetics has captivated younger generations, making Euljiro a fresh and exciting destination.

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2. The Rise of the "Newtro" Trend (뉴트로 트렌드의 확산)

• The "Newtro" (New + Retro) movement, which revives old-school elements with a modern twist, has played a major role in Euljiro’s popularity.
• Vintage interiors, neon signs, and nostalgic aesthetics create a hip yet old-school atmosphere that resonates with young visitors.
• Many cafés and bars in Euljiro embrace retro designs while offering trendy menus, making them highly Instagrammable.

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3. Social Media’s Role in the "Hipjiro" Boom (소셜 미디어를 통한 확산)

• Young visitors shared their experiences on Instagram, TikTok, and blogs, highlighting Euljiro’s hidden gems.
• Unique photo spots, atmospheric bars, and nostalgic cafés quickly went viral.
• The term "Hipjiro" spread as more people sought out its authentic yet trendy vibe, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination.

📍 Euljiro Nogari Alley (을지로 노가리골목)

Euljiro’s Nogari Alley is a historic and beloved drinking spot, where visitors can enjoy affordable dried pollack (nogari) and beer in a nostalgic atmosphere.

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1. The Birth of Nogari Alley

• Established in 1980 with the opening of Eulji OB Bear (을지OB베어), this alley became famous for serving nogari (dried young pollack) with cold beer at budget-friendly prices.
• The combination of old neon signs, retro vibes, and open-air seating creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that keeps both locals and tourists coming back.

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2. Recognized as a Cultural Heritage Site

• 2015: Officially designated as a "Seoul Future Heritage" (서울미래유산) for its historical and cultural significance.
• 2018: Eulji OB Bear was recognized by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups as a "Centennial Business" (백년가게) for its long-standing contribution to Seoul’s drinking culture.

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3. A Must-Visit Night Spot

• As evening falls, the alley buzzes with energy as people gather to enjoy cheap beer, simple snacks, and good company.
• It’s an iconic nightlife destination in Euljiro, where visitors can experience the unique "old meets new" charm of the district.

Don’t Miss Out!

Next time you're in Euljiro 3-ga, be sure to grab a seat in Nogari Alley, soak in the retro atmosphere, and enjoy an authentic Seoul-style beer experience! 🍺✨

Would you like recommendations on the best places to try in Nogari Alley? 😊