Seoul is undeniably the shopping paradise. However, did you know that beneath Seoul’s busy streets lies a vast network of underground shopping centres? These hidden gems are perfect for great bargains and unique finds, all while escaping the weather outside.
Whether you’re looking to buy fashion accessories, cosmetics, souvenirs, or even home decor (!), this is a guide to some of the best underground shopping centres in Seoul.
Gangnam Station Underground Shopping Center
One of the most famous underground shopping spots in Seoul, Gangnam Station Underground Shopping Center is a treasure trove that you’ll have fun exploring.
Located right beneath the bustling Gangnam district, this shopping center offers a wide range of clothing, shoes, bags, and phone accessories. The stores here are more catered to younger shoppers, so you’ll be able to find lots of trendy and budget-friendly items here.
What to buy: Clothes and accessories.
How to get there: Exit Gangnam Station (Line 2, Sinbundang Line).
Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping Mall (Goto Mall)
Commonly referred to as Goto Mall, this underground shopping center spans over 800 meters and connects the Express Bus Terminal with multiple subway lines.
It’s one of the largest underground shopping malls in Seoul, offering everything from fashion to home decor (!!!), cosmetics, and accessories.
With over 600 stores, Goto Mall is a haven for bargain hunters, which also explains why you’ll find many visitors (both locals and tourists) here haggling and hunting for good buys.
I’ve personally even bought activewear here! They were really affordable and of pretty good quality that lasted me for years.
What to buy: Stylish clothing, cosmetics, bags, and affordable home decor.
How to get there: Exit Express Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, 7, 9).
COEX Mall
Most of us may have heard of COEX before, but did you know that COEX Mall is the largest underground shopping mall in Asia?
The mall houses global fashion brands, bookstores, and a wide selection of dining options. In addition to shopping, you can also explore the COEX Aquarium, Starfield Library, and even catch a movie at the onsite cinema.
What to buy: High-end fashion, books, electronics, and souvenirs.
How to get there: Exit Samseong Station (Line 2).
Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center
Because we stay in Myeongdong on almost every trip, we are no strangers to Myeongdong Underground Shopping Centre.
This is located underneath the vibrant shopping district of Myeongdong and actually connected to the subway station as well. It is definitely smaller than the shopping street above, but perfect for last-minute buys or escaping the crowds above.
Here, you’ll find K-pop albums, cosmetics, accessories, shoes, and clothing at affordable prices. There are also a couple of food stalls for you to fill your tummies before boarding the subway!
What to buy: Food, K-beauty, and accessories.
How to get there: Exit Myeongdong Station (Line 4).
Yeongdeungpo Underground Shopping Mall
Connected to Yeongdeungpo Station, this underground shopping mall is way less touristy than the other underground shopping centres I’ve shared. If you want a more local shopping experience, this is the place to go to.
It offers a range of fashion items, from trendy to more traditional styles, at very affordable prices. You can also find accessories, shoes, and seasonal fashion items in this bustling space.
What to buy: Affordable clothing and shoes.
How to get there: Exit Yeongdeungpo Station (Line 1).
Jamsil Underground Shopping Mall
Located near Lotte World and Jamsil Station, this underground shopping center is perfect for those looking to shop while visiting the nearby attractions.
The mall offers a range of shops selling casual wear, accessories, shoes, and cosmetics. It’s a great place to shop for both everyday essentials and fashion-forward items before or after exploring Lotte World.
What to buy: Casual fashion and shoes.
How to get there: Exit Jamsil Station (Line 2, Line 8).
Dongdaemun Underground Shopping Center
Dongdaemun is well-known as a fashion hub, from the famous DDP that hosts fashion shows to the wholesale fashion malls cluster. Even its underground shopping mall does not disappoint!
At Dongdaemun Underground Shopping Centre, you can hunt for clothes, shoes, and bags, often at discounted prices. If you’re looking to buy an affordable hanbok to bring home as a souvenir, you can consider checking out the options here as well.
I would say this is a great place to start before heading to the larger Dongdaemun shopping complexes above ground!
What to buy: Trendy clothing and accessories at bargain prices.
How to get there: Exit Dongdaemun Station (Line 1, Line 4).
Next time you’re in Seoul, make sure to venture below the surface and explore these hidden shopping gems!
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FAQ: Best Underground Shopping Centres in Seoul
Where to go, what to buy, and how to shop underground like a pro (especially when the weather is extreme).
In Seoul, many subway stations connect to underground passageways packed with small shops selling clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and everyday items. Some are huge (like long shopping corridors), while others feel like compact mini-malls attached to a station.
If you want maximum “I can’t believe this price” energy, start with Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping Mall (Goto Mall). It’s enormous, easy to spend hours in, and famous for budget-friendly fashion, accessories, and even home décor.
Gangnam Station Underground Shopping Center is a solid pick for trendier styles and casual “grab-and-go” shopping—clothes, shoes, bags, and phone accessories that feel more youth-oriented.
Yes—COEX is a fully-fledged underground mall experience, but it’s a different vibe. Think bigger brands, more polished shopping, and lots of indoor attractions nearby (it’s great if you want shopping + cafés + “things to do” in one area).
Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center is perfect when you’re staying in Myeongdong and want quick buys without fighting the crowds above. You’ll typically find cosmetics, accessories, shoes, and small K-pop-ish bits that work well as easy gifts.
Yeongdeungpo Underground Shopping Mall is a good option if you want something that feels more everyday and less tourist-heavy—affordable clothes, shoes, and seasonal fashion that locals actually wear.
Jamsil Underground Shopping Mall is super convenient if you’re already in the area for Lotte World or Jamsil attractions. It’s good for casual fashion, accessories, and “I need something now” essentials.
Yes, especially if you’re already exploring Dongdaemun. It’s a fun warm-up before the bigger shopping complexes above ground—good for bargain clothes, shoes, bags, and a quick browse when you want to stay indoors.
Weekday afternoons are usually the easiest. Weekends and evenings get busy (especially in Gangnam, Myeongdong, and Goto Mall). If you want a calmer experience, aim for earlier in the day or go on a weekday.
Many do, but some smaller stalls prefer card minimum spend or cash. The safest plan is to keep a mix: card for bigger purchases, plus some cash for small accessories, street snacks, or quick buys.
It depends on the place and the stall. Some shops have fixed price tags, while others may be open to small discounts—especially if you buy multiple items. A friendly, polite approach works best.
Use subway exit numbers as your anchor. If you’re meeting someone, agree on an exit number (not “near the big sign,” because everything looks the same underground). If you’re shopping seriously, take quick photos of the stall sign or its location near an exit so you can find it again.
They’re perfect for bad weather. You can shop, eat, and move between subway lines without stepping outside much—especially around major interchanges like Express Bus Terminal, Gangnam, Myeongdong, and COEX/Samseong.
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