Built in 2014, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is undoubtedly an iconic landmark to visit in Seoul.
I wasn’t able to visit this on my first trip to Korea as it wasn’t on the tour itinerary, but I made it a point to go to this architectural wonder in the summer of 2017.
Plus point: This was the filming location for SBS drama “You Who Came from the Stars,” the KBS2 drama “Producer,” and the MBC drama “She Was Pretty”!
If you’re wondering what DDP stands for, it actually means Dream, Design, and Play. Various exhibitions, fashion shows, forums, conferences, and other domestic and international events are frequently held at DDP!
We usually visit DDP in the afternoon, and it is always crowded with both locals and foreign tourists.
What to do at DDP
I’m not well-versed in architecture, but I think if you are an enthusiast, you’ll love DDP. It also makes for good snaps, which is why you’ll spot a lot of visitors taking photographs here.
This is a common photography spot:
The first thing that caught my eye in DDP was… the Kakao Friends store!
Surprisingly, the Kakao Friends Store is still here even after many years. I can’t say the same for other retail stores in DDP (oops) but at least you know this Kakao Friends store is a constant!
The store is always very crowded, with lots of people waiting to take photos with the mascots. If you’re a fan of the franchise, remember to stop by ~
As mentioned earlier, DDP often hosts various exhibitions. We were hoping to be able to sneak into some free ones, but didn’t always have luck. The tickets are all slightly pricey (on par with that of K-Museum of Contemporary Art).
However, in 2023 we did manage to score a free exhibition at DDP! I’m not sure if it’s a permanent one though.
There was another time in 2022 when we managed to catch a (free!) design week fair as well:
What to eat at DDP
Dining-wise, the venue also houses restaurants, so if you’re hungry you can always grab a bite.
I don’t frequently eat at DDP, but once I did eat at this Vietnamese stall from a food court there!
In terms of activities to do, I thought DDP was slightly underwhelming for the hype that it’s given.
It’s still a nice place to hang out, especially with the open-air concept and atmosphere, but you’ll get more out of it if you’re into architecture, shopping, and exhibitions.
OPENING HOURS
Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-19:00
* Every Wednesday, Friday: Extended hours 10:00-21:00
[Permanent opening]
Design Pathway / Oullim Saure / Design Shop, Dongdaemun History & Culture Park, Dongdaemun History Museum 1398, Dongdaemun Stadium Memorial, etc.
DIRECTIONS
Address: 281, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 중구 을지로 281 (을지로7가)
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