Coffee Hanyakbang is the cafe young Seoulites take friends to when they want to show them “real” Euljiro. Hidden down a narrow alley in Jung-gu, it looks like a Korean herbal pharmacy from a century ago, with dark wooden medicine cabinets, mother-of-pearl furniture and brass lamps. The name literally means “coffee herbal pharmacy.”
Here is what to expect, what to order, hours and how to find the entrance. For more spots nearby, read our guide to trendy Seoul cafes and restaurants.
Euljiro and the “Hipjiro” Scene
Euljiro grew up as a district of printing presses, lighting stores and hardware shops. In the late 2010s, artists and small business owners moved into empty upper floors and alleys, and young Koreans followed. They nicknamed the area “Hipjiro,” and today retro cafes and bars sit right next to workshops that still run during the day. Coffee Hanyakbang is one of the pioneers of that scene.
Inside Coffee Hanyakbang
The interior is the attraction: old wooden drawers, vintage lamps and inlaid mother-of-pearl cabinets fill a small, dim space over several floors. It feels like stepping into a 1930s Seoul shop. The house specialty is hand-poured filter coffee made from beans roasted on site, and the baristas take their time with each cup.
Coffee Hanyakbang Hours, Address and Directions
- Address: 16-6 Samil-daero 12-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울 중구 삼일대로12길 16-6)
- Hours: 1st floor weekdays 10:00–22:00, weekends 11:00–22:00 (last order 21:00); 2nd–3rd floors 10:00–21:30
- Closed: open year-round
- Subway: Euljiro 3-ga Station (Lines 2, 3) or Euljiro 1-ga Station, a few minutes on foot
Tips for Visiting
- Look for the alley. The entrance is off Samil-daero down a very narrow lane; follow your map app closely.
- Order the filter coffee. It is what the cafe is known for.
- Visit on a weekday afternoon for a quieter room and better photos.
- Stay for the evening. As the sun sets, walk to Euljiro Nogari Alley for beer and grilled pollock.
Is Coffee Hanyakbang Worth Finding?
Yes. Coffee Hanyakbang is small, characterful and a perfect introduction to Euljiro’s mix of old and new. Come for a carefully brewed cup and a glimpse of retro Seoul you won’t find in a chain cafe.
FAQ
Is it suitable for working on a laptop?
The space is small and popular, so it is better for a short coffee break.
What does “hanyakbang” mean?
It means a traditional Korean herbal medicine shop, which inspired the interior design.
Source: K-Trip Tips – Coffee Hanyakbang
Featured image: Photo: Whitetiger / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0). Photos illustrate the area or dish and may not show the venue itself. Details checked October 2026; confirm hours on Naver Map before visiting.