Welcome to Seoul! If you’re building your itinerary, there’s one place that’s probably on your list but feels a bit intimidating: COEX Mall. As the world’s largest underground shopping mall, it’s more than just a place to shop—it’s a city-within-a-city. Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. I’ve walked these sprawling halls more times than I can count, and I’m here to give you the ultimate COEX Mall shopping and attractions guide to make your visit seamless, fun, and totally unforgettable.
Think of me as your local friend who knows all the secrets. From the most iconic photo spots to the best stores you simply can’t miss, this guide is designed to help you navigate COEX like a pro. Let’s dive in and plan your perfect day at this incredible Seoul landmark.
First Impressions: The Iconic Starfield Library
Before we get into the shopping, let’s talk about the main event. You can’t visit COEX without seeing the Starfield Library. It’s likely the reason COEX is on your radar in the first place!
Picture this: towering 13-meter-high bookshelves holding over 85,000 books, with natural light streaming in from the glass roof. It’s breathtaking. My first time seeing it, I just stood there for a solid five minutes in awe.
Insider Tip: The best photo spot is on the escalators going up. You can capture the grand scale of the library from there. Just be mindful of others using them! It’s a library, but it’s also a major tourist attraction, so don’t be shy about taking a picture.
Luxury & International Brands
Ready to do some serious shopping? COEX is a key destination in any Gangnam shopping guide for tourists. It offers a fantastic mix of high-end and accessible international brands.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury handbag or the latest sneakers, you’ll find it here. The layout is quite intuitive, with brands grouped in logical zones.
- Zara & H&M: You’ll find massive flagship stores for these fast-fashion giants, often with Korea-exclusive collections.
- Apple Store: Need a new gadget or a quick repair? The official Apple Store is sleek, modern, and always busy.
- Luxury Cosmetics: Brands like Chanel, Dior Beauty, and Jo Malone have beautiful boutiques perfect for finding a special gift or treating yourself.
K-Beauty Stores You Can’t Miss
You can’t come to Seoul and not indulge in K-Beauty! COEX is a treasure trove of the best brands, making it easy to stock up on all the viral products you’ve seen online.
Here are some of the best shops in COEX Mall for your K-Beauty haul:
- Olive Young: This is the Sephora of South Korea, but better. It’s your one-stop-shop for everything from skincare and makeup to hair products and snacks. Look for the sections with “Top Sellers” or “On Sale” signs to find the best deals.
- Chicor: A slightly more upscale beauty destination, Chicor offers a curated selection of both popular and niche Korean brands. Their testing stations are fantastic.
- Innisfree & Etude House: These are classic “roadshop” brands famous for their cute packaging and affordable, effective products. They are perfect for picking up sheet masks and souvenirs for friends back home.
COEX Aquarium: Is It Worth It?
In a mall filled with so many free things to see, you might wonder if paying for the aquarium is worth it. My answer? Absolutely, yes. The COEX Aquarium is a fantastic escape and one of the best Starfield COEX things to do, especially if you’re traveling with family or need a break from shopping.
It’s not just a few fish tanks. The aquarium takes you on a journey through different water habitats, from the Korean wetlands to the deep blue sea. The highlight for me is always the underwater tunnel where sharks and giant rays glide right over your head. It’s mesmerizing!
The current COEX Aquarium ticket price is around for adults. Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to skip the long queues, which can get very long, especially on weekends. It saves you time that you can spend exploring more of the mall.
Megabox Cinema Guide
Want to experience a movie like a local? The Megabox cinema in COEX is one of the best theaters in Seoul. It’s known for its premium screens, including the immersive Dolby Cinema and “The Boutique” private theater for a luxury experience.
Watching a Korean film here (with English subtitles, of course) is a unique cultural experience. They also show all the latest international blockbusters. Grab some caramel popcorn—Korean cinema popcorn is next level—and enjoy the show.
Conclusion: Your Perfect COEX Itinerary
So, how should you spend your time and money at COEX Mall? It truly depends on what you’re looking for.
- For the Fashionista: Head straight for the international brand zones and then dive into the pop-up stores often found in the central event spaces.
- For the Beauty Lover: Spend your time (and won) at Olive Young and Chicor. You’ll leave with a suitcase full of skincare gold.
- For a Family Day Out: Start at the Starfield Library for that “wow” moment, then spend a couple of hours at the COEX Aquarium, and finish with a fun meal at one of the many restaurants.
- For the Culture Seeker: Catch a movie at Megabox, explore the library, and check out the temporary art exhibits often scattered throughout the mall.
COEX is more than just an underground mall Seoul is famous for; it’s a cultural hub that offers something for every type of traveler. Enjoy the adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I get to COEX Mall using the Seoul subway?
It’s very easy! Take Subway Line 9 to Bongeunsa Station and use Exit 7, which connects directly to the Starfield Library entrance. Alternatively, you can take Subway Line 2 to Samseong Station and use Exits 5 or 6, which connect to the main COEX entrance.
Is the Starfield Library inside COEX Mall?
Yes, it is! The Starfield Library is located in the center of the Central Plaza of Starfield COEX Mall. You can’t miss it.
Are there food courts or good restaurants inside the mall?
Absolutely. COEX has a huge range of dining options. There are two main food courts: one near Megabox cinema with more casual Korean and international options, and another more upscale food court in the Hyundai Department Store connected to the mall. You’ll also find dozens of standalone restaurants and cafes throughout.
How much time do I need to see everything at COEX?
To see everything thoroughly, you could easily spend a full day here (6-8 hours), especially if you visit the aquarium and watch a movie. If you’re just focused on the library and some light shopping, you could plan for 2-3 hours.
