A Trendy Neighborhood Inside an Old Palace City
Haenggung-dong is not a boring traditional village.
Although the neighborhood sits inside Hwaseong Haenggung,
an old palace complex where a Korean king once stayed,
it has transformed into a vibrant area where historic streets and modern café culture blend naturally.
For first-time visitors to Korea, this is one of the best places to experience
traditional Korean scenery + trendy local vibes in one walkable district.
1) Haengnidan-gil — The Trendy Heart of Haenggung-dong
Haengnidan-gil is the center of the neighborhood’s atmosphere.
Traditional stone walls and hanok-style rooftops line the streets,
but between them you’ll find modern cafés, brunch spots, and stylish bars.
Simply walking here already feels like a “Korean mood trip.”
Why travelers love Haengnidan-gil
- A unique mix of historic alleys and trendy cafés
- Beautiful photo spots around every corner
- High-quality brunch, dessert, and coffee shops
- Calm, local-friendly vibe—perfect for dates or solo travel
If it’s your first time in Haenggung-dong,
a slow walk through Haengnidan-gil is the best way to feel the neighborhood’s charm.
2) Café & Bar Street — Where Korean Café Culture Meets Historic Surroundings
Haenggung-dong is well known for its high-quality cafés and stylish interiors.
Many cafés are built inside renovated hanok buildings, blending tradition with modern design.
At night, cozy bars and wine spots fill the streets with warm lights and soft music.
Why this street stands out
- Hanok-inspired cafés with modern, aesthetic interiors
- Calm but atmospheric bars and wine houses
- Entire streets feel “Instagrammable”
- Perfect place to experience Korean café and nightlife culture
Spend the afternoon in a café, and come back after sunset for a relaxed night walk and drinks.
3) Recommended Walking Route — The Prettiest Way to Explore the Palace District
Haenggung-dong is one of the most beautiful walking neighborhoods in Korea.
Because it sits inside the old palace city, the layout of the roads, stone walls, and alleys feels soft, calm, and naturally well-structured.
Recommended route
Haengnidan-gil → Haenggung Plaza → Traditional Alley → Fried Chicken Street
Why this route works so well
- Scenic alleys shaped by the original palace-city design
- Photo spots appear continuously along the walk
- The flow from café → alley → plaza → food feels natural
- Works beautifully in both daytime and evening
During sunset, the combination of old stone walls and warm café lights creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
4) Fried Chicken Street — The Perfect Ending to Your Haenggung-dong Trip
Fried Chicken Street is the best way to finish your day.
This area is filled with long-running local chicken restaurants—places Koreans themselves visit regularly.
Why it’s the ideal finale
- Located at the end of the walking route
- Relaxed, cozy, local Korean atmosphere
- Perfect spot to enjoy Korea’s famous chimaek (chicken + beer)
- Affordable, casual, and satisfying
Exploring Haenggung-dong and ending the day with chimaek makes the experience complete.
Why Haenggung-dong Is Special
A Trendy Neighborhood Inside a Historic Palace City
Although Haenggung-dong is located inside the walls of an old palace,
it is NOT a reconstructed folk village or a museum-like replica.
It is a living local neighborhood where people work, live, walk, and enjoy cafés.
What makes it unique
- Traditional Korean architecture remains intact
- Trendy cafés, bars, and shops blend naturally into historic streets
- Locals—not just tourists—love spending time here
- Past and present coexist in one compact district
In other words, Haenggung-dong is
“a trendy Korean old town where history and modern culture meet.”
Summary — The Best Way to Explore Haenggung-dong for First-Time Visitors
- For trendy alleys → Haengnidan-gil
- For Korean café & bar culture → Café Street
- For the most beautiful scenery → Palace-area walking route
- For the perfect ending → Fried Chicken Street (chimaek)
Haenggung-dong is not a static traditional village—it is a lively mix of old and new, offering the most natural way to feel Korea’s atmosphere in a single day.
Related guides:
Korea travel tips for first-time visitors
Best things to do in Korea
Best hotels in Korea
Korea destination guide
