Myeongdong
Myeongdong used to be a residential area, but influenced by the rising commerce in the nearby Chungmuro area, Myeongdong has developed into one of Korea's number one retail fashion districts. On a regular day a staggering 1.5 million people pass through, especially Japanese tourists, who flock to Myeongdong because this area is often depicted in Korean dramas and movie scenes. The price range is mid-to high end shopping. You will find most major local and international brands in the streets of Myeongdong along with abundant shops, eateries and cafes all year round.
No matter where you go in Myeongdong, if you look Asian, you will most likely be approached in Japanese or Chinese by shopworkers and street vendors. People just assume that you are Japanese or Chinese, mostly Japanese come here to buy Korean cosmetic products. Korea's total beauty care industry starts right here in Myeongdong. There are more than a 1000 cosmetic and skin care brands represented here.
Do retail brand shopping and visit famous movie locations. You will see many Japanese women taking pictures with photos of their favorite Korean drama stars. Myeongdong is also an area with a lot of Japanese restaurants, so if you're into curry, sushi, donkatsu and tempura, Myeongdong will satisfy your palate.
'Myeongdong' by My Guide Seoul
