COEX Mall, located in Seoul, is one of the largest multi-purpose commercial complexes in Korea. It’s a massive shopping center where you can find just about everything. Not only for shopping, but its vast space and variety offer something for everyone to enjoy. On rainy days during your trip, or for some last-minute shopping before heading home, COEX Mall is the perfect place to visit. Be sure to read this article and consider visiting COEX Mall on your next trip to Korea!
1. The Six Areas That Make Up COEX Mall
COEX Mall is an enormous commercial facility, and inside, it’s divided into several areas. These include Millennium Plaza, Central Plaza, Live Plaza, Gourmet Area, ASEM Plaza, and Airport Plaza. There’s even a floor guide available in Japanese, so be sure to check it first to get a general idea of the layout.
2. Millennium Plaza: A Must-Visit for K-pop Fans
Millennium Plaza is an open area directly connected to exits 5 and 6 of Samseong Station on the subway. Although it has only 10 tenants, they are all popular and affordable shops catering to the younger generation. There are also trendy street-style fashion stores, creating a lively atmosphere. In front of some stores, you’ll find entertainment spaces produced by Korea’s major entertainment companies. This six-story amusement building hosts everything from exclusive merchandise sales to live performances, making it a sacred spot for K-pop fans.
3. Central Plaza: Home to the Popular, Instagram-Worthy Giant Library
The Starfield Library, located in Central Plaza, is a landmark of COEX. The towering bookshelves, 13 meters high, are breathtaking and house about 50,000 books. There’s no entrance fee, so you can take a break from shopping and relax while reading. "Byeolmadang" means "Garden of Stars," and when you see it illuminated at night, you’ll understand the name perfectly.
4. Live Plaza: Perfect for Shopping and Events
Live Plaza is located on the first and second basement floors of COEX Mall. From sports brands to character goods shops, there’s a wide variety of stores that many people can enjoy. The staircases connecting the floors are uniquely designed, and you’ll often see people sitting there to rest. It’s also famous as a place where K-pop idols frequently hold events.
5. A Gathering of World Cuisines at the "Gourmet Area"
The Gourmet Area features around 90 different restaurants lined up. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide where to eat! However, many places offer reasonable prices, making it easy to enjoy. There’s a wide variety of cuisines available—not just Korean food but also dishes from around the world. From authentic restaurants to cafes and food courts, there’s a style for everyone.
6. Movies, Aquarium, and Casino! "ASEM Plaza"
At ASEM Plaza, you’ll find the MEGABOX movie theater and the COEX Aquarium. It’s a great area to spend a leisurely day with family or a partner. The aquarium is particularly impressive, housing 40,000 fish, 3,000 tons of water, and even large sharks. There are educational exhibits for children to learn about marine life, making it a place where you can have fun all day long.
For adults, there’s also the Seven Luck Casino behind MEGABOX. It’s exclusively for foreigners and has a dress code, but if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s a fun spot to try your luck.
7. Super Convenient! Early Check-In at the "Airport Plaza"
One of the biggest reasons why COEX Mall is recommended for your last day in Korea is because of the Airport Plaza. Located on the upper floors of COEX Mall is the City Airport Terminal, where you can complete your return flight’s early check-in procedures. You can also check in your luggage and go through immigration procedures here. After finishing everything, you’re free to enjoy shopping and dining at COEX Mall without worry.
Note: Some flights may not offer this early check-in service, so be sure to confirm in advance.
◎ Access and Opening Hours
COEX Mall is directly accessible from Exit 5/6 of Samseong Station (Line 2) or Exit 7 of Bongeunsa Station (Line 9).
The general opening hours are from 10 AM to 10 PM, but some stores may have different operating times.
For your last shopping spree or sightseeing before heading home, COEX Mall is the perfect place to visit!