This is my very first post about Korea, written as someone who has lived here for 30 years—a 99.9% pure Korean. (I’m leaving out the 0.1% because I’ve been abroad several times.)
For this first post, I’ve chosen to write about Gwanak-gu, the district in Seoul where I currently live! I know this topic might seem a bit unusual—after all, Gwanak-gu isn’t exactly known for having a large foreign population. But honestly, if even one person finds this post helpful, that’s enough to boost my sense of purpose. So I just went with what came to mind.
If you’ve checked out our ‘About’ page, you might already know that we run a humble little blog in Korean. Well, this post is basically an English translation and adaptation of one of those modest blog entries.
https://m.blog.naver.com/bbapmoss/223617166892
ㅎ_ㅎ
1. 2F Samusil
The first place I want to mention is a cafe ‘2F Samusil’.
“Samusil” means “office” in Korean.
So when you hear the name “2F Samusil,” you’d probably expect it to be on the second floor and have kind of an office-like vibe, right?
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3wF1211PzfBSpBJp6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy
It’s essentially a quiet cafe—so if you’re in the mood for delicious desserts or a lively, chatty vibe, feel free to skip this one. This cafe is a perfect spot for those who love getting work done at cafes.
The cafe, as shown in the photo above, feels just like an office — only cozier!
2F Samusil doesn’t have an espresso machine, and instead, the owner brews coffee with a drip method. This creates a space with no noise, only a subtle aroma of coffee, which is its charm. It’s a place that gives you a sense of tranquility and calmness.
2. Tram Seoul
The next place I want to introduce is Tram Seoul.
Nestled in a quiet residential area just off the bustling Sharosugil, this cozy café warmly lights up a dim alleyway — like a little hidden gem waiting to be found.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmTfDReb6Cwp76EVA?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy
At Tram Seoul, the coffee is excellent — but what I really want to recommend is their terrine.
(Looks like I couldn’t resist and took a bite before the photo… lol.)
It’s a rich, fudgy, handmade cake with the texture of raw ganache.
Personally, I’m obsessed with the cream cheese flavor.
Paired with an iced Americano, it’s like the dessert version of Torres and Gerrard — sweet and bitter in perfect harmony.
Tram Seoul is open every day from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM, except on holidays. (Last order is at 10 PM!)
So if you’re living in Gwanak-gu and ever find yourself with a bit of free time, this is definitely a spot worth visiting!
3. Eumjugaui Books
“Eumjugaui” roughly translates to “someone who enjoys drinking” in Korean. While it’s technically a bar rather than a café, it has the quiet atmosphere of something like “2F Samusil.” What makes it unique is that conversation is usually not allowed — people come here to drink alone, work on their laptops, or read books in silence.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fFSw64nfh1hv27R58?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy
They serve wine, beer, cocktails, and spirits — with non-alcoholic options available for both wine and highballs. You’ll also find some light bites to go with your drink — like sausages, fondue, and other easy-to-enjoy snacks.
It’s the perfect spot for a quiet solo drink… or when you need to work under the influence.
One thing to keep in mind — like I said earlier, this isn’t a place for chatting. Because of that, they only allow solo visitors or pairs.
If you’re with more than two people… well, just pretend you don’t know each other. The owner will probably pretend not to notice, too.
So that’s it — I’ve just introduced three spots today.
It’s my first post, so I couldn’t fit everything in… and yes, it took longer than expected! 😅 But I’ll get the hang of it.
From now on, I’ll keep writing for foreigners in Korea — and also for those who wish they were in Korea.
Oh, and this won’t be the last time I talk about Gwanak-gu.
This is just the beginning! A neighborhood that’s home to Korea’s most famous university — Seoul National University — still has so much more to explore.
Until next time!
bbapMoss 
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