Located along the north bank of the Hangang River in eastern Seoul, Seongsu-dong is an old industrial zone of factories and warehouses formerly best known as the home of Korea’s handmade shoe industry. The shoemakers are still there, but young entrepreneurs have been busy converting many of the neighborhood’s old industrial spaces into popular cafes, pubs, eateries, boutiques and cultural complexes. This mix of industrial grit and hip creativity has given rise to a space some travel writers have called “The Brooklyn of Seoul.”

In this walking tour, we’ll explore this fascinating neighborhood’s cafes, eateries and shops. We will also stop by some of the area’s historical and scenic spots, including shoemaking district, Seoul Forest and the city’s first waterworks, founded in 1905.

The tour will start at Exit 3 (above ground) of Seoul Forest Station, Bundang Line at 10:00 and will end at around 4:00 pm.