Seoul Is The Coziest City In Asia Right Now: 10 Snug Spots You Must Visit

South Korea's bustling capital has officially been crowned Asia’s coziest city in 2025 and it’s not just about the weather. From tranquil teahouses to intimate alleyways, Seoul effortlessly combines modern charm with comforting corners that invite you to slow down. If you're craving warmth, atmosphere, and a sprinkle of magic, here are 10 snug places in Seoul where you can experience the city’s cosiness at its best.

1. Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander through this historic neighbourhood filled with traditional Korean houses (hanoks), each oozing charm and character. With narrow lanes, tiled roofs, and misty morning views, it’s like stepping into a gentle, bygone era — perfect for slow walks and quiet reflection.

2. Insa-dong Teahouses

Insa-dong offers a haven of peace in the middle of the city. Its hidden teahouses, often housed in old wooden buildings, serve steaming cups of omija and green tea, surrounded by the aroma of tradition and tranquillity.

3. Namsan Seoul Tower Trails

Wrap yourself in layers and take a stroll up to Namsan Tower. The crisp mountain air, rustling leaves, and panoramic city views make for a perfectly cosy outing, especially in autumn or early spring.

4. Hongdae Book Cafés

Hongdae is known for its youthful vibe, but step into one of its many book cafés and you’ll find peace. Grab a blanket, sip on a latte, and lose yourself in a good book or just the moment.

5. Gyeongui Line Forest Park

A former railway transformed into a peaceful green walkway, this urban park is lined with small cafés, art spaces, and benches under trees. It’s Seoul’s answer to hygge outdoors.

6. Seochon Neighbourhood

Less touristy than Bukchon, Seochon is all about narrow lanes, indie boutiques, and cafés with floor seating and warm lighting. It’s a local favourite for cosy weekend wandering.

7. Dongmyo Thrift Market

For lovers of vintage and secondhand treasures, Dongmyo offers a snug kind of chaos. Worn leather coats, retro radios, and comforting nostalgia make this market a warm delight on chilly afternoons.

8. Samcheong-dong Cafés

This artsy area near Gyeongbokgung Palace blends tradition and modernity. Think: minimalist interiors, freshly baked pastries, and views of tiled roofs through fogged-up windows.

9. Ihwa Mural Village

Seoul’s slopes get a vibrant touch in Ihwa. Wander its mural-painted alleys with a cup of hot cocoa in hand. Every corner feels like a postcard scene, even more charming under grey skies.

10. Jirisan Jip (Hidden Restaurant in Mapo)

End your cosy Seoul adventure with a meal at Jirisan Jip. Known for its home-style Korean stews and wooden interiors, it feels less like a restaurant and more like being wrapped in a culinary hug.

Why Seoul Feels So Cosy in 2025

With its mix of traditional charm, thoughtful public spaces, and design-forward cafés, Seoul continues to embrace a softer side of urban life. Whether you’re wrapped in a wool coat on a palace path or curled up with a book by a café window, Seoul proves that warmth isn't just a temperature it's a feeling.