Location & How to Get There

Korean Street, located in Hongqiao Area of Minhang District, Shanghai, is a hidden gem for culture lovers. The main stretch along Hongquan Road buzzes with Korean vibes—think neon signs in Hangul, street food stalls, and shops selling everything from kimchi to K-beauty products. To get there, hop on Metro Line 10 and exit at Hongqiao Lu Station (Shanghai South Railway Station is nearby too). It’s about 20 minutes from downtown via subway, making it a quick escape from the skyline hustle.

Transport Tips

Walking is the best way to explore Korean Street. The area is compact, with most shops and restaurants within a 5-minute stroll. If you’re coming from Pudong Airport, take Metro Line 2 to Xujiahui, then transfer to Line 10. By taxi? Just show your driver the Chinese address (上海市闵行区虹泉路) or pin “Korean Street, Shanghai” on maps. Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds—weekends get packed!

Cultural Highlights

This isn’t just a street; it’s a mini-Seoul. Korean Street explodes with K-pop posters, Korean BBQ smoke, and even traditional hanbok rentals for photo ops. During festivals like Chuseok or Lunar New Year, expect colorful lanterns and free performances. For a deep dive, check out the Korean Cultural Center nearby, where they host free language classes and movie screenings. Even if you don’t speak Korean, the energy here feels instantly welcoming.

Food & Drink Scene

Hungry? Korean Street delivers. Start with bubbly hotteok (sweet pancakes) from a street cart, then dive into all-you-can-eat BBQ joints like Wangbijib or Jeju Yakyong. For dessert, grab honey butter almonds from a snack shop. Coffee snobs: Try Coffinee, a trendy Korean cafe with Instagram-worthy pastels. Pro tip: Dinner reservations are smart—places fill up fast!

Shopping & Sweets

Shopaholics, rejoice! Korean Street is lined with beauty stores stocked with sheet masks, toners, and cushion compacts. For snacks, load up on seaweed snacks, ginseng tea, or freshly made kimbap. Don’t miss the underground markets nearby, where vendors sell Korean fashion at bargain prices. PS: The 7F store in the mall sells everything Korean—from ramen to tarot cards.

Day-to-Night Vibes

Morning: Browse quieter shops and sip coffee.
Afternoon: Join locals for lunch at hole-in-the-wall spots.
Night: The street transforms! Neon lights glow, live music spills from karaoke bars, and grills sizzle till midnight. For a full experience, time your visit to catch both daytime calm and nighttime energy.

Extra Tips

  • Language: Staff at most places speak basic English, but learning phrases like “annyeonghaseyo” (hello) wins smiles.
  • Payment: Cash is king here—some stalls don’t take cards.
  • Pair with Other Attractions: Nearby Gucheng Garden offers a peaceful contrast, while the Shanghai Zoo is great for families.

Korean Street might not be Shanghai’s most famous spot, but its authenticity and warmth make it a must-visit. Come hungry, curious, and ready to say “Kakkoi!” (cool) at every corner.