The Starfield Coex Mall is an underground shopping complex located beneath the World Trade Center of Seoul, in the Samseong-dong business district. Covering approximately 154,000 m², it ranks among Asia's largest underground shopping centers and combines retail, dining, cultural facilities and transit services.

Why visit Coex Mall

Beyond shopping, Coex Mall concentrates several attractions within a single space that warrant a visit: a family-friendly aquarium, a public library that has become an architectural landmark in Seoul, a museum dedicated to kimchi, a multiplex cinema, a casino and a complex devoted to K-pop. It's also a logical shelter during bad weather and a convenient hub before departing from Incheon Airport, thanks to the Korea City Air terminal integrated into the complex.

What to see and do

Starfield COEX Library

Beneath a glass roof, four towering book columns spanning multiple stories display around 50,000 volumes. The space operates as a free-access public library with reading zones, coworking areas and an auditorium. Cultural events are programmed weekly. It's one of the most photographed spots in the complex.

Coex Aquarium

The aquarium features over 40,000 marine animals arranged in themed zones, with an acrylic tunnel offering views of sharks and sea turtles. The route is well-marked and family-friendly. Plan on one to one-and-a-half hours for a complete tour.

Kimchi Museum

Museum Kimchikan traces the history and varieties of kimchi through interactive exhibits, tastings and workshops. Each January, the museum also hosts the chocolate fair, which temporarily changes the programming.

SMTown Coex Artium

This space dedicated to SM Entertainment artists features an official shop, studio, stage costume exhibition, café and theater. It's a must-see stop for K-pop enthusiasts.

Shopping, cinema and dining

The mall brings together international brands, Korean labels and designer boutiques, complemented by the Hyundai Department Store Coex, which houses a Hyundai cultural center, sky garden and extensive food court. The Megabox Cineplex, with its 17 screens, shows Korean and international releases (Western films are screened in original language with subtitles). The Seven Luck Casino rounds out the complex's evening offerings.

ASEM Plaza and Event Court

These two spaces host weekly performances and events (concerts, screenings, seasonal activities). Programming is free and varies from week to week.

Practical information

• Access to commercial spaces: free entry. The aquarium, Kimchi Museum and cinema are paid, at moderate rates.
• Visit duration: plan 2 to 4 hours to explore the mall and visit one attraction; longer if you combine the aquarium, library and shopping.
• Korea City Air Terminal: integrated into the complex, it allows baggage check-in before transfer to the airport.
• Parking: 4,000 spaces located on B2 and B4 levels.
• Languages: signage is available in English, and information and interpretation services are provided throughout the mall.

When to visit

The complex is open year-round and serves as a convenient refuge during summer monsoons (July-August) or winter cold spells. The Starfield Library and food courts are particularly busy during lunch hours and early evening; for a quieter experience, visit in the morning or mid-afternoon on weekdays. January coincides with the chocolate fair at the Kimchi Museum.

How to get there

Coex Mall is excellently served by Seoul's subway system:

• Line 2: Samseong station, exits 5 or 6 (most direct access).
• Line 9: Bongeunsa station, exit 7.
• Line 7: Cheongdam station, exit 2.

Several bus lines also serve Seoul World Trade Center from major districts throughout the capital.

Nearby

Just across from the complex, Bongeunsa Temple offers a striking contrast to the commercial environment: this active Buddhist monastery, founded in the 8th century, is known for its large stone Buddha and templestay programs. The Gangnam district and Seonjeongneung Park (Joseon royal tombs listed by UNESCO) are also within walking distance or a few minutes by subway.

Frequently asked questions

Plan your trip

Coex Mall fits naturally into a Seoul itinerary, complementing royal palaces and traditional neighborhoods. To build an itinerary combining the capital, Buddhist sites like Seokguram and the coasts of Busan, check out our tours in South Korea.