Underground shopping arcades

They are shopping corridors lined with small shops along underground passages connected to subway stations. You will find affordable clothing, shoes, accessories, cosmetics and household goods. Because they are sheltered from the weather, locals use them often as well as travelers.

The arcades at Gangnam and Express Bus Terminal stations and the underground shopping center at Yeongdeungpo Station are well known for clothes. Myeong-dong Station also has an arcade, but Myeong-dong shopping is mainly on the streets above. Each arcade differs in size and focus, so check sections and exits on a map app.

The arcade at Express Bus Terminal Station is one of the larger ones, known for clothing, accessories and home decor shops. Separately, a wholesale flower market is on the third floor of the Gyeongbu Line terminal building, and some visitors explore both. The arcade is big, so use the on-site maps.

Many arcade shops sell unbranded fashion and trendy items at relatively low prices. Prices and quality differ from shop to shop, though, so comparing several places is a good idea. Ask the seller or check the price tag for the exact price, since some shops do not display them.

Most arcades run from morning until evening, but each shop sets its own opening and closing times. Some arcades also have days when the whole arcade closes. If you plan to go late, check the arcade's official information first. Some shops also start packing up early near closing time.

Most arcade shops accept cards, but some small ones prefer cash or offer a small discount for paying in cash. Ask before you pay whether card payment is possible. Carrying a little cash makes things smoother. You can ask for a receipt even when paying cash.

It depends on the shop. Some have no fitting room, and others restrict trying on tops or light-colored items because makeup can stain them. Ask the staff first, and if trying on is not allowed, compare measurements instead. Some shops hand you a face cover to protect garments.

Many arcade shops allow exchanges but not refunds, or only within a short period. Rules differ from shop to shop, so ask before buying. Getting a receipt and noting the shop's location number makes an exchange easier if you need one.

Yes. Because they are indoors, you can shop comfortably on rainy, hot or cold days. They connect directly to subway stations, so getting around is easy too. Passages can get crowded on weekends and during evening rush hour, so plan accordingly.

Arcade passages are long and look alike, so getting lost is easy. Watch the exit numbers, section signs and maps posted along the way. If you want to return to a shop, take a photo of its unit number or the nearest exit number.

Public restrooms are usually available in the arcade or the connected subway station. Their locations are marked on maps and signs. Some arcades are long, so a restroom may be a fair walk away; check where the nearest one is in advance.

It varies, but many shops use fixed prices, so big discounts are unlikely. Politely asking for a small discount when buying several items is fine. If the seller says no, accepting it graciously is the polite thing to do. Asking the price does not oblige you to buy.

Seoul's underground arcades are said to have been developed in earnest from around the 1970s in downtown underground spaces. Some are also designated to serve as emergency shelters. For detailed history, see official sources such as the Seoul city government.

The Euljiro arcade is known as a long underground passage running from the City Hall area toward Dongdaemun, with a mix of shop types rather than mainly clothing. It is more useful as a sheltered walking route across downtown on rainy days. Check on-site signs for open sections.

The underground shopping center at Yeongdeungpo Station is an everyday arcade known mainly for clothing and mobile phone shops. Department stores and malls nearby make it easy to combine with other shopping. Check on-site information for sections and opening hours, and keep an eye on your belongings in the busy station area.

The Gangnam Station arcade is known for its many young casual and fashion clothing shops, which makes it popular with young people. Many browse on their way to meet friends around Gangnam Station. Passages get very crowded during commuting hours, so other times are better for relaxed browsing.

Photographing the passage is generally fine, but ask before photographing a shop's products or the shopkeepers. Some sellers dislike photos because they worry about designs being copied. The passages are narrow, so take care not to block foot traffic while shooting.

Yes. There are many shops selling earrings, headbands, socks, bags and phone cases, perfect for picking up small gifts. Many items are inexpensive, but materials and finishing vary by shop. If you have a metal allergy, check what the jewelry is made of.

Yes. Unbranded fashion shops in the arcades tend to stock trending designs quickly, so displays change a lot each season. Many shoppers decide on the spot because a piece may be gone next time. Just watch out for impulse buys, especially if returns are not accepted.

Many of Seoul's underground arcades are public facilities managed by a Seoul city agency, while some are run privately. That is why you will see public maps and emergency facilities inside. If you have a problem, contact the arcade management office or on-site information point.