Celebrity owned cafes and restaurants in Seoul you can actually visit

Seoul is not just the heart of the global Hallyu wave; it is a sprawling metropolis where the lines between fandom and fine dining blur. For international travelers and K-Culture enthusiasts, visiting a venue owned by a favorite idol or actor offers a tangible connection to the stars. However, the landscape of celebrity businesses is notoriously volatile. As we step into 2026, many iconic spots have changed hands or closed, while new, sophisticated venues have emerged.

Navigating this scene requires more than just a map; it requires insider knowledge on current ownership, updated operating hours, and the unwritten rules of fandom etiquette. Whether you are hunting for the perfect hand-drip coffee served in a space curated by a Super Junior member or craving a gourmet burger crafted by a ballad singer, this guide covers the verified, operational celebrity hotspots you can actually visit this year.

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The Evolution of Celebrity Business in 2026

Gone are the days when a celebrity name alone could sustain a business. In 2026, the market demands quality. The survival rate for independent cafes in Seoul is approximately 60% over three years, but celebrity venues that prioritize interior design (known locally as "instagrammability") and menu quality see survival rates closer to 85%.

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The trend has shifted from simple merchandise-filled cafes to high-end lifestyle spaces. We are seeing a move towards "incognito ownership," where the celebrity's involvement is subtle, focusing on the brand identity rather than plastering their face on every wall. This shift appeals to the general public, not just die-hard fans, ensuring the business's longevity.

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1. The Super Junior Legacy: Cafes That Endure

Super Junior members have established themselves as the moguls of the cafe industry. Their venues have stood the test of time, becoming landmarks in their respective neighborhoods.

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Haru & One Day (Donghae)

Located in the bustling district of Seongsu-dong, often called the "Brooklyn of Seoul," Haru & One Day remains a staple. The cafe is known for its high ceilings, minimalist industrial aesthetic, and spacious seating—a rarity in Seoul.

As of early 2026, the average price for an Iced Americano here is ₩5,500, while their signature cakes range from 7,500 to ₩9,000. The venue is approximately 50 meters from the subway exit, making it incredibly accessible. Unlike many cramped cafes, it offers reliable Wi-Fi and power outlets, making it a popular spot for digital nomads as well as fans.

Mouse Rabbit (Yesung)

While Haru & One Day offers industrial chic, Mouse Rabbit in Gwangjin-gu offers a cozy, subterranean hideaway vibe. Operated by Yesung and his brother, this cafe is famous for its "rabbit hole" basement seating.

The menu features a variety of seasonal drinks. Their "Summer Latte" (approx. ₩7,000) remains a bestseller. The cafe is located near Konkuk University, ensuring a youthful, vibrant crowd. It is about a 10-minute walk (600 meters) from Konkuk University Station, situated in a quieter residential alley.

2. EXO Kai's Family Legacy: Kamong

Kamong is arguably one of the most famous idol-family-owned cafes in Seoul. Run by Kai's sister, the name is a combination of "Kai" and "Monggu" (his dog). Located near Gangnam Station, it serves as a sanctuary amidst the chaos of Seoul's busiest district.

The cafe underwent a renovation in late 2024, adopting a stark, modern black-and-white theme. The star attraction is the waffle menu. A standard waffle set with ice cream costs approximately ₩16,000. While slightly pricier than average, the portion size justifies the cost. The cafe is roughly a 300-meter walk uphill from the main road, offering a quieter atmosphere than the main Gangnam strip.

3. The Actor's Palate: Dining with Stars

Actors tend to invest in full-service restaurants rather than cafes. These spots often require reservations, especially on weekends.

401 Restaurant (Haha & Kim Jong Kook)

Owned by running Man stars Haha and Kim Jong Kook, this BBQ joint is a rite of passage for variety show fans. They have multiple branches, but the Hongdae location remains the most energetic.

The restaurant specializes in Jeju black pork. A standard serving (150g-180g) of pork belly costs around ₩19,000 in 2026. This is competitive for the Hongdae area, where premium BBQ often exceeds ₩22,000 per serving.

Hongcheol Chaekpang (Noh Hong-chul)

Noh Hong-chul, known for his eccentric personality, brings that exact energy to his bakery-cafe, Hongcheol Chaekpang. Located in Huam-dong near Seoul Station, this venue is a hybrid of a bakery and a bookstore.

The interior features a giant golden face of the owner—you literally cannot miss it. The bread is baked fresh daily, with items selling out by 3:00 PM. Access involves a walk up a steep hill (approx. 15 minutes from the subway), or a quick taxi ride costing about ₩4,800 from Seoul Station.

4. The Hip-Hop & Indie Scene: Burgers and Beats

The Korean Hip-Hop scene has heavily invested in the "American Casual" dining sector.

Teisty Burger (Tei)

Ballad singer Tei, known for his voracious appetite and culinary skills, runs Teisty Burger in the Hongdae area. Unlike many celebrity spots that rely on fame, this burger joint has earned a 4.5/5 rating on local map apps purely for taste.

The "Egg-mani Burger" (Egg-heavy burger) is the signature dish, featuring a fluffy brioche bun and scrambled eggs. Prices range from ₩8,500 to ₩12,000 for a burger. It is a small shop, seating only about 20 people, so visiting during off-peak hours (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) is advisable.

The Famous Burger (Loco)

Rapper Loco's joint, The Famous Burger (TFB), has locations in Hongdae and Sinsa. It captures the AOMG hip-hop vibe perfectly. On Friday and Saturday nights, the Sinsa branch often features DJ sets.

A set meal including fries and a drink costs approximately ₩16,000. The venue is open until 10:00 PM on weekends, making it a great pre-clubbing dinner spot.

5. Strategic Itinerary: The Ultimate "Star Tour"

Visiting these locations requires geographical strategy, as Seoul is massive. Commuting from Hongdae (West) to Seongsu (East) can take 50 minutes by subway.

Here is an optimized one-day route that minimizes travel time and maximizes experience.

6. Budgeting for Your Visit

Seoul in 2026 is becoming increasingly expensive, and celebrity premiums do exist. While a standard cafe latte in Seoul averages ₩4,500, celebrity cafes average ₩6,000.

7. Insider Tips and Etiquette

The "Cup Sleeve" Events

Even if the cafe is owned by a specific celebrity, they often host "Cup Sleeve Events" for other idols' birthdays. This is a business decision. Do not be surprised if you walk into Super Junior Yesung's cafe and see decorations for a SEVENTEEN member's birthday. It is part of the ecosystem.

Gifts and Letters

In the past, fans would leave gifts at the counter for the celebrity. In 2026, most cafes have a strict "No Gift" policy due to logistics and safety concerns. Letters are usually accepted, but check with the staff first.

Photography

Photography is generally encouraged—these spaces are designed for it. However, avoid taking photos of the staff. Many staff members are family members of the celebrity and value their privacy.

8. Why These Spots Matter in 2026

The longevity of places like Haru & One Day and Kamong proves that the K-Wave is not a passing fad but a sustainable cultural economy. By 2026, these venues have transitioned from "fan service" locations to legitimate culinary competitors in Seoul's cutthroat food and beverage market.

When you visit, you are not just buying a coffee; you are participating in the physical manifestation of the Hallyu culture. Whether you are an "ARMY," "ELF," or just a lover of good design and burgers, these spots offer a unique lens through which to view Seoul.