Starbucks Seoul Wave Art Center — Restaurant in Seoul

My Honest Take: Starbucks Seoul Wave Art Center (4/5 Stars) Stepping into the Starbucks at the Seoul Wave Art Center was an experience I won't soon forget. It's not just a coffee shop; it's a destination, and honestly, it felt like a little slice of tranquility floating on the bustling Han River.

The first thing that hits you is the view. Oh, the view! With its huge, floor-to-ceiling windows, you get these incredible panoramic vistas of the Han River. I went in the late afternoon, and watching the city skyline slowly light up as the sun dipped below the horizon was truly breathtaking. It felt like I was on a serene river cruise, even though I was just sipping my latte. It's definitely a place that invites you to slow down, breathe, and simply take it all in. I found myself just gazing out, lost in thought, and it was a really refreshing change from the usual rush of city life.

The concept of a floating Starbucks is just so uniquely Seoul, and it adds a certain charm to the whole experience. There's a subtle, almost imperceptible sway, which just enhanced the feeling of being on the water. Inside, it's pretty much a standard Starbucks in terms of menu and overall vibe, but the setting elevates it far beyond your typical coffee stop.

Now, for why it's not a perfect 5/5. This place is popular. And when I say popular, I mean finding a good seat can be a real challenge, especially during peak hours or on weekends. I had to hover for a bit before snagging a spot by the window, and even then, it felt a little crowded. The sheer number of people also means the service can be a touch slower than other Starbucks, but honestly, with that view, I didn't mind the wait too much.

Getting there also requires a bit of a walk from the nearest subway station, which might be a consideration for some, but the journey along the river bank to get to the Wave Art Center itself is quite pleasant.

Overall, if you're looking for a Starbucks experience that's more than just a quick coffee, if you want a moment of peace with an incredible backdrop, or if you're simply a fan of unique architecture and stunning views, then the Starbucks Seoul Wave Art Center is an absolute must-visit. Despite the crowds, the emotional impact of those river views made it an incredibly memorable and worthwhile stop on my...

One of the most unforgettable Starbucks visits of my life!

Me and my husband visited this floating Starbucks on the Han River during Lunar New Year 2025 (January 28), right in the middle of Seoul’s freezing winter. Coming from a tropical country, we were totally shocked for the -14°C weather with biting wind near the Han river. Even with five layers on, the wind on the bridge hit us hard—it cut straight through to our skin 🥶

At one point, I unzipped my jacket to take some photos and took off my gloves to use my phone. Just within seconds, my hands went completely numb—I literally couldn’t feel anything. But the view was absolutely worth it. The sky was crystal clear, and the sunset had just started casting a golden glow over the river. We couldn’t resist capturing the moment, no matter how cold it was.

Stepping inside this Starbucks felt like being reborn—the warmth was heavenly. The space is modern and spacious, with huge panoramic windows overlooking the Han River. There are charging ports at the tables (very convenient for tourists), and the drinks were way better than we expected!

We ordered a Harry Potter-themed caramel butter latte and a blended cookie drink. Both were rich, fragrant, and just the right level of sweetness, exactly as we asked.

As the evening went on, it did start to get colder inside since the heating couldn’t fully keep up, so we left around 7 PM to grab dinner before the cold set in again.

If you're visiting Seoul in winter, this Starbucks is a must-visit spot for the spectacular Han river view. Will definitely come back on our next trip to Seoul, hopefully in...

I visited the Starbucks at Seoul Wave Art Center last Christmas, and it was honestly one of the most memorable café stops of my trip. The weather was chilly, but the moment I stepped inside this floating café on the Han River, it felt warm, festive, and incredibly cozy.

The views were magical—floor-to-ceiling windows gave a full panoramic look over the river, with the winter sky casting soft reflections on the water. I had a matcha latte and just sat by the window upstairs, watching the world drift by. The café was lightly decorated for the holidays, and the peaceful atmosphere, combined with the soft sway of the floating structure, made it feel like a little winter hideaway.

It was busy, of course—holiday season and all—but I still managed to find a great spot. The crowd was mostly relaxed couples and small groups, enjoying the view and chatting quietly. Everything about the place felt calm, even festive in a low-key way.

If you’re in Seoul during the holidays, I’d absolutely recommend dropping by. It’s not just a great café—it’s a truly special experience, especially...