SMTOWN COEX Artium Seoul
A K-pop fan's paradise within the vast COEX Mall, featuring SM Entertainment merchandise, exhibitions, and the iconic Starfield Library.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
SMTOWN COEX Artium Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A K-pop fan's paradise within the vast COEX Mall, featuring SM Entertainment merchandise, exhibitions, and the iconic Starfield Library.
"A must-visit for K-pop fans, offering a deep dive into SM Entertainment's world and the stunning Starfield Library."
🎯 K-Pop Immersion
Visit HYBE Insight Museum and SM Town at COEX for a memorable K-pop experience.
📸 Library Photo Ops
The Starfield Library is free to enter and offers stunning photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SMTOWN &STORE
COEX Artium
Immerse yourself in K-pop merchandise, photo booths, and a vibrant cafe dedicated to your favorite SM artists.
Starfield Library
COEX Mall (B1)
A breathtaking architectural marvel with towering bookshelves, perfect for photos and a moment of quiet contemplation.
COEX Aquarium
COEX Mall
Explore diverse marine life, from sharks to colorful fish, in this expansive and engaging aquarium.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
K-Pop Fan Pilgrimage
Beyond the Artium
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 K-Pop Immersion
Visit HYBE Insight Museum and SM Town at COEX for a memorable K-pop experience.
📸 Library Photo Ops
The Starfield Library is free to enter and offers stunning photo opportunities. +1
🚇 Easy Access
Direct underground access from Samseong Station (Line 2) or a short walk from Bongeunsa Station (Line 9).
🛍️ Merch Galore
Find K-pop CDs, photo booths, and unique merchandise at the SMTOWN &STORE.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 K-Pop Immersion
Visit HYBE Insight Museum and SM Town at COEX for a memorable K-pop experience.
📸 Library Photo Ops
The Starfield Library is free to enter and offers stunning photo opportunities. +1
🚇 Easy Access
Direct underground access from Samseong Station (Line 2) or a short walk from Bongeunsa Station (Line 9).
🛍️ Merch Galore
Find K-pop CDs, photo booths, and unique merchandise at the SMTOWN &STORE.
🍽️ Halal Dining
Kervan Turkish restaurant in COEX Mall offers delicious halal options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise SMTOWN COEX Artium for its vibrant K-pop atmosphere and extensive merchandise, making it a must-visit for fans. The adjacent Starfield Library is a highlight for its stunning architecture and free entry. While some find the Artium's offerings less extensive than expected compared to newer venues, it remains a significant cultural spot within the massive COEX Mall, which itself offers diverse dining and entertainment.
"There are steps near the movie theater where you can sit, relax and watch some movie trailers or interesting advertisements."
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"I came here to see the Blue Man performance. This building had a ticket office and the entrance to the auditorium on the 5th floor. There was a few place to sit and wait until the start of the performance except for the cafe in front of the auditorium. The Blue Man performance was very fresh and fun."
Lucas
"Went to watch a musical in COEX Atrium. Lee Joon’s musical!!! Not bad, location not hard to find either. Didn’t manage to walk around COEX much. But was nice"
hui qi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
SMTOWN COEX Artium is conveniently located within COEX Mall. You can reach it via subway: take Line 2 to Samseong Station for direct underground access, or Line 9 to Bongeunsa Station (Exit 7) and walk across the street.
Yes, it's very accessible. Both Samseong Station and Bongeunsa Station are well-connected and offer easy access to the mall and the Artium.
The closest subway stations are Samseong Station on Line 2 and Bongeunsa Station on Line 9.
While the subway is the most recommended and direct method, several bus routes also serve the COEX Mall area. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop near Samseong Station.
Yes, COEX Mall has extensive underground parking facilities. However, using public transport is often more convenient due to potential traffic and parking fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the SMTOWN &STORE itself is generally free, allowing you to browse merchandise and enjoy the atmosphere. However, specific exhibitions, performances, or the museum within the Artium may require separate tickets.
Opening hours can vary depending on the specific area within the Artium (e.g., the store, exhibitions, or performance halls). It's best to check the official SMTOWN COEX Artium website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Starfield Library located in COEX Mall is completely free to enter and explore. +1
Generally, there are no age restrictions for visiting the public areas of SMTOWN COEX Artium. However, specific events or performances might have age recommendations or restrictions.
Yes, tickets for musicals and other performances held at the COEX Artium can typically be purchased online through ticketing websites or at the venue's ticket office.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You can find a wide range of official merchandise from SM Entertainment artists, including albums, apparel, accessories, photo cards, and more.
While the Artium itself might have a cafe, the adjacent COEX Mall boasts a vast array of dining options, from fast food to fine dining, including the Kervan Turkish restaurant which is noted as a halal option.
The SMTOWN &STORE within the Artium is a prime location for K-pop albums and artist-specific merchandise.
COEX Mall offers a huge variety of restaurants. For halal options, Kervan (Turkish) is recommended. Otherwise, you'll find everything from Korean cuisine to international fast food.
Yes, COEX Mall is a massive shopping complex with numerous shops, including fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and specialty stores like the cute stationery shop mentioned in one TikTok.
📸 📸 Photography & Experiences
The SMTOWN &STORE itself offers many visually appealing areas for photos, especially with artist displays. The Starfield Library is also an iconic spot for photography.
Photography is generally allowed in public areas like the SMTOWN &STORE, but be mindful of any restrictions for specific exhibitions or performances.
The Artium has hosted various performances, including musicals and special shows like the Blue Man performance. Check schedules for current offerings.
Many visitors find the COEX Aquarium to be a worthwhile experience, featuring a wide variety of marine life and engaging exhibits. +1
The Artium often features interactive elements, such as photo booths and displays where fans can engage with their favorite artists' content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
COEX Mall also features numerous dining options suitable for families, ensuring you can find something for even the pickiest eaters. The mall's vastness means there's plenty of space to explore, and its direct subway access makes getting there and back with kids straightforward.
💸 Budget Travelers
COEX Mall also provides affordable dining options, and utilizing Seoul's efficient subway system to reach the Artium is very cost-effective.
🎤 K-Pop Enthusiasts
+1It's worth noting that while the Artium is a central K-pop hub, other entertainment companies also have presence in the vicinity, such as HYBE Insight Museum and new buildings for SM Entertainment. Planning a K-pop themed day that includes these locations can create a comprehensive fan experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The K-Pop Fan Experience at SMTOWN COEX Artium
Beyond the retail aspect, the Artium has historically hosted various exhibitions and events, providing deeper insights into the artists' careers and creative processes. While some social media content suggests the newer Kwangya Seoul might be smaller, the Artium remains a significant hub for K-pop culture in Seoul. It's advisable to check for any ongoing exhibitions or events during your visit to maximize the experience.
+1Many K-pop fans consider visiting SMTOWN COEX Artium a core part of their Seoul itinerary. The ability to purchase unique merchandise and immerse oneself in the fandom culture makes it a highly recommended destination for those passionate about K-pop.
+1Exploring COEX Mall: More Than Just SMTOWN
For families or anyone interested in marine life, the COEX Aquarium is a major draw. It houses a diverse collection of aquatic species, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
COEX Mall is a destination in itself, offering endless shopping opportunities, entertainment venues, and unique architectural features. It’s a place where you can easily spend an entire day exploring, from K-pop fandom to underwater worlds and literary escapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit