Published Date : Feb 27, 2025 / Edited Date : Feb 27, 2025
There's something magical about gathering around a campfire, even in the heart of a bustling city like Seoul. The sound of the crackling flames and the low light that it emits is comforting, warm, and cozy. In Korea, there's even a term for this simple yet mesmerizing experience – "불멍 (bulmeong)”, which means spacing out while watching fire. At first glance, the city of Seoul might not seem like the best place to go on a hunt for a campfire, but as I discovered, there are indeed places to get that camp-like feel even in the most urban of surroundings. If you're looking to unwind and experience the calming charm of bulmeong, here are four urban spots that let you do just that.
01. SHINLEEDOGACafé
Tucked away in the vibrant streets of Hongdae, a district better known for live music, busking, and nightlife, SHINLEEDOGA is an unexpected find, set in a traditional Hanok house. The transition from the modern, youthful, and artistic neighborhood through the traditional wooden doors feels like stepping into a serene retreat. The wooden architecture and traditional Hanok roof views contrast beautifully with the modern design of the connected industrial space.
Whether sitting on the floor of the Hanok or at a table and chairs on the second floor of the industrial space, every seat offers a view of the courtyard, where a unique scene unfolds. Look closely, and you’ll see a crackling fire. Though it may be chilly outside, the best seat in the house is undoubtedly the ledge that extends from the Hanok and surrounds the in-ground fire. Order a warm tea or coffee inside and then take a seat breathe in the crisp cool air as winter subsides and spring arrives.
Tip: Dress warmly if you want to grab the best seats near the fire in the courtyard.
20-12 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul Every day 11:00-22:00 Subway Line 2, Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 9 (650m on foot, 10-minute walk)
02. Café Relax
You’ll feel as if you’ve truly escaped the city’s relentless energy the moment you arrive at Café Relax, tucked away just beyond the last stop on the light green Bukhansan Ui Line. Nestled within the dense forest at the base of Bukhansan Mountain, the café is more than just a retreat, it’s an invitation to slow down as the name aptly suggests. Floor-to-ceiling windows blur the line between indoors and out, allowing the towering trees and shifting light to become part of the space itself.
Whether seated inside, enveloped by warm wooden interiors and dappled sunlight, or outside, where the crisp air carries the scent of the forest, every corner of the café invites a moment of stillness. My favorite cafes are the ones that incorporate nature, and this one does that at every turn. But the true heart of the experience is the crackling fire outside, encircled by rustic seating and seasonal decorations. Everyone stops by either to listen to the crack of the fire or to take photos. It’s a hub of activity as seemingly everyone wants to feel that outdoorsy spirit. The warmth of the flames lingers, and the weekend feels just a little bit longer here.
Tip: Head up earlier in the day to enjoy the nearby hiking trails before ending the day here for teas with a view.
45 Sinheung-ro 20-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Mon-Sun 10:00-23:00 Subway Line 6, Noksapyeong Station, Exit 2 (500m on foot, 8-minute walk)
03. Bukhansan Dulle Camp
Nestled on the west side of Bukhansan Mountain, just beyond the picturesque Eunpyeong Hanok Village, Bukhansan Dulle Camp offers an escape into a part of Seoul that is overlooked by most locals and tourists alike. Featuring an interesting concept that allows visitors to book a three-hour slot to have a glamping-style grill out experience without the actual camping, it’s great fun.
The spacious tents are warm and clean, and everything you need, from barbecue ingredients to marshmallows for s'mores is readily available which means you can turn up with friends or family without preparing anything beforehand except warm clothes. Sit around the campfire, grill meat, and laugh with friends for the perfect balance of adventure and comfort.
Tip: Book in advance, especially on weekends, as spots fill up quickly.
608-2 Yeonseo-ro, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul Fri-Sun 12:00-21:00 Subway Line 3, Gupabal Station, Exit 1 (Bus 7723 to Jingwan Village, 15-minute ride)
04. Seoul Seocho Glamping Cheonggyesan-jang
Since we’re on the topic, if you’re looking for the full glamping experience without leaving the city, Seoul Seocho Glamping Cheonggyesan-jang is the place to be. Here, spacious tents blend rustic charm with modern comfort, each styled in a cozy Bohemian aesthetic and outfitted with plush beds, warm lighting, and even a mirror, making it feel more like a boutique outdoor retreat than a traditional campsite.
As the fire crackles and flickers, settle into a cushioned chair and let yourself be mesmerized by the dancing flames. The crisp night air mingles with the comforting warmth of the fire, creating a balance that is both invigorating and deeply relaxing. Winter camping might not sound like the most inviting idea at first, but once the fire is roaring and the scent of burning wood lingers in the cool air, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t tried it sooner. There's something undeniably cathartic about breathing in the stillness of nature, feeling the contrast of warmth and cold, and letting the quiet embrace you.
Tip: Pack a blanket for extra comfort while enjoying your evening by the fire.
240 Yangjae-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul Every day 14:00-22:00 Subway Line 3, Yangjae Station, Exit 7 (Bus 4432 to Cheonggyesan Hiking Entrance, 12-minute ride)
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보호자를 동반하지 않을 시 이용이 불가능 합니다.※ 보행약자 1명당 보호자 최소 1인 이상 동반 ※ 전동보장구(전동휠체어, 전동스쿠터 등) 사용자의 경우 보호자 1인당 보행약자 최대 4인까지 동반 가능
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예약확인을 위해 도보관광 사무국(02-6925-0777)에서 확인 연락이 진행됩니다.(최소 5일~한달 전)3회 이상 전화통화가 이뤄지지 않을 시 예약이 취소될 수 있습니다.
해설 진행 시 발생하는 안전사고에 대해서 도보관광 사무국과 서울문화관광해설사는 책임을 지지 않습니다.
미세먼지 비상저감조치 발령 및 기타 기상악화(폭염, 태풍, 폭우 등)로 인해 도보관광 운영이 어려운 경우 모든 예약은 일괄 취소됩니다. (관광일 전날 기준)
Reservations must be made at least three days prior to the tour date.
Additional reservations, one or two days before the tour starts, are only allowed for the tour that is already fixed.
In the case of group tour, more than 10people, please contact us by e-mail.
Reservations for the following month are available from the 15th of the current month.
Please refrain from participating in any tour programs should you be experiencing any symptoms, including fever, coughing, congestion, muscle pain, stuffy nose, and/or sore throat.
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※ Please always check the weather warning on the day of the reservation on the site below.
(https://www.accuweather.com/en/kr/seoul/226081/weather-forecast/226081)
The Seoul Guided Walking Tour administration office and tour guide affiliates are not responsible for any accidents that happen to occur during the tour program.
Reservation shall be made at least 1 week before the tour day.
The course is for tourists with mobility problems (Senior, people with disability, stroller user).
You may not use the course without an assistant (or companion) ※ At least one assistant shall accompany a tourist with mobility problem ※ In case of electric assisting device users (electric wheelchair, electric scooter users), one assistant may accompany up to 4 tourists with mobility problem
Reservation may be canceled when a guide is unavailable on the desired date and course.
Seoul Guided Walking Tour Office (02-6925-0777) will contact you to confirm reservation. (At least 5 days~1 month before tour day) Reservation may be canceled when Seoul Guided Walking Tour Office cannot reach you for more than 3 times.
Seoul Guided Walking Tour Office and Seoul culture and tourism guide are not liable for the safety accidents during the Seoul Guided Walking Tour.
All reservations will be canceled in the event of a weather warning being issued. (e.g. heatwave, typhoon, heavy rain, fine dust, etc.) (Cancellation will be processed immediately upon implementation)
※ Please always check the weather warning on the day of the reservation on the site below.
(https://www.accuweather.com/en/kr/seoul/226081/weather-forecast/226081)