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Sinchon is one of the symbolic areas in South Korea associated with the democratization movement and student activism. Some of the shops were frequented by the students who led the democratization movement during that time. On Oraegage Youth & Passion Road, you can explore the history of student movement led by the passionate youth, along with oraegages that have been representing the Sinchon area for over 50 years.

Favorite meet-up spot in Sinchon

Hongik Books

Hongik Books is a bookshop that embraces the “hongik spirit” inspired by the idea of Hongik Ingan, meaning benefitting mankind).

Their business philosophy is grounded in the hongik spirit, which emphasizes benefiting employees, business partners, family, and customers to this day. Right in the heart of Sinchon, just across the street, it instantly becomes a small concert hall when someone starts playing the piano also set up by Hongik Books.

• ○Address: 2, Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

• ○Business hours: 10:00 - 21:30

A Restaurant that Once was a Sanctuary for Students During Democratic Movements,

Phaedra

Named after a movie title meaning “I can finally die in peace”, Phaedra shares the history of student democratization movements in Sinchon. The “Tear Gas Hangover Ramen” at Phaedra is named in tribute to the students of that time who were involved in student movement, as their ramen made with tons of Cheongyang chili peppers, clams, and bean sprouts can be as painful as tear gas, bringing tears to the eyes. Their best combo is the spiciest ramen (level 2) and gyeranmari (rolled omelet).

You’ll find photos of the democratization movement displayed inside the shop. The former owner of Phaedra, who was actively involved in supporting the student movement, was known for keeping the shop open until late at night to provide a safe haven for those fleeing and for sending bail money to students in prison. The current owner continues to uphold the spirit and legacy of Phaedra, following in the footsteps of the previous owner who lived a passionate life as a supporter and comrade of the democratization movement.

• ○Address: 32, Yonsei-ro 5-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

• ○Operating Hours: Daily 11:00-21:00 (Break time: 15:00-17:00)

Historic Site No. 276 of Korea

Yonsei University Underwood Hall

Strolling through in Sinchon and passing by Hongik Books and Phaedra, you'll come across another place that is deeply intertwined with the history of student activism. Yonsei University is also the site where fierce student movements took place during which Lee Han-yeol, a symbol of the 1980s democratization movement in South Korea, was fatally struck by tear gas.

As you enter the main gate of Yonsei University into the picturesque campus, you will come across the Underwood Hall. Completed in 1924 and approaching its centenary, this stone building was constructed in honor of Dr. H. G. Underwood, the founder of Yeonhui College, the predecessor of Yonsei University. 
Covered in ivy, the building exudes a timeless charm, also making it a popular filming location. While the hall may not be open to the public, you can take a stroll around to appreciate the beauty of magnificent architecture.

• ○Address: 50, Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

Cultural and Communication Refuge for the Youth

Dok-dabang

Dok-dabang, which first started as a music café, used to be a hangout spot for students and eventually became an important hub for student protestors for democratization movement and a go-to place for Korean intellectuals. 
When mobile phones were still a wonder, people would leave notes at Dok-dabang to check on each other and set up time to meet. To preserve this tradition, the café created a small place outside where you can put Post-It notes for fun.

Dok-dabang closed down in 2005 due to financial difficulties but reopened in 2013 under the management of the owner's grandson. It has transformed into a rooftop café on the 8th floor of Doksuri Building. There are private rooms for group customers, and the café is often crowded with students hanging out or studying. Outdoor seats in the terrace offer a panoramic view of the Sinchon area.

• ○Address: 36, Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (Doksuri Building, 8F)

• ○Operating hours 11:00 - 23:30 (last order 23:00)

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