๐ธ Midst of Flow — A Hidden Cafe Gem Near Sookmyung University Station, Seoul
By Real Korean Foodie
Hello, this is a Seoul local blogger who loves coffee!
Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a charming cafe that I discovered near Sookmyung University Station — Midst of Flow.
The area between Sookmyung University Station and Huam-dong is filled with unique and stylish cafes, but Midst of Flow stands out with its nostalgic atmosphere and beautiful space. From the outside, you might wonder if it’s a cafe or a restaurant, but rest assured, this is a cafe — and a very special one.
๐ Midst of Flow: Basic Information
- Address: 36 Duteopbawi-ro 1-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Google map link)
- Phone: +82 507-1343-1695
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily (closes at 8:00 PM on Wednesdays). Closed on the first Monday of each month.
๐ Cozy Interiors — A Renovated Japanese Colonial-Era House
Upon entering, you’ll immediately notice a floor plan displayed on the wall — unusual for a cafe. That’s because Midst of Flow was originally a Japanese colonial-era house that has been thoughtfully renovated while preserving its original structure.
Each room has been transformed into intimate, cozy spaces with different vibes. Some rooms are perfect for study groups or casual meetings, while others are ideal for enjoying a quiet coffee alone.
The cafe also features a small music listening room where you can enjoy handpicked retro tracks. Vintage typewriters, film cameras, and nostalgic decor pieces are scattered throughout, creating a warm, timeless atmosphere. Amazingly, all of the renovations and interior work were personally completed by the owner — a true reflection of their taste and craftsmanship.
๐ฟ Garden Terrace — A Secret Outdoor Oasis
One of the highlights of Midst of Flow is the charming garden terrace. Originally the backyard of the old house, this area has been transformed into an outdoor cafe space. On sunny days, enjoying coffee here feels like escaping into a peaceful countryside retreat, right in the middle of Seoul.
When I visited with friends, we spent a wonderful afternoon sipping coffee under the soft sunlight, surrounded by the cozy garden setting. If you are looking for a quiet spot to relax away from the city’s bustle, the terrace at Midst of Flow is the perfect choice.
โ Coffee and Drinks — Simple Yet Impressive
Midst of Flow offers a selection of quality drinks, from classic Americanos to flavorful lattes and fresh fruit beverages. I tried their Americano, which was well-balanced and smooth. My friends highly recommended the strawberry latte, praised for its rich and fresh flavor. I definitely plan to try it on my next visit!
Every detail — from the coffee cups to the drink holders — reflects the owner's care for the overall guest experience, adding a thoughtful touch to every cup served.
๐ง Final Thoughts
Midst of Flow is more than just a cafe. It’s a place where Korea’s old architectural charm meets contemporary comfort, offering both a cozy indoor atmosphere and a beautiful garden retreat. If you're traveling in Seoul and looking for a unique cafe experience near Sookmyung University Station or Huam-dong, this is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss.
Enjoy great coffee, a peaceful garden, and a nostalgic walk through time — all in one place. ๐ธ