Starfield COEX Mall
Starfield COEX Mall
4
About
If you're in the mood for shopping, eating, and entertainment, head to Starfield COEX Mall in Seoul's Gangnam district. As the largest underground shopping mall in Asia, it has over 300 shops and restaurants spread across four floors. Catch a movie at the cinema, marvel at over 40,000 sea creatures at the aquarium, or snap a photo in front of the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves at the iconic Starfield library. Getting there is easy, as the mall is connected to two subway stations. Otherwise, you can join a guided tour of Gangnam to explore more sights including the nearby Bongeunsa Temple. – Tripadvisor
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Samseongdong / COEX
A large business hub, Samseongdong is anchored by Korea’s World Trade Center, where many important business exhibitions and meetings are held. The enormous COEX mall sprawls underground, providing a myriad of things to do and see, including a large aquarium and movie theater. For a bit of peace and zen, head over to the ornate Bongeunsa Temple which is one of Korea’s most important places of worship. Or take a stroll nearby through the tranquil royal burial grounds of Seonjeongneung, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How to get there
- Bongeunsa • 5 min walk
- Samseong Jungang • 5 min walk
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See what travellers are saying
- 197gabesSingapore, Singapore181 contributionsProbably the nicest underground mall in SeoulOne of the nicest and biggest underground mall that you can find around Seoul. This one is connected to a convention center, 3 hotels, a casino, 2 subway lines, an aquarium, a library, a multi hall cineplex and the airport limo bus station, so finding your way around this huge complex is a challenge. If not for the various directional signs strategically placed at junctions, one may never find their way out of the maze of shops and passage ways. Most of the retail shops are located at the basement level. There is a decent selection of brands for shopping but there are malls in Seoul that offers better range, prices and choices. The thing that seems missing here is a supermarket but there are plenty of convenience shops scattered around as alternative. There are plenty of food outlets to choose from too, these ranging from fast food to pub to restaurant. Can get very crowded during lunch time, especially on days where there are events at the center. Guessing you would probably need at least a whole day to properly cover the place. So do come with a good pair of walking shoes and have fun exploring the place.Visited October 2023Travelled soloWritten 19 October 2023
- rlahuddinJakarta, Indonesia370 contributionswithout the library, this place will looks like standard shopping mal in many countriesthis is a mall where coex library is located. it is a good mal with many international brands but without the library, it feels like typical mal in any other country. easy to access by bus or metro, this is a good place to visit. there is giant digital screen outside this mal where you probably recognize for the 3D effects like T Rex jump of from the screen..Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 8 November 2023
- Sfd-n-chZ638 contributionsCafe Mama near CoexI absolutely love the lasagna dish, which comes with cread and ricotta and honey. It is by far my favorite lasagna dish! The caprese salad was a bit pricey, but delicious. The panini was also delicious and you can definitely taste the cheese!Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 16 December 2023
- Deanosaur89Edmonton, Canada9,210 contributionsWent for the LibraryWe went here for the Library area mainly but found ourselves spending more time than expected. We had a good breakfast at Eggslut and spent some time walking around the mall looking at stores and other restaurants. There is a Gangnam style statue at the east side of the mall if you want a fun picture opportunity. The closest metro is Bongeunsa and we spent a couple of hours in the area.Visited December 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 December 2023
- Trinh Hồ (Joy)Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam114 contributionsBig shopping mall with many brandNice and big mall with many international and local brand. I was here with my friends whole day for shopping and tried foods. We had a nice shopping day at duty free tax. I also visited the library, nice designVisited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 21 December 2023
- San JulesMalaysia53 contributionsAmazing library in a Mall!You can find this huge library inside the COEX Mall. It's a place where you can take nice pictures, has space to rest and entertain yourself with books! Very interesting design inspired by Library of Alexandria. The library has a lot of books & magazines arranged so tall up to the roof.Visited March 2023Travelled soloWritten 5 January 2024
- bigwawaoNew York City, New York10,205 contributionsGreat for an afternoon if you have extra timeLarge underground mall worth a stroll especially if you have extra time on hand. But nothing special to it. Best to combine it with the Coex Library for a photoshoot of the floor to ceiling bookcases and if you are interested in temples, Bonguesa temple is at the northern end of the Mall complex.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 March 2024
- TIersHasieSydney, Australia1,216 contributionsIt's ok.Not really worth a visit by itself for me. It's very spaced out horizontally compared to traditional vertically spread high level department stores. But this makes navigating in short timeframes more challenging and a lot of ground to cover. I think fast walking from the aquarium to the library area took a good 5 minutes at quite a fast brisk walking. Most things are very pricey and the libary way overcrowded a bit too touristy for me. Enjoyed the nearby temple across the road rather Bongeunsa Temple (so serene in the middle of a bustling city!). Gangnamstyle statue I think east entrance. It does come with an impressive cinema. Good facilities inside the mall nevertheless as expected from a West(starfield). Also allow for the Hyundai Department store sky garden if you ahve the time.Visited January 2024Travelled soloWritten 7 July 2024
- Sightsee560650165683 contributionsThe Starfield LibraryThe Starfield Library, located within the COEX Mall in Seoul, is a stunning and expansive public library. Opened in 2017, it features an impressive design with towering bookshelves that reach up to 13 meters high, housing over 50,000 books and magazines. The library spans two levels and covers an area of about 2,800 square meters. It provides a serene reading environment amidst the bustling mall, offering a variety of seating areas, digital resources, and regular cultural events such as author talks and book signings. The Starfield Library is a popular spot for both book lovers and tourists, admired for its unique architecture and comprehensive collection ❤️Visited September 2024Travelled with familyWritten 2 September 2024
- amanda w42 contributionsCozy yet magical feeling at Starfield Coex LibraryIt was my first time to Starfield Library and I'm so amazed when I was there last autumn. The vibe were magical with all the books were displayed high up till the ceiling. It was really beautiful and cozy. I managed to take a few pictures.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 2 September 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.0
878 reviews
Excellent
271
Very good
364
Average
185
Poor
43
Terrible
15
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Culinary-Consultants
Ferrara, Italy3,745 contributions
Jan 2020
I agree with most that the architectural display out side the Starfield COEX Mall is impressive to say the least. But inside? That's another story. Low ceilings, very dole and depressive. We felt as encased for a lack of better words.
It does not represent inside the modernistic approach from the outside. The quality of the stores are really average and we believed that a structure of this kind would have design better stores and with better choices. Most things once again, cheap Chinese stuff, disposable value items and again the infantile South Koreans with stores filled with teddy bears (for adult people) cute cartoon printed made in China socks (for adults) and the distribution of the stores....very confusing.
Not a well planned mall and nothing to offer except for the Starfield Library, which is really pretty and impressive. Two floors library with lots of colors and places to eat. Basically the only highlight of the Starfield COEX Mall which is pretty average.
Except for the Starfield Library which you can access directly from the streets, the rest of the mall is a waste of pure time. Not recommended.
It does not represent inside the modernistic approach from the outside. The quality of the stores are really average and we believed that a structure of this kind would have design better stores and with better choices. Most things once again, cheap Chinese stuff, disposable value items and again the infantile South Koreans with stores filled with teddy bears (for adult people) cute cartoon printed made in China socks (for adults) and the distribution of the stores....very confusing.
Not a well planned mall and nothing to offer except for the Starfield Library, which is really pretty and impressive. Two floors library with lots of colors and places to eat. Basically the only highlight of the Starfield COEX Mall which is pretty average.
Except for the Starfield Library which you can access directly from the streets, the rest of the mall is a waste of pure time. Not recommended.
Written 29 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TIersHasie
Sydney, Australia1,216 contributions
Jan 2024 • Solo
Not really worth a visit by itself for me.
It's very spaced out horizontally compared to traditional vertically spread high level department stores. But this makes navigating in short timeframes more challenging and a lot of ground to cover. I think fast walking from the aquarium to the library area took a good 5 minutes at quite a fast brisk walking. Most things are very pricey and the libary way overcrowded a bit too touristy for me. Enjoyed the nearby temple across the road rather Bongeunsa Temple (so serene in the middle of a bustling city!). Gangnamstyle statue I think east entrance.
It does come with an impressive cinema.
Good facilities inside the mall nevertheless as expected from a West(starfield).
Also allow for the Hyundai Department store sky garden if you ahve the time.
It's very spaced out horizontally compared to traditional vertically spread high level department stores. But this makes navigating in short timeframes more challenging and a lot of ground to cover. I think fast walking from the aquarium to the library area took a good 5 minutes at quite a fast brisk walking. Most things are very pricey and the libary way overcrowded a bit too touristy for me. Enjoyed the nearby temple across the road rather Bongeunsa Temple (so serene in the middle of a bustling city!). Gangnamstyle statue I think east entrance.
It does come with an impressive cinema.
Good facilities inside the mall nevertheless as expected from a West(starfield).
Also allow for the Hyundai Department store sky garden if you ahve the time.
Written 8 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
197gabes
Singapore, Singapore181 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
One of the nicest and biggest underground mall that you can find around Seoul. This one is connected to a convention center, 3 hotels, a casino, 2 subway lines, an aquarium, a library, a multi hall cineplex and the airport limo bus station, so finding your way around this huge complex is a challenge. If not for the various directional signs strategically placed at junctions, one may never find their way out of the maze of shops and passage ways.
Most of the retail shops are located at the basement level. There is a decent selection of brands for shopping but there are malls in Seoul that offers better range, prices and choices.
The thing that seems missing here is a supermarket but there are plenty of convenience shops scattered around as alternative.
There are plenty of food outlets to choose from too, these ranging from fast food to pub to restaurant. Can get very crowded during lunch time, especially on days where there are events at the center.
Guessing you would probably need at least a whole day to properly cover the place. So do come with a good pair of walking shoes and have fun exploring the place.
Most of the retail shops are located at the basement level. There is a decent selection of brands for shopping but there are malls in Seoul that offers better range, prices and choices.
The thing that seems missing here is a supermarket but there are plenty of convenience shops scattered around as alternative.
There are plenty of food outlets to choose from too, these ranging from fast food to pub to restaurant. Can get very crowded during lunch time, especially on days where there are events at the center.
Guessing you would probably need at least a whole day to properly cover the place. So do come with a good pair of walking shoes and have fun exploring the place.
Written 20 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leonhkny
Hong Kong, China23,081 contributions
Jan 2023
This is one of Seoul's earliest shopping malls and is still a popular hangout place among locals. The underground arcade is huge with major brands readily available. It is so large that even library and aquarium can be found inside. Shopaholics can easily spend a couple hours here.
Written 6 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sightsee56065016568
3 contributions
Sept 2024 • Family
The Starfield Library, located within the COEX Mall in Seoul, is a stunning and expansive public library. Opened in 2017, it features an impressive design with towering bookshelves that reach up to 13 meters high, housing over 50,000 books and magazines. The library spans two levels and covers an area of about 2,800 square meters. It provides a serene reading environment amidst the bustling mall, offering a variety of seating areas, digital resources, and regular cultural events such as author talks and book signings. The Starfield Library is a popular spot for both book lovers and tourists, admired for its unique architecture and comprehensive collection ❤️
Written 2 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Harracklee
Hong Kong, China1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Business
I found this place when I was bored and walking around on a business trip to Seoul. I was really surprised. The entire building includes exhibition venues and shopping malls, and it can be regarded as a leisure place in a business district.
Written 3 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maps38031914782
5 contributions
July 2024 • Couples
Starfield COEX Mall is a shopper's paradise with something for everyone. The sheer size of the mall is impressive, and I was blown away by the variety of stores, from high-end brands to quirky local shops. The highlight was definitely the library with its towering bookshelves—it felt like a piece of art right in the middle of a shopping center.
Written 2 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
thisgirl_Gray
Los Angeles, CA2,632 contributions
Oct 2024 • Solo
Located inside the COEX Mall in Gangnam, Starfield Library is a large public bookstore where anyone can come to sit down, take a break, read, and/or buy books. They offer a wide selection of books and magazines in various genres so you should be able to find something of interest. Many people come just to take pictures, although I came for children's books and they did not have what I was looking for but it was a good experience.
Written 28 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
IamNaZza
Bangkok111 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
Starfield COEX Mall is a vibrant and trendy shopping center that's a hotspot for both locals and tourists in Seoul. With a diverse range of offerings, there's something for everyone to enjoy. One of the most popular attractions within the mall is the stunning library. Whether you're a bookworm or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, the library's unique design and collection of real books make it a must-see. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting at night when the lights are up, creating a magical ambiance. Another must-see attraction within the mall is the COEX Aquarium. This massive aquarium is home to a diverse array of marine life, including sharks, rays, penguins, and countless other species. Visitors can explore the aquarium's various themed zones, including the Amazon River, the Antarctic, and the deep sea. It's a fascinating experience for both adults and children. Regardless of the weather, Starfield COEX Mall is the perfect place to spend your time. Whether you're escaping the rain, seeking relief from the heat, or looking for a cozy spot to relax on a chilly day, this mall has you covered. With its endless array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, you'll never run out of things to do.
Written 13 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeff K
Pittsburgh, PA2,419 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
I’ve been to some pretty interesting malls in foreign countries but this is not one of them. It’s very large with a lot of mid-level stores. It reminded me of the Mall of America but flatter. We walked to the far end of the mall to see the aquarium and learned that you had to pay to visit se we skipped it.
The bookstore was the lone highlight for me. It was impressive.
The bookstore was the lone highlight for me. It was impressive.
Written 6 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Are there wheelchairs or electric scooters for rent at COEX mall?
Written 30 November 2019
Wheelchairs can be rented at the Stroller Rental Desk at the Mall.
Not sure about the electric scooters.
Written 2 December 2019
Есть ли в этом торговом центре обычный супермаркет с продуктами и бытовой химией? Если есть то где расположен?
Written 4 January 2019
There's no large supermarket here that's ideal for household items, but there are a few small stores. How about checking out a nearby Lotte Mart or E-Mart? For more details, feel free to send us a DM on Instagram @ur_korean_bff! Local Korean students are here to share helpful tips and insights.
Written 8 January 2025
janvi711
Surat, India
What are the sale months . Is there sale in october and december???
Written 11 January 2018
Are there budget style items or is it high end? What other places are recommended in Seoul? We don't want high end expensive.can get anywhere .
Written 16 August 2016
You can go to myeongdong, and for cheap accessoris or clothes, you can buy in Nangdaemun market
Written 17 August 2016
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