Seoul’s Hidden Gems Featured in K-Variety Show 'Running Man'

Seodaemun-gu's 'Cafe Pokpo' in Seoul has gained significant attention, becoming a popular landmark through television broadcasts and social media.

On the 1st, SBS's variety show Running Man chose Cafe Pokpo as the opening filming location. Despite the chilly weather, cast members like Kim Jong-kook and Yoo Jae-suk were in awe of the exotic scenery of Hongje Waterfall. Kim Jong-kook exclaimed, "Is there such a place?" as he filmed the waterfall, while Ji Suk-jin expressed his surprise, saying, "Is this Korea?"

Since its opening in April last year, Cafe Pokpo has attracted 1.4 million visitors and generated cumulative sales of 2 billion KRW. As the first project of Seoul's 'Waterfront City' initiative, it is considered a successful example of urban regeneration. The cafe, particularly through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, has garnered explosive attention, leading to a significant increase in foreign visitors. The accumulated views of related videos have reached 30 million, with continued interest from overseas.

Reflecting its popularity, Seodaemun-gu has implemented several measures to enhance the convenience of tourists. A 'Seodaemun Tourist Information Center' has been set up next to the cafe, with multilingual interpreters available. The second floor of the cafe has been expanded into a cultural space, hosting exhibitions by young artists, lectures, and performances. Additionally, nearby parking has been expanded, and the 'Hongje Waterfall Square' has been newly developed. The 'Areum Library,' a reading space, has also been established, allowing visitors to enjoy reading while appreciating the waterfall.

At the waterfront terrace in front of the cafe, regular programs such as mini concerts by young musicians and events like 'Seodaemun Waterfall Day'—which combines yoga and running—are held. During the winter, seasonal spaces, Christmas trees, and scenic lighting have been installed to add seasonal charm.

The profits from Cafe Pokpo are being used for the local community. Seodaemun-gu has created the 'Cafe Pokpo Happiness Scholarship Fund,' providing 100 million KRW to 60 middle and high school students, as well as university students. An additional scholarship distribution is scheduled for the 26th.

Lee Seong-heon, the mayor of Seodaemun-gu, stated, "Cafe Pokpo has gained attention through broadcast content and social media, contributing to the expansion of the fund." He also expressed plans to further develop the cafe into a beloved landmark for both local residents and tourists.