The K-pop scene has grown substantially over the last few years, and particularly in London, it is home to shops, restaurants, and exciting events. So if you ever find yourself in London, or want to add it to your bucket list of places these are the top five places to start your visit.
Sokollab
Some say this is K-pop heaven, I call it bad for my bank account. Sokollab is THE best place to go for all your K-pop needs, stocking a diverse and wide range of K-pop albums, K-drama OST, and merchandise. On top of that, they have a K-beauty section which has sharply risen in demand due to beauty bloggers. For those learning Korean they have that covered too with a range of Korean textbooks to help with your studies regardless of level.
Location: 19 Soho Square, London W1D 3QN
Oseyo (오세요)
The chain which has over five branches in the London area is the best palace to get all your Korean snacks and drinks. The mini supermarket will cater to all your needs or for those wanting to start trying Korean foods. Of course, another popular reason to visit is their K-pop section, fully stocked with albums and stationery with your favorite idols on for school or work! Also, for those who love Soju, each flavor is stocked and at a great price!
Location Main Branch: 73-75 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0NE
Soho/Chinatown
Home to some of the best Asian cuisines in London, not only this but full of quaint little bakeries and a full fill of bubble tea areas. This is where you’ll see the majority of the popular K-pop sleeve events take place, a great area to spend an afternoon aimlessly walking around taking photos, and eating lots of really good food!
Location: 10 Wardour St, London W1D 6BZ
Bentobab
A quaint and small restaurant that has a warm and friendly environment, the food is incredible and a must-visit in my eyes. A wide range of Korean classics is on offer to choose from as well as BBQ tables for those who love to cook their own meats. BTS fans are well catered to with each member's photo blown up and framed for photo opportunities.
Location: 4 Commercial St, London E1 6LP
K-pop Club Nights
Okay so you’ve shopped, you've eaten good food now what? Well, the 1on1 events team will have you covered. The team has brought an array of Kpop club nights to the Highbury area the latest one was a BTS night on Proof’s release. They've just announced their first-ever Stray Kids event, and plan to announce more bands in the future. Besides that, they host workshops and also have dance lessons with well-known K Choreographers.
Keep an eye on all their socials for locations!
This isn't an exhaustive list, as London is full of so many wonderful places to visit, eat, and drink along with ongoing pop-up K-pop events.
Be sure to stick around KpopWise for more updates on all your favorite Kpop artists and idols!