Nestled along the vibrant Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul, HiKR Ground is a must-visit destination for travelers eager to dive into the heart of Korean culture, especially K-Pop and cutting-edge media art. Operated by the Korea Tourism Organization, this innovative tourism publicity center spans five floors of immersive experiences, blending dynamic technology with Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

The name “HiKR Ground” reflects its mission: a warm “Hi” from Korea (KR), inviting global travelers to a Playground of discovery. Whether you’re a K-Pop enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a unique indoor activity, HiKR Ground offers something for everyone—completely free of charge.

Resource by hikr ground brand film

What Makes HiKR Ground Special?

HiKR Ground isn’t your typical tourism center. It’s a dynamic, interactive space designed with MZ-generation travelers in mind, offering a blend of entertainment, education, and Instagram-worthy moments. Here’s what you can expect:

K-Pop Immersion on the 2nd Floor

The K-Pop Ground is the star of HiKR Ground, especially for fans of BTS, BLACKPINK, and other global sensations. This floor features five themed studios where you can step into the world of K-Pop music videos. Highlights include:

Subway, By Stage, Coin Laundry, and Color Room: Each studio recreates iconic K-Pop video settings with vibrant lighting, music, and props like sunglasses and megaphones. Touchscreens let you customize the ambiance—adjust lighting colors, music, or even stage effects.
My Stage: A spotlighted stage with large screens displaying your performance, perfect for filming your own K-Pop-inspired dance or photo shoot.
K-Pop Dance Game: Test your moves with an interactive dance challenge, a hit among groups and families.

These spaces are equipped with accessories and high-quality lighting, making them ideal for creating viral content. K-Pop artists and producers occasionally visit for events or shoots, adding to the authentic vibe.

Media Art and Korean Culture

HiKR Ground seamlessly blends technology with tradition:

1st Floor: HiKR Wall – A massive media wall greets you with stunning visuals of Korea’s landscapes, K-Pop performances, and promotional videos like “Feel the Rhythm of Korea with BTS.” It’s a breathtaking introduction to the country’s beauty.
3rd Floor: HiKR Atrium – This gallery showcases K-Content (dramas, films, and more) through themed exhibits, such as traditional Korean clothing, cuisine, and nightlife. Works by renowned artists like sculptor Kwon Osang and installation artist Suh Do-ho are also displayed.
4th Floor: HiKR Cave – An immersive space highlighting Korea’s wellness tourism and five key cities (Busan, Andong, Gangneung, Jeonju, Mokpo). Interactive displays, like the Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival zone, let you draw digital lanterns that float on screens, engaging all your senses with sounds of nature and tactile elements.

Relaxation and Exploration

5th Floor: HiKR Lounge – A cozy retreat with comfortable seating, tourist information booklets, and views of Cheonggyecheon Stream. It’s perfect for unwinding or planning your next Seoul adventure. The lounge also houses a Notted café, famous for its trendy donuts and coffee.
HiKR Challenge: A fun, interactive game where you spin a digital roulette to receive a personalized travel mission, adding a playful twist to your visit.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

HiKR Ground is designed for all visitors. The building features ramps, braille blocks, and an accessible entrance, ensuring comfort for those with mobility needs. The staff is multilingual, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings are less crowded. Avoid weekends if you prefer a quieter experience.

Photography: Bring your camera or smartphone—every corner is a photo op! Tripods are allowed but avoid obstructing pathways.

Events: Check the official Instagram (@hikrground_official) for updates on pop-up events, K-Pop star appearances, or festivals like the annual “HiKR Festa.”

Nearby Attractions: After your visit, stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, explore Deoksugung Palace, or shop in Myeongdong, all within a 10–15 minute walk.

Plan Your Visit

Address
40 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Hours
1st & 5th Floors: Daily, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Tourist Info Center closes at 7:00 PM)
2nd–4th Floors: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed Mondays)

Menu Highlights
Notted Café, 5th Floor
Signature Donuts (e.g., Crème Brûlée, Strawberry Cream)
Americano, Iced Latte etc..
Note: Notted is a cashless café; cards or mobile payments only

Reservations
General admission is free, no reservation required.
Group visits (10+ people) require advance booking starting April 2, 2024, via the HiKR Ground website (hikr.visitkorea.or.kr) or by calling +82-2-729-9497.
Special programs like “Goldsson Studio” (photo shoots with a professional photographer) or “MC Kkook’s Kkook Street” (guided game tour) require reservations through Naver Booking (booking.naver.com). Bookings open the last Friday of the previous month at 3:00 PM.

Nearest Station
Jonggak Station (Line 1), Exit 5: 2-minute walk
Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Line 2), Exit 2: 5-minute walk
Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), Exit 5: 7-minute walk