Hannam-dong

What it is like to live here

Hannam-dong is Seoul's most internationally oriented residential neighborhood. Situated on the slopes of Namsan (south side) between Itaewon and the Han River, it has long been home to diplomats, embassy staff, multinational executives, and long-term expat families. The presence of several embassies and international organizations gives the area a distinctly cosmopolitan feel that is hard to find elsewhere in Seoul.

The neighborhood is quieter and more upscale than neighboring Itaewon. While Itaewon has the bars, clubs, and tourist energy, Hannam offers tree-lined residential streets, well-maintained apartment complexes, and a calmer pace of daily life. Many expat families prefer Hannam precisely for this balance: close enough to Itaewon's international amenities, but far enough to avoid the noise and weekend crowds.

Hannam is one of Seoul's more expensive neighborhoods. One-bedroom apartments typically range from 1,200,000 to 3,500,000 KRW per month, and deposits can run from 10 million to 50 million KRW or higher for larger units. The housing stock includes modern high-rise apartments (Hannam The Hill is one of Seoul's most famous luxury complexes), older but spacious villas, and some newer boutique buildings. For expats on corporate housing packages, Hannam is a common choice precisely because it offers the space and quality that families need.

The dining scene is outstanding and genuinely international. Within a short walk you can find excellent Italian, French, Japanese, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mexican restaurants alongside high-end Korean dining. Hannam also has a strong brunch and cafe culture. Many of Seoul's most celebrated restaurants have opened locations here or in adjacent Itaewon.

Transit access is decent but not as centrally connected as some other neighborhoods. Hangangjin station (Line 6) sits at the western edge of Hannam, and Itaewon station (Line 6) is nearby. Line 6 is useful for reaching Hapjeong, Hongdae, and northern Seoul, but reaching Gangnam or southern Seoul requires a transfer. Many Hannam residents rely on taxis, buses, or driving, as the neighborhood's hilly terrain can make walking to the subway less convenient. Bus routes along Hannam-daero provide direct connections to Gangnam and Seoul Station.

For families, Hannam's proximity to international schools is a significant draw. Several well-known international schools are within a short drive, and the neighborhood is served by school buses from most major institutions. The area also has English-friendly medical clinics, international grocery stores (including Foreign Food Mart and various import shops in Itaewon), and community groups for expat families.

The Hannam and Itaewon area has one of the most diverse food scenes in Korea. Find the best international and Korean restaurants in the area on Woongie, with honest reviews from real visitors.

Notable landmarks and spots

• •Hannam The Hill, one of Seoul's most prestigious residential complexes (home to several Korean celebrities)
• •Blue Square and the Yongsan arts district, with theaters, galleries, and cultural events
• •Grand Hyatt Seoul, a landmark hotel on Namsan with panoramic city views
• •Multiple embassies including Saudi Arabia, Belgium, and the Philippines
• •Leeum Museum of Art (Samsung Museum), one of Seoul's top contemporary art museums

Best for

• •Expat families, especially those on corporate relocation packages
• •Diplomats and international organization staff
• •Professionals who want a cosmopolitan, English-friendly neighborhood
• •Anyone who prioritizes international dining, groceries, and services

Considerations

• •Significantly more expensive than most Seoul neighborhoods (budget at least 1.5x Hongdae or Mangwon)
• •Hilly terrain makes some areas less walkable, especially in summer heat or winter ice
• •Subway access is limited to Line 6 (no Line 2 or direct Gangnam connection)
• •Can feel quiet or isolated at night in the residential side streets