1. Why COEX Matters in Seoul

COEX is more than a shopping spot—it’s a complete urban ecosystem in Gangnam that combines a world-class convention center, an enormous underground shopping complex, the Instagram-famous Starfield Library, and SEA LIFE COEX Aquarium. As Korea’s flagship MICE hub, COEX hosts exhibitions, conferences, concerts, and pop-culture events year-round, making it a convenient one-stop for shopping, culture snaps, family fun, and weather-proof plans.

The complex’s indoor connectivity is a lifesaver on rainy or cold days. You can browse K-brands, photograph the library’s towering shelves, and finish with the aquarium’s glass tunnels—without stepping outside.

2. Getting There & On-Site Basics

Subway access. COEX connects indoors to Samseong Station (Line 2) via Millennium Square (Exits 5/6) and Bongeunsa Station (Line 9) via ASEM Plaza (Exit 7), with Cheongdam (Line 7) also nearby. These official directions and maps make first-time navigation simple.

• Samseong (L2) → Millennium Plaza direct passage (Exits 5/6)
• Bongeunsa (L9) → ASEM Plaza direct passage (Exit 7)

Driving & parking. From Teheran-ro, turn left at the Hyundai Department Store (Samseong Intersection) and access GATE 3 about 500 m ahead to enter underground parking.

Typical hours (check before you go). Starfield Library is generally open 10:30–22:00 with free entry. SEA LIFE COEX Aquarium usually runs 10:00–20:00 (last entry 19:00).

3. Must-Sees: Library, Aquarium, Mall

Starfield Library. The atrium’s soaring shelves (often cited ~13 m) make it one of Seoul’s most photographed interiors. Beyond the obligatory shot, you’ll find open seating, device charging, foreign magazines, and frequent talks or pop-ups. It’s an open public space within the mall; arrive early for fewer crowds or visit after dinner for softer lighting.

SEA LIFE COEX Aquarium. A family favorite with themed tanks, feedings, and a long glass tunnel. Buy tickets online (often discounted) and plan around the last entry at 19:00; 1.5–2 hours is a comfortable visit.

Starfield COEX Mall. A massive, fully indoor network of fashion, lifestyle, K-brands, cafés, cinema, and event stages. Its underground design keeps you weather-proof and directly connected to both subway lines—ideal for a mid-trip “easy day.”

4. Sample Routes & Nearby Spots

Classic half-day (first-timers). Enter via Samseong → quick photos at Starfield Library → lunch in the mall → SEA LIFE COEX Aquarium → sunset outside the convention plaza. If it’s raining or freezing, keep everything indoors and add a café stop.

Family-friendly full day. Start with the aquarium at opening → library break (rest + photos) → late lunch → shopping and dessert → evening exterior shots of the glass façade. Book aquarium tickets online to skip queues and lock in last-entry time.

Culture + calm combo. From Bongeunsa Station Exit 7, cross to Bongeunsa Temple for a serene contrast to the mall; then head back inside for coffee on the library steps—Seoul’s yin-yang in one block.