Get Your Seoul Fix: Exploring Korean Culture in Kuala Lumpur

So, you’re in Kuala Lumpur and you've got a serious hankering for some Korean vibes? Well, fret not, because this bustling city has got your Seoul cravings covered! From K-pop to kimchi, here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Korean culture in KL.

Korean Marts

First stop, let’s dive into the heart of Korean culture – the marts or convenience stores. KL is dotted with Korean grocery stores and markets where you can stock up on all your favourite Korean goodies. Head to places like K Market in Mont Kiara or Seoul Mart in Desa Sri Hartamas for a wide array of Korean snacks, ingredients, and even beauty products. It is like stepping into a mini-Seoul right in the heart of KL.

Location: K Market, Lot J-G-10 & 11, GF, Jalan Solaris, Solaris Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur or Seoul Mart, G/F Plaza Crystal Ville Centre, 27, Jalan 23/70a, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Contact details: 018-577 2422

Korean Restaurants

Of course, no Korean culture exploration is complete without sampling some authentic Korean cuisine. KL boasts many Korean restaurants ranging from cozy hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale dining experiences. Craving some spicy kimchi stew or crispy fried chicken? Head over to places like Shinmapo Korean BBQ in SS15 or Hanbing Korean Dessert Cafe in NU Sentral for a taste of Korea right here in KL.

Location: Hanbing Korean Dessert, LG-21 NU Sentral Shopping Mall, 201, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur or Shinmapo Korean BBQ, The Gardens Mall or SS15 Courtyard, Subang

Contact details: 03-2276 2287 (Hanbing) or 03-2201-3252 (Shinmapo Korean BBQ)

Korean Fashion Boutiques

If you're looking to update your wardrobe with some trendy Korean fashion pieces, KL has several boutiques that specialise in Korean-inspired clothing. Head to places like Atria Shopping Gallery in Damansara Jaya or Pavilion Kuala Lumpur to browse through a wide selection of Korean fashion brands. From cute and quirky to sleek and sophisticated, you'll find something to suit every style.

Location: mii Korea Concept Store, Lot 4.106.01, Level 4, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168, Jln Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan

Contact details: 03-7733 5156

Korean Beauty Stores

Indulge in some self-care Korean style by exploring KL’s numerous Korean beauty stores. From sheet masks to snail creams, these stores offer a wide range of Korean skincare and beauty products guaranteed to give you that coveted K-beauty glow. Check out stores like Innisfree, Etude House, or The Face Shop in popular shopping malls like One Utama or Mid Valley for all your skincare needs.

Location: Innisfree, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur or Etude House, G.57, Ground Floor, Klang Parade, Kawasan 17, Klang Parade or The Face Shop, Lot 5.42.00, Level 5, Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur

Contact details: 03-2938 3333 (Innisfree) or 03-3362-5181 (Etude House) or 03-2141-4186 (The Face Shop)

Korean Books

For those interested in Korean literature, and language, or simply wanting to dive deeper into Korean culture, visiting Korean bookstores in KL is a must. BookXcess in Fahrenheit 88 often stocks a variety of Korean books, ranging from bestselling novels to language textbooks and even K-pop photo books. Take time to peruse the shelves and discover new aspects of Korean culture through literature.

Location: BookXcess, 179, Jalan Gading, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Contact details: 03-2148 5488