Seoul’s Ani-Town, nestled in the heart of the vibrant Jung-gu district, is a bustling hub for anime and manga enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of pop culture and creativity. This lively area is home to the Seoul Animation Center, a premier destination that celebrates the world of animation through exhibitions, workshops, and state-of-the-art facilities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the dynamic world of Korean and international animation, exploring everything from classic cartoons to the latest digital creations.
The Seoul Animation Centre
The Seoul Animation Center is a visually captivating building adorned with a delightful mural of a cheerful sun embracing N Seoul Tower, sure to bring a smile to your face. Established by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in 1999 to support South Korea’s comics and animation industry, it later expanded to include game characters. If you’re staying in a hotel near Myeongdong Shopping Street, make sure to stop by the Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro for a reasonably-priced stay.
The Comics Cafe
On the first floor, you’ll discover the “Comics Café.” Despite its name, there aren’t any drinks available, which makes sense given the abundance of books and comics ranging from the 90s to the present day. This free library offers a wide selection of comics to enjoy, with various seating options including bean bag chairs, tables and chairs, and benches.
Ani-Land
On the second floor of the animation center is Ani Land, perfect for families with young children. It features beloved characters like Pororo, Super Wings, Turning Mecard, and Slow Slow Sloth Neul, making it an ideal destination for kids aged 3 to 5. While there are a few activities for older siblings, Ani Land primarily caters to the younger crowd.
Ani-Town’s DCC
This shop doubles as a café and a merchandise store for Korean Webtoons. The food prices are reasonable, and the lower level is a paradise for robot and Mecha (giant piloted robot) enthusiasts. It’s an excellent spot to relax and buy merchandise if you’re a fan of the webtoons they sell. The shop features posters, cardboard cutouts, and even signed art from various webtoons. On the bottom floor, there is an impressive display of giant robots, mechs, and even transformers that will leave you in awe.
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