Jongno 3-ga Station
Jongno 3-ga Station is one of Seoul’s major subway transfer stations, connecting Lines 1, 3, and 5. It is also a gateway to some of the city’s most fascinating historic neighborhoods, traditional markets, street food areas, and nightlife destinations.
Located in the heart of Jongno-gu, the station provides easy access to Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, Jongno 3-ga Pocha Street, Tapgol Park, Jongmyo Shrine, Seosulla-gil, Nagwon Musical Instrument Arcade, and Seoul’s famous jewelry district.
What makes Jongno 3-ga Station particularly interesting is that each exit leads to a different side of Seoul.
Whether you want to explore traditional Korean culture, enjoy local street food, discover unique shops, or experience Seoul nightlife, this station is an excellent starting point.
1. Jongno 3-ga Station: Essential Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Jongno 3-ga Station (종로3가역) |
| Location | Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
| Subway Lines | Line 1, Line 3, Line 5 |
| Station Numbers | Line 1: 130 / Line 3: 329 / Line 5: 534 |
| Station Exits | 16 numbered exits, including Exit 2-1 |
| Main Feature | Three-line subway interchange |
| Nearby Attractions | Ikseon-dong, Jongmyo Shrine, Tapgol Park, Insadong |
| Shopping Areas | Jongno Jewelry District, Nagwon Musical Instrument Arcade |
| Nightlife | Jongno 3-ga Pocha Street, Ikseon-dong, Seosulla-gil |
One of the main advantages of Jongno 3-ga Station is its central location.
Travelers can use the station to explore several neighborhoods without transferring to another subway line.
However, passengers should be aware that the transfer corridors between the three subway lines can be relatively long.
2. Subway Lines and Transfer Information
Jongno 3-ga Station serves three major subway lines.
- Line 1: Connects central Seoul with destinations including Seoul Station, City Hall, and Dongdaemun.
- Line 3: Provides access to areas including Anguk, Gyeongbokgung, and Express Bus Terminal.
- Line 5: Connects destinations including Gwanghwamun, Yeouido, and eastern Seoul.
Transfer Distances Between Subway Lines
| Transfer Route | Approximate Distance | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 ↔ Line 3 | 200 meters | Moderate walking distance |
| Line 3 ↔ Line 5 | 122 meters | Relatively shorter transfer |
| Line 1 ↔ Line 5 | 322 meters | Longest transfer route at the station |
These distances are approximate reference figures. Actual walking distances may vary depending on where passengers leave the train and which accessible route they use.
Why Is the Line 1 to Line 5 Transfer So Long?
Jongno 3-ga Station was developed as separate subway lines opened over time.
As a result, the station platforms are not positioned directly beside one another.
Passengers transferring between Lines 1 and 5 must travel through a lengthy connecting passage.
For travelers with large suitcases, strollers, or limited mobility, this can be less convenient than transferring at a compact station.
Travel tip: Allow extra time when transferring between Lines 1 and 5, particularly during busy commuting hours.
3. Facilities at Jongno 3-ga Station
Despite being one of Seoul’s older subway interchange stations, Jongno 3-ga provides various passenger facilities.
| Facility | Information |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Available in several station areas |
| Elevators | Accessible routes are provided, but locations vary |
| Escalators | Available on selected routes |
| Moving Walkways | Help passengers travel through long connecting corridors |
| Storage Lockers | Check current availability inside the station |
| Station Information | Customer service and passenger assistance |
| Transportation Connections | Nearby city bus stops and subway connections |
Restrooms
Restrooms are available in different sections of the station.
Locations reported in station facility guides include:
- Line 1: Near Exit 1 outside the ticket gates and near the Exit 11-side paid area.
- Line 3: In the underground area toward Exit 7.
- Line 5: Around the concourse toward Exit 5.
Because some restrooms are located inside ticket gates while others are outside, passengers should check station signs before exiting.
Restroom locations and accessibility may change following maintenance or station renovations.
Elevators and Accessibility
Jongno 3-ga Station provides elevators and other accessibility facilities.
However, not every exit offers identical step-free access.
Travelers using wheelchairs, mobility aids, or strollers should check the designated elevator route before beginning a transfer.
For the latest accessibility information, visit the Seoul Metro official website.
Luggage Storage
Passengers may find storage lockers within the station, subject to availability and current operating arrangements.
If you are traveling with large luggage, confirm locker sizes, locations, payment methods, and availability before relying on this service.
4. Best Exits at Jongno 3-ga Station
One of the most useful things to know about Jongno 3-ga Station is which exit to choose.
Different exits lead toward traditional neighborhoods, historical attractions, shopping streets, and entertainment areas.
Exit 4: Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
Exit 4 is one of the most convenient ways to reach Ikseon-dong Hanok Village.
Ikseon-dong is famous for its narrow alleys lined with traditional Korean houses that have been converted into cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Many buildings retain their traditional architectural appearance while offering modern dining and shopping experiences.
Best for: Cafés, Korean restaurants, photography, traditional architecture, and romantic evening walks.
The hanok village is only a short walk from the station.
Exit 5: Nagwon Musical Instrument Arcade and Insadong
Exit 5 provides convenient access toward Nagwon Musical Instrument Arcade and the Insadong area.
Nagwon Arcade is one of Seoul’s best-known specialized shopping destinations for musical instruments.
Visitors can find stores selling guitars, keyboards, percussion instruments, and various musical accessories.
Nearby Insadong is known for traditional crafts, souvenirs, art galleries, tea houses, and Korean cultural products.
Best for: Musical instruments, traditional shopping, souvenirs, and cultural experiences.
Exit 7: Seosulla-gil
Exit 7 is a useful starting point for exploring Seosulla-gil, a distinctive street near the stone walls of Jongmyo Shrine.
Seosulla-gil has developed into a popular destination for cafés, independent shops, restaurants, and small bars.
The street offers a different atmosphere from the lively drinking establishments around Jongno 3-ga Pocha Street.
Best for: Relaxed dining, cafés, walking, photography, and quiet evening conversations.
Exit 8: Jongmyo Shrine
Exit 8 provides access toward Jongmyo Shrine.
Jongmyo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the ancestral rituals of the Joseon royal family.
It is one of Seoul’s most historically significant cultural attractions.
Visitors interested in Korean history and traditional architecture should consider including Jongmyo in their itinerary.
Best for: Korean history, cultural heritage, architecture, and sightseeing.
Check current admission arrangements and guided-tour requirements before visiting.
Exit 1: Tapgol Park
Exit 1 leads toward Tapgol Park and the surrounding Jongno shopping area.
Tapgol Park is an important historical landmark associated with Korea’s March First Independence Movement in 1919.
The park also contains historical monuments and traditional structures.
Best for: Korean modern history, historical sightseeing, and exploring central Jongno.
Exits 12 and 13: Sewoon Arcade and Cheonggyecheon
Other station exits provide access toward Sewoon Arcade, electronics and machinery-related shopping areas, and Cheonggyecheon Stream.
These destinations offer a different experience from the traditional hanok neighborhoods.
Best for: Urban exploration, electronics, industrial heritage, and walking along Cheonggyecheon.
5. Top Attractions Near Jongno 3-ga Station
Jongno 3-ga Station is surrounded by several notable attractions.
| Attraction | Main Highlights | Recommended Visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Ikseon-dong Hanok Village | Hanok cafés and restaurants | Couples, photographers, food lovers |
| Jongmyo Shrine | UNESCO World Heritage Site | History and culture enthusiasts |
| Tapgol Park | Korean independence history | Historical sightseeing |
| Seosulla-gil | Stone-wall street and cafés | Relaxed travelers and couples |
| Nagwon Musical Instrument Arcade | Musical instrument shopping | Musicians and collectors |
| Jongno Jewelry District | Jewelry shops and workshops | Shoppers |
| Jongno 3-ga Pocha Street | Outdoor Korean food and nightlife | Food lovers and nightlife visitors |
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
Ikseon-dong combines traditional Korean architecture with modern restaurants, cafés, and independent shops.
It is especially attractive to visitors who want to experience Seoul’s historic atmosphere without traveling far from the subway.
Jongmyo Shrine
Jongmyo offers a quieter cultural experience than the surrounding commercial streets.
The historic shrine provides insight into Korean royal traditions and Confucian ceremonial culture.
Jongno Jewelry District
The Jongno area has long been associated with jewelry manufacturing and retail.
Visitors can explore shops specializing in gold, silver, gemstones, wedding rings, and custom jewelry.
Jongno 3-ga Pocha Street
During the evening, parts of the neighborhood become lively with outdoor dining tables and Korean-style drinking establishments known as pojangmacha.
Popular dishes associated with the area include rolled omelet, seafood pancakes, spicy chicken feet, and udon noodles.
According to Seoul’s official tourism information, food stalls begin setting up around 5 PM, although actual opening times depend on individual businesses.
For visitors interested in traditional Korean nightlife, the pocha streets are among the neighborhood’s most memorable attractions.
6. What Makes Jongno 3-ga Station Unique?
A Major Interchange with Three Subway Lines
The station connects Lines 1, 3, and 5, allowing passengers to travel across several parts of Seoul.
Its central location makes it useful for both commuters and tourists.
However, its relatively long transfer corridors are worth considering when planning connections.
Historic Neighborhoods and Modern Businesses Together
Few subway stations in Seoul provide such immediate access to a wide variety of urban experiences.
Around Jongno 3-ga, travelers can find centuries-old historical sites alongside modern cafés, small businesses, jewelry shops, and busy nightlife streets.
This combination reflects the contrast between traditional and contemporary Seoul.
Different Atmospheres During the Day and Night
During the daytime, the area attracts shoppers, office workers, and visitors exploring local markets and historical attractions.
In the evening, restaurants, bars, and outdoor drinking establishments bring a different energy to the neighborhood.
In September 2026, Time Out ranked Jongno 3-ga first on its list of the world’s coolest neighborhoods, highlighting its distinctive mix of history, culture, and nightlife.
7. First and Last Train Information
Jongno 3-ga Station operates across three subway lines, but exact train times vary according to direction, destination, and day of the week.
The following table summarizes the times provided as preliminary references. These figures have not been independently verified against the current official timetable and should not be treated as confirmed departure times.
| Subway Line | Direction | Reported First Train | Reported Last Train |
|---|---|---|---|
| Line 1 | Northbound | 5:27 AM | 12:55 AM |
| Line 1 | Southbound | 5:23 AM | 12:54 AM |
| Line 3 | Northbound | 5:36 AM | 12:53 AM |
| Line 3 | Southbound | 5:36 AM | 12:54 AM |
| Line 5 | Eastbound/Westbound* | 5:41 AM / 5:47 AM | 12:53 AM / 12:40 AM |
Line 5 directions and times require confirmation against the specific train destination. The original reference did not clearly distinguish the directions.
Important: The last train leaving a station may not travel to the final terminal station of that subway line.
Before making late-night travel plans, verify the train’s destination and actual departure time using the official Seoul Metro timetable.
Check the latest information at Seoul Metro.
8. Practical Tips for Visiting Jongno 3-ga Station
Choose Your Exit Before Leaving the Train
With numerous exits and long underground passages, choosing the correct exit can save unnecessary walking.
Check your destination before leaving the ticket gates.
Allow Additional Transfer Time
Transfers between Lines 1 and 5 can involve more walking than expected.
If you are traveling with luggage or have difficulty walking long distances, use the designated accessible route.
Explore the Neighborhood on Foot
Many attractions around Jongno 3-ga are close enough to explore within the same walking itinerary.
For example, visitors can explore Ikseon-dong, continue toward Jongmyo, and finish the evening at a restaurant or café in the surrounding area.
Check Business Hours Individually
Subway station operating hours do not determine the opening hours of nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Traditional markets, cafés, cultural sites, and outdoor drinking establishments operate on different schedules.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which subway lines stop at Jongno 3-ga Station?
Jongno 3-ga Station serves Seoul Subway Lines 1, 3, and 5. It is an important transfer station in central Seoul.
2. Which exit should I use for Ikseon-dong Hanok Village?
Exit 4 is a convenient option for visiting Ikseon-dong Hanok Village. The area is only a short walk from the station.
3. Is Jongno 3-ga Station difficult to navigate?
The station is well signposted, but transferring between Lines 1 and 5 can require a longer walk. Travelers should follow the transfer signs and allow extra time.
4. Are there restrooms and elevators at Jongno 3-ga Station?
Yes. The station has restrooms, elevators, and other passenger facilities. However, locations differ by subway line and station area.
5. What can I do near Jongno 3-ga Station?
Popular activities include exploring Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, visiting Jongmyo Shrine, shopping at Nagwon Musical Instrument Arcade, walking through Seosulla-gil, and experiencing Korean nightlife around Jongno 3-ga Pocha Street.
10. Final Thoughts
Jongno 3-ga Station is more than a convenient subway transfer point.
It connects travelers to some of Seoul’s most distinctive cultural, historical, shopping, and nightlife areas.
With three subway lines, numerous exits, and an impressive variety of nearby attractions, the station is an excellent starting point for exploring central Seoul.
For first-time visitors, the most important things to remember are simple:
- Choose the correct exit for your destination.
- Allow extra time when transferring between Lines 1 and 5.
- Check the latest train schedules, particularly for late-night journeys.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhoods rather than treating the station as merely a transit stop.
Whether you are visiting traditional Korean attractions during the day or enjoying local food and nightlife after sunset, Jongno 3-ga Station offers convenient access to several different sides of Seoul.
Information reviewed: October 13, 2026. Train schedules, station facilities, attraction hours, and business operations may change.
References and Useful Links
- Seoul Metro Official Website — Subway timetables, station facilities, and accessibility information.
- Visit Seoul Official Tourism Website — Seoul attractions, transportation, local culture, and neighborhood information.
- Time Out — World’s Coolest Neighbourhoods 2026 — Jongno 3-ga neighborhood recognition.
- Google Maps — Jongno 3-ga Station — Station location and surrounding attractions.