🔗 Get the Deets
For ticket info, lineups, and booth maps, check out the official IG @seoulillustrationfair or hit the link below!
Whether you’re hunting for that perfect sticker, looking to level up your stationery game, or just want to soak in the local art scene, SIF is going to be the highlight of your summer trip. It’s a total vibe, and I’m sure you’ll walk away with some unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else.
Grab your tickets, plan your route, and get ready for a fun-filled day at Coex.
1. 💡 What is SIF? One of the Unique Things to Do in Seoul: A Must-Visit Seoul Art Market
It’s the biggest illustration exhibition in Korea. Think of it as a creator’s paradise where hundreds of independent artists showcase and sell their own merch—everything from postcards and stickers to the famous ‘Dakku’ (diary decoration) gear.
- When: Happens twice a year, usually in summer (June or July) and winter (December).
- Where: COEX in Samseong-dong. It’s super accessible via Line 2 (Samseong Station) and Line 9 (Bongeunsa Station). Plus, the area is packed with attractions like the Starfield Library and tons of malls, making it the perfect day trip.
⚡️ Don’t Skip This: Official Dates
The fair is happening literally next week! Tickets are already on sale, so don’t sleep on it. If you can’t make this one, no worries—we’ve got the Busan fair and the year-end Seoul fair coming up. Save these dates:
💛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗢𝗨𝗟 𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗙𝗔𝗜𝗥 𝗩.𝟮𝟭
𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲. 𝟳. 𝟯𝟬(Thu) - 𝟴. 𝟮(Sun) / COEX Hall C, Seoul
💙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗡 𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗙𝗔𝗜𝗥 𝗩.𝟳
𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲. 𝟭𝟭. 𝟲(Fri) - 𝟭𝟭. 𝟴(Sun) / BEXCO Exhibition Center 2, Hall 4, Busan
💚 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗢𝗨𝗟 𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗙𝗔𝗜𝗥 𝗩.𝟮𝟮
𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲. 𝟭𝟮. 𝟮𝟰(Thu) - 𝟭𝟮. 𝟮𝟳(Sun) / COEX Hall C, Seoul
🚀 The ‘Open Run’ Culture
SIF is legendary for its ‘Open Run’—where fans line up before the doors even open.
- The Strategy: Limited edition goods and new releases from hyped artists sell out in a flash. If you have your eye on something specific, arrive at least 30 minutes before the 10 AM opening time to beat the crowd.
2. Seoul Stationery Shopping: How to Build Your SIF Wishlist 📝
There are hundreds of booths. If you go in blind, you’ll either get overwhelmed or end up with a bag full of stuff you didn’t really need.
- How to prep:
Instagram Hunt: Search#서울일러스트페어or#서일페to find artists you vibe with. Hit that follow button!
Check Announcements: Artists usually post their booth locations and merch lineups on their stories. Screenshot them and save them in a note for your map.
🤫 Inside Scoop: SIF isn’t just Korean artists! There’s a dedicated international section where you can find unique color palettes and art styles you won’t see anywhere else. It’s a totally different aesthetic that’s super refreshing.
3. Shopping Smarter 🤓 : Navigating Coex Mall Activities & SIF Booths
The venue gets hot and crowded, so efficiency is the key to winning.
- How to shop:
- Prioritize: Head straight to the booths on your wishlist the moment you enter.
- Payment: Most booths take cards, but some indie artists prefer bank transfers or cold, hard cash. Keep a few bills on you just in case.
- Use Lockers: Your bag will get heavy fast. Use the coin lockers located around COEX (near Halls A/B, or near the information desks). Pro-tip: Check the ‘Tota Locker’ app to see real-time availability.
⚠️ Heads Up: Even with A/C, it gets pretty steamy with all the people, so dress in light, breathable layers. Also, COEX is massive—you’ll be walking for hours, so leave the cute shoes at home and wear your most comfortable sneakers.
4. Beyond Seoul Illustration Fair: How to Connect with Local Artists 🤝
The best part of SIF is connecting with the creators. Some artists may be a little shy or simply exhausted from the crowds, so don’t take it personally. Even if your Korean is limited, they’ll appreciate your support. If you’re worried about the language barrier, read our Korea Travel Apps guide and download a translation app before you go. 💬
- How to chat:
- The Greeting: A simple “안녕하세요! 그림 진짜 예뻐요!” (Hello! Your art is so pretty!) works wonders.
- The Question: “캐릭터 이름 뭐예요?” (What’s the character’s name?) or “뭐가 제일 인기 많아요?” (What’s your best-seller?) will get them talking.
- The Guestbook: If they have a guestbook, leave a quick note—even if it’s messy, it makes their day.
🤫 Inside Scoop: If you hit the fair on the last afternoon, some artists might have sales or throw in “freebies” (deombo) to clear their stock. Just keep in mind that the best-selling items are likely already sold out by then.
If you end up going, share your favorite haul with me!
Catch you in the next Seoulbits! 🎊😆