[2024 Top Picks] Princesses, coffee and more: Visit these must-see pop-ups before they close

Disney's 100th Anniversary pop-up and Kanu's On The Table coffee experience offer immersive entertainment and, in the case of the latter, personalized coffee recommendations.

Disney's 100th Anniversary Pop-up: House of WISH in Seongsu-dong, eastern Seoul [WALT DISNEY COMPANY KOREA]

Pop-up stores are more than just promotional tools in Korea — they've evolved into a cultural phenomenon.

The country is bidding farewell to many captivating pop-ups this month. But the Korea JoongAng Daily explored two must-visit stores that will continue operations into the new year. Both are located in the “pop-up mecca” of Seongsu-dong in eastern Seoul.

Rapunzel's theme at Disney's 100th Anniversary Pop-up: House of WISH [WALT DISNEY COMPANY KOREA]

Disney's 100th Anniversary Pop-up: House of WISH

Just steps from Ttukseom Station in eastern Seoul, a building adorned with Disney princesses invites enthusiasts to visit.

Cinderella's theme at Disney's 100th Anniversary Pop-up: House of WISH [WALT DISNEY COMPANY KOREA]

Every inch of the space evokes a different enchanting scene from a Disney princess movie — from Snow White's mine to Cinderella's carriage and Rapunzel's floating lanterns — catering to Koreans' innate photogenic sensibilities. The corresponding theme song plays in each room, making visitors feel like they've become the protagonist of each iconic film.

A dedicated “Wish” zone awaits those who descend through the floors, offering visitors a symbolic Wish Ball. Placing said ball on the wall triggers a radiant message of hope, ushering in wishes for 2024.

While no pre-booking system is in place, on-site registration fills up swiftly. To secure your spot in this fantastical journey, heed this advice: arrive early, embrace the anticipation in line, and reserve your spot for a magical sojourn through Disney's captivating legacy. Address: Noudit Seoul (6, Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul)Opening dates: Dec. 16 to Jan. 10 (from noon to 8 p.m.) Reservation link: None

Kanu On The Table pop-up store in Seongsu-dong, eastern Seoul [SEO JI-EUN]

Kanu On The Table Craving a coffee recommendation through a simple coffee-MBTI test? Curious to know what Koreans like to drink in a coffee culture like no other, where they sip through more than double the worldwide average of cups annually?

Dive into the giant cup nestled within a giant cup in Seongsu-dong, eastern Seoul, which is hosted by Dong Suh Foods, renowned for its innovative sweet coffee mixes.

The journey unfolds in “The World's Smallest Cafe,” where miniature scenes showcase Kanu seamlessly fitting into diverse settings, from offices to camping sites. A photo booth invites patrons to capture moments with the coffee-themed miniatures.

At the next space, “Kanu On The Table,” you can get a coffee recommendation — coffee beans, sticks or capsule coffee — while watching the artistry behind coffee creation through a video projected on the table. A staff member presents a cup of coffee, mirroring the one seen in the video, to bring the experience full circle.

Inside the Kanu On The Table pop-up [SEO JI-EUN]

The journey concludes at the “Giant Table,” where visitors shrink themselves into miniatures and leave snapshots with oversized Kanu coffee elements.

Those who share their experiences on social media receive a generous package of six selected instant or capsule coffees and a complimentary mug. Returning the card at the adjacent Kanu café adds a free cup of expertly crafted coffee as the cherry on top.

Address: Layer 57 (57, Seongsui-ro 20-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul)Opening dates: Dec. 8 to Jan. 28 (from noon to 8 p.m.)Reservation link: https://booking.naver.com/booking/12/bizes/1026737?area=plt (On-site reservation also possible)

BY SEO JI-EUN [seo.jieun1@joongang.co.kr]