Jongno 3-ga Named World’s Coolest Neighborhood
Jongno 3-ga in South Korea has officially been crowned the world’s coolest neighborhood by the British travel and culture media outlet Time Out. According to CNN reports on September 16, 2026, Jongno 3-ga claimed the number one spot in Time Out’s ‘World’s Coolest Neighborhoods for 2026’ ranking, climbing two spots higher than its previous ranking in a 2021 survey.
The Charm of Hanoks and Pocha Culture
Time Out compiles its annual list of notable neighborhoods based on recommendations from writers and editors operating around the globe. The publication highlighted Jongno 3-ga for its seamless blend of timeless scenery and vibrant new culture, praising how the area preserves its traditional vibe while continuously transforming into a vibrant space favored by younger generations. Particular attention was drawn to the historic hanok alleys of Ikseon-dong and the bustling Jongno 3-ga pojangmacha (street food tent) district. While Ikseon-dong hanoks have long drawn international travelers, a thriving late-night culture has emerged where young locals gather at street tents to enjoy cold beer alongside classic dishes like kimchi and seafood pancakes.
Global Rankings and Future Outlook
Time Out described Jongno 3-ga as a relaxed yet understated destination that continuously reinvents itself for new generations without losing its unique charm. Following Jongno 3-ga at the top of the 2026 list, the Lotion district in Rabat, Morocco, secured second place, while the artistic Neos Kosmos neighborhood in Athens, Greece, took third. Rounding out the top rankings were Los Angeles Chinatown in the United States in fourth place and Glasgow’s Govanbill in Scotland in fifth.
