Cheongju is the biggest city in Chungcheongbuk-do but one of the smaller cities in Korea. It is right in the middle of Korea, making it the perfect point of arrival and departure for a trip.

I was placed in Cheongju when I became an EPIK teacher. Read more about how to pass your EPIK interview here.

Besides Cheongju’s lovely tourist spots and monuments. It has a number of delicious restaurants and cafés that you must visit! Check out our guide to must-visit restaurants in Cheongju, too (coming soon).

Here is a list of some cafés you have to visit in Cheongju!

Note: This list is not a ranking and is in no particular order!

1. Rato Coffee

Location: Downtown Cheongju, Sangdang-gu

Korean name: 라토커피

If you are looking for somewhere chilled to enjoy good coffee and dessert near the stream, this is your spot. Not only is the café’s aesthetic trendy and simultaneously rustic, but it overlooks Musimcheon making it the perfect spot to watch the cherry blossoms in the spring or the autumn leaves.

This café is especially famous in Cheongju for its handsome owner.

2. #1: TagOne

Location: Downtown Cheongju, Sangdang-gu

Korean name: 태그원

#1: TagOne is a café nestled in the middle of the city hub that feels somewhat like a dollhouse. It is pretty big and spacious with a variety of seating.

The café is split between two building. One of them is a no kids zone and the other allows kids. If you are looking for either a family friendly or the opposite and aesthetic café, this is your place!

Would definitely recommend the cappuccino. The froth was creamy and delicious!

3. Hwajindasil

Location: Downtown Cheongju, Sangdang-gu

Korean name: 화진다실

This café is perfect for the health conscious, matcha lovers, and cat lovers.

All of the desserts, foods, and drinks on the menu are made from completely natural ingredients. The only downside may be for coffee enthusiasts. This café doesn’t sell any caffeinated drinks. It is all organic and healthy.

With the cat motifs and small cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to space out one afternoon.

4. KwangSun

Location: Downtown Cheongju, Sangdang-gu

Korean name: 광순

This café is one of the most unique that I have visited in South Korea. It is colorful and the architecture is vibrant. The name is a play on the balance between crazy and calm.

Not only is everything about the aesthetic and branding gorgeous, but the peanut butter latte was also scrumptious.

5. Arte Café – Chungdae Branch

Location: Chungdae, Seowon-gu

Korean name: 아르떼 충대점

This is a really great café to hang out, study and even have a date with your dog! They serve the best croffle with soft ice cream on top too and offer two roasts of Americano!

Which of these cafés would you visit if you were in Cheongju?