Weekend Activities in Seoul: Guilt-Free Shopping, Art Exhibitions, and Gaming Escapes

Sayart

sayart2022@gmail.com | 2025-07-31 20:13:27

As "No Buy July" comes to an end, it's the perfect time to shop guilt-free at a Goodwill Store. With oppressive heat waves making outdoor activities challenging, why not add an art exhibition to your weekend plans or indulge in some air-conditioned gaming? Here are three engaging weekend suggestions that combine purpose with pleasure.

**Shopping That Makes a Difference**

At the Goodwill Store operated by the Milal Foundation, shopping becomes an act of social good. This unique retail concept transforms the typical shopping experience into something meaningful and impactful.

With 42 locations spread across the country, including a convenient basement location in Woori Financial Group's headquarters in central Seoul, these donation-based shops offer much more than secondhand bargains. They provide an opportunity to participate in a mission that creates real social change.

The beauty of shopping at Goodwill lies in the element of surprise. You never know exactly what treasures you'll discover on any given visit. The constantly changing inventory depends entirely on the generosity of community donors, ensuring that each shopping trip offers new possibilities.

On any day, shoppers might find a lightly used guitar or violin perfect for a budding musician, a vintage sewing machine for crafting enthusiasts, elegant wine glasses for entertaining, handcrafted ceramic bowls, quality sports equipment, or barely-worn sneakers in excellent condition. The variety is endless and ever-changing.

For those looking to contribute, the process is simple and convenient. Clean, functional items can be dropped off at donation counters located at each store, making it easy to give back to the community while decluttering your home.

What makes Goodwill Stores particularly impactful is their commitment to social inclusion. Many employees are people with disabilities who gain valuable work experience and build confidence in a supportive, nurturing environment. Every purchase directly supports job training programs and social initiatives that promote inclusion and independence for individuals who might otherwise face employment barriers.

The Goodwill Store at Woori Financial Group Headquarters is located at 51 Sogong-ro, Jung District, Seoul.

**Tranquil Art Experience Downtown**

For those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city life, Alice Dalton Brown's solo exhibition "In A Moment, Forever" offers a serene artistic retreat.

Currently housed on the 6th floor of The Hyundai Seoul in Yeouido, Alt.1 serves as a dynamic multipurpose exhibition space that regularly showcases diverse artistic presentations. This particular exhibition represents a major retrospective of works by the acclaimed American painter.

The comprehensive show features approximately 120 works spanning an impressive timeline from Brown's early pieces created in 1957 to her most recent works from 2025. Additionally, visitors can explore over 40 sketches and creative props that provide deeper insight into the artist's creative process and artistic development over nearly seven decades.

Alice Dalton Brown, born in 1939 in Danville, Pennsylvania, is renowned for her meditative landscapes that capture the quiet beauty of everyday life. After studying at Oberlin College, she relocated to New York in 1970, where she began establishing her significant international presence in the art world.

Her artistic achievements are reflected in the inclusion of her works in permanent collections at prestigious institutions, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, demonstrating her significant contribution to contemporary American art.

Admission prices are structured as follows: 20,000 won for adults, 15,000 won for teenagers, and 12,000 won for children. The exhibition continues through September 20, providing ample opportunity for art enthusiasts to experience this remarkable collection.

The Hyundai Seoul Alt.1 is located at 108 Yeouidaero, Yeongdengpo-gu, Seoul.

**Cool Gaming Retreat**

With relentless heat waves making outdoor activities potentially hazardous rather than enjoyable, Lounge PlayStation Room offers the perfect indoor sanctuary for gaming enthusiasts and casual players alike.

This fully air-conditioned gaming lounge provides an ideal environment for both solo gaming sessions and social hangouts with friends. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art gaming technology, including PlayStation 4 Pro, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch consoles, all connected to large screens that deliver an elevated, immersive gaming experience.

The concept is refreshingly simple: choose a comfortable sofa, select your preferred game, and dive into your gaming session. Players are required to stick with their chosen title for a minimum of 30 minutes before switching to ensure everyone gets adequate time with their selected games. For newcomers or those unsure about game selection, the knowledgeable managers are readily available to recommend beginner-friendly options or popular fan favorites.

The lounge particularly caters to cooperative gaming enthusiasts, maintaining an extensive library of popular multiplayer and couple-friendly games. Notable titles include "It Takes Two," "Overcooked," "Mario Party," and "Split Fiction," all designed to enhance social gaming experiences.

Pricing remains remarkably budget-friendly, with 3,000 won providing 50 minutes of gaming time per person. Additional time is charged at just 100 won for every two-minute increment, making extended gaming sessions affordable for most budgets.

To keep gamers fueled during their sessions, the lounge offers a convenient selection of snacks, microwaveable meals, and various beverages available on-site, eliminating the need to leave the cool, comfortable environment.

Operating daily from 12 p.m. to 3 a.m., this gaming hideout serves as an ideal weekend retreat, especially when home feels stuffy and outdoor temperatures are uncomfortably high.

Lounge PlayStation Room is located at 12 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul.

These three destinations offer perfect alternatives to outdoor activities during Seoul's challenging summer weather, each providing unique ways to spend quality time while staying cool and comfortable.

WEEKLY HOT