Anmok Coffee Street, located along the serene Anmok Beach in Songjeong-dong, Gangneung, naturally came into being as renowned baristas began to settle in the area. Once a quiet and overlooked stretch of coastline, it has recently been reborn as a popular tourist destination, riding the wave of Korea’s growing coffee culture.

Anmok Coffee Street began to earn its reputation in the early 1980s as a hidden gem for coffee lovers. In the 1990s, it attracted some of Korea’s top coffee artisans, who brought in roasting machines and began serving hand-crafted brews with their own signature style. As word spread, coffee enthusiasts from all over the country started flocking here, and the area quickly transformed into a nationally recognized destination.
Today, numerous cafés line the beachfront, offering hand-dripped coffee with panoramic views of the East Sea. Gangneung has become so synonymous with quality coffee that the number of cafés is now comparable to seafood restaurants. With coffee festivals and specialty cafés on the rise, the city has firmly established itself as Korea’s representative “coffee capital.”

Originally, Anmok Beach was known for its retro vending machine coffee. Locals and visitors alike enjoyed sipping a hot drink while taking in the tranquil ocean view. That humble beginning laid the foundation for what is now Anmok Coffee Street.
Today’s cafés offer not only hand-drip coffee but also a variety of homemade desserts and brunch menus, making it a perfect stop any time of day. Even major coffee chains have set up shop here, allowing visitors to enjoy a familiar taste with an extraordinary sea view.
Whether you choose a quaint independent café or a stylish franchise location, the choice is yours. Recently featured on television, Anmok Coffee Street continues to grow in popularity, offering a unique chance to savor Gangneung's culinary charm along with a warm cup of coffee by the sea.