News and Updates from Heesum Tea Room in Seoul, offering authentic Korean tea ceremony experiences and cultural events.
Trusted Tea Ceremony Experience by Editor’s pick on VisitSeoul.net
Heesum was featured on VisitSeoul.net, the official tourism website run by the Seoul city government. This site features trusted cultural experiences for travelers. Being included shows that Heesum is recognized for offering one of the best tea ceremony experiences in Seoul.
Our korean tea ceremony sessions provide a quiet and accessible introduction to Korean tradition. Led by a certified tea master, each experience focuses on simple, mindful practice using Korean-grown tea and handcrafted teaware. For visitors looking to connect with local culture, this is a calm and meaningful way to take part in a traditional Korean tea ceremony in Seoul.
Tea Production at the Tea Farm – Tea Retreat in Goseong, May 2025
This spring, we visited a tea farm in Goseong with our guests to experience the full process of tea making, from hand-harvesting tender leaves to crafting them into a finished brew. Each year, we choose a different region to explore, working closely with local tea producers to learn, connect, and deepen our understanding of Korean tea. These trips are not just about sourcing leaves but about honoring the people and landscapes behind every cup. The teas we make through these journeys are the ones we proudly serve in our tearoom.
We’ve Moved! - April 2025
We’re excited to share that Heesum has moved to a new space — more welcoming, more refined, and even easier to reach. Located just 6 minutes from the Korea University(Line 6) train station, the new venue offers an improved experience while staying close to the heart of the city.
To celebrate, we held a small opening gathering — and were thrilled to welcome so many friends, guests, and tea lovers who joined us. Thank you for making it special.
We look forward to sharing tea with you in our new home.
New Year with Calligraphy at Storage Book & Film
On February 24, 2025, we hosted a One-Day Calligraphy Workshop in collaboration with Storage Book & Film, an independent bookstore in Itaewon.
Every year, we come together at Storage Book & Film to write wishes of prosperity and hope for the new year while enjoying tea and traditional Korean sweets.
It was a pleasure to meet Mike, the owner of Storage Book & Film, and all the wonderful participants.
Thank you to everyone who joined us—we wish you a year filled with health and happiness!
Heesumjung 10th Anniversary Event: “Dream Wakening, Hee Sum Jung”
On June 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM, Hee Sum Jung celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special event held at the Dapsimni Film Media Art Center. This milestone honored the space’s unique essence, defined by its hanok charm, cats, tea, and tranquil holidays. Over the past decade, Hee Sum Jung has hosted countless concerts, screenings, and cultural gatherings, becoming a hub for artists, musicians, and filmmakers.
For this momentous occasion, Hee Sum Jung Cinema presented a thoughtfully curated selection of films that reflected its rich journey and evolving identity:
•Lucky Strike (2018, 13 min) by Kim Young-seok: Filmed in Hee Sum Jung’s serene hanok in Seongbuk, Samseon-dong, this film highlighted an important chapter in its story.
•White Tea & Oolong Tea (2023, 15 min) by Lee Min-hwa: Shot in Hee Sum Jung’s Gyeongdong Market location, this work celebrated its role in Seoul’s cultural landscape.
•Tea Time (2014, 70 min) by Maite Alberdi: This heartwarming Chilean film about community and connection offered a vision for Hee Sum Jung’s future.
The event also included special highlights:
•So-young acted as the host, sharing stories and guiding attendees through the day.
•Min-hwa, director of White Tea & Oolong Tea, joined for an insightful Q&A session.
•Joan facilitated meaningful interactions among attendees, bringing a personal touch to the celebration.
Attendees were invited to reflect on the space’s impact over the years, and those unable to join were encouraged to contribute by participating in a survey to share their thoughts.
The event concluded with a sense of gratitude and hope for the future, marking a significant chapter in Hee Sum Jung’s journey as a cultural cornerstone.
Heesum Live Music and Talk Show.
The audio livestream concert <Gyeot> held at Hee sum jung offered a unique experience centered around the theme of space.
In the first part of the concert, longtime friends and musicians Shin Seung-eun and Kim Mi-ong performed, followed by singer-songwriter Lee Joo-young in the second part.
The concert was a blend of live music and conversation, and the intimate atmosphere of Hee sum jung, a beloved teahouse, naturally integrated into the performers’ stories and music. This created a cozy and familiar vibe throughout the event.
The livestream, presented through only sound, provided a special experience focused entirely on the voices and music, without any visual distractions. The audience was able to imagine and feel their own space within the music and stories. This concert, through its reflection and communication about music, film, radio, and space, created a meaningful connection with the people who love Hee sum jung, making it a truly memorable event.
Discover the Story Behind Hee Sum Jung in a Special Podcast Interview
We’re excited to share that Hee Sum Jung, a tea house dedicated to preserving and sharing the beauty of the Korean tea ceremony, was featured on the Sungbuk People’s Library Podcast. This special episode dives deep into our story, traditions, and what makes Hee Sum Jung a unique destination for tea lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
During the interview, our founder—a certified tea master—shared the inspiration behind Hee Sum Jung. Located in the lively Gyeongdong Market, our tea house is a serene space designed to highlight the art of Korean tea culture. From the meaning of our name, which translates to “Sharing warmth in a joyful place,” to the journey of turning a passion for tea into a welcoming haven, the discussion captured the essence of what makes Hee Sum Jung special.
The conversation also explored how Hee Sum Jung has grown into more than just a tea house. It’s a place where visitors can enjoy an immersive tea class, led by our tea master, and participate in vibrant cultural activities. These include workshops, film screenings, and even community gatherings that foster deeper connections. At the heart of our mission is the desire to keep the traditions of the Korean tea ceremony alive and accessible, not only for locals but also for visitors from around the globe.
The podcast highlighted how Hee Sum Jung balances tradition with a modern sense of connection. Guests often describe their visit as stepping into a different world, where the tranquility of a Korean tea ceremony meets the bustling energy of the surrounding market. Every detail, from the carefully hand-picked teas to the peaceful Hanok-inspired architecture, reflects our commitment to providing an authentic and memorable experience.
Our founder also shared personal insights into her love for tea and how it serves as a bridge for cultural understanding. As a certified tea master, she emphasized the joy of guiding guests through the rituals of a tea class, introducing them to the nuances of Korean tea culture. The interview explored her passion for creating a space where guests can feel at home, relax, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the traditions of Korea.
We invite you to listen to the full podcast to learn more about Hee Sum Jung’s story and our dedication to the art of tea. Whether you’re looking to take part in an authentic Korean tea ceremony, join a tea class, or simply enjoy the warmth of a welcoming space, Hee Sum Jung offers a unique experience you won’t want to miss.
Heesum: A Cultural Oasis for Korean Tea Lovers
Nestled in the quiet streets of Samseon-dong, Seoul, Heesumjung is a tea house like no other. Housed in a beautifully preserved Hanok (traditional Korean house), this serene space combines the charm of Korean heritage with the comfort of modern hospitality. Since opening its doors in 2014, Hee Sum Jung has become a destination for those seeking an authentic Korean tea ceremony, expertly guided tea classes, and the opportunity to learn from a certified tea master.
A Place Rooted in Tradition and Community
Heesumjung is more than just a tea house—it’s a living, breathing cultural space. The founder, a designer with a deep love for traditional Korean arts, envisioned a space that goes beyond serving tea. Her goal was to create a haven where people could relax, connect, and experience the beauty of Korean culture in its most authentic form. The name “Heesumjung” means “Sharing warmth in a joyful place,” and this sentiment is evident in every aspect of the tea house.
The tea house’s Hanok architecture adds to its unique charm. Built using natural materials that exude warmth and simplicity, the space invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the moment. From its cozy lighting to the carefully selected furnishings, every detail is designed to harmonize with the serene ambiance of the traditional Korean setting. The founder shares that her goal wasn’t to transform the Hanok but to blend into it, allowing the space to reflect its natural beauty.
Immersive Experiences in Korean Tea Culture
At Heesumjung, the highlight is undoubtedly the Korean tea ceremony, led by a certified tea master. Guests can immerse themselves in this ancient tradition, learning about the history, techniques, and cultural significance of Korean tea. The tea classes are interactive and engaging, offering participants the chance to prepare tea themselves under expert guidance. Each session is paired with traditional Korean snacks, creating a holistic cultural experience. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or new to tea culture, Hee Sum Jung’s programs are designed to be both educational and deeply relaxing.
A Hub for Cultural Exchange
Beyond tea ceremonies, Hee Sum Jung serves as a vibrant cultural hub. The tea house has hosted an array of events over the years, including courtyard film screenings under the stars, intimate indie concerts, pop-up restaurants, and book clubs. These gatherings attract a diverse community of creatives, thinkers, and tea lovers, making Hee Sum Jung a space where connections flourish and ideas are exchanged.
One of its most unique initiatives, “Madang Cinema”, uses the Hanok’s courtyard walls as a canvas for film screenings. Over time, these events grew to include music and performances, eventually evolving into regular concerts. The tea house also organizes book clubs that focus on niche topics like feminism and history, providing a platform for meaningful conversations and learning.
Accessible and Intimate
Despite its rich cultural offerings, Hee Sum Jung remains accessible and welcoming. Visitors often discover the tea house through word-of-mouth, social media, or community recommendations. Its location in the Samseon-dong neighborhood, near landmarks like Seongbukcheon Stream and Jangsu Village, makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the quieter, more traditional side of Seoul.
The tea house also offers private rentals for small gatherings, workshops, or events. With its cozy size and intimate atmosphere, it’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet inspiring environment. Rental terms are flexible, and each request is tailored to ensure the experience aligns with the tea house’s ethos.
Preserving the Spirit of Korean Tea and Hanok Heritage
The founder emphasizes the importance of preserving not just the physical space but the spirit of the tea house. Hanoks are disappearing across Korea, and with them, the cultural essence they embody. At Hee Sum Jung, there’s a deep commitment to preserving the traditions of the Korean tea ceremony, while adapting the space for modern needs without compromising its authenticity.
She also highlights the importance of the people who visit the tea house, noting that relationships and shared experiences are what truly sustain the space. Even if the physical structure were to change, the connections made at Hee Sum Jung would ensure its legacy continues.
Looking to the Future
Hee Sum Jung is always evolving. Future plans include expanding its role as a cultural ambassador by hosting cross-cultural tea forums with other East Asian countries like Japan and China. These collaborations aim to explore the unique aspects of tea traditions in each culture while celebrating the shared love for this ancient practice.
Additionally, the tea house plans to continue its focus on immersive cultural activities, from workshops and performances to pop-up events. With its “traveling tea house” concept, Hee Sum Jung hopes to bring its signature charm to new locations, introducing more people to the beauty of the Korean tea ceremony and the art of meaningful connection.