What’s the largest underground shopping mall in the world? It’s right here beneath our feet at the COEX Millenium Plaza, the main entrance to the Starfield COEX Mall. This isn’t just a plaza. It’s a portal to a retail wonderland. The COEX Millenium Plaza connects directly to Samseong Station on Line 2 of the Seoul Metro. It’s a bustling hub where the city’s energy converges with the allure of underground adventure. The name “COEX” itself comes from “Convention centers” and “EXhibition halls,” hinting at the larger complex it’s part of. The Korea International Trade Association (KITA) manages this vast network of spaces. Imagine 154,000 square meters of retail space. Most of that, a staggering 144,000 square meters, sprawls across a single underground floor.
The COEX Millenium Plaza and the mall have a fascinating history. Construction began in May 1997, fueled by KITA’s investment and guided by the design vision of RTKL and Gensler. By April 2000, this underground marvel opened its doors. It cost a whopping ₩140 billion (US$150 million) to bring this vision to life. Just imagine the engineering feat involved in creating such a vast space beneath the bustling city.
But the story doesn’t end there. In 2012, KITA embarked on an ambitious renovation project. They invested another ₩180 billion to upgrade and expand the COEX Mall, further solidifying its position as a world-class shopping destination. This project also aimed to improve access. They created new passenger walkways connecting the mall to the Bongeunsa Station on Line 9. This seamless integration made it even easier for people to access the COEX Millenium Plaza and the underground treasures it leads to.
As you stand here at the COEX Millenium Plaza, take a moment to appreciate the sheer scale of what lies beneath. This isn’t just a shopping mall. It’s a testament to human ingenuity, a vibrant ecosystem of commerce and entertainment, and a must-see destination for any visitor to Seoul. From here, you can access not just countless shops but also food courts, a cinema, an aquarium, and even a massive library. The COEX Millenium Plaza is more than just an entrance. It’s a promise of an unforgettable experience.