Kpop, short for Korean pop music, has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its addictive melodies, elaborate choreography, and engaging personalities. In the UK, the Kpop wave has grown tremendously, leading to a burgeoning interest in all things related to Korean pop culture, including merchandise, albums, and K-beauty products.
As a multicultural hub, London offers numerous shops catering to Kpop enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, or any other group, this guide will help you explore the best Kpop shops in London, where you can find everything from official albums and merchandise to unique collectables and fan items.
What is a KPop Shop For?
A Kpop shop is a specialised store that caters to fans of Korean pop music by offering a wide range of merchandise and memorabilia related to Kpop artists and groups.
These shops typically sell items such as albums, posters, photo cards, clothing, lightsticks, and other fan merchandise.
Many K-pop shops also stock K-beauty products, stationery, and unique collectables inspired by idols. Essentially, K-pop shops serve as a hub for fans to connect with their favourite artists, celebrate their fandom, and meet fellow enthusiasts.
Is London Kpop Street Legit?
Yes, London Kpop Street is a legitimate and well-established K-pop shop in London. It is known for its wide range of authentic merchandise, including official albums, lightsticks, and apparel directly imported from South Korea.
The shop is highly regarded within the K-pop community for its excellent customer service and reliable product offerings. It also hosts community events, which further solidifies its reputation as a credible destination for K-pop fans.
What to Do in London as a K-Pop Fan?
London offers a wide variety of activities for K-pop fans, ranging from shopping at specialised stores like London Kpop Street, Oseyo, and ARTBOX, to attending K-pop dance classes and fan meet-ups.
Fans can also visit Korean restaurants and cafes, such as Seoul Bakery, to enjoy authentic Korean dishes and drinks.
Moreover, London often hosts K-pop concerts, fan events, and cultural festivals, providing fans with ample opportunities to immerse themselves in Korean pop culture.
What Are Some of the Famous K-Pop Groups in London?
While there are no K-pop groups based in London, the city has hosted numerous concerts and fan meetings for popular Korean groups like BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, and NCT.
These events draw thousands of fans from across the UK and Europe, making London a key destination on many K-pop world tours.
Fans in London also form local fan clubs and dance crews dedicated to their favourite groups, organising events and gatherings to celebrate K-pop culture.
Where to Buy K-Pop Albums in the UK?
You can buy K-pop albums in the UK from several specialised stores in London, such as London Kpop Street, H Mart, Oseyo, and KStars U.
These shops offer a wide range of albums from different K-pop groups, including special editions and pre-order benefits.
Additionally, online stores like YesStyle provide convenient access to K-pop albums, allowing fans to purchase them from the comfort of their homes.
The Best 13 KPOP Shops in London
1. London Kpop Street: A Must-Visit Hub for KPop Fans
London Kpop Street is a dedicated K-pop shop located in the heart of London. Known for its comprehensive collection of K-pop merchandise, this shop is a treasure trove for fans. You’ll find a wide range of albums, official merchandise, posters, lightsticks, apparel, and more.
Whether you’re looking for the latest BTS album or a BLACKPINK lightstick, London Kpop Street has you covered. Additionally, the store has a user-friendly online shop, allowing fans to easily browse and purchase items from anywhere in the UK.
- Highlights: Rare albums, exclusive merchandise, fan meet-ups, and events.
- Location: 5 Hastings Street, London WC1H 9PZ
- Website: www.londonkpopstreet.co.uk
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/londonkpopstreet
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/London-Kpop-Street
2. H Mart: Where Korean Cuisine Meets K-Pop Merchandise
H Mart is a well-known name among Korean expats and K-pop fans alike. While primarily a Korean grocery store, H Mart also offers an impressive selection of K-pop merchandise, including albums, OSTs from popular K-dramas, and even textbooks for those interested in learning Korean.
It’s a one-stop-shop where you can enjoy Korean snacks while browsing through K-pop albums and merchandise. The store is a unique blend of culture and music, providing a taste of Korea right in the heart of London.
- Highlights: K-pop albums, K-drama soundtracks, Korean snacks, and stationery.
- Location: 115 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T
- Website: hmart.co.uk
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/hmartofficial
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/hmartofficial
3. Oseyo: The Korean Culture and KPop Megastore
Oseyo is one of the largest Korean supermarkets in London, offering much more than just food. In addition to its vast array of Korean snacks, ramen, and groceries, Oseyo has a fully stocked K-pop section.
You’ll find albums from all your favourite K-pop groups, along with official merchandise such as posters, stationery, and plush toys. The store’s ambience is vibrant and welcoming, making it a great place for fans to gather and shop.
It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Korean culture and music.
- Highlights: Extensive K-pop section, Korean groceries, and a cultural experience.
- Location: 158 Camden High Street, London NW1
- Website: oseyo.co.uk
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/oseyouk
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/oseyouk
4. ARTBOX: A Paradise for K-Pop Merchandise and Cute Collectibles
If you’re a fan of all things cute, ARTBOX should be on your list. This store is a haven for pop culture enthusiasts, offering a variety of K-pop merchandise, including BTS tote bags, figurines, keychains, and more.
It also stocks an assortment of adorable Korean stationery, perfect for fans who love to express their fandom in their everyday life. ARTBOX frequently updates its collection with the latest K-pop trends, ensuring there is always something new for visitors to discover.
- Highlights: K-pop-themed gifts, cute stationery, and unique collectables.
- Location: 44-46 Shelton St, London WC2H 9HZ
- Website: www.artbox.co.uk
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/artbox_uk
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ARTBOX.UK
5. PURESEOUL Soho: Korean Beauty and K-Pop Crossover Store
PURESEOUL Soho is the go-to destination for K-beauty enthusiasts, but it also offers something special for K-pop fans. The store carries an exclusive range of skincare and makeup products frequently endorsed by K-pop idols, such as face masks, serums, and cosmetics.
Fans can purchase these items to recreate the looks of their favourite stars. PURESEOUL is particularly popular among those looking to achieve that famous “glass skin” glow, often flaunted by idols.
- Highlights: K-beauty products loved by idols, skincare routines, and K-pop crossover items.
- Location: 70 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0BJ
- Website: pureseoul.co.uk
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/pureseouluk
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/PURESEOULUK
6. YesStyle: Online Haven for K-Pop and K-Beauty Fans
Although YesStyle is primarily an online store, it is a favourite among UK-based K-pop fans looking for authentic Korean items. YesStyle offers a vast range of K-beauty products, fashion inspired by K-pop idols, and accessories.
The website features detailed product descriptions and customer reviews, making it easier for fans to make informed choices. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer the convenience of online shopping.
- Highlights: K-beauty, K-fashion, and online shopping convenience.
- Website: www.yesstyle.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/yesstyle
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/YesStyle
7. KStars U: Dedicated Store for Die-Hard KPop Fans
Located in Soho Square, KStars U is a dedicated K-pop store that offers a wide variety of fan merchandise. From albums and DVDs to photo cards and posters, KStars U has it all.
The shop is known for its extensive collection of products dedicated to various K-pop groups. Whether you’re a fan of newer groups like Stray Kids or long-standing stars like Super Junior, you’re sure to find something here.
- Highlights: Exclusive albums, fan-made items, and group-specific merchandise.
- Location: 19 Soho Square, London W1D 3QN
- Website: kstars.co.uk
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/KStars
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/kstars
8. K-pop K-Shop: Multi-Fandom K-Pop Store
K-pop K-Shop caters to a broad range of fandoms, offering merchandise from multiple K-pop groups.
Whether you’re looking for photo cards of your bias or the latest album release, this shop has a diverse inventory to satisfy all your K-pop cravings. It’s a popular spot for fans who enjoy mingling with other enthusiasts while shopping for their favourite items.
- Highlights: Diverse range of fandom merchandise and community atmosphere.
- Location: 140 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 6DG
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kpopkshop
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/kpopkshop
9. Seoul Plaza: The Korean Shopping Hub with K-Pop Goodies
A well-known name in the Korean community, Seoul Plaza offers a wide variety of Korean goods, including K-pop albums and merchandise.
From the latest album releases to unique K-pop accessories, you can find a wide range of products here. The store is also popular for its Korean food items, making it a great place to enjoy a full cultural experience.
- Highlights: Korean groceries, K-pop merchandise, and a comprehensive shopping experience.
- Location: 126 Maiden Rd, New Malden KT3 6DD
- Website: www.koreafoods.co.uk
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/koreafoodsuk
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/KoreaFoodsUK
10. Forbidden Planet London Megastore: A Pop Culture Treasure Trove
Known for its expansive collection of comics, manga, and other pop culture merchandise, Forbidden Planet also caters to K-pop fans.
The store stocks some K-pop albums, posters, and other merchandise alongside its usual offerings, making it a unique place for fans who appreciate multiple genres of pop culture.
- Highlights: Pop culture diversity, occasional K-pop items, and a unique atmosphere.
- Location: 179 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2H 8JR
- Website: forbiddenplanet.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/forbiddenplanet
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/forbiddenplanetlondon
11. Moomin Shop: Quirky Products for K-Pop Fans
The Moomin Shop may not be a dedicated K-pop store, but its selection of quirky and cute products has captured the hearts of many K-pop fans.
With its unique offerings, including adorable plush toys, stationery, and home decor, this store provides a refreshing change from the usual K-pop merchandise.
It’s a must-visit for fans who love a bit of whimsy and are looking for something different to add to their collection.
- Highlights: Cute and unique products, perfect for gifting or collecting.
- Location: 43 London WC2E 8RF
- Website: shop.moomin.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/moominofficial
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Moomin
12. Seoul Bakery: A Cosy Café for K-Drama and K-Pop Lovers
Seoul Bakery is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a cosy spot that captures the heart of K-drama fans. The café offers a variety of Korean dishes, snacks, and drinks, providing a warm and inviting space for fans to gather.
Its ambience, reminiscent of scenes from popular Korean dramas, makes it a unique experience for fans who want to feel closer to their favourite on-screen moments.
- Highlights: Korean food, K-drama-inspired ambience, and a cosy hangout.
- Location: 14 Great Russell St, London WC1B 3NH
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/seoulbakerylondon
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/seouldabang
13. KPOPPINUK: A Popular Birmingham Destination for K-Pop Fans
While not located in London, KPOPPINUK in Birmingham is a popular store among UK K-pop fans. It offers a wide variety of K-pop albums, photo cards, posters, and other exclusive items.
Many fans in London make the trip to Birmingham just to visit this store, which is known for its friendly staff and impressive inventory.
- Highlights: Extensive merchandise range, friendly service, and a dedicated fan community.
- Location: 119 Floodgate St, Deritend, Birmingham B5 5SU
- Website: kpoppinuk.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/kpoppinuk/
Conclusion
With a growing interest in Korean pop culture, London has become a hub for K-pop enthusiasts, offering a variety of shops catering to all tastes. From dedicated K-pop stores to Korean supermarkets with a twist, the city has something for every fan.
Whether you’re hunting for the latest album release, seeking exclusive merchandise, or wanting to enjoy a taste of Korean culture, these shops provide the ultimate experience for K-pop lovers.
So, next time you’re in London, be sure to visit these top spots and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of K-pop right in the heart of the UK!
FAQ Section
What is the best K-pop shop in London?
The best K-pop shop in London depends on what you’re looking for. For a wide selection of merchandise, London Kpop Street and KStars U are highly recommended.
Where can I find exclusive BTS merchandise in London?
ARTBOX and BTS Haven specialize in exclusive BTS merchandise, from tote bags to figurines.
Do these K-pop shops offer online shopping?
Yes, many of these shops, like London Kpop Street and YesStyle, offer online shopping for convenience.
Are there any stores dedicated to specific K-pop bands?
KStars U and EXOclusive focus heavily on merchandise for specific K-pop groups.
What are the price ranges for K-pop merchandise in London?
Prices vary depending on the store and the merchandise. Albums typically range from £10 to £30, while other items like photocards or posters may be less expensive.
Which K-pop shops have the best customer service?
London Kpop Street and KStars U are known for their friendly staff and excellent customer service.
How often do these shops get new K-pop merchandise?
Most of these stores, like Seoul Plaza and H Mart, regularly update their stock with new K-pop merchandise.