Residents in Seoul are increasingly using cafeterias located inside underground subway stations to find affordable, hearty meals [1].
This shift in dining habits highlights the growing financial pressure on urban workers and commuters. As the cost of living increases, these subsidized or low-cost transit hubs have become essential resources for those seeking to maintain a balanced diet without overspending.
These cafeterias provide full meals for less than 10,000 won, which is approximately $6.72 [1]. By integrating dining options directly into the transit infrastructure, the city allows commuters to save time and money during their daily journeys.
Rising food prices across the city are pushing residents to seek out more cost-efficient options [1]. While traditional restaurants in commercial districts often raise prices to match inflation, the subway station cafeterias maintain a lower price point to serve the public.
Commuters utilize these spaces not only for the affordability but also for the convenience of eating during their transit. The availability of these meals ensures that those with limited budgets can still access substantial food options while navigating the city's extensive rail network [1].
“Seoul commuters are turning to inexpensive cafeterias inside subway stations.”
The reliance on transit-based dining reflects a broader economic trend where public infrastructure is being leveraged to mitigate the impact of inflation on the working class. As food insecurity and cost-of-living crises intensify in urban centers, the transition of subway stations from simple transit points to essential service hubs may become a permanent fixture of Seoul's urban planning.
