Seoul’s Hongdae neighborhood is filled with coffee shops dedicated to celebrating the birthdays of K-pop idols. Fans share what makes them so special — even if the guest of honor never shows up.
In Seoul's Hongdae district, ordinary coffee shops transform into elaborate birthday celebrations for K-pop idols.
Fans organize these events months in advance, designing custom merchandise and decorating venues to create communal gathering spaces.
The phenomenon has expanded beyond K-pop to honor actors, athletes and even religious figures like Buddha.
AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor.
Seoul, South Korea —
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Staff members hang wish notes on lanterns at Jogye Temple in central Seoul, Sunday, marking Buddha's Birthday. Yonhap
