Lightweight blue-light frames at 007 Optical, a Namdaemun optician

Where is 007 Optical, Namdaemun Market's go-to glasses shop?

007 Optical is a glasses shop on the first floor of Sangdong Church at 30 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, open 09:00–19:00. I hadn't been to Namdaemun Market in a while, and this time it wasn't just a market trip — my sister, who's visiting from Australia for a short while, needed new glasses, so we swung by the optician together.

Turns out Namdaemun glasses shops are actually really famous as a go-to destination for eyewear? I guess I was the only one who didn't know haha.

The place we visited was 007 Optical. There was a sign that said something like "The best choice! Prices that make you smile," and apparently actress Sunwoo Yong-nyeo had been there too, so we got curious and walked in.

Even though it was a weekday, there were quite a few people inside the shop. Seeing the steady stream of customers, I figured there must be a reason it's known as one of Namdaemun's go-to glasses spots haha.

007 Optical, where Sunwoo Yong-nyeo has been a customer

How big is the frame selection at 007 Optical?

007 Optical carries everything from thick horn-rimmed frames to rimless ones, in all kinds of colors, so it takes a while to pick. The staff greeted us kindly right away, which made browsing easy. The problem was... there were just too many glasses haha.

From horn-rimmed to rimless, the variety and colors were so extensive that choosing took real time.

My sister and I kept going 'try this one!' 'try this one too!', putting frames on each other and checking the mirror, seriously debating which suited her better.

Glasses go right on your face, so actually trying them on matters way more than just looking at photos or eyeing them from afar. We ended up thoroughly absorbed in frame-picking that day haha.

The waiting area with coffee and drinks

One corner of 007 Optical had a space set up for coffee or drinks. It was nice to sit down for a bit while waiting for the eye exam or for the glasses to be made. What was meant to be a quick glasses errand ended up eating more time than expected haha.

Why we picked a lightweight blue-light-blocking frame

My sister wanted glasses that were both blue-light-blocking and lightweight this time. So instead of anything too heavy or thick, we looked for something light and comfortable to wear. After trying on a bunch, we narrowed it down to about three final options haha.

Turns out light-colored frames — a bit grayish or pinkish — suited her much better than solid black ones!

Eye exam and progressive lens consultation at 007 Optical

Right after picking the frame, it was time for an eye exam! At 007 Optical, once you choose the design, you head straight into the exam room. It had been a while since my last eye test, and they checked everything thoroughly.

The equipment these days is really something haha. Compared to when I last got glasses, the whole exam process felt a lot more advanced — the world really has moved on. They walked us through everything step by step, from the basic vision test to explaining whatever we needed to know.

For anyone looking into lenses like progressive multifocal lenses especially, it's important to choose one that fits your eye condition and lifestyle, so I'd really recommend going through this kind of thorough exam and consultation!

Wait, the glasses are ready in 30 minutes?

Are Namdaemun glasses really ready in 30 minutes?

At 007 Optical, we were told the glasses could be ready in about 30 minutes. Honestly, I assumed that after picking the frame and doing the exam, it would take a few days. At most neighborhood opticians, it's usually "we'll process it, come back in a few days."

So since my sister's trip to Korea was short, I worried we'd have to wait around for days after ordering. But nope??? They said about 30 minutes would do it! We wandered around the market for a bit, went back to pick them up, and there they were, finished. Genuinely fast!!!

At first I thought the shop was just busy because it's famous, but thinking about it more, with that many customers, they've clearly got the making and processing down to a fast, smooth routine. Having the glasses finished by the time we were done browsing the market felt like a real time-saver haha. This is especially a big plus for anyone in Korea for a short trip, like travel or work.

Namdaemun really is a go-to place for glasses

Who is 007 Optical best for?

If you're looking to get new glasses, searching for a go-to Namdaemun eyewear spot, or want a consultation on progressive multifocal lenses or blue-light-blocking lenses tailored to you, 007 Optical is worth a stop.

• Super friendly
• Decent prices
• Wide variety
• Fast turnaround

With that combination, I think I'll head back to Namdaemun the next time I need glasses :)