If you’re a BTS fan planning a trip to Busan, make sure to add this special café to your itinerary: ZM-illennial Cafe, also known as Jimin’s dad’s cafe.
But here’s something important if you’re planning to visit: ZM-illennial announced on November 1, 2026, that it has 365 days remaining before it closes. If visiting this café has been on your bucket list, you may want to consider including it in your next Busan trip rather than putting it off indefinitely.
I got the opportunity to visit it during the BTS Arirang Tour in Busan. I was hoping we could hang out and have coffee, but as expected during the BTS concert, the place was packed with long lines.
Here’s what you need to know about ZM-illennial Cafe, including its history, location, what to expect inside, and practical tips for planning your visit.
What Is ZM-illennial Cafe in Busan?
ZM-illennial is a café and bakery in Nam-gu, Busan, operated by the father of BTS member Jimin.
Previously known as MAGNATE, the café opened in 2019 and became popular among international BTS fans because of its connection to Jimin. In August 2024, it adopted its current name, ZM-illennial.
The café has become a gathering place for ARMYs visiting Busan, with displays of Jimin-related artwork, BTS memorabilia, and gifts and messages from fans around the world.
What makes the experience special is the mix of an actual café and a space where fans can celebrate their connection to BTS. You can enjoy a drink, look around, appreciate the fan contributions, and see how people from different countries have made the effort to visit.
Why Is ZM-illennial Called Jimin’s Dad’s Cafe?
Jimin, whose full name is Park Jimin, is a member of BTS and grew up in Busan.
His father operates ZM-illennial, which is why the café is commonly referred to by fans as Jimin’s dad’s cafe or Jimin’s father’s café in Busan.
The connection has made it a popular stop on BTS-themed travel itineraries. Fans visit not only because of Jimin’s hometown connection but also because the café displays memorabilia and artwork associated with him.
ZM-illennial is a family-operated business, not an official BTS attraction or a company-operated fan museum. So it is important to remember to respect the privacy of the people working there.
What to Expect Inside ZM-illennial Cafe
One thing that makes ZM-illennial different from an ordinary themed café is its spacious interior.
The café has an industrial-inspired look, with a large open space that gives visitors room to sit, enjoy their orders, and explore the displays.
Here are some things ARMYs can look forward to.
1. BTS and Jimin Memorabilia
Naturally, this is one of the main reasons fans make the trip.
Inside the café, you’ll find BTS-related memorabilia, Jimin artwork, and items celebrating his achievements. There are also signed albums and awards on display.
2. Messages and Gifts From ARMYs
One of the most touching aspects of the café is seeing messages and gifts left by fans.
Visitors can leave messages in the guestbook, creating a collection of personal notes from ARMYs who have travelled from different countries.
It’s a lovely reminder that BTS has brought together people who might otherwise never have crossed paths. I love that they kept all the gifts and showcased them inside the cafe (it is a very Jimin thing to do).
3. A Spacious Café and Bakery
Even if you’re travelling with someone who isn’t an ARMY, there’s still a reason to stop by.
ZM-illennial operates as a café and bakery, serving coffee, specialty drinks, pastries, and cakes. Interestingly, there are days when Papa Park (Jimin’s dad) would be in the cafe to help with the cafe.
Some visitor recommendations mention items such as salt bread, sweet potato bread, and cakes. However, menu selections and availability can change, so check what’s being served when you arrive.
During our visit, there was a long queue to the cafe, so I wasn’t able to try their drinks and offerings. I am hoping to come back soonest. We were able to check out the cafe, and I love the collection of Andy Warhol paintings (my friend said that Jimin’s dad is a fan of the artist).
4. A Chance to Meet Jimin’s Father
Another reason the café has become meaningful to fans is the possibility of meeting Jimin’s father.
Some visitors have shared experiences of being warmly greeted by him during their visit. However, this isn’t something you should expect or plan your trip around.
If you happen to meet him, a polite greeting and a simple thank-you are more than enough. Always respect his privacy and ask permission before taking photographs.
ZM-illennial Cafe Location and How to Get There
Planning your route ahead of time will make your visit easier, especially if you’re exploring Busan using public transportation.
ZM-illennial Cafe address:
135 Jinnam-ro, Nam-gu, Busan, South Korea
1F, Building B
The café is located in the Daeyeon-dong area of Nam-gu.
How to Get to ZM-illennial Cafe by Subway
One convenient option is to take Busan Subway Line 2 and get off at Motgol Station.
From Motgol Station, the café is approximately a 13–15-minute walk, depending on your route and walking pace.
For navigation, I recommend using Naver Map or KakaoMap rather than relying exclusively on Google Maps. These local navigation apps are particularly useful when travelling around South Korea.
Search for:
- ZM-illennial
- 지밀레니얼
- 부산 남구 진남로 135
You can save the location before leaving your hotel so you can access it easily during your trip.
Should You Take a Taxi or Uber?
If you’re travelling with family, carrying shopping bags, or visiting several BTS-related locations in one day, taking a taxi may be more convenient.
You can show the driver the Korean address:
부산 남구 진남로 135
For international visitors, having the address saved on your phone is helpful in case there is a language barrier.
ZM-illennial Cafe Address and Opening Hours
ZM-illennial
135 Jinnam-ro, Nam-gu, Busan
Important: Online listings have shown operating hours around 10:00 AM to 9:50 PM or 10:00 PM, but I recommend confirming the current schedule through the café’s official social media before visiting.
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zmillennial_cafe/
Important Update: ZM-illennial Cafe Announces Closure in 365 Days
This is particularly important for anyone planning a future Busan trip.
On November 1, 2026, ZM-illennial shared an announcement on its official social media account stating:
“ZM-illennial D-365”
The café explained that it had 365 days left to spend with its visitors and thanked everyone who had visited, supported, and cherished the café over the years.
For ARMYs, this is undoubtedly bittersweet news. The café has welcomed fans travelling from different parts of the world and has become one of the places associated with Jimin’s hometown.
If visiting Jimin’s dad’s café has been on your Busan bucket list, this is a good time to start planning. Based on the announcement, the café intends to continue welcoming visitors during its remaining operating period.
Tips for Visiting Jimin’s Dad’s Cafe in Busan
If you’re including ZM-illennial in your BTS travel itinerary, here are some practical tips to make the most of your visit.
1. Check the Café’s Official Instagram Before Going
This should be your first step, especially following the closure announcement.
Check for updated operating hours, temporary closures, menu information, and other visitor announcements. It’s better to confirm before making a special trip across Busan.
2. Visit During a Less Busy Time
If you prefer a more relaxed café experience, consider visiting on a weekday rather than during weekends or major BTS-related celebrations.
Crowds may also increase around Jimin’s birthday and other significant BTS dates. If you want time to appreciate the displays and enjoy your coffee, plan accordingly.
3. Bring Cash and a Payment Alternative
South Korea is generally convenient for cashless transactions, but it’s still sensible to have a backup payment option when travelling.
Bring a small amount of Korean won and a payment card that works internationally. Check the accepted payment methods at the café when ordering.
4. Be Respectful of the Staff and Other Visitors
Remember that ZM-illennial is a working business.
Order something, follow the café’s house rules, and avoid blocking walkways while taking photos. If you see Jimin’s father or other staff members, don’t assume they’re available for photographs or conversations.
A little consideration goes a long way.
5. Allow Time to Enjoy the Experience
Don’t rush through the café just to take pictures.
Look at the fan contributions, read some of the messages, enjoy your order, and appreciate the fact that people from different parts of the world have gathered in one place because of their love for BTS.
That’s part of what makes this visit memorable.
Is ZM-illennial Cafe Worth Visiting for BTS ARMY?
If you’re an ARMY visiting Busan, ZM-illennial is worth considering, especially if you enjoy visiting places connected to BTS members.
What makes it interesting isn’t just the fact that Jimin’s father operates the café. It’s also the atmosphere created by the memorabilia, artwork, and messages left by fans.
It’s a different kind of travel experience. You’re not visiting a concert venue or a famous tourist attraction. You’re stopping by a café that has become meaningful to an international community.
Even if you’re not a BTS fan, you can still appreciate the café as a spacious place to enjoy coffee and pastries.
For ARMYs, however, the experience carries an added layer of meaning.
And with the planned closure announced for 2027, this is a destination worth prioritizing if it’s already on your travel wish list.
Frequently Asked Questions About ZM-illennial Cafe
1. Where is Jimin’s dad’s cafe in Busan?
ZM-illennial Cafe is located at 135 Jinnam-ro, Nam-gu, Busan, South Korea. It is approximately a 13–15-minute walk from Motgol Station on Busan Subway Line 2.
2. Is ZM-illennial the same as MAGNATE?
ZM-illennial is the current name of the café that originally opened as MAGNATE in 2019. It changed its name in August 2024. Note that the new Magnate Cafe is not associated to the ZM-illennial.
3. Is Jimin’s father the owner of ZM-illennial Cafe?
Jimin’s father operates the café, which has become a popular destination for BTS fans visiting Busan. Visitors have also shared experiences of meeting and being greeted by him, although his presence is not guaranteed.
4. Is ZM-illennial Cafe closing?
Yes. On November 1, 2026, the café announced that it had 365 days remaining before it would close. The reason for the planned closure was not disclosed in the announcement. Check its official Instagram for updates before your visit.
5. Can non-BTS fans visit ZM-illennial Cafe?
Yes. ZM-illennial is a café and bakery, so you don’t have to be a BTS fan to visit. You can enjoy its food and drinks while appreciating the spacious interior. However, much of its appeal for international visitors comes from its connection to Jimin and BTS.
Add ZM-illennial to Your Busan Travel Bucket List
Travelling to Busan offers plenty of opportunities to discover a different side of South Korea, from its coastal attractions and local food to the places that hold special meaning for BTS fans.
For ARMYs, visiting ZM-illennial Cafe is one way to experience a little piece of Jimin’s hometown connection while appreciating the community that BTS has built around the world.
The planned closure makes this visit even more time-sensitive. If you’ve always wanted to see Jimin’s dad’s café, consider adding it to your itinerary while it is still welcoming visitors.
Have you visited ZM-illennial Cafe in Busan? Share your experience in the comments, or save this guide for your next South Korea trip. And if you’re planning a BTS-themed itinerary, don’t forget to explore more BTS-related places in Busan and Seoul!
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