Nightlife in Korea

As Korea's capital and largest city, Seoul (서울) has a vibrant nightlife with something to offer for everyone. The city pulsates and thrives in a variety of nighttime activities and many who visit remark that it is amply named; there is plenty of soul in Seoul.

Mixing and mingling in Itaewon or Hongdae offers a plethora of opportunities to experience nightlife in Korea. These two areas serve up a lively dose of tourists and are good options for people looking for a taste of home. 

Itaewon

Itaewon (이태원동;梨泰原洞) is known for its Western style pubs and nightclubs, and has a number of 'juice bars' where men go to buy scantily clad waitresses over-priced and watered-down drinks. This section of town is also home to the infamous area known as 'Hooker Hill'.

Hongdae

Found to the northwest of central Seoul, Hongdae (홍대;弘大) takes its name from Hongik University (홍익대학교;弘益大學校), South Korea's foremost art school. The area is perhaps a bit more refined and progressive than Itaewon and caters to a young, savvy, and hip crowd. It has a thriving underground music scene with clubs showcasing live bands on the weekends, and a multitude of noraebang (kareoke rooms), DVD bang (private movie rooms), and pool halls. The most popular attraction of Hongdae is its monthly 'Club Day', where purchasing a pass will give you all-night access to many of the area's venues.

Gangnam Station

If you want to see how the locals enjoy the nightlife in Seoul head to Gangnam Station (강남역;江南驛). This fun area is not as touristy as Itaewon or Hongdae and is one of the most popular nightspots for Koreans. You can find many singing rooms, drinking establishments, restaurants, and other places to spend the night away. With every brand name store you can think of, Gangnam is also a shopper's paradise.

Apgujeong

Along with Gangnam, Apgujeong (압구정;押鷗亭) offers Korean style clubs where you are seated at tables, served drinks, and are expected to order anju (안주;按酒), or side dishes to have with your drinks. These venues are usually more upscale establishments which is reflected in the prices and dress code - no casual attire.

Donggaemun

If clubbing and boozing aren't your thing you may want to head over the Donggaemun (동대문;東大門) for some shopping. The market opens at 10:30 and closes at an astounding 5:00am - a dream for any shopoholic. Dongdaemun boasts an impressive selection of handbags, shoes, trendy clothes and home goods, all to be bargained for an purchased while loud pop musics blares in the background.

Noraebang

Hop into one of Seoul's many noraebang (노래방)for a more personalized experience. Koreans love to sing so check out one of these private singing rooms for a true Korean experience. This popular pastime offers the latest and hottest Korean songs as well as a limited number of foreign songs. If you really want to impress you hosts, learn a Korean song or three and enjoy feeling like a true star.