Hongdae

Hongdae, The Hongik University neighborhood is the center of Korea's indie culture. It can be compared to Lisbon's 'Bairro Alto' as it is one of the only places in Seoul where you'll find street art.

The artistic spirit can be found everywhere in Hongdae - in its unique specialty shops, affordable restaurants and cafés, street art, its distinctive club culture and it is sure to catch your eyes.

This is an interesting cultural area rich in history. From 1990, club culture in Seoul has evolved from spot to spot, becoming an icon of youth culture. Hongdae is the perfect example of this evolution as everywhere you go, you will see creativity and experimental art and music in the many spaces, cafes, underground clubs and open spots in Hongdae, like the Hongdae Playground, famous among locals and international travelers and students. On the weekends, this place is full of young people looking to have a good time in its many clubs and bars and you will see performances of local amateur bands being held in the playgrounds or vacant lots. Hongik University is famous for its College of Fine Arts, and this is one of the reasons why it has developed into an area for young people with unique senses. If you want an unusual, snazzy shopping experience, Hongdae is the answer. Flooded with unique fashion items, Hongdae streets are lined with characterful shops offering eccentric fashion items.

On the second and last Fridays of every month, Hongdae turns into 'Sound Day' and 'Club Night', both special nights of playfulness. 'Sound Day' features live performances by rock bands and well known DJ's at the ten clubs involved. This allows you to pick the performances that best suit your taste. 'Club Day' will give you access to all the participating clubs in Hongdae for the price of one. The music on Club Day is not live performances but club music. Among the two, 'Club Day' is the most well known and it is popular, so expect the streets to be flooded with young people scurrying in and out of club after club and conversing on the streets and alleys until dawn.

Local Tip!

Hongdae is full of entertainment spots, but if you want to try something different, we suggest visiting the 'Prince Edward Noraebang', a popular karaoke place in the middle of Hongdae. Despite the somewhat tacky name, it's a really cool place, famous for its rooftop terrace with a giant patio where you can enjoy amazing views of all of Hongik University area and surrounding areas!