Enjoy a Night Out Like a Local: Outdoor Drinks & Food in Seoul

Wondering how to enjoy a night out like a local in Seoul? Then, you’ve come to the right place. If you thought Seoul was wonderful during the daytime, wait until the sun goes down. The city transforms into a playground for nightlife enthusiasts who enjoy clubbing and partying late into the night. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet night with delicious Korean food or get rowdy and wild on the dancefloor, Seoul’s nightlife will remain a memorable experience for anyone. And here we will guide you through the city’s vibrant night scene.

🌃 Where To Go In Seoul At Night?

Regarding Seoul nightlife, two areas stand out the most: Hongdae and Itaewon. Both neighborhoods offer unique nightlife experiences, making them top spots among locals and foreigners.

Hongdae – Vibrant, Youthful, Diverse

Most of us have likely heard about the Hongdae boys. They refer to the men who usually seek out foreign women for a casual hookup. Keeping aside the prejudice against these guys, Hongdae symbolizes their open-minded and youthful energy. This, in turn, has attracted a more diverse, progressive crowd to the neighborhood. Visitors usually come here to try relatively open and alternative nightlife experiences. They can choose from myriad options, including casual pochas, cocktail bars, pubs, and clubs with specific music genres. We would also like to remind you that Hongdae boys are only part of the shady aspect of the area, not the general atmosphere.

Itaewon – International Vibe, Trendy, Diverse

Foreigners looking for a nightlife experience in Seoul should visit Itaewon. It is known for its international atmosphere, making it a welcoming space for tourists seeking a vibrant, multicultural night out. If you are into pub crawls or bar-hopping, this district is your go-to destination. Also, did we mention that the area houses many international restaurants? Delicious culinary offerings from around the globe will only be a fingertip away.

✨ Also Read: Best 15 Restaurants & Bars in Itaewon, Seoul

Gangnam – A Rising District In The Nightlife Scene

While Hongdae and Itaewon are highly popularized nightlife destinations, only a few have experienced Gangnam‘s charm. This district is known for its youthful vibe and upscale experience. It is a hub for posh, luxurious, and multi-leveled nightclubs, where partying might exceed your budget. Also, these late-night establishments require attendees to dress appropriately. Men should opt for shirts and long jeans, while women can wear form-fitting dresses with heels.

✨ Also Read: Best Restaurants in Gangnam

Luggage Storage Services in Seoul Banner

💸 How Much Is A Night Out In Seoul?

Seoul Nightlife Cost — Nightlife in Seoul is more affordable than you think.

Great news for Seoul visitors! A night out in the city doesn’t have to be dramatically expensive. You can find many budget-friendly pubs, bars, and clubs that won’t drain your wallet. First thing, you need to do is choose affordable areas. For instance, Hongdae is way more budget-friendly compared to Gangnam. Second, always look for deals. Choose nightclubs with free entry or ones that offer wristbands for re-entry. While booking pub crawls, choose the experience that provides the most for a low rate.

To save money, you should opt for public transportation or ride-sharing apps. A shared taxi ride can cost anywhere from ₩20,000 to ₩25,000. Likewise, nightclubs’ charges vary, but you can find options for ₩30,000 and even lower. Expect to pay ₩5,000 to ₩14,000 for drinks, while food costs can range from ₩8,000 to ₩40,000 per person.

Discover The Best Things To Do At Night In Seoul

🍸 Best Bars In Seoul For Foreigners

Glam Lounge

📍 26 Itaewon-ro 27ga-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
🚇 Take the Seoul Subway Line 6 to Itaewon Station, then follow navigation apps to reach the lounge.
🕒 7 PM – 3 AM
🌐 https://www.districtglam.com/
☎️ +82 2-796-6853

We begin our list with Glam Lounge, located in the heart of Seoul’s international district, Itaewon. Its location alone might have hinted that this lounge is ideal for foreigners. The establishment features fluent English-speaking staff who will cater to visitors’ needs throughout their stay. Speaking of ambiance, its stylish design with vintage-looking arched windows offers a mix of modern and magnificent atmosphere. The experience only gets better with Glam Lounge’s Asian-inspired tapas paired with Glam-special cocktails.

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Blacklist

📍 134 3F Itaewon-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
🚇 Use the Seoul subway and get off at Itaewon Station. Walk to 36 Bokwangro59-gil Street, the lounge is on the 3rd floor.
🕒 6 PM – 1 AM
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/blacklist.seoul/
☎️ +82 2-790-2040

Relax with a cocktail at Blacklist. This cozy cocktail bar is in the heart of Itaewon and is a must-visit for those seeking classic craft cocktails. It also serves local premium beer, wines, and other spirits. The establishment is renowned for its cozy lounge/bar atmosphere and is super-friendly to foreigners. You can choose from indoor or rooftop seating and enjoy great food and drinks.

Magpie Brewshop

📍 244-1 Noksapyeong-daero, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
🚇 Take Seoul Subway Line 6 to Noksapyeong Station, then walk towards the brewery.
🕒 5 PM – 11 PM
🌐 http://www.magpiebrewing.com/
☎️ +82 2-749-2703

Did you know Magpie Brewing Co. was first launched in Seoul? While many are more familiar with its Jeju location, it initially started in a quiet alley in Seoul. Four friends launched Magpie in 2011 with a mission to spread great beer and craft beer culture across the country. The mission proved successful, and soon Magpie became one of the most famous craft breweries in Korea. It uses interesting ingredients and flavor combinations to create its signature beers. Tour the Magpie Brewshop and try its pale ale and seasonal brews.

Thursday Party

📍 407-12 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
🚇 Take the Seoul Subway Line 2 to the Hongdae University Station, then use navigation apps to locate the bar.
🕒 7 PM – 3:30 AM
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/thursdayparty.official/
☎️ +82 2-322-0063

Every night is a party night at Thursday Party. This Seoul bar is known for its welcoming vibe towards foreigners, leading it to draw a diverse crowd. You can mingle with locals or tourists while enjoying cocktails and finger food. The venue also offers a variety of fun activities, such as beer pong, darts, and table football. You can communicate more easily while enjoying these games. Tip: Visit during weekdays; the bar gets super crowded during weekends and Thursdays.

포차플러팅 Pocha Flirting

📍 4th and 5th floors, 3 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
🚗 No Parking Available
🕒 5 PM to 6 AM
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/pocha_flirting/
☎️ 0507-1332-1473

Have you ever heard of a hunting pub? It refers to bars where singles approach others to mingle and share a drink. Pocha Flirting is an iconic hunting pub in Hongdae. The establishment is primarily popular among youths who want to socialize and connect with locals or tourists. While foreigners might face a slight language barrier, it will be a perfect opportunity to practice their Korean language skills. Get out of your comfort zone, share a drink, and socialize with locals here.

✨ Also Read: Most Popular Hunting Pubs in Hongdae, Seoul

🪩Top Night Clubs In Hongdae For Foreigners

퍼시픽 PACIFIC

📍 South Korea, 지하1층 6 KR 서울특별시 마포구 잔다리로
🚌 Walk or use public transportation to access the club. It is on the Basement 1st floor, in Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu.
🕒 10 PM – 5 AM
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/pacific_hongdae_live/
☎️ +82 10-8831-3753

Experience Hongdae’s vibrant nightlife at Club Pacific. It is a must-visit for club-goers who enjoy dancing to hip-hop music. Foreigners can expect a welcoming atmosphere since the staff have been said to be courteous to all. Another charming thing about this place is its live music performances. The food and drinks are also top-notch.

✨ Also Read: Best Clubs in Seoul – Hongdae, Gangnam, and Itaewon

Club NB2

📍 79 Wausan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
🚇 Take Line 6 to Sangsu Station, use Exit 2, and walk towards the club’s address.
🕒 12-5:30 AM, 10 PM – 12 AM
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/clubnb_official
☎️ +82 10-8744-8213

Are you into old school hip-hop? Then, Club NB2 is your destination. This Hongdae nightclub is known for its diverse music selection, including hip-hop and American pop hits. It is pretty affordable for tourists. The entrance fee covers access to both NB1 and NB2 clubs, plus one complimentary drink. Expect a lively atmosphere, hip-hop music, and a crowded scene.

International Club

📍 South Korea, Seoul, Mapo-gu, 서교동 번지 지하 407-24 1층
🚌 Take the Green Line to Hongik University Station or the Brown Line to Sangsu Station. Upon your arrival in Hongdae, follow the navigation apps to locate the club.
🕒 9 PM – 10 AM
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/international_club_offi/
☎️ +82 2-3141-4148

What could attract international crowds more than an International Club? This is a must-visit for foreigners who can’t speak Korean. Expect a lively atmosphere with hip-hop and pop music blasting from the speakers. This club caters more towards a young crowd, with club-goers usually being under 29. The entry is free, so expect long lines outside the establishment. Tip: Come early to the queue.

Club B1

📍 407-3 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
🚌 Take the public transportation to Hongdae, then walk towards the venue.
🕒 12-8 AM, 10 AM – 12 AM
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/b1_hongdae/

Next, Club B1 is among the best nightclubs in Hongdae for foreigners. It features a lively atmosphere with locals and tourists vibing to music every night. It is also open till early morning, giving visitors all night to party and have fun. Expect electrifying music, good food and drinks, mixed crowds, and a foreigner-friendly atmosphere. Don’t let the reviews cloud your judgment, and experience the Club B1 by yourself.

A:tension

📍 11 B1 Wausan-ro 17-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
🚌 Take the public transportation, then follow the navigation app to locate the club.
🕒 12-8 AM, 10 PM – 12 AM
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/atension/
☎️ +82 10-7226-4109

Dance the night away at A:Tension. This Hongdae nightclub is known for its energetic atmosphere and diverse music choices. DJs primarily play R&B and Hip-Hop hits, creating a party atmosphere throughout the night. Bust moves on the dancefloor, mingle with locals, enjoy great drinks, and create memorable memories in Hongdae’s hottest club.

🍜 Must-Visit Dinner Restaurants In Seoul

Clubbing and bar hopping are only a part of how you can enjoy a night out like a local in Seoul. Those who are not into a rowdy atmosphere and wild activities can spend their evening enjoying the city’s culinary offerings. Dinner in Seoul is a sumptuous experience with hundreds of options available. Whether you are in the mood for a romantic candlelit dinner or want a Michelin-star dining experience, the city is a heaven for foodies. Here we have listed some renowned restaurants in Seoul perfect for a memorable dinner experience:

Romantic Restaurants in Seoul	Michelin-starred Restaurants in Seoul	Korean Barbecue Restaurants in Seoul
Walking On The Cloud	L’Amant Secret	Hanam Dwaeji Jib
Bicena	Balwoo Gongyang	Saemaeul Sikdang
Mingles	Myeongdong Kyoja	Yuktongryeong
Jungsik Seoul	Alla Prima	Daedo
Moss Garden (Good Samaritan Recipes)	Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul	Nongol House

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🍗🍺 Street Restaurants in Euljiro & Jongno

While discussing Seoul’s rich culinary scene, we can’t miss the Euljiro and Jongno areas. They are a must-visit for street food hunting and experiencing authentic local eateries. Euljiro Nogari Alley, is a praticularly a prime spot for locals to gather for late-night drinks and drinks. On the other hand, Jongno area is known for its abundant pochas and street food stalls. Enjoy late-night snacks with a cold beer or soju when you visit these areas. Here are some renowned street restaurants with their popular menus in Euljiro and Jongno areas which locals love:

Hipjiro: Garlic-crusted fried chicken with beer; Official Instagram
Pungnam Original Golbaengi: Spicy sea snail salad with beer; Located in Golbaengi Alley in Euljiro
Manseon Hof: Chewy dried pollack with beer; Google Map
Munhwaok: Seolleongtang famous among elderly locals; Located near Euljiro 4-ga Station
Jongno 3-ga Stall Alley: Two rows of food stalls serve beloved Korean street foods, such as tteokbokki, kimchi jeon, sundae stir-fry, and tempura.
Bossam Alley: Boiled thick bossam (pork) served with sweet and sour shredded radish and side dishes
Agwijjim Alley: Spicy angler fish stew served with hot sauce and crispy bean sprouts

🙅‍♀️ Things Not To Do For Seoul Nightlife Enthusiasts

Seoul Nightlife Things Not To Do — Certain activities are frowned upon if you are having a night out in Seoul.

First-time visitors are usually curious about many aspects of nightlife. For instance, you might ask whether Seoul nightlife is safe for tourists or if it is ok to walk around the city at night. The answer is a big yes! You can enjoy night activities without worrying about your safety. Seoul is also one of the safest travel destinations for females. That said, you must follow basic precautions while visiting bars or nightclubs. Also, here are some of the things to avoid while enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife scene:

Public Displays of Affection: Try to avoid PDAs, especially in traditional areas.
Excessive Public Intoxication: Always know your limit while you are out drinking.
Unspoken Rules: Be aware of any potential unspoken rules or customs, especially for foreign visitors.
Ignoring Personal Safety: Be mindful of your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.
Neglecting Basic Precautions: Things like accepting drinks from strangers, overindulging in alcohol, trusting everyone you meet, and leaving your drinks unsupervised.
Walking Alone in Dark Areas: Always stick to well-lit and crowded streets, especially if you are alone.
Taking Unlicensed Taxis: It’s best to use reliable ride-sharing apps like Kakao Taxi or reputable taxi services to avoid potential scams.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Things To Do In Seoul At Night

The night culture in Korea, primarily Seoul, is more than bar hopping and clubbing; it also consists of bustling food streets, late-night establishments, and unique nighttime experiences. And the best part? Even families with little children can enjoy a night out like a local in Seoul. Here are the top night activities in Seoul to enjoy with your family:

Eat your way through Dongdaemun Night Market: A must-visit spot for shoppers and foodies.
Explore the Myeongdong Night Market: Latest Korean fashion trends, mouthwatering street food, and live street performances!
Climb the Namsan Tower: Unobstructed nighttime views, bright city lights, and more!
Visit Seoul Castles at night: Watch the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces lit up with lights and lamps.
Enjoy a Spa night: Book a soothing massage or therapeutic body treatments.
Stuff your belly with street food: Sweet and spicy tteokbokki, deep-fried Twigim, hearty gimbap, grilled Dakkochi, meaty Sotteok Sotteok, and more!

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And now you are all set for a memorable night out in Seoul. Enjoy your time throughly while exploring the city’s diverse nightlife options. That said, don’t disturb others with your actions. Drink alcohol but know your limit, and pay attention to your safety.

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