Seoul at Night | 27 Amazing Things for Insomniacs to do After Dark
Seoul is a city that wakes up late. She’s groggy, confused and wearing last night’s make-up. She gets up grudgingly, desperate for an iced americano fix – slave to the monotonous schedule of a city full of workaholics that lays before her.
Why? Because Seoul at night is a pulsing, breathing, living thing of beauty full of sparkly lights, noisy restaurants and crowds of people. She literally never goes to sleep, and the options are endless.
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In this guide
- 1 What to do in Seoul at Night?
- 2 Unique Things to do in Seoul at Night
- 3 Essential Day Tours from Seoul
- 4 Seoul at Night | Korean Palaces
- 5 Planning a trip to Korea?
- 6 Seoul at Night | Night Markets
- 7 Go hiking in Seoul at night
- 8 Seoul at Night | Hangang Parks
- 9 Seoul at Night | Best Night Tours
- 10 Best Night Views of Seoul
- 11 Seoul at Night | Explore Dongdaemun
- 12 Seoul at Night | Low-key Seoul Nightlife
- 13 Seoul Nightlife
What to do in Seoul at Night?
Seoul’s nightlife is legendary because it’s one of the world’s only true 24 hour cities. From buzzing night markets, to massive clubs, to late night nature jaunts, you’ll have an absolute blast discovering just how much there is to do in Seoul at night.
To get you started, here are 21 places to go in Seoul after dark – from insomniac travel bloggers who love the city, and night owl expats that call her home.
Unique Things to do in Seoul at Night
There are some fantastic experiences that are unique to Korea. While these activities can also be done during the day time, I’ve found the atmosphere more interesting at night in Seoul, so make sure you check them out.
There are also a number of wonderful festivals that mostly take place after dark. I’ll highlight a few of these here, but there are SO many more. For a full rundown of events all over South Korea, be sure to read my monthly guides.
Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream
Cheonggyecheon Stream used to be an ugly elevated highway, but today it’s a super-successful example of urban restoration that travels through the heart of Seoul for 11-km | 6.8 miles.
You can walk next to this beautiful oasis of calm, right in the middle of the busy city. It’s lovely to walk in bright sunshine, and also in the dark of Seoul at night.
People are often confused about exactly where to enter the stream, since itβs so long, but I recommend starting at Cheonggye Plaza. Itβs marked by a large blue and red spiral sculpture called the Spring Sculpture, and a 2-tier waterfall thatβs impossible to miss.
For tourists, the most interesting stretch of Cheonggyecheon Stream runs from Cheonggye Plaza to the Dongdaemun Station area anyway. This distance is about 3-km long, and there are many points at which you can get off the stream to check out other attractions, like Gwangjang Market.
Cheonggyecheon Stream is also home to the Seoul Lantern Festival – a can’t miss event that lights up Seoul at night, every winter.
Enjoy a Pojangmacha
Having a few drinks at a pojangmacha probably ranks as one of the most unique nightlife experiences in Seoul. These outdoor food stalls and tables are full of locals drinking, eating, and catching up. The atmosphere is vibrant and chaotic… in the best possible way.
Pojangmacha are getting harder and harder to find these days, but head to the areas around Jongno 3-ga station or Euljiro 3-ga (Hipjiro) in Seoul, and you can get a taste of this dynamic street scene.
Essential Day Tours from Seoul
As a 14 year resident of Seoul, I really recommend that people travel independently around Korea as much as possible. It’s really such a safe country, and it’s easy to navigate once you acclimatize a little bit to how everything works.
There are however some places where it’s not only easier to take a day tour, it’s actually necessary.
What | Where | Cost | Why Join this Tour | Full Details |
DMZ Tour | Demilitiarized Zone / Paju / Imjingak | from 72,100 won | Parts of the DMZ MUST be visited on a guided tour, due to security clearances. Optional add-ons like suspension bridge, or DMZ gondola available. | |
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress + Korean Folk Village | Suwon and Yongin | 78,500 won | Hwaseong is a majestic UNESCO Fortress. The Korean Folk Village is a vast living museum of the Joseon Dynasty. | |
Nami Island + Surrounding Region | Gapyeong / Chuncheon | from 38,000 won | Most popular day tour near Seoul. Huge range of add on options to choose from Alpaca World to the Rail Bike to the Garden of Morning Calm. |
Seoul at Night | Korean Palaces
There are 5 Joseon Dynasty palaces in Seoul, of which Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung are the most popular to visit. There’s no denying that they’re stunningly gorgeous by daylight, but if you see them in Seoul at night, it’s something you’ll never forget.
The different palaces are open at night at various times of the year, usually in spring and autumn, so be sure to keep an eye out for this extra special event.
Tickets sell out fast, but if you’re dressed in a traditional Korean Hanbok, entrance is free and guaranteed for night openings at Gyeongbokgung Palace (but not for special tours, which have to be booked separately).
This is a truly wonderful way to experience Seoul at night in a more historical and traditional manner. I’ve personally gone to see Gyeongbokgung at night 3 separate times, and it never disappoints!
Which palaces are open at night in Seoul?
If you’re not visiting South Korea during spring or autumn, but still want to see one of the Joseon Dynasty palaces gloriously illuminated in Seoul at night, Changgyeonggung and Deoksugung have regular night time hours year-round.
Both of these Seoul palaces are open until 21:00, with last entry an hour before closing.
Changgyeonggung Palace | μ°½κ²½κΆ
Address: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ’ λ‘ꡬ μ°½κ²½κΆλ‘ 185
Changgyeonggung Palace is actually connected to Changdeokgung Palace, and you can walk between the 2 during the daytime.
This is a smaller palace with an interesting history. During Joseon Dynasty times, it was mostly used as a living space for queens and concubines, but under Japanese colonial rule, it was used as a zoo. It stayed that way until 1983, when it was finally restored back to its original glory.
Changgyeonggung is particularly beautiful in late March, when its plum blossoms fill the palace with a lovely fragrance and pretty pink petals.
Deoksugung Palace | λμκΆ
Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ€κ΅¬ μΈμ’ λλ‘ 99
Deoksugung is the smallest of Seoul’s Royal Palaces, but it’s one (along with Gyeongbokgung), where you can watch a “Changing of the Guards Ceremony.” It’s on every day, except Monday, at 11:00, 14:00 and 15:30.
Deoksugung is right across the street from Seoul Plaza, so it’s an easy one to visit while you’re wandering the city streets. There are some special night events that take place at Seokjojeon Hall in spring and autumn, but if you can’t make those, don’t worry. It’s open year-round in Seoul at night.
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Seoul at Night | Night Markets
Want to know where to go in Seoul at night for Korean street food, local colour and some of the best shopping in the city?
One way that Seoulites spend the night is by visiting one of the many traditional markets that can be found all over the city. Many of them are open into the wee hours of the morning.
Myeongdong Night Market | κ΄μ₯μμ₯
Address: Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ€κ΅¬ λͺ λκΈΈ (λͺ λ1κ°)
With stall upon stall of Korean street food, shopping, and souvenirs, Myeongdong Night Market is one of the most popular places for travelers to visit at night in Seoul.
It runs up and down the streets of Myeongdong, so it’s best to just wander up and down the alleyways, until you see something that strikes your fancy.
I warn you however that prices at Myeongdong Night Market are higher than what’s typical in the rest of Seoul. Despite that, it IS a very tourist friendly place to experience many different things. And well… you’ll find plenty of local enjoying their time there too.
Gwangjang Market | κ΄μ₯μμ₯
Address: 88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ’ λ‘ꡬ μ°½κ²½κΆλ‘ 88
Gwangjang traditional market is considered by many to be one of the very best night markets in Seoul. And its feature on Netflixβs South Korea episode of Street Food, has only made it busier.
Itβs open from 8:30 in the morning, but if you truly want toΒ experience all the chaos of a Korean market,Β visit in Seoul at night.
If youβre hungry and need a fun place for dinner, check out Gwangjang Traditional Market in Seoul. Itβs one of the oldest and largest night markets in South Korea.
Walking through the area is sensory overload, as there’s Korean street food everywhere. There are rows and rows of vendors selling similar types of foods and lots of people eating and browsing. All you need to do is follow your nose to decide where to eat, sit down at the counter, and enjoy.
Since there are many food options, you can consider visiting more than one vendor for dinner. Gwangjang market food stalls serve common KoreanΒ street foods like gimbap (seaweed and rice roll), sundae (blood sausage), Korean tteokbokki (rice cake with spicy sauce), and bindaetteok (mung bean cake).
Besides eating, you can also shop in the market for household goods, bedding, furniture, clothing, and groceries.
Read more from Jackie Szeto and Justin Huynh at Life Of Doing.
GWANGJANG MARKET FOOD TOURΒ |Β Eat all the delicious Korean street food inside chaotic Gwangjang Market with a local guide, who will take you to the best stalls. Conquer a food challenge, and win a Korean souvenir! See details here.
Namdaemun Market | λ¨λλ¬Έμμ₯
Address: 21, Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ€κ΅¬ λ¨λλ¬Έμμ₯4κΈΈ 21
If youβre exploring Seoul at night, no visit is complete until youβveΒ entered the bedlam of Namdaemun Market.Β Itβs the oldest and largest traditional market in Korea, and itβs open around the clock.
There are thousands of places to explore in the marketβs many buildings, but Iβd say the real charm of Namdaemun, lies in wandering the endless array of street stalls staffed by vendors pitching their wares at the top of their lungs.
Shop for clothes, accessories, housewares, plants, glasses, or pretty much anything else your heart desires. You can try your hand at bartering with skilled vendors, before taking a break at a much needed Korean food stall.
Prepare to get lost and jostled around though – this Seoul night market is huge and seriously crowded.
MYEONGDONG SHOOTING RANGEΒ Β |Β Looking for a unique experience in Seoul? Choose from over 100 different firearms and learn how to shoot from professionals on the Korean national shooting team.Β Check details here.
Hangang Moonlight Market | νκ°λ¬λΉμΌμμ₯
The Hangang Moonlight Night Market happens twice a year on Sundays, from 16:00 to 21:00. In spring, head to Banpo Hangang Park, and in autumn Yeouido Hangang Park is where you’ll want to go.
If you’re visiting in spring, make sure to also check out the Car-Free Jamsugyo Bridge Ttubeokttubeok Festival during the day. It takes place on the lower half of Banpo Rainbow Fountain Bridge, at the same time.
At the Hangang Night Market, you can shop for unique and handcrafted items from independent sellers, watch performances, and fill your belly at one of the many food trucks at the festival.
It’s best to follow them on Insta to check their opening status, which is updated weekly.
Side note: This used to be called the Bamdokkabi Night Market, which started in 2015 with just one location, but quickly grew into one of the most popular things to do in Seoul at night with 200,000 visitors. It was regularly ranked as one of the top 10 attractions in Seoul, with millions of people visiting every year.
HAN RIVER CRUISEΒ |Β A cruise atop Seoul’s Han River is a must-do experience, and there are so many ways to do it. Choose from Sunset, Fireworks, Moonlight or Starlight cruise options. See details here.
Go hiking in Seoul at night
If you visit Korea, and fail to go hiking, you’d be missing out on a passionate national past time. A full 70 percent of the country is mountainous, and the hikes around Seoul, not surprisingly, are the busiest.
Hikes on the city’s most popular mountains and trails are notoriously crowded, but go hiking in Seoul at night instead, and you’ll find the solitude nature intended.
For all hikes in Seoul at night, there are a few things to keep in mind. Gates for national parks, like Bukhansan, close around 4PM, so hiking there after dark is at your own peril. Also, the Seoul subway stops running around midnight. Taxis in Seoul are super cheap though, and there are some 24 hour bus routes.
Here are a few popular places to go hiking in Seoul at night, but do a little research, and you’ll find a ton more.
SUNSET HIKE + KOREAN BBQΒ Β |Β The hike up Inwangsan mountain is accessible to most travelers, and offers panoramic views of Seoulβs extraordinary cityscapes. Includes a K-BBQ feast with your guide and fellow hikers.Β See details here.
Hanyangdoseong (Seoul Fortress Wall) | μμΈ νμλμ±
Seoul is hurtling so quickly into the future, sometimes it’s hard to believe it actually has a long and ancient past. Walking next to the remnants of Hanyangdoseong – a 14th Century, 18-km long Seoul fortress wall at night is a captivating reminder.
There are several different starting points and routes for a hike in Seoul at night along the Fortress Wall. Most will give you stunning views of traditional gates and modern Seoul ablaze with lights along the way. Check out all the options here.
SEOUL FORTRESS WALL AND NIGHT TOURΒ Β |Β The night views from Naksan Park, Palgakjeong on Eunbongsan Mountain, and Yongyangbong Peak are some of the best in Seoul. Explore them on this professionally guided tour that includes transport between locations.Β Check details here.
Gwanaksan | κ΄μ μ°
632-metre tallΒ GwanaksanΒ sits on the southern boundary of Seoul. It has a few gorgeous temples and marvellous views of the cityscape below. Itβs also incredibly convenient to get to using public transport, so itβs one of the busiest mountains in Korea.
There are multiple routes up and down the mountain, but for a hike in Seoul at night, stick to easier paths, rather than scrambling dangerously up rocks. Start near Seoul National University subway station on the west side of Gwanaksan, and descend near Gwacheon Station in the east (or vice versa).
Seoul at Night | Hangang Parks
There are 12 separate (but connected) Hangang Parks lining the Han River in Seoul. Your best bets for an incredible view of Seoul at night are at Banpo Hangang Park, and Yeouido Hangang Park.
For a unique experience, I recommend cycling between the Hangang Parks, checking out Seoul’s night views along the way.
Banpo Hangang Park | λ°ν¬νκ°κ³΅μ
Address: 40 Sinbanpo-ro 11-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μμ΄κ΅¬ μ λ°ν¬λ‘11κΈΈ 40 νκ°κ³΅μ λ°ν¬ μλ΄μΌν°
Banpo Hangang Park is such a great place to spend a night in Seoul that you could easily visit over and over without getting bored. The glowing Some Sevit floating islands, and the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain are especially spectacular things to see in Seoul at night.
Yeouido Hangang Park | μ¬μλνκ°κ³΅μ
Address: 330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μλ±ν¬κ΅¬ μ¬μλλ‘ 330
Yeouido Hangang Park is one of the best places in Seoul to get an epic night view of the city’s skyscrapers. The 63 Building and IFC Seoul Complex form a magnificent skyline that looks even better after the sun has set.
This is a great place to feel the vibrancy of Seoul at night, with locals and tourists converging on the area for picnics and the Hangang Moonlight Night Market.
PERSONAL COLOUR ANALYSISΒ |Β Learn about your best colours with a personal colour analysis in Seoul. These have become incredibly popular over the last few years, so be sure to book a session well in advance, if it interests you. Check details here.
Jamsil Hangang Park | μ μ€νκ°κ³΅μ
Address: 65, Hangaram-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ‘νꡬ νκ°λλ‘ 65
Jamsil Hangang Park is mostly frequented by locals, and it’s the one I go to the most, since its just a few blocks from my apartment.
While there aren’t really any spectacular attractions here, like at Banpo, it’s a great one to visit in Seoul at night, if you’ve gone to K-baseball game at Jamsil Stadium or already checked out places like Lotte World Adventure, Olympic Park, Seokchon Lake, or the Seoul Sky Observatory.
Make sure to stop into the Ramyun Library while you’re there. They have 225 different types of instant noodles that you can cook inside the convenience store, and enjoy while watching sunset over the Hangang.
Jamsil Hangang Park is also set for a big update come January, when the Hangang Bus starts its commuter ferry service atop the Han River.
Cycle between Hangang Parks
If you’re really ambitious, and fancy a little exercise, consider renting a bike and cycling between Jamsil to Banpo Hangang Park, or from Banpo to Yeouido Hangang Park or vice versa. Cycling between Seoul’s Hangang Parks, is one of my absolute favourite things to do in Seoul at night.
Bike paths are quieter, the whole city is brilliantly lit up, and there’s a certain solitude about those twilight hours that are perfect for the introvert visiting Seoul.Β
The bike rental outlets in the Hangang Parks demand that bicycles are returned by around 7:30PM, so borrow one of the Seoul Bikes instead. As an added bonus, you can return these bikes to ANY location, so if you’re tired, you don’t necessarily have to make a return trip.
E-BIKE TOURΒ |Β Seeing a city from the back of a bike is the one of best ways to truly experience it. Follow a guide learning about the local culture and visiting popular sights on an e-bike tour of Seoul. See details here.
Seoul at Night | Best Night Tours
My preferred travel style is to wander the streets of a new city independently, but there are a few tours that I try to take in every city I visit: a city bus tour and a local food tour.
Seoul City Night Bus Tour
Crossing the bridges over the Hangang River is always a thrill, but doing it from the top of an open-air double decker bus is exhilarating.
This bus tour is a non-stop course designed to give you the best views of Seoul at night. It starts at Gwanghwamun Plaza and passes by top sights like Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, Mapo Bridge, Seongsu Bridge, and more. There’s also a 30 minute stop at the N Seoul Tower included.
This is a great, affordable activity for families to enjoy together, but maybe only sit outside if you’re visiting in spring, summer or autumn. It’s COLD in Korea in winter.
SEOUL NIGHT BUS TOURΒ |Β This is a popular activity – be sure to make a reservation to avoid being disappointed. Check details here.
Korean Food Tour at Night
In my opinion, a food tour is undoubtedly one of the best ways to get insight into local culture, meet new friends, and discover places you wouldn’t otherwise know about about.
In Seoul, this is doubly true. The city has a huge and overwhelming food scene, with many of the best places down small streets you’d never find yourself. Never mind the language barrier, deciphering the menu and how to order!
Join a food tour in Seoul at night though and it’ll all be taken care of for you – plus you’ll get to enjoy some really mouthwatering food.
KOREAN NIGHT FOOD TOURΒ |Β Get in ma belly! On this food tour, you’ll visit 4 different restaurants, with a local guide who will introduce you to delicious dishes, dining customs, and a drinking game or two. Check info here.
Dark Side of Seoul Ghost Walking Tour
The Dark Side of Seoul Ghost Tour is one of the most unique activities to join in Seoul at night. It’s perfect for those interested in the macabre side of things, true crime enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to get a little freaked out… in a good way.
On this tour, you’ll wander the creepy side streets and hidden alleyways of Seoul, with an experienced guide who will fill you in on the gory details of Seoul’s 600 year old history. These ghoulish tales are all historically accurate, which only makes things even more haunting if you ask me!
SEOUL AT NIGHT GHOST TOURΒ |Β Eerie backalley streets, ghoulish stories, and paranormal places await you on this spooky walking tour of Seoul at night. Hear creepy tales of bloody massacres and true crime from Seoul’s 600 year old history, as you wander hidden alleys in the dark. Get spooked on a walking tour of Seoul’s haunted streets here.
Best Night Views of Seoul
During the day, Seoul can look like a mass of concrete blocks, but as the sun sets, it transforms into a neon spectacle of lights. From a perch high above the city, you’ll get a real sense of just how big this mega-city is.
Seoul Sky Observatory at Lotte World Tower
Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ‘νꡬ μ¬λ¦Όν½λ‘ 300
One of the most incredible views of Seoul at night is definitely at Lotte World Tower’s Seoul Sky Observatory. Not only is it Korea’s tallest skyscraper, it’s the 6th tallest in the world!
At a lofty height of over 500-metres, you’ll see panoramic views of the entire city laid out before you in every single direction.
Head there around sunset on a clear day, and wait around to watch the magical lights of Seoul come to life as the sun fades away.
DISCOUNTED SEOUL SKY ADMISSION TICKETSΒ | Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in Korea, with incredible views from the Seoul Sky Observatory on floors 117 to 123. Check details here.
N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain
Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ©μ°κ΅¬ λ¨μ°κ³΅μκΈΈ 105
Aim to reach the top of Namsan Mountain by sunset, so you can watch the N Seoul Tower come to life, as Seoul turns to night.
You’ll know how good the air quality is by what colour the tower is. Blue means that all is well in the city, green signals that you should be cautious and probably wear an air pollution mask, and red is just plain bad.
It’s a relatively easy trek up to the top, but if you’d prefer, you can take the N Seoul Tower cable car, or an electric bus to the peak.
Be sure to check out the thousands upon thousands of love locks that have been placed all around Namsan and the N Seoul Tower by couples declaring their eternal love for each other.
DISCOUNTED N SEOUL TOWER TICKETSΒ | The N Seoul Tower is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Seoul, and it’s very affordable. You don’t actually have to go up N Seoul Tower to enjoy the views, but if you want to, be sure to grab discounted admission tickets in advance here.
Seoul at Night | Explore Dongdaemun
Seoul’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza is iconic at any time, but at night, it really comes alive. Here’s what to do around the DDP after the sun goes down.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza | Seoul Light
Address: 281, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ€κ΅¬ μμ§λ‘ 281 (μμ§λ‘7κ°)
The selfie hotspot at the DDP LED Rose Garden may have permanently closed in 2019, but it’s been replaced by something equally as riveting to see in Seoul at night.
Seoul Light is a massive media facade festival that projects images onto the surface of the DDP’s curvy architecture.
Designed by both Korean and international artists, it welcomes millions of visitors to its events every year. I’ve personally gone to Seoul Light a few times, and it is completely stunning.
SUWON FORTRESS BY NIGHT TOURΒ | Hwaseong Fortress is located south of Seoul, in the city of Suwon. This is a majestic UNESCO fortress that’s even more spectacular at night. Check details here.
Shop all night at Dongdaemun Shopping Complex
Address: 266, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul | μμΈνΉλ³μ μ’ λ‘ꡬ μ’ λ‘ 266
When you travel to Seoul, itβs easy to hit 10,000 steps on your pedometer every day. But this sleepless city offers an exciting nightlife that makes it too tempting for all you night owls to rest in your hotel room at night.
For a serious shopaholic like me, late-night shopping in Dongdaemun is one of my favourite ways to enjoy Seoul at night.
Dongdaemun is a huge shopping district with 26 shopping malls and 30,000 shops. Even if you’re not a shopper, visiting Dongdaemun is quite the experience to feel Seoulβs restless energy at night.
This shopping town operates day and night. Although overnight shopping is geared towards wholesale, you can still shop for clothing and accessories at a reasonable price (slightly higher than the wholesale price) at the Dongdaemun wholesale market.
Keep in mind that some malls require you to purchase at least three pieces, so consider bringing your girlfriends and sisters. Not all parts are open overnight; make sure to do your research before heading out.
Read more of Chloe Koh at Chloe’s Travelogue.
DONGDAEMUN DISCOUNT COUPONSΒ | Get discounts and freebies at Doota Mall, Hyundai Outlets, Hyundai Duty-Free, and DDP with the Dongdaemun Super Pass! Check details here.
Seoul at Night | Low-key Seoul Nightlife
When you’ve completely exhausted yourself and need a rest, but still can’t sleep, head to a PC Room for couch potato entertainment or a jjimjilbang for rejuvenation. Morgan Gibbs from AlienEating has the scoop on where to find low-key things to do in Seoul at night.
Live the Korean Bang Life in a PC Room
PC rooms are a fast-internet addictβs dream. Itβs the perfect place for lazing around in Seoul at night when you donβt want to be cooped up in your lilβ box anymore. Whatβs there to complain about when you have a big screen, a luxurious throne-chair, and noise-cancelling headphones for all your computer-related needs?
And get this, you’ll get all that pampering for just a dollar an hour. On that note, thereβs not much you canβt do at the PC room. Watch movies? Check. Play computer games? Check. Eat a snack? Check. Plan world domination? Check.
Sure it might come with a side of Korean boys raging over their latest PubG loss, but the ample variety in snacks more than makes up for that. Ramen, fried rice, corn-dogs, ice cream, and sausages galore will fill your belly. So if youβre searching high and low for your next couch-potato-lazy-boy adventure, donβt look too far.
Get naked at a Korean Bathhouse and Jjimjilbang
If youβve never been to Korea, youβve probably never heard of a jjimjilbang, but if you’re looking for a comfy, relaxing night in Seoul, these giant bathhouses are the way to go.
There are cubbies to hold luggage, pyjama sets that match everyone elseβs, showers, hot tubs, and basic saunas. It’s basically adult-ergarten. Itβs not just a wooden room with half-naked sweaty people. I mean it can be, but there are up to 20 different rooms to sweat out and freeze up those nasty germs.
There’s a salt room to lay in piles of salt and season yourself, or a room full of tiny red balls to swim around in like a ball demon. Rooms range from 20Β°C to 140Β°C – there’s ice rooms, jade rooms, dugout rooms, and locker rooms available for your use.
Itβs something unique and you canβt leave Korea without at least trying one once. Where else are you going to find a room circulating charcoal air, with old guys snoring for $10 per night back home?
Seoul Nightlife
In a city that never sleeps, you really can party till dawn. Check out Seoul nightlife in Hongdae for a youthful vibe, Itaewon for international flavour, or Gangnam for a luxe experience.
Itaewon Nightlife
Start your night out in Itaewon with a meal at one of the Seoul restaurants that specializes in foreign food. Many of them are owned by expats and you’re more likely to find authentic versions of your favourite international meals here.
I recommend Morococo Cafe across the street in HBC for delicious and affordable Moroccan cuisine. It’s totally worth the small trek over. Once full of fuel, get your groove on till the wee hours at one of the popular Seoul clubs in Itaewon. Check out B-One, Soap Seoul, or Cakeshop.
PUB CRAWLΒ |Β This is a great way to meet new people while experiencing Seoul’s incredible nightlife. The Pub Crawl includes entry to 4-5 different bars and clubs + free shots with an expert guide. Check details here.
Hongdae Nightlife
Hongdae is touted as a must visit if you’re interested in Seoul nightlife. Surrounded by a number of universities, you can expect lots of live music, street performers, bars, Seoul clubs and restaurants… along with thousands of people.
That is not an exaggeration. This district has blown up in recent years and it seems like ALL of the young and young at heart are flocking to the area on the western side of Seoul. Check out indie bands, K-pop dancers performing in the streetsΒ and then head to a restaurant for dinner, and then another place for drinks, followed by another spot for hangover stew.
Seoul nightlife is famous and there are vendors that never close, so you could stay out in the area from sundown to sun up. If you want to go hard Korean style, try to go all five rounds and last until sunrise. Good luck out there!
Gangnam Nightlife
Sure, Gangnam was made famous by Psy, but there’s much more to the area than Gangnam Style. While a lot of the big clubs that made Gangnam nightlife famous shut down during the pandemic, there’s so many things to do in Gangnam at night, you’ll get frazzled just trying.
Shop amid giant skyscrapers, hang out in a swanky lounge or wine bar, karaoke it up, or dance the night away in a Seoul club.
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Β Seoul at Night: Essential Info and FAQs
Can’t sleep? You’ve got the lowdown on things to do in Seoul at night now! What will you do first?
Milleficent
I love the way you described Korea. I’ve just been there last April for 6 days but realized it was not enough. Would love to try hiking at night but I’m just a solo backpacker so I wouldn”t know if that would be a good idea. Food is really great
shelley
HI Milleficent! Oh man, I’ve lived here for 10 years and feel like I’ve still barely scratched the surface. Seoul is huge, and ever-changing, so there’s always something new to discover! There are quite a few hiking groups in Seoul – you could check FB or meet-up.com to find them, and I’m pretty sure they do some night hikes as well.
jada
Hey guys! Come join our parties in Club Vera in Hongdae!? For free entry and free drinks contact me on kakaotalk: jadawelin or dm me on instagram @vera.jada !??
shelley
Thanks for the offer Jada. My party days are long behind me haha, but if my hubby ever feels like a night out, I’ll definitely have him contact you. π
raastha
Beautiful place and we’ll written. So much information
Farah Al Zadjaly
This was just what I needed. Booked marked this page. Love it.
veemuses
Sigh~ these photos are spectacular. I have been to several of these spots (mostly the markets) but never tried hiking (ain’t that equipped for it?). Makes me miss living in a bigger city where everything is. Thanks for making me experience Seoul even more with this post!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Haha, I’m not equipped for hiking either… but I managed. It’s worth it for the quiet and the views, I’d say. Seoul is a great city for sure, with all its conveniences – and while it does wear on my from time to time with its energy, I’m not sure that I’d want to live anywhere else. Hope you make it back here one day soon! π
farenexus
Hey,
your blog is just wow. You have described all the things so nicely and all the pictures are stunning. It’s great blog and I must say this is the best blog that i have ever read on Seoul. Thanks for sharing such a good article!!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
My goodness, I think that might be the nicest comment someone has ever made here. Thank you so much… that’s so nice to hear, and I’m glad the article helped you out. Are you planning a visit here?
Paul
That first paragraph might be the best description of Seoul I’ve ever read! Nailed it!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Thanks Paul.
Hallie
Thanks for including some of my links! What a fun post. I would NOT want to be hiking in the dark though. Something about that just makes me nervous. I’m already known for tripping and stumbling on the way down. Add darkness and that would just be all kinds of trouble.
Shelley @Travel-Stained
But of course! π I’m the same coming down a mountain – it always takes me twice as long because I’m so afraid of falling, I go super slow. I survived though, and it was a great experience.
Wendyflor
ahh.. this explains about your Gwanaksan comment in my post, hahaha.
Seoul is one dynamic place, especially at night! I seldom go out at night so when I do, I am in awe and fearful of the noise and the lights and everything that comes with it. But I should do this nighttime hike at least once!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Hahahahaha yeah, that’s right. But actually my Korean friend told me that if the mountain name has “ak” in it, it means its a harder mountain for hiking. Not sure if it’s true or not, but anyway… it was lovely thing to do at night. So peaceful…
travelandtash
Reading your description of the Jimjilbang, and the red balls and salt that you can season in, I wondered which Jimjilbang you were referring to. You have clearly visited more exciting ones than I’ve encountered. Your night pictures, especially the DDP and the Seoul city wall, are stunning. I never want to visit a PC room. Ever. Haha.
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Haha, actually I didn’t write that bit – this was a collab post and Morgan from alieneating.com wrote it… I’m not sure which one she’s talking about either! I’ve never encountered any red balls in any jjimjilbang ever. My forays into a PC room to print something have been the stuff of nightmares. Room full of korean teenage boys playing video games…ugh.
ruffeecola
I agree with you that Seoul is amazingly beautiful, even at night. I had a walk in the stream, and Seoullo 7017 for night photography. I also visited Deoksugung and DDP for night lights. I’m looking forward for the night food and street market near Hangang River.
Thank you for sharing your list and it was well written and very helpful for all travelers out there.
Shelley @Travel-Stained
I have yet to visit Seoullo 7017! I really must get out there now that the weather has gotten so much more tolerable…
Lespiedsquigrattent
I love the way you talk about Seoul – like she is a strong woman! I love your article and your answers to the comments because it is like a love declaration too ? it is refreshing indeed to read someone who feels this strongly about this place (if I am not mistaken?)
I am a newbie… Been here only 6 months but I see what you see and now I need to tick off the stuff on this list I haven’t done yet (like jjimjilbang – I didn’t want to try alone for my first time βΊοΈ)… With that said Thank you for this!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
I’ve been here 10 years now, and like any long time expat, there are things I love, and things that really get to me… but no place is perfect, and Seoul truly is one of the world’s great cities. I’ve traveled a lot – to 61 different countries – and there’s not much that compares I’d say. When stuff gets to me, I remind myself that 60 years ago, the entire area south of the Han River was just farm fields, with pigs floating around in dirty water (no joke), and I’m completely amazed by what Koreans have accomplished in such a short time. I try to keep faith that some of the cultural / social issues that so desperately need updating will also be accomplished in time. π By the way, you can totally do jjimjilbang alone – just go to Dragon Hill Spa in Yongsan – it’s very touristy, but also very very nice. You won’t feel out of place there at all… (but it’s also nice to try it the first time with a friend).
Alla Ponomareva
Jim Jil Bangs at $10/night must be the most affordable and the most unexpected Seoul accommodation I think. Some of them have amazing views of the city, some get so hot in common sleeping areas that a cold winter’s night is quickly forgotten. And then you have drunk ajoshees π
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Haha yeah – honestly I don’t know how ANYONE manages to sleep in those places. I’ve never managed it, and so prefer Japanese capsule hotels. They’re not completely silent either, but at least there’s a little bit of privacy. Still, a jjimjilbang definitely has to be experienced at least once! π
Chloe's Travelogue
I’d love to check out the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung during their evening opening. I heard it’s beautiful and romantic!
I didn’t know one can hike Bukhanshan in the evening. Isn’t Bukhanshan pretty steep? How was the lighting?
Shelley @Travel-Stained
It’s supposed to be lovely, although very crowded with people. Actually you can’t hike Bukhansan – they close the gates – but it’s not policed so you can go there at your own risk. We did Gwanaksan at night, but we made sure to go on a night where there was a full moon! π
Danny
Wow, what a fascinating place! I’ve never been to Korea but it sounds amazing- especially at night! :p
Shelley @Travel-Stained
It’s definitely worth a visit…and yes, Korea really gets going at night. Plan on not sleeping much if you make it here one day. π
Justine of Travel Lush
I loved Seoul so much but my visit was way too short. I’d love to go back and really explore more of the city. I’m not sure what it was about Seoul but both Aaron and I were like, “We could totally live here!” Hopefully we’ll get back soon!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Haha I know what you mean. I’ve been living here for 10 years, and I still haven’t seen or done a fraction of what’s available! It’s definitely a very liveable city – and getting more so year over year. Hope we’ll be able to meet in person one day! π
lexklein
Gotta get back! And next time I need to bring my skeptical husband whose last visit to Seoul was in the 90s and not as pleasant as mine a few years ago. The night hiking might be the kick he needs to give your city a second chance!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Yes you do!! Preferably when I’m in the city so we can finally meet up in person. π And yes, your hubby needs to come back. Seoul changes so fast, faster than anywhere else on earth…and I don’t the the 90s was too pleasant for anyone (Koreans included). I think it’d be quite an eye-opening experience for him!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
PS: Show him this video – it really captures so much of what Seoul is about now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AulHEVz75lY&feature=youtu.be
lexklein
We watched the video! Very cool overview of what’s going on these days in Seoul; it’s such a fascinating mix. (Had to love the snippets on plastic surgery!)
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Well, hopefully it helped convince your hubby. (not the plastic surgery, but… π )
Hazel Joy
“Sheβs groggy, confused and wearing last nightβs make-up”…love that description of Seoul, a city which sounds like it can match New York or London for nightlife. Inspiring post.
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Thanks Hazel! π Seoul can def match NY or London, and maybe even outdo them in terms of nightlife. It’s one of the few cities in the world where cafes are busier at night, than in the morning – and many don’t even open till 10AM! It’s like Bizarro world here.
Lauren Gaile
Out of all the wonderful options you gave, my favourite is hands down going to a Jjimjilbang! I love Korea, and it’s a bit easy to pick up on the language too! Like -Dong would be like arrondissement (Dongdaemun, Myeongdong etc.) and -Bang means room, like PC Bang and my favourite: Noraebang (Karaoke room!) π
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Yup! You’re totally right with your Korean translations. π Going to jjimjilbang is one of my favourite things to do too – though not so much over night. I’m too old to sleep in a room full of snoring ajusshis. π When was the last time you visited Korea?
Mabel Kwong
This really is quite a bit to do in Seoul at night, and from what you’ve described it’s not just a club partying kind of city. In fact, it seems far from it. Amazing to hear that hiking at night is quite popular! Understand that some of the hikes are at your own peril but I suppose if you want some outdoor adventure then why not π
That is quite a few Mario keychains in the photo you took at the markets! If the night markets have this much things and so much more, then no wonder they are packed with people. In these night markets I’m guessing some people don’t mind waiting and standing in line for food lol.
Going back to clubbing, it seems that the clubs in Seoul are quite hip and well, full of life and attract both the young and professional middle age bracket. That statue, Gangnam Style immortalised XD
Shelley @Travel-Stained
You’re right Mabel, there’s so much more to do here than just club – but it’s definitely a big part of Seoul nightlife, along with pubs and karaoke. I’m just so old that I don’t club anymore haha – and tried to highlight things you could do at night if you’re not into partying and drinking. Are you into partying and clubbing? I get the feeling no…am I wrong?
Mabel Kwong
Haha, I’m not into partying and clubbing at all. Even the nights of going out non-partying and clubbing are far and few lol. Staying at home is what I love best XD
Alison and Don
Wow! I think I’ll need a month there to cover all this. It sounds amazing – especially the night hiking, but lots of the other ideas as well. If I ever get to Seoul I’ll be checking out this post for what to do. And knocking on your door π
Alison
Shelley @Travel-Stained
Haha, I’ve been here for 10 years, and still feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface Alison. I’m just glad I’m past my clubbing age, otherwise the city really would eat me alive. π AND YES, please do get in touch if you come to Seoul! π
AndysWorldJourneys
i must visit this amazing city one day!
Shelley @Travel-Stained
You really MUST Andy. It’s sooo underrated for Western tourists, but it’s been the top destination for Asians for the last 10 years. There’s a reason why…believe me! π