Top 3 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Incheon

A scenic view of a modern urban skyline with a river flowing through a park in Incheon, South Korea.
Gije Cho, Pexels

Incheon, South Korea, presents a dynamic local bar and drinking scene, offering a variety of experiences from lively expat hubs to traditional Korean craft breweries. It caters to diverse preferences, with nightlife concentrated in areas like Songdo, Bupyeong, and Guwol-dong.

Entertainment and Music:

Incheon offers a dynamic entertainment scene, encompassing lively nightlife districts, venues with live music, and cultural performance spaces that contribute to its energetic atmosphere.

For those seeking live music, venues like The Cinder Bar in Songdo regularly host local bands, creating an engaging atmosphere. In Bupyeong-gu, Little Woodstock is a lively bar known for its live music and welcoming environment. Additionally, Wolmido Culture Street provides an outdoor stage for various live performances, adding a cultural dimension to the city's entertainment offerings.

1. The Cinder Bar

Type: Western-style Expats Bar & Pub

The Cinder Bar offers a welcoming, social atmosphere, often likened to a 'Cheers' bar, where visitors can easily connect with fellow travelers and locals. It provides a cozy, home-away-from-home feel with friendly staff, live music from local bands, and a selection of imported beers, cocktails, and pub food such as burgers and fish & chips.

Getting There: Located in Songdo (8, Convensia-daero 42beon-gil, Yeonsu-gu). Access is convenient via Incheon Subway Line 1 to a Songdo station (e.g., Central Park Station or Campus Town Station), followed by a short taxi ride or walk. Taxis in Incheon operate at reasonable rates.

2. Incheon Brewery

Type: Craft Beer Brewery & Taproom

Incheon Brewery, originally a small pub in an old warehouse, has evolved into a prominent spot for local craft beer enthusiasts, known for its unique 'hip, newtro vibe'. Patrons can enjoy a variety of freshly brewed craft beers, including the popular Gaehangro Lager, which is Korea's first vegan-certified craft beer. The setting is photogenic, offering a relaxed environment to enjoy beer and snacks like pizza.

Getting There: Situated in the historic Sinpo-dong/Gaehangno area (41, Sinpo-ro 15beon-gil, Jung-gu). It is easily accessible by taking Incheon Subway Line 1 to Sinpo Station, followed by a short walk.

3. O'Malley's Irish Pub

Type: Irish Pub

O'Malley's Irish Pub in Guwol-dong is a vibrant venue that adapts its style to appeal to younger crowds. It offers a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including various beers, spirits, and cocktails, and frequently hosts themed parties throughout the year. The pub is also a great spot to catch Western sports matches on big screens.

Getting There: Found in Guwol-dong (1474-3 Guwol 1(il)-dong, Namdong-gu). This central area is well-connected by Incheon Subway Line 1, with Arts Center Station or Incheon City Hall Station being convenient access points, typically followed by a brief walk or taxi ride.