Seoul's bar scene is exceptionally diverse, offering everything from sophisticated cocktail speakeasies to lively traditional Korean drinking spots, catering to a wide range of tastes and social settings.
Entertainment and Music:
Seoul presents a dynamic and diverse music and entertainment landscape, seamlessly blending modern genres with traditional Korean sounds.
The Hongdae district is recognized as a vibrant center for live music, offering a range of indie rock, punk, and alternative performances at venues such as Club FF. For jazz and blues enthusiasts, Itaewon provides a selection of intimate bars like Boogie Woogie. Additionally, opportunities exist to experience traditional Korean music, known as Gugak, at specialized venues across the city.
1. Le Chamber
Type: Speakeasy Cocktail Bar
Entering Le Chamber feels like stepping into a sophisticated, hidden world. Behind a secret bookshelf door, a luxurious and dimly lit space unfolds, often accompanied by live piano music. It's renowned for its elegant, opera-house-like ambiance and an extensive selection of classic and innovative cocktails, alongside a vast whisky collection.
Getting There: Located in Gangnam. It is a short walk from Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Bundang Line) or Gangnam-gu Office Station (Line 7 or Bundang Line). Taxis are readily available throughout the Gangnam district.
2. Bar Cham
Type: Traditional Korean House Cocktail Bar
Tucked away in a charming hanok (traditional Korean house), Bar Cham offers a uniquely cozy and stylish atmosphere. It excels in crafting cocktails that beautifully integrate local Korean spirits and indigenous ingredients, providing a distinctive cultural drinking experience.
Getting There: Situated in Jongno District, near Gyeongbokgung Palace. The closest subway station is Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), from which it is a short walk.
3. Southside Parlor
Type: Rooftop Cocktail Bar
This unconventional rooftop bar brings a relaxed, Texan-inspired hospitality to Seoul. It features a lively, unpretentious vibe with arcade games and serves premium cocktails, some thoughtfully infused with Korean ingredients, offering a unique blend of cultures under the Seoul sky.
Getting There: Found in Itaewon, a short walk from Itaewon Station (Line 6), which is the primary public transport hub for the area.
4. Makgeolli Salon
Type: Traditional Korean Makgeolli Bar
Nestled in the vibrant Hongdae district, Makgeolli Salon specializes in makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, offering a wide array of flavors. The atmosphere is comfortably relaxed with subdued lighting and traditional Korean decor, making it an ideal spot to savor authentic Korean beverages alongside classic bar snacks.
Getting There: Located in Hongdae, within easy walking distance from Hongik University Station (Line 2 or AREX).
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