Things to do in Hongdae at Night: Busking, Shopping & Clubs (Local Guide)
(Welcome to Hongdae: The neighborhood that never sleeps.)
You have seen the romantic sunset at N Seoul Tower (Landmark Guide #1). Now, are you ready to wake up?
If Gangnam is for business and business cards, Hongdae is for art, music, and youth. It is the beating heart of Seoul’s nightlife. If you are asking, “What are the best things to do in Hongdae?”, the answer is simple: EVERYTHING.
From street performances (busking) to trendy fashion shops and underground clubs, Hongdae is an overload for your senses. In this guide, I will show you the ultimate itinerary for a night out in Hongdae, including where to watch free K-Pop covers and how to take the famous “Korean Photo Booth” pictures.
1. The Soul of Hongdae: Street Busking 🎤
The most unique of all things to do in Hongdae is watching the buskers.
Busking is a special experience in Hongdae. Sometimes there are teams that sing pop songs in English, and they are really good. K-Pop is so fun, right?
Head to Eoulmadang-ro (Walking Street). Every night, this street transforms into an open-air concert hall.
You will see:
- K-Pop Dance Cover Groups: High school and college students dancing perfectly to BTS or Blackpink. The energy is insane.
- Live Singers: Emotional ballads or acoustic covers.
- Magic Shows & Comedy: Fun for everyone, even if you don’t speak Korean.
Pro Tip: It is 100% free to watch. Just clap loudly! This is where future K-Pop stars are born.
(The energy here is electric. You might see the next K-Pop idol!)
2. Shopping & “Life4Cut” (Photo Booths) 📸
Shopping is one of the top things to do in Hongdae. Unlike the luxury brands in Gangnam, Hongdae fashion is trendy, street-style, and affordable.
But the real trend right now is the “Self Photo Booth” (Insaeng-ne-cut / Life4Cut).
The best thing to make memories with friends in Korea is four cuts in life. Imagine having a glass of soju and taking a picture together in a small booth? Isn’t it fun?
You will see these shops on every corner. They are filled with cute props (wigs, headbands, sunglasses). You go in, dress up, take 4 photos, and get a printed strip instantly for about 4,000 KRW ($3).
It is the ultimate souvenir. Do not leave Hongdae without one.
(Grab a funny hat and strike a pose!)
3. Nightlife: Clubs vs. Coin Noraebang 🕺
When the sun goes down, the list of things to do in Hongdae shifts to partying.
Option A: The Club Scene
Hongdae is famous for its clubs. (NB2, MAMA, etc.). They are loud, crowded, and play EDM or Hip-hop. The queue can be very long on weekends (Friday/Saturday). Bring your passport for ID!
Option B: Coin Noraebang (Singing Room)
If clubs aren’t your style, try a Coin Noraebang. Unlike traditional karaoke where you pay by the hour, here you pay by the song (usually 1,000 KRW for 2-3 songs). It is cheap, private, and a great way to relieve stress.
🍻 Want to Make Friends? Join a Pub Crawl!
Hongdae can be intimidating alone. Join a “Seoul Pub Crawl” to meet other travelers, visit the best bars, and skip the lines!
4. K-Beauty: Get a Hair Makeover 💇♀️
Did you know getting a haircut is one of the popular things to do in Hongdae? This area is home to some of the best hair salons in Korea.
They specialize in the latest K-Pop styles (dyeing, perms, trendy cuts). Many salons here are foreigner-friendly and have English menus. If you want to look like a Korean celebrity, do it here.
💇♀️ Book a Trendy Hair Salon
Don’t risk a bad haircut. Book a top-rated salon with English-speaking staff.
Safety & Transport: Getting Home 🚕
Hongdae is safe (Ep 20. Is Korea Safe?), but it is chaotic at night.
⚠️ The “Taxi War”
Catching a taxi in Hongdae after 11 PM is extremely difficult. Drivers often refuse short distances.
Solution: Take the subway before it closes (around 12:00 AM) or use Kakao Taxi (Ep 7) to book in advance. Do not rely on waving your hand on the street!
📚 Learn More: Hongdae Culture
Why is this university area so artistic? Read about Hongik University Street on Wikipedia.
Conclusion
Hongdae is more than just a place; it is an energy. Whether you are dancing in a club, shopping for cheap clothes, or just watching talented kids dance on the street, it is one of the most exciting things to do in Hongdae.
Come with energy, wear comfortable shoes, and stay up late.
After the loud music of Hongdae, maybe you want something more traditional and calm? Let’s go to the street of tea houses and crafts.
👉 [Read Next] Best Souvenirs in Insadong: Tea, Crafts & Ssamzigil Guide
