While New York is known as the city that never sleeps in the West, Seoul just might be its Asian counterpart. With something going on at all hours of the day, you might find yourself forgetting to sleep while on your trip here. Below are six different ways to experience Seoul after sunset. Prepare to have a very, very late bed time.
Watch Street Performers Until Dawn
Hongdae is a crowded, noisy, and young neighborhood that’s perfect for a night of drinking and dancing. Just before sunset, the street musicians and dancers appear and huge crowds form around them almost immediately. The streets are almost always packed and there is music pulsing from every storefront. Add the smell of street food into the mix and you’re in for a sensory overload! Check out the main street for most performers, or Hongdae Playground for even more music and dancing!
Get Your Fill of Food and Drink From Around the World!
Itaewon is known as the foreigner neighborhood. With the demographics being a mix of people from America, Turkey, France, Pakistan, and more, this place is a food lover’s paradise. Itaewon has become one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Seoul so no matter where you pop in, chances are you’re going to have good food, good drinks, good atmosphere, and a jolly good time! Grab a cocktail and cigar in Havana-inspired Burn In Hal, indulge in some of the best Mexican food in Seoul at El Pino 323, or mingle with the locals with beer and pizza at the much loved The Booth.
Dance With The Best DJs
Gangnam is all about clubbing, dating, and shopping. Some of the best clubs in the country are located in this small area and as a result, the nightlife is pretty wild from Thursday through Sunday. Octagon has been voted one of the top clubs for DJs in the world, and its not uncommon to see people coming out for a breather around noon, only to go back in and dance some more. Start your night with drinks at Seoul Salon then head down to Arena to dance the night (and the next morning) away!
Shop Til You Drop
Dongdaemun’s market is open until 3am and it’s busy nearly every night. From clothing to food to housing supplies, Dongdaemun attracts locals and tourists of all ages. Bring cash and be prepared to haggle as it is an experience seasoned shoppers shouldn’t miss! If you get there earlier in the night, be sure to head to Dongdaemum Design Plaza to see the flower display of LED roses. Luckily, just when you feel like you’re about to pass out from shopping, there are plenty of street food vendors ready to recharge you!
Explore a Palace After Dark
From summer to the beginning of winter, you have the unique opportunity to explore Changdeokgung Palace at night! The palace often has traditional performances along with tours to help you see the ancient structure in literally, a whole new light. Be sure to wear a hanbok to really feel like you’re part of the experience.
Enjoy the Best Street Food
Korea is all about food and if you visit Myeongdong you’ll know why. Visit the crowded streets of Myeongdong – there are at least 50 food stalls in the area – to try everything from traditional Korean spicy rice cakes to a delicious lobster tail! Most food ranges from 1,000-5,000 won so you can get your fill for cheap! Bring an empty stomach, and try to go in a group so you can try more items!