Many tourists, especially those in their 20s and 30s, often associate Seoul with a vibrant nightlife scene centered around clubs. While I can appreciate the allure of dancing and socializing, clubs aren't my cup of tea anymore.
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| taken in Sinchon |
Fortunately, Seoul offers many exciting nighttime activities that cater to various interests, allowing you to experience the city's vibrant energy. And if you're not really into going out at night, some of these activities can also be done during the day.
5 Fun Nighttime Activities in Seoul
1. Karaoke or Noraebang
Karaoke, or "noraebang" in Korean, is a beloved pastime among locals and tourists alike. For a small fee, you can rent a private room equipped with a karaoke machine, microphones, and a screen. Many noraebang places are open 24/7, so this can also be a daytime activity if that's what you prefer. Some places even offer drinks and food.
I tried this in Sinchon and had a great time. The cost was around KRW5000 for 10 songs. As expected, most of the songs are Korean, but they offer a great selection of popular English songs - you just have to be patient when browsing.
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| noraebang in Sinchon |
2. Arcade
Arcade games are another popular nighttime activity in Seoul, especially in bustling areas like Sinchon and Hongdae. Many of these arcade places are open 24/7, so you can go anytime. You can exchange your bills for coins and then use the coins to play various games, from classic arcade shooters to modern rhythm games. I also tried this in Sinchon, and it was a fun and nostalgic experience.
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| inside a three-story arcade in Sinchon |
3. Watch People Busking
Busking is common in Seoul, particularly in university areas like Hongdae and Sinchon. You can find talented musicians, singers, and dancers performing on the streets, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
This is pretty common in popular neighborhoods in South Korea, even outside of Seoul. I experienced this on separate occasions in Hongdae and Sinchon, and once in Jeju City. It was a great way to relax and soak up the local culture.
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| an actual singing contest in Sinchon |
4. Pochang Macha
If you've watched a few K-dramas, you've probably seen those outdoor tents where people drink soju. These tents are called pochang macha and are a quintessential part of Seoul's drinking and street food culture. These temporary tents are often set up in the evenings and offer a variety of delicious and affordable dishes. From tteokbokki and grilled meats to seafood and snacks, there's something for everyone.
I tried pochang macha near Jongno-3ga, where you'll find an entire street lined with these red tents. The atmosphere was lively, with barely any tourists in sight, and it was a popular spot for locals. I went with one of my Korean friends, and I enjoyed trying different dishes and drinking soju. If you ask me, I prefer pochang machas over bars and clubs when in Seoul.
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| tteokbokki and fishcake with soju |
5. Renting a Bike and Cycling
If you're looking for a more leisurely and relaxing evening activity, consider renting a bike and cycling along the Jungnangcheon stream near Changdong. There's a bike trail that offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. It was a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend an evening. The bike rental was only KRW2000 for 2 hours, which was a great value. I paid through an app, and it was convenient.
It's worth mentioning that this stream is 30 minutes away by subway from the city center, so if you think that's too far, you can also do this activity along the Han River. I've been to the Han River before, but I really liked the vibe at Jungnangcheon because its area is far from the tourist crowds. This activity can also be done during the day, but it won't be fun during summer months because it'd be very hot.
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| view of Jungnangcheon stream |
These are just a few of the many fun nighttime activities that Seoul has to offer. Whether you're seeking excitement, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, there's something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in Seoul after dark, step outside the typical nightlife scene and explore the city's diverse and vibrant offerings.
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