Club Octagon
Club Octagon in Gangnam, Seoul has been for the past few years the clear number one club in Seoul. And it’s not just in Seoul. It’s consistently ranked in the top 10 of the best clubs in the world by DJ Mag for its raucous crowd of 7,000 people every week, 78 VIP Tables, giant LED wall and the huge Funktion One speakers that both resident local DJs and even international superstar DJs come to pump in their mix of EDM, techno, tech-house, trap and hip-hop. It’s a huge club with three levels and even an indoor elevator. There’s also…
SKRT SEOUL
A 2016 addition to the Itaewon nightlife scene, SKRT SEOUL runs the fine line between being a music venue and a club. Previous acts here include Bondax and Moon Boots, and there are always a fair number of people who buy tickets online anticipating a great “concert” in addition to those stumbling in from their drinking adventures at 2 o’clock n the morning.
club MUTE
Although parties here can be hit or miss, it’s a great addition to the weekend nightlife scene in Itaewon. With some of the feel of a Gangnam-club, you have more space than other venues in Itaewon, which are normally underground and smoky. Occasionally, alcohol brands throw parties here and offer free alcohol, and that’s got to be a plus!
Venue
What does Venue/ have over other clubs that might play better music? It’s free. (And honestly, if you on a good night–the music isn’t bad either.) It’s always been the perfect place for those partying on the cheap as the drinks are affordable as well. The bathroom is cringe worthy but the vibe is always feel-good on the weekends.
Cakeshop
Likely the most respected hip-hop club in Seoul, Cakeshop proclaims to play everything from Future House to UK Bass, Garage, Disco and RnB. The name borrows from the famous venue in New York but the nightclub has undoubtedly established itself in its own rite. Before the club exploded in exposure, Korean celebrities such as G-Dragon and former 2ne1 star CL have been rumored to hang out here from time to time but it’s undetermined whether that’s still the case. International big names such as James Blake and Nosaj Thing make their way here, but there are a fair number of…
Club Arena
If you’re coming to Club Arena, you’re coming to church. This exclusive club in Gangnam will show you how to party. It’s a well-known club, but still has that gritty local, underground club feel to it. It’s an experience totally different than the polished clubs and lounges in Itaewon, or the international scene of Itaewon. This is a true locals club where it stays open into the AM hours (closing at 11AM). One of the reasons Club Arena has become one of the most popular clubs in Seoul amongst locals is because of the pretty girls. The owner of the…
Friday & Saturday 23:00 – 11:30
Sunday 23:30 – 09:30
Club Bound
Located right next to Sinsa Station, Club Bound is one club that can definitely fill your need to dance while you’re in Seoul. With a more intimate dance space than many of the mega clubs in the Gangnam area, it’s much easier to meet people at this club (and dually much harder to get rid of someone as well). If you are staying near Garosu-gil, one great aspect is that you’ll be able to walk right home.
Salsa Club Naomi
While it may not be as well-promoted in the mainstream scene, the ballroom dancing culture is huge in Korea and there’s nowhere better to evidence that than the Salsa Club Naomi. Well loved by locals, there are special parties that go on here every week and a community of dancers gather to show off their moves. You may find it a bit awkward to try to fit in at first, but be bold enough to make the first move and you’ll be fine.
Between Night and Music
Between Night and Music (밤과음악사이강남점). Although this club and lounge now has a few locations all over the city, this location in Gangnam is definitely the most famous. Unlike many other clubs in the area, you’ll find the visitors’ ages to be much more diverse and the vibe much more local. The music brings back tunes from Korea in the 80s and 90s, and encourages those who aren’t interested in EDM or hip hop to dance. Towards the end of the night, they also alternate between fast, jumpy music to slow ballads–allowing you to cozy up with a certain stranger…
Club Mass
Only five minutes from Gangnam Station, Club Mass has definitely stood the test of time in a neighborhood where venues change quicker than the seasons. At this two-floor venue, there’s a large stage in the front for the DJs, a few podiums with elevated poles and a prominent bar. Although the club focuses on EDM, the music that’s played here varies from weekend to weekend and on the DJ that’s playing. If you’re visiting or just can’t get enough partying in your system, Club Mass is probably the best club in Seoul to head to on a weekday night with…
Friday, Saturday 9PM to 6AM
Club Answer
A club that plays electro, house and EDM, Club Answer has been around longer than many other mega clubs in Gangnam. The main stage takes place on the first floor and the club boasts a sound system much stronger than others in the city. Party schedules with different kinds of events are posted on their Facebook page weekly so make sure to check in advance for a special event.
Club Cocoon
Located in the heart of Hongdae, you’ll no doubt recognize Club Cocoon from its blaring music, flashing lights and the long lines. This Hongdae club has become a legend as the go-to electro/hip-hop club in Hongdae, even on Monday nights, which makes it great if you like crowded clubs where you can mingle with tons of people. But if you need some space, this may not be the club for you. The clientele, like most Hongdae clubs, are more for young Korean college students and recent college graduates. The tables here are very affordable, and there’s usually plenty available without having…
Sangsu Station (Line 6)
M2
M2 is another legendary club in Hongdae. When hip hop was big, M2 stuck to trance and is now primarily an EDM club. It’s one of the bigger clubs in Hongdae, with 2nd floor seating and tables in the back. And just like the other legendary clubs in Hongdae, you’ll most likely have to wait in line to get in on the weekends. Come here for more space, a bigger stage and wild nights.
Club Freebird
Club Freebird is another legendary live indie music club in Hongdae. They host local bands that play original songs as well as cover songs of classics. The venue itself is intimate and perfect for being right up close to the stage and next to the artists. It’s a fun night with a youthful energy. Tip: This club is part of the Hongdae Live Club Day, a 1 access pass to all the live music venues.
Club FF
Club FF is a rocking indie music club in Hongdae with cover bands that rock out to Red Hot Chili Pepper, the Beatles and Led Zeppelin. Of course, there are local Korean indie bands that rock out to their original songs as well. The venue is small and wherever you are, you’re close enough to the stage that you can see them sweat. For music lovers that want to live indie music club in Hongdae, Club FF is the spot. Tip: This club is part of the Hongdae Live Club Day, a 1 access pass to all the live music venues.
Club Evans
Dark lights, a brightly lit stage, and the deep sultry voice of a jazz singer may be a perfect night out. And when talking about jazz clubs in Seoul, Club Evans in a laid-back low-key jazz club perfect for friends, couples and even solo music lovers to relax to some dulcet tones with a gin and tonic in hand. Tips: When coming on weekend nights, come earlier to ensure seats. There’s limited seating and they usually fill up quickly.
Gogos2
Gogos2 is a club in Hongdae that’s known for cheap drinks and shenanigans. It’s part of Hongdae’s Live Club Day, so you can see indie bands rock out live. After hours it turns into a dance club that plays a variety of music, including hip-hop and top 40. Locals stop by for the cheap drinks as a warm up or a night cap.