Discover Hongdae: Seoul's Trendiest Neighborhood for Fun, Food, and Fashion

Ask anyone about the liveliest, most youthful, and energetic area in Seoul, and most will point to Hongdae. It's a place where you can wander through cafes and boutique shops by day, enjoy busking performances in the evening, and dance the night away in clubs and live bars. Whether it's your first visit to Korea or you're a seasoned traveler, Hongdae always offers something new. This guide covers everything a foreign traveler needs to know, from Hongdae's history and vibe to transportation, food, shopping, nightlife, and nearby neighborhoods.

1. What Makes Hongdae Special?

The Evolution of Hongdae — From University District to Global Hotspot

'Hongdae' is short for Hongik University. Established in 1946, this university is renowned for its art and design programs, and the surrounding area has evolved into what we now call 'Hongdae.'

In the early 1990s, art students from Hongik University began setting up studios and galleries, attracting artists to the area. An indie music scene soon emerged, with small live cafes and clubs popping up. As the nearby Sinchon area faced crackdowns, crowds shifted to Hongdae, fueling its rapid growth.

After the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup, foreigners began flocking to Hongdae, and with the global rise of K-pop, K-dramas, and K-beauty, it became a must-visit spot for travelers in Seoul. Today, it's a bustling street visited by tens of thousands of locals and tourists daily.

Hongdae vs. Hongik Univ. Station — What's the Difference?

This is a common point of confusion for foreign visitors. 'Hongdae' refers to the area, while 'Hongik Univ. Station' is the subway station name. The station's name reflects its location near the main entrance of Hongik University. Officially, it's still called Hongik Univ. Station.

When people say 'Let's meet in Hongdae,' they usually mean the area around Hongik Univ. Station. You can use both 'Hongdae' and 'Hongik Univ. Station' in searches to find the same location.

Hongdae vs. Itaewon vs. Gangnam — Which is Right for You?

If you're new to Seoul, comparing these three areas can be helpful.

Who Should Visit Hongdae?

If you crave a young, vibrant atmosphere
If you love street fashion and vintage shopping
If you're interested in indie music, busking, and club culture
If you want to mingle with locals in their 20s and 30s
If you're looking for affordable food and cafes

Who Should Visit Itaewon?

If you want multicultural cuisine and a global vibe
If you prefer an environment where English is more commonly spoken
If you enjoy trendy alleys like Hannam-dong and Gyeongridan-gil

Who Should Visit Gangnam?

If you desire a sophisticated and luxurious atmosphere
If you enjoy upscale restaurants and clubs
If you prefer shopping mall-centric shopping

2. How to Get to Hongdae

Subway

Hongik Univ. Station is a transfer station for Seoul Subway Line 2 (Green), Airport Railroad (AREX), and Gyeongui-Jungang Line, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Seoul.

Travel Times from Major Starting Points

Myeongdong Station → Hongik Univ. Station: About 15 minutes (Line 2)
Gangnam Station → Hongik Univ. Station: About 25 minutes (Line 2)
Dongdaemun Station → Hongik Univ. Station: About 30 minutes (Line 2)
Incheon Airport → Hongik Univ. Station: About 55 minutes (AREX regular train)

Which Exit to Use?

Hongik Univ. Station has many exits, which can be confusing at first. The exit you choose depends on your destination.

Exit 9: The most common exit leading to Hongdae's main street, cafes, and shopping areas
Exit 3: Towards Yeonnam-dong, Gyeongui Line Forest Park
Exit 8: Gyeongui Line Book Street, Smart Tourism Information Center
Exit 6: Towards Hapjeong Station, bar and cafe area

If it's your first visit to Hongdae, we recommend taking Exit 9.

Direct from the Airport

The fastest and cheapest way to get to Hongdae from Incheon Airport is via the Airport Railroad (AREX).

Direct from Incheon Airport to Hongik Univ. Station (AREX regular train)
Travel time: About 55 minutes
Fare: ₩9,500 (with T-Money)
Direct drop-off at Hongik Univ. Station

If your accommodation is near Hongdae, this is the most convenient option, allowing you to dive straight into Hongdae upon arrival.

Taxi

Use the Kakao T app to call a taxi from anywhere in Seoul. Search for 'Hongdae' or 'Hongik Univ. Station' to get directions.

3. Hongdae Map — A Breakdown by Area

Hongdae isn't just one street. It's a cultural zone made up of various alleys and areas. Understanding the big picture will help you navigate more efficiently.

Main Street (Hongdae Main Street)

This is the commercial heart of Hongdae, packed with cosmetic brand shops, fast food, large cafe chains, and boutique shops. It's the area most frequented by foreign tourists. During the day, you can enjoy street art and even catch artists at work if you arrive early.

Hongdae Playground

This iconic Hongdae spot is officially called 'Wow Park,' but locals refer to it as 'Hongdae Playground.' On weekends, it hosts various busking performances and flea markets. This space, where performers freely express themselves, symbolizes Hongdae's free culture.

Parking Lot Street (Club District)

Behind Hongdae Playground, the area around Wausan-ro is packed with clubs and live performance venues. Clubs replaced a former parking lot, giving the area its name. It comes alive after 11 PM.

Eoulmadang-ro

This street leads into Hongdae's inner alleys, home to independent bookstores, small galleries, local eateries, and vintage shops. It's less touristy, offering a more authentic glimpse of Hongdae.

Piccadilly Alley

This area, with its old signs and narrow alleys, is home to small bars, izakayas, and cafes with unique interiors. It has a strong local vibe rather than a touristy feel.

4. Must-Do Activities & Free Attractions

Busking Performances

Street performances (busking) are a must-see cultural experience in Hongdae. Performances take place daily at Hongdae Playground and along the main street.

Types of performances: Singing, guitar playing, K-pop cover dances, magic, beatboxing, hip-hop cyphers
Main performance times: 5 PM to 10 PM (more performances on nice weather days)
Weekend afternoons: Best for both quantity and quality of performances
Admission: Completely free. It's customary to leave a small tip in the hat or basket if you enjoy the performance

K-pop cover dance teams are particularly impressive, offering live renditions of choreography you might only have seen on YouTube.

Hongdae Weekend Flea Market

On weekends, a flea market takes place at Hongdae Playground. You can browse and buy handmade accessories, art, trinkets, and clothing crafted by young artists. These unique items, full of the creators' personalities, make excellent souvenirs.

Open: Every Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting
Hours: Around 1 PM to 7 PM
Admission: Free

KT&G Sangsangmadang

One of the most significant cultural spaces in Hongdae, it houses a gallery, performance hall, independent cinema, and design shop all in one building. Free exhibitions are often held, and it hosts indie music performances and film festivals.

Location: A 5-minute walk from Hongik Univ. Station Exit 9
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Admission: Gallery is free (performances and films are paid)

Insaeng Ne Cut — A Hit with Foreigners

Insaeng Ne Cut is a Korean-style photo booth where you can take a series of photos in various poses for ₩2,000 to ₩3,000, resulting in a four-cut sticker photo. It's become a 'must-do' experience in Korea, especially popular among foreigners on social media.

You'll find Insaeng Ne Cut booths all over Hongdae. Each brand offers different filters and styles, so try a few.

Popular brands: Insaeng Ne Cut, Haru Film, Photoism, Photomatic
Price: ₩3,000 to ₩5,000 (varies by machine and options)
How to use: Stand in front of the machine, select background and filter on the touchscreen → Pose → Print

You can take photos alone or with friends. The results can also be saved as digital files (scan the QR code).

Mural Street & Street Art

The mural street along Wausan-ro 22-gil behind Hongik University is lined with walls covered in artists' works. It's great for photos and offers a glimpse into Hongdae's artistic roots.

5. Recommended Eats in Hongdae

Hongdae offers endless food options, from Korean to international cuisine, street food to fine dining, catering to all tastes.

For Korean Food Beginners

Dakgalbi Chuncheon-style dakgalbi is a must-try in Hongdae. It's a dish of chicken and vegetables stir-fried in a spicy sauce on a hot plate, with adjustable spice levels. There are several dakgalbi restaurants near Hongdae's main street.

Tteokbokki & Snacks Enjoy tteokbokki, sundae, and fried snacks at snack bars scattered throughout Hongdae. They're affordable and filling, with meals costing ₩3,000 to ₩5,000.

Samgyeopsal For dinner, try grilling your own samgyeopsal (pork belly) at one of the many affordable spots around Hongdae. It's more fun with friends.

Hangover Soup After a night out, visit one of the many 24-hour hangover soup spots in Hongdae. Options include bean sprout soup, bone hangover soup, and cabbage beef soup.

Food for International Tastes

Hongdae is rich in international cuisine.

Italian restaurants, Mexican tacos, Vietnamese pho, Indian curry, and Middle Eastern food are all available.
There are several vegan and vegetarian restaurants, making it easy for vegetarians to find meals.
Halal-certified restaurants are also nearby; search 'Halal restaurant Hongdae' on Naver Map if needed.

Street Food

While strolling along Hongdae's main street, try these street foods:

Hotdogs (Korean-style): Korean-style hotdogs with stretchy cheese. ₩2,500 to ₩4,000
Takoyaki: Octopus-filled Japanese-style balls, popular in a Koreanized version
Ice Cream: Large soft-serve ice creams piled high on cones
Malatang: Spicy Chinese soup, a current craze in Korea

24-Hour Dining

With Hongdae's vibrant nightlife, many eateries stay open late.

Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven): Open 24 hours, with high-quality instant food
Seolleongtang and hangover soup restaurants: Many open late
24-hour BBQ spots: Some samgyeopsal and dakgalbi places operate all night

Solo Dining Spots

There's no need to feel awkward dining alone.

Convenience store lunch boxes: The perfect solo meal, available at any convenience store in Hongdae
Ramen shops: Most have bar-style seating, ideal for solo diners
Single-serving tonkatsu and rice bowl shops: Some have partitions for solo diners

6. Recommended Cafes in Hongdae

Korea's cafe culture is unique, and Hongdae is home to many distinctive cafes.

Understanding Korean Cafe Culture

There are some unique aspects to Korean cafes.

Aa: Short for 'Iced Americano.' Koreans drink iced Americanos even in winter.
Eoljukaa: Short for 'Iced Americano even if I freeze to death.' It's that popular.
Long Stays: Korean cafes don't rush table turnover. You can sit for hours with just one drink without feeling pressured.
Kiosk Ordering: Many cafes use kiosks (touchscreen terminals) for ordering, often with English support.

Rooftop Cafes

Hongdae, Sangsu, and Hapjeong areas have several rooftop cafes. Enjoying a drink with a view of Seoul is a special experience, especially at sunset.

Theme Cafes

Hongdae is home to cafes with unique themes.

Harry Potter Theme Cafe (943 King's Cross): A cafe recreating the Harry Potter universe, popular with foreigners
Animal Cafes: Cafes where you can interact with cats, dogs, rabbits, meerkats, and more
Retro Vibe Cafes: Spaces that recreate the 90s Korean vibe

Work-Friendly Cafes (For Nomadic Travelers)

Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong have many cafes equipped with outlets and Wi-Fi, popular with digital nomads. Most allow you to stay all day without issue.

7. Hongdae Shopping Guide

Hongdae is one of the best places to shop in Seoul, full of unique brands and vintage shops, not department stores.

Street Fashion & Local Brands

Hongdae is the mecca of Korean street fashion. Offline stores of Korean fashion brands you might only see online are concentrated here.

Musinsa Standard: The offline store of Korea's largest online fashion platform, Musinsa, located near Hongik Univ. Station
A-Land: A select shop featuring domestic and international street fashion brands
Local Brands with Urban Outfitters Style: Stroll through Hongdae's alleys to discover unique small designer brand shops

Vintage & Secondhand Shops

Hongdae, Sangsu, and Hapjeong areas are rich in vintage clothing shops.

90s Korean vintage items
Imported vintage clothing
Y2K styles popular in the 1990s and 2000s

Prices range from ₩10,000 to ₩50,000, with many rare items making it fun to hunt for treasures.

K-Beauty Shopping

Hongdae's main street is lined with K-beauty shops, including Olive Young. It's less crowded than Myeongdong but offers a wide range of products.

Olive Young: Korea's largest H&B store
Aritaum, Etude House, and other one-brand shops
Independent beauty select shops

Souvenir Shopping Tips

Unique souvenirs you can buy in Hongdae:

Insaeng Ne Cut sticker photos (experience + souvenir in one)
Handmade items from flea markets
Art posters by Korean indie artists
K-pop idol merchandise (official goods shops)
Character goods (Kakao Friends, Line Friends, etc.)

How to Get a Tax Refund

Foreigners can get a VAT (10%) refund for purchases over ₩30,000.

Receive a receipt when purchasing at Tax Free logo stores
Apply for a refund at the airport customs before departure
Or get an on-site refund at city refund counters (like in Myeongdong)

You must purchase over ₩30,000 in one transaction at a single store and keep the receipt.

8. Hongdae Nightlife — How to Enjoy Safely

Hongdae's nightlife is a world apart from its daytime vibe, offering the most vibrant nightlife in Seoul.

Understanding Korean Club Culture

Korean clubs have some differences from those abroad. Knowing these can enhance your experience.

Age Requirement

The legal drinking age in Korea is 19 years old. However, Korea uses both 'Korean age' and 'international age,' and clubs usually apply international age (based on birthdate). Always carry your passport.

Foreigners Welcome

Most Hongdae clubs welcome foreigners. You can enter with just your passport.

Entrance Fees and Operations

Entrance fee: ₩10,000 to ₩20,000 (often includes 1-2 drinks)
Operating hours: 11 PM to around 5 AM
Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest

Dress Code

Hongdae clubs have a more relaxed dress code than those in Itaewon or Gangnam. Slippers, shorts, and sneakers are generally allowed, but check each club's Instagram or website for specifics.

Main Clubs

Hongdae offers clubs in various genres.

Hip-Hop/R&B Clubs: Experience the Korean hip-hop scene, with some clubs featuring live MC performances
EDM/Techno Clubs: Large sound systems with intense electronic music
Indie/Rock Clubs: Venues for Hongdae's indie music scene

Live Venues & Jazz Bars

If clubs aren't your thing, consider live venues.

Rolling Hall A venue that has supported Hongdae's indie music for over 20 years. It hosts performances by Korean indie bands and international artists. Check Rolling Hall's official SNS or Melon Ticket for schedules.

Jazz Bars There are small bars throughout Hongdae where you can enjoy live jazz. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere to the loud club scene, jazz bars are a great choice. Many offer live performances even on weekdays.

Bars & Pubs

If clubs feel too intense and you just want a casual drink, try Hongdae's bars and pubs.

Rooftop Bars: Enjoy cocktails with a night view
Craft Beer Bars: Reflecting Korea's craft beer trend, Hongdae has many craft beer bars
Convenience Store Tables: Buy beer and snacks from a convenience store and enjoy them at outdoor tables for a true Hongdae vibe

Nightlife Safety Tips — Must Read

Here are some tips for enjoying Hongdae's nightlife safely.

Beware of Bar Scams

There are scam bars targeting foreigners in Hongdae's club district. If someone on the street offers "free entry, unlimited drinks," it's likely a scam that will charge you an exorbitant amount later. If you refuse to pay, they may become threatening.

Avoid places promoted by street touts
Always check drink prices and entrance fees before entering
Never agree to leave your card as a deposit
If you're scammed, report it to the police (112) or tourist police (1330)

Drink Safety

Never leave your drink unattended. It's better to be cautious to avoid issues later.

Getting Home

While Hongdae is well-connected by public transport, the subway doesn't run between 1 AM and 5 AM. During this time, calling a taxi via Kakao T is the safest option. Avoid unlicensed taxis you might hail on the street.

9. Korean Karaoke (Noraebang) Guide

Karaoke is a must-do experience in Hongdae. It's often the top experience foreigners want to try but hesitate due to unfamiliarity.

What's Different About Korean Karaoke?

Korean karaoke differs from Western-style karaoke bars. Instead of singing alone on a stage in front of strangers, you rent a private room with friends to sing freely. You can shout and dance without embarrassment.

How to Use

Enter the karaoke, choose the number of people and duration (usually in 30-minute or 1-hour blocks)
Staff will guide you to a room
Use the tablet or remote in the room to search and select songs
There's a wide selection of English songs (pop, English K-pop, etc.)
Rooms come with 1-2 microphones, tambourines, and a remote control

Pricing

Typically ₩5,000 to ₩15,000 per person for an hour
Prices vary by time of day (cheaper during the day)
Beverages (cola, cider, beer, etc.) can be ordered separately

Tips

You don't need to know Korean. There are plenty of English song options.
Use the tambourine to match the beat for extra fun.
If you need more time, press the button in the room or ask the staff.
You can go alone (solo karaoke = 'hon-noraebang')

10. How to Enjoy Hongdae by Time & Season

Daytime Hongdae vs. Nighttime Hongdae

Hongdae shows completely different faces depending on the time of day.

Daytime Hongdae (10 AM to 6 PM)

Relaxed atmosphere centered around cafes and boutique shops
Busking performances start (from afternoon)
Great time for shopping (less crowded)
Perfect lighting and leisure for Instagram photos

Nighttime Hongdae (After 6 PM)

Peak busking time (7 PM to 10 PM)
Restaurants and bars come alive
Club district gets going from 11 PM
Weekend nights draw tens of thousands of people

Weekend vs. Weekday

Reasons to Visit on the Weekend

Maximum busking and flea market activity
The most vibrant and energetic atmosphere
Peak time for clubs and bars

Reasons to Visit on Weekdays

No lines at cafes and restaurants
Comfortable shopping
Higher local ratio for a more authentic experience

Seasonal Recommendations

Spring (March to May) During cherry blossom season, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park (Yeonnam-dong) is particularly beautiful. Outdoor cafes and busking performances are more lively.

Summer (June to August) Various festivals and outdoor events take place in Hongdae. Beware of the heat and monsoon season. Late nights are more vibrant.

Autumn (September to November) The best season to visit Hongdae. The weather is pleasant, and the foliage in Gyeongui Line Forest Park is stunning. Outdoor performances and flea markets are more frequent.

Winter (December to February) During Christmas and the year-end season, Hongdae is packed with crowds. The street lights and holiday atmosphere are special. Halloween is a major event in Hongdae, drawing thousands in costumes.

Tips for Avoiding Peak Times

Weekend afternoons (2 PM to 5 PM): The busiest time, expect lines
Monday to Thursday daytime: The most relaxed
Rainy days: Surprisingly pleasant (indoor spaces may be crowded)

11. Exploring Nearby Neighborhoods — Beyond Hongdae

Within walking distance from Hongik Univ. Station, you'll find unique neighborhoods. Combining them with Hongdae makes for a richer day.

Yeonnam-dong

Walk towards Exit 3 of Hongik Univ. Station to reach Yeonnam-dong. Unlike Hongdae's commercial vibe, it's a quiet area with charming cafe alleys. Independent bookstores, bakeries, and interior shops are hidden in every alley.

Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a linear park created from an old railway. It runs through Yeonnam-dong, perfect for a stroll, and is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. Small markets pop up around the park on weekends.

Yeonhui-dong

A bit further from Yeonnam-dong, you'll find Yeonhui-dong. Less known than Hongdae or Yeonnam-dong, it has stylish cafes and restaurants hidden among quiet residential areas. There are many exotic eateries and unique select shops, making it fun to explore.

Hapjeong

Just one subway stop (or a 15-minute walk) from Hongik Univ. Station is Hapjeong Station. It offers a more mature and calm atmosphere than Hongdae, with chic bars and cafes. Mangwon Hangang Park is also nearby, making it great for a Han River picnic.

Sangsu

Located between Hongdae and Hapjeong, Sangsu Station is perfect for those looking to escape Hongdae's hustle. Small cafes, bars, and galleries are hidden in narrow alleys, offering a treasure hunt-like experience.

12. Practical Info Every Foreigner Should Know

Convenience Stores & ATMs

You can easily find GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven convenience stores throughout Hongdae. They have ATMs where you can withdraw cash with foreign cards.

Public Restrooms

If you need a restroom while in Hongdae:

Convenience store restrooms (some available)
Restrooms inside Hongik Univ. Station (free)
Public restrooms in parks
Buy a drink at a cafe and use their restroom

Luggage Storage (Coin Lockers)

Use the coin lockers inside Hongik Univ. Station to store your luggage and explore freely.

Location: Basement 1 of Hongik Univ. Station
Fee: ₩3,000 to ₩6,000 depending on size (per day)
Payment: Cash or card (varies by machine)

K-Pop Dance Experience

There are several studios around Hongdae offering K-pop dance one-day classes for foreigners. Major agency buildings like JYP, SM, and HYBE are also nearby. If you're a K-pop fan, consider booking a K-pop dance class in advance through Klook or KKday.

Jjimjilbang Experience in Hongdae

There are jjimjilbangs (Korean bathhouses) near Hongdae. These are unique Korean bath and relaxation spaces with saunas, hot rooms, and sleeping areas. They're affordable at ₩10,000 to ₩15,000 and popular for resting after a night out.

Things to Watch Out For

Pickpocketing Hongdae is relatively safe, but be mindful of your phone and bags during crowded weekend nights.

Street Solicitation There are people soliciting on club streets. Some lead to scam bars, so avoid following strangers into unknown venues.

Drinking by the Han River Drinking in Han River parks is legal, but drinking on general streets in Hongdae is prohibited unless it's at an outdoor table set by a venue. Convenience store tables are provided by the store, so they're fine to use.

13. Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay — Accommodation Tips Near Hongdae

Should You Stay in Hongdae?

Hongdae is a great place to stay. It's directly connected to Incheon Airport via the Airport Railroad and offers easy access to major Seoul attractions.

Types of Accommodation Near Hongdae

Guesthouses: Popular with foreign travelers, offering a range from private rooms to dorms. Reasonably priced (₩20,000 to ₩50,000 per night)
Airbnb: Stay in an apartment or hanok-style accommodation in Hongdae's alleys. Great for longer stays
Boutique Hotels: Small hotels with interiors reflecting Hongdae's vibe, ideal for travelers who value atmosphere
Business Hotels: Clean, affordable hotels. The hotel in the Musinsa Standard building is a prime example

Accommodation Selection Tips

Staying within a 5-minute walk of Hongik Univ. Station is most convenient
If you plan to enjoy the club nightlife, be aware that accommodations too close to the club district may be noisy
Accommodations in Yeonnam-dong offer a quieter, more charming atmosphere than Hongdae's bustling areas

14. Recommended Hongdae Itineraries

Half-Day Itinerary (4 Hours)

Exit 9 of Hongik Univ. Station → Main street shopping
Watch busking at Hongdae Playground
Take Insaeng Ne Cut photos
Relax at a cafe
Explore Eoulmadang-ro alleys

Full-Day Itinerary (8 Hours)

Morning: Brunch at a Yeonnam-dong cafe, walk along Gyeongui Line Forest Park
Afternoon: Shop on Hongdae's main street, visit KT&G Sangsangmadang gallery
Evening: Dinner of dakgalbi or samgyeopsal
Night: Watch busking performances, visit a Hongdae bar or live venue

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1 Afternoon: Hongdae shopping, cafes, Insaeng Ne Cut
Day 1 Evening: Dinner at a Hongdae restaurant
Day 1 Night: Karaoke, club, or live bar
Day 2 Morning: Explore Yeonnam-dong, Hapjeong, Sangsu alleys
Day 2 Evening: Han River park picnic (walk from Hapjeong Station)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Is it better to visit Hongdae on weekdays or weekends?

A. It depends on your goals. For clubs and busking, Friday and Saturday nights are best. For relaxed cafe visits and shopping, weekday afternoons are recommended. Weekend days can be crowded, making shopping less comfortable.

Q. Can foreigners enter clubs in Hongdae?

A. Yes, most Hongdae clubs welcome foreigners. Bring your passport (or foreign registration card). Entry is not allowed for those under 19.

Q. Is it okay to visit Hongdae alone?

A. Absolutely. Watching busking performances, sitting in cafes, or using karaoke ('hon-noraebang') alone is all natural. It's a neighborhood where discovering things on your own is part of the charm.

Q. Is English spoken in Hongdae?

A. Basic English is spoken in large shops and cafes on the main street. However, smaller shops in alleys may only speak Korean. Using the Papago translation app can help in most situations.

Q. Can I experience K-pop in Hongdae?

A. Yes. You can take K-pop dance one-day classes, shop for K-pop idol merchandise, and watch K-pop cover dance teams busking. JYP Entertainment's building is also near Hongdae.

Q. How can I enjoy Hongdae on a budget?

A. Watch busking performances (free), browse flea markets (free), visit KT&G Sangsangmadang's free gallery, and buy snacks from a convenience store to enjoy at Hongdae Playground. You can enjoy a half-day for under ₩10,000.

Q. Is Hongdae suitable for family trips?

A. The daytime is great for family trips. Busking performances, Insaeng Ne Cut, cafes, and shopping are enjoyable for all ages. However, the club district after 11 PM is not suitable for children.