A Guide to Taking a Seoul Pub Crawl

As South Koreans continue to acquire a reputation for their love of nightlife, their capital city of Seoul is fully embracing it. Taking a Seoul pub crawl is an experience you won’t soon forget, supported by unparalleled drinking laws, a huge variety of drinking spots, and some of the most astonishingly delicious dishes you’ll find for pairing with your drinks. Here is everything you need to know about planning your very own pub crawl in stunning Seoul.

What is a Pub Crawl?

A pub crawl is when a group of people embark on a journey to a series of bars, usually spread throughout the same area, and begins by ordering drinks at each place. The goal is to enjoy the different atmospheres and flavors of each drinking spot as you make your way from one place to another. In Seoul, people typically do pub crawls in the Itaewon, Gangnam, Hongdae, and Jongno areas.

When Can You Take a Pub Crawl in Seoul?

Part of the unique charm of Seoul pub culture is that the annual Closing Time Law allows drinking spots to stay open until 5 am any day of the week. As such, you can take part in a pub crawl right through the heart of the night! With regards to the law, bars located within Seoul must close by midnight (not including Fridays and Saturdays) and massage parlors located close by should also be avoided.

An Example Seoul Pub Crawl Route

Starting off in Hongdae, it makes sense to start at cozy The Bottom Line bar for an opening beer or two before you make your way towards Tomato Bar Rio for some drinks combined with live music. From there we’d recommend Tankerhouse for one of the most extensive beer menus in the area before making a slight trek over to Itaewon for a round of wines and cocktails at W&K Lounge. As for food pairings, we recommend hitting up nearby Ice Monster for some Injeolmi (Soybean Ice) and Bau House, a famous “Cajun-Korean” joint.

What About Pub Crawl Tours?

If you’re looking for a fun and stress-free experience that is tailored to your tastes and preferences and with the added convenience of an all-inclusive package, then Seoul pub crawl tours are an excellent option. These tours typically involve shuttle transportation, complimentary welcome drinks and snacks, Visit Seoul guide services, beer and whiskey tastings, visiting up to 6 unique and lively bars, food pairings, bar hopping games and discounted shots at each stop. Viator, the global destination tour provider offers some excellent pay-what-you-like pub crawl tours in Seoul!

How Much Do Pub Crawls Cost?

The cost of your Seoul pub crawl really depends on how many people are joining and how many drinks you tend to go through per person. Most pubs also include discounted prices for large groups, so don’t forget that too when it comes to planning your budget. If you join a pub crawl tour then the cost could be anywhere from US$30-60 per person depending on the amount of drinks and other elements included in the price.

Conclusion

Taking part in a Seoul pub crawl offers a fun way for travelers to get acquainted with the city’s nightlife scene and enjoy some delicious food pairings too. As far as drinking laws are concerned all ages can take part too due to the special Closing Time Law, just be sure to stay clear of massage parlors located within Seoul if you’re underage. Seoul pub crawls can be self-planned or joined through organized tours, with either way they are bound to be an experience you won’t easily forget! If you’re looking for an unforgettable night out in Seoul why not book a Seoul pub crawl tour today?

A Local’s Guide to Discovering the Hidden Gems of Seoul

Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, is a city steeped in tradition and modernity. It’s a perfect blend of ancient culture and futuristic technology that draws millions of tourists each year. From K-pop and street food to temples and historic landmarks, there is something for everyone in Seoul. However, if you’re looking to step off the beaten path and explore the city like a local, here’s a guide to discovering its hidden gems.

Local Attractions That Only Locals Know About

While many tourists visit the popular spots in Seoul, locals know that the city is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. One such place is Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can see traditional Korean homes, known as hanoks, and get a glimpse of how Koreans lived in the past. Another lesser-known spot is Ihwa Mural Village, where you can take a stroll through the narrow alleys adorned with colorful murals that tell the stories of the village’s past. Lastly, visit Hongdae, the city’s artistic hub, known for its vibrant street art and lively nightlife.

Dining Like a Local

One cannot leave Seoul without indulging in its delicious cuisine. Korean food is diverse, flavorful, and filled with spice, sweetness, and umami. Start with a bowl of doenjang jjigae, a savory soybean paste soup, at a local restaurant. Next, try kimbap, a Korean take on sushi, filled with vegetables and meat. For the adventurous foodies, there’s sannakji, raw octopus that’s chopped up and served immediately. Lastly, wash it all down with a refreshing glass of makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine.

Cultural Experiences to Embrace

Seoul is an exciting city that’s home to many cultural experiences that you cannot miss. Take a trip to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most prominent royal palace in Seoul, and watch the changing of the guards ceremony. Next, visit a jjimjilbang, a Korean sauna, for a relaxing day, and try their many health remedies. Lastly, watch a Nanta show, a musical performance that combines Korean traditional percussion music with comedy, and enjoy an entertaining and exciting night out.

Local History That Tells a Story

Seoul’s history is rich, and a few captivating stories will leave you spellbound. Visit Jongmyo Shrine, the oldest and most comprehensive royal Confucian shrine, where they hold memorial services for the royals. Next, visit the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a public recreation space that was once an open sewage-filled ditch, and learn its history of transformation. Lastly, visit the DMZ, the demilitarized zone separating South and North Korea, and hear the stories of divided families and hopes for reunion.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Tips

To truly explore Seoul like a local, there are a few tips to follow. Firstly, visit Seoul’s temples early in the morning when there’s virtually no one there, and the air is clean. Secondly, visit the Itaewon district, an expat hub where you’ll discover some of Seoul’s best international cuisine and boutique shopping. Lastly, explore the city’s river parks, such as Banpo Hangang Park, where you will find fantastic views of the city, nature trails, and charming riverside cafés.

In conclusion, Seoul is a city that will captivate you with its unique blend of ancient and modern culture. By following this guide, you’ll be ready to explore the city’s less traveled spots, create unforgettable memories, and maybe even discover a few secrets along the way.