Unmissable Spots: 13+ Best Things to Do in Hongdae

Nestled in the heart of Seoul, Hongdae is a vibrant district that pulsates with youthful energy, artistic expression, and a nightlife that keeps the streets buzzing. From quirky shops to live street performances, your senses are in for a treat with a kaleidoscope of experiences.

Strolling through Hongdae, you'll discover a blend of urban art and culture that makes this neighborhood a fascinating place to explore.

Whether sampling the local cuisine, hunting for unique fashion finds, or mingling with the creative crowd, Hongdae offers an unforgettable slice of the city's contemporary spirit.

Discover Hongdae Street Art

As you explore Hongdae, you'll encounter an ever-changing display of street art, with murals and graffiti created by local artists transforming ordinary walls into extraordinary exhibitions. Wander through the neighborhood's alleys to discover hidden gems that capture its artistic spirit.

Enjoy Street Performances and Local Talent

Your experience in Hongdae isn't complete without enjoying the street performers. Talented musicians, dancers, and performers bring the sidewalks to life, showcasing local talent and making your stroll through the neighborhood truly memorable.

Trick Eye Museum Experience

Hours: 11am-7pm, Monday to Sunday

At the Trick Eye Museum, your eyes won't believe what they see. Dive into mind-bending optical illusions and become part of 3D artworks that'll make your photos come alive.

Address: B2 Seogyo Plaza, 20 Hongikro 3gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station, Metro Line 2

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Catch a Nanta Theatre Show

Hours: varies depending on show

Experience the rhythmic beats of the Nanta show, a non-verbal theater performance blending comedy, music, and cooking. It's a toe-tapping spectacle you shouldn't miss.

Address: 29 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station, Metro Line 2, Exit 9

Hours to Spend: 1.5-2 hours

Visit the Hongik University Tourist Information Center

Hours: 10am-10pm, Monday to Sunday

Planning your Hongdae adventure? Don't miss the Hongik University Tourist Information Center for the latest on cultural events and neighborhood insights. It's your step toward a local's view of the district.

Address: 20 Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station, Gyeongui Jungang Line

Hours to Spend: 30minutes-1 hour

Fashion Street Shopping

Hours: 10am-11pm, Monday to Friday and Saturday; 24 hours, Sunday

Strolling through Hongdae's Fashion Street, you're in the heart of youth culture. Bustling with trendy stores and thrift shops, the area offers a variety of styles that reflect the latest Korean fashion trends.

Make sure to check out spots like the Hongdae Shopping Street for fashionable finds at great prices.

Address: 365-8 서교동 Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station, Metro Line 2, Exit 9

Hours to Spend: 2-3 hours

Unique Finds at Hongdae Free Market

Hours: 1pm-6pm, Saturday

On Saturdays, the Hongdae Free Market becomes a paradise for unique treasures. Here, you'll discover handmade jewelry, art, and clothing from local artists.

It's the ideal place to find that one-of-a-kind piece that no one else will have. For more details on the market's offerings, visit the Hongdae Free Market overview.

Address: 19-3 Wausan-ro 21-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station, Metro Line 2, Exit 9

Hours to Spend: 2-4 hours

Savor Korean Food Delights

Hours: 12pm-1am, Monday to Sunday

In Hongdae, you'll find an array of restaurants serving up mouth-watering Korean food. Don't miss out on tteokbokki, a spicy rice cake dish, and Kyochon Chicken, famed for its crispy fried chicken. From street vendors to sit-down eateries, you're in for a treat.

Address: 6 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station

Hours to Spend: 2-3 hours

Coffee Culture and Quirky Cafes

Hours: 12pm-9pm, Monday to Sunday (Thanks Nature Cafe)

1:30pm-8pm, Monday to Sunday (Meerkat Cafe)

For coffee enthusiasts, Hongdae's cafes are a must-visit. Unique spots like Thanks Nature Cafe and Meerkat Cafe let you enjoy a cup of joe with adorable animal friends. If you're into the local brews, Hongdae's craft beer scene won't disappoint.

Address: 10 Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Thanks Nature Cafe)

20 미어캣 프랜즈 2층, Wausan-ro 21-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Meerkat Cafe)

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station, Line 2 (Thank Nature Cafe)

Hongdae Station, Line 2 (Meerkat Cafe)

Hours to Spend: 2-3 hours

Vibrant Bars and Clubs

You're spoiled for choice with Hongdae's diverse range of bars and clubs, where the party never stops. Whether you want to groove to the hottest K-pop hits or unwind in a lounge with live indie bands, there's a spot just for you.

Karaoke and Nighttime Fun

Sing your heart out in Hongdae's karaoke rooms, the perfect place to showcase your vocals. After clubbing, join friends at a karaoke joint to belt out the latest K-pop tunes or your all-time favorite jams. It's all fun and games till dawn.

Unwind at Gyeongui Line Forest Park

Hours: 5am-11pm, Monday to Sunday

Step into the tranquility of Gyeongui Line Forest Park, a green oasis amidst Hongdae's urban bustle. Formerly a railway line, this elongated park invites you to relax on its lawns, peruse Gyeongui Line Book Street, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment under the shade of its trees.

Address: 188 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station, Metro Line 2, Exit 3

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Hongdae Walking Adventure

Hours: 24 hours a day. 7 days a week

Set off on a walking adventure along Jandari-ro, the vibrant artery of Yeonnman-dong. It's a lively scene where you can soak in the street art and watch the pulse of local life. As you walk, discover hidden gems and the true spirit of Hongdae.

Address: 121 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Closest Metro: Hongik University Station,Metro Line 2

Hours to Spend: 2-3 hours

Choose from Trendy Hotels and Hostels

Hongdae's eclectic vibe extends to its accommodation, offering a range of options from trendy hotels like the stylish L7 Hongdae by Lotte, which combines chic decor with a youthful atmosphere, to hostels that provide modern, social environments at budget-friendly prices.

Stay Near Key Attractions

To dive right into the neighborhood's lively spirit, stay near key attractions. The trendy 9 Brick Hotel positions you just a stroll away from the area's eclectic music scene and fashion-forward streets.

Or, for seamless travel around Seoul, Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae is a stone's throw from Hongik University Subway Station.

Navigating Hongdae via Subway

The heart of Hongdae's transit network is the Hongik University Station, where the Seoul subway's Line 2 provides you with direct and easy access to the area. It's part of the Green Line, which circles through many key districts of the city.

When you're planning your trip, a Subway map comes in handy – keep one bookmarked on your phone for quick reference.

Tips for Using Local Transportation

Maximize your travel experience with a Discover Seoul Pass, which offers you unlimited travel and discounts at some attractions. Don't hesitate to download the Kakao T app, as it’s incredibly useful for hailing taxis or checking transit routes.

When in Mapo-gu, always stay aware of peak hours to avoid the rush and make your journey through Hongdae as smooth as possible.

Locate Key Hangout Spots

Begin your journey at Hongik University, the epicenter of youthful vibrancy and street art displays. Don't miss out on the vicinity's countless cafes and indie music venues which are a stone's throw from the campus.

Map of Must-Visit Locations

Plot out major Mapo-gu attractions with precision. A detailed map that includes essential stops like shopping districts and entertainment hubs ensures you experience the heart of South Korea's urban creativity.