Ultimate Guide to Hongdae: Where to Eat, Shop, and Party

If you're planning a trip to Seoul and want to experience the city's youth culture, creative energy, and electric nightlife all in one place, make sure Hongdae is on your itinerary. Short for the Hongik University area, this vibrant neighbourhood is a favourite among both locals and tourists, and for good reason. From buzzing food stalls and photobooths to Korean beauty salons and foreigner-friendly clubs, there's no shortage of things to do in Hongdae.

Hongdae, Seoul | U0894629 via Wikimedia Commons

This Hongdae guide is tailored for Filipino travellers who want to experience everything the area has to offer, whether you're visiting for a casual stroll or planning to dance until sunrise.

Also read: Filipino Foodie’s Guide to Seoul: 10 Must-Try Korean Dishes and Best Places to Eat

Getting to Hongdae

AREX Outbound Platform | UMNXANL via Wikimedia Commons

Reaching Hongdae is quick and convenient, especially if you're travelling directly from Incheon International Airport. Simply hop on the AREX (Airport Express) train and get off at Hongik University Station. Use Exit 9 or Exit 7 to access Eoulmadang-ro, the main street where most of the action happens. You’ll find cafés, boutiques, and photo booths lined up in every direction.

What to do in Hongdae

Olive Young Hongdae Town | CJ News Room Official Website

Something is thrilling about wandering through Hongdae. The neighbourhood thrives on spontaneity. You might start off hunting for skincare at Olive Young Hongdae Town, but end up spending hours in a photobooth cafe or singing your heart out at a noraebang (Korean karaoke room). Photo Signature and Photo Slate are popular options, but really, any studio with good lighting and cute interiors is worth a go.

Kakao Friends Flagship Store | Knowing Korea Official Website

Another favourite is the Kakao Friends Flagship Store, filled with adorable merchandise and Insta-worthy backdrops. Meanwhile, the Gentle Monster Flagship Store is an entirely different experience, combining art installation with designer eyewear.

Where to eat in Hongdae

One of the best things to do in Hongdae is eat. The food scene is fun, quirky, and delicious, and it stays open late.

Hongdae Shin Mi Gyeong Dakgalbi | Full On Seoul Official Website

Start with Sin Migyeong Hongdae Dakgalbi, famous for spicy stir-fried chicken served with rice cakes and gooey cheese fondue. If you’re with friends, this spot is a must. For something more casual, NooNaHolDak offers roasted chicken, chewy noodles, and fries over three energetic floors. Feeling adventurous? Witch’s Kitchen serves pasta and cocktails in IV drips, a bit of a novelty, but definitely a conversation starter.

Get a Korean glow-up

Soonsiki Hair 순시키헤어 | Official Facebook Page

Thinking of getting a fresh look while you’re in Seoul? Soonsiki Hair, one of Korea’s most popular salons, has a flagship branch in Hongdae. Known for its trendy cuts, perms, and colour treatments, it’s a top choice for tourists. They’re foreigner-friendly, have English-speaking stylists, and you can even book a slot online. If you’re into beauty shopping, Olive Young and OLENS offer the latest in K-beauty trends, skincare, and coloured contact lenses.

Shop 'til late

Eoulmadang-ro | Michaela Den via Wikimedia Commons

Shopping in Hongdae is a fun mix of street fashion and character goods. Head over to M. Playground for affordable, on-trend Korean streetwear. As you walk down Eoulmadang-ro, you’ll come across everything from pop-up shops and local brands to fashion stalls and claw machines. The area turns pedestrian-only on weekends, making it ideal for a slow evening stroll.

Nightlife in Hongdae

Hongdae Playground | Visit Seoul Official Website

Ready to party? Hongdae nightlife is among the best in Seoul, and yes, you can legally drink in public. Many travellers and locals pregame by grabbing soju and snacks from a convenience store and hanging out at Hongdae Playground, a small park that doubles as a public drinking and performance space.

When it’s time to hit the bars, check out Thursday’s, Corner Pub, and Mike’s Cabin for a casual but lively crowd. Drinks range from ₩5,000 (₱209) to ₩10,000 (₱417). These are great places to meet people, whether you're travelling solo or with friends.

Looking for clubs? Some places in Seoul are strict about letting in foreigners, but Hongdae has plenty of foreigner-friendly clubs. You’ll hear everything from Latin music to hip-hop and pop. If you're more into variety, Club FF offers a mix of genres from K-pop to classic rock. Not into drinking? Don’t worry, arcades, darts bars, and photo booths stay open late, too.

Also read: How to Travel South Korea on a Budget Without Missing Out

Final tips for Filipino travellers

You don’t need a fixed itinerary to enjoy Hongdae. Just wear comfy shoes, bring some cash, and let your curiosity lead the way. Whether you're in Seoul for a short stop or planning a full week of adventures, Hongdae offers the perfect mix of food, fashion, fun, and nightlife, all within walking distance. You’ll leave with a camera roll full of memories and probably a skincare product or two you never intended to buy.