Hongdae's night streets in Seoul, South Korea, with their dazzling neon signs and billboards, are eye-catching.

Hongdae’s night streets in Seoul, South Korea, with their dazzling neon signs and billboards, are eye-catching.

Source: https://unsplash.com

Hongdae Travel Guide

1. Introduction

Discover the Pulse of Youth Culture – Hongdae Travel Guide

Welcome to Hongdae, the beating heart of Seoul’s youthful energy, creativity, and nightlife. This Hongdae travel guide is crafted to help you explore the neighborhood known for its indie music, vibrant street art, stylish cafés, and electric atmosphere.

Located near Hongik University, Hongdae attracts students, artists, and international travelers looking for unique experiences. Whether you're hunting for quirky shops, enjoying live performances, or exploring back-alley galleries, this area captures the spirit of modern Korean culture.

Dive into a district that never sleeps, where tradition meets innovation and every corner reveals something new.

2. How to Get to Hongdae

How to get from Incheon Airport to Hongik University Station by subway, Seoul Metropolitan Subway Map

How to get from Incheon Airport to Hongik University Station by subway, Seoul Metropolitan Subway Map

Source: Seoul Metro / http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/

How to get from Seoul Station to Hongik University Station by subway, Seoul Metropolitan Subway Map

Source: Seoul Metro / http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/

 

 

How to get from Seoul Station to Hongik University Station by taxi, Seoul Metropolitan Area Map

Source: Seoul Metro / http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/



Getting to Hongdae – Easy Access in the Heart of Seoul

Hongdae is conveniently located in western Seoul and is easily accessible via public transportation. The neighborhood centers around Hongik University Station (Line 2, Airport Railroad Express, Gyeongui–Jungang Line), offering direct connections to both Incheon International Airport and major city districts like Gangnam and Myeongdong.

From Incheon International Airport, take the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) for a smooth and budget-friendly ride. Subway fares (as of May 31, 2025 exchange rate) are:

  • Adults: 1,500 KRW (~$1.00)
  • Teens: 800 KRW (~$0.58)
  • Children: 500 KRW (~$0.36)

The journey takes about 50 minutes and requires no transfers. For easy navigation, check out the Seoul Metro Subway Map.

Prefer a taxi? A direct ride from the airport to Hongdae costs approximately 20,000 KRW (~$14.46). Just tell the driver "Hongik Dae-hak-gyo-yeok" (홍익대학교역), and they’ll get you there comfortably.

3. Where to Stay in Hongdae

amanti hotel in hongdae

Amanti, Hotel

Source: Amanti Hotel / https://www.hotelamanti.com/



Y Motel in hongdae

Shinchon Y Hotel, Motel

Source: https://nol.yanolja.com/



that house in hongdae

That House, Guest House

Source: https://nol.yanolja.com/



Top-Rated Accommodations in Hongdae for Every Traveler

Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Hongdae offers a variety of comfortable and highly rated places to stay. Below is a selection of top hotels, motels, and guesthouses categorized by type and budget.

Hotels

Motels

Guesthouses

For more booking options and updated reviews, check out Agoda or HotelsCombined.

4. Must-Buy Items in Hongdae​​

Where to Shop Unique Souvenirs in Hongdae

Unlike other districts in Seoul, Hongdae is a vibrant hub of creativity, making it the best spot to find handmade crafts, indie fashion, and art-based souvenirs. Here are some unique items and the best places to buy them.

Indie Fashion & Handmade Accessories

  • Object – A well-known concept store offering indie clothing, accessories, and locally-designed goods.
    Address: 6 Wausan-ro 33-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

Art Prints & Zines by Local Artists

  • Gurumare – A hidden gem loved by local creatives for its art prints and self-published zines.
    Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

K-pop & K-Indie Goods

  • Music Korea Hongdae – For exclusive Hongdae K-Indie or K-pop-related souvenirs like limited edition albums or photo cards.
    Address: 89 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

These items represent the spirit of Hongdae — youthful, artistic, and creative. Make sure to explore side streets and pop-up markets for more hidden gems.

5. What to Eat in Hongdae​​​
Korean BBQ restaurant located in Hongdae, Yukgaphane

Korean BBQ Samgyeopsal, Yukgabhane

Source: https://blog.naver.com/jjomkko



Chicken with a unique spice, Reggae Chicken

Source: https://blog.naver.com/hototi



Naengmyeon, a Korean dish characterized by cold noodles

Naengmyeon, a cold noodle dish characterized by a cold broth and mild seasoning, Eulmildae 

Source: https://blog.naver.com/hazleee



cafe remodeled from an abandoned factory, Anthracite

Source: https://blog.naver.com/and1211



Top Restaurants in Hongdae

Hongdae offers a diverse food scene, from sizzling Korean BBQ to cozy cafés with exquisite desserts. Here’s a detailed guide to the best spots categorized by cuisine type.

Korean BBQ & Galbi

  • Yeonnam Seoseo Galbi – A local favorite serving delicious charcoal-grilled galbi at affordable prices. Known for its authentic flavors and casual vibe, this place is often crowded during peak hours.
    Address: 40 Donggyo-ro 38-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps
  • Yukgabhane – Specializes in quality grilled meat with generous portions. Their pork belly (samgyeopsal) is highly recommended. The restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere suitable for groups.
    Address: 15 Wausan-ro 18-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

Fried Chicken

  • BBQ Olive Chicken Café – Famous for its crispy and flavorful fried chicken, perfectly paired with cold beer. Their garlic soy chicken is a must-try.
    Address: 164 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps
  • Reggae Chicken – Known for its unique spice blend and crispy skin, this place offers both spicy and non-spicy options. The reggae sauce chicken is a local favorite.
    Address: 12 Wausan-ro 21-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

Traditional Korean & Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles)

  • Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyetang – Specializes in ginseng chicken soup (samgyetang), prized for its rich broth and tender chicken. Ideal for nourishing meals.
    Address: 14 Wausan-ro 18-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps
  • Jeonju Jungang Hoegwan – Famous for its authentic bibimbap and traditional side dishes, this restaurant brings the flavors of Jeonju to Hongdae.
    Address: 164-2 Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps
  • Eulmildae – Legendary for its classic Pyongyang-style naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) with a clean and refreshing broth. A must-visit for cold noodle lovers.
    Address: 186-6 Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

Seafood

  • Eosachultto – Popular for its fresh seafood dishes and Korean-style grilled fish. The spicy seafood stew (haemul jjigae) is highly praised.
    Address: 22 Wausan-ro 27-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps
  • Yeonnam Fisherman (Yeonnam Eobu) – Known for its sashimi and grilled shellfish, this spot is great for fresh seafood lovers who want a casual dining experience.
    Address: 18 Donggyo-ro 28-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

Cafes with Stylish Interiors & Delicious Desserts

  • Anthracite – A trendy industrial-style café known for its expertly brewed coffee and spacious atmosphere. Their drip coffee and freshly baked pastries are must-tries.
    Address: 357-6 Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps
  • Tea Brew Coffee House – A cozy café specializing in tea and coffee blends with unique flavors. Their signature tea latte and dessert sets are popular.
    Address: 45 Wausan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps
  • Loaf House – Known for its artisanal bread and cakes, this café offers a comfortable environment perfect for relaxing afternoons.
    Address: 22 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
    View on Google Maps

Whether you crave grilled meat, fried chicken, refreshing cold noodles, fresh seafood, or artisanal coffee, Hongdae has something to satisfy every palate.

6. Useful Tips for Visiting Hongdae​​​​

Useful Travel Tips for Exploring Hongdae

Visiting Hongdae can be both exciting and overwhelming due to its energy and crowds. Here are some helpful tips to make the most of your experience.

Visit on Weekdays if Possible

Weekends in Hongdae are extremely crowded. For a more relaxed atmosphere, try visiting on weekdays, especially in the early afternoon.

Bring Cash for Street Performers and Markets

Many indie vendors and performers only accept cash. Having small bills will help when shopping or tipping street musicians.

Download Korean Map Apps

Google Maps has limited navigation in Korea. Apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map offer better accuracy and real-time public transit info.

Look for Pop-up Stores & Markets

Don’t just stick to main roads—side streets often have rotating pop-up shops, handmade product markets, and hidden cafes.

Learn Basic Korean Phrases

While many young locals speak basic English, using a few Korean phrases like “안녕하세요” (hello) or “감사합니다” (thank you) will make interactions smoother and friendlier.

Cheers to your happy journey!

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