Seoul is home to 25 amazing districts. Each with their own unique style. But there is no district that typifies the true essence of South Korean fashion and culture more than Gangnam. The third largest district, but arguably the most famous. Gangnam is the most expensive and most luxurious district. The real estate prices here are almost double that of any other district in Seoul.
Gangnam is where the rich and beautiful come out to play. And, because of that, it happens to have the best nightlife of any district in Seoul. Perhaps in all of South Korea. South Korean’s love to party hard. Gangnam is comparable to Berlin in the respects that the nightclubs and bars here are varied and decked out with the best acts and top of the range equipment. Plus they often stay open until the early hours.
Gangnam has everything you need for an amazing night out. From classy bars where you can enjoy a quiet drink with some live music, to the multi-level nightclubs where the music is pounding and the drinks flow like water! And, of course, there are enough karaoke bars to ensure you can get your signing fix. This guide will be highlighting the trendiest nightlife venues in Gangnam.
It is important to note that a lot of places in Gangnam will outfit check you at the door. Style matters here. So you need to ensure you are wearing something chic. Always avoid open toed shoes or shorts. Most clubs and bars won’t let you wear those for safety reasons. It is wise to check the social media page for any venue you’re planning to visit to see if they have an outfit theme for the night.
You & Me Karakoke
Gangnam You & Me Karaoke is one of the trendiest shirt rooms in all of Gangnam. Providing a more intimate luxury nightlife experience. With a fully stocked bar that is managed by friendly staff. They offer a range of activities for the discerning travellers. Whisky tastings, private karaoke rooms, amazing South Korean cuisine.
They offer a free pick-up service across all of Gangnam too. Ride in style in a luxury sedan. You can book this service and a private room at their website, https://mondesmediterraneens.org. They do tend to book up fast so I highly recommend booking before it’s too late.
Club Octagon
Perhaps the most famous and popular club in Gangnam. Octagon is everything you would expect from a Gangnam nightclub. The sprawling dancefloor stretches from the main stage almost the whole length of the building. There are plenty of VIP areas for those travellers looking to book a more luxury nightlife experience.
Octagon regularly hosts some of the biggest DJs from all across the world. With one of the best sound systems and LED displays going. Every performance becomes a work of art! You can truly lose yourself in the music here. It is also a hot spot for some of the biggest celebrities in South Korea. You shouldn’t be surprised if you end up spotting one of your favourite K-PoP Stars hanging out in the VIP balcony section!
Octagon is open every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11pm. The closing times tend to change on different days so it is wise to check. But you can rest assured that it won’t close until the sun has long since risen!
Arena
Another of Gangnam’s popular clubs. Arena is a playground for everyone who likes to party hard. Featuring some of the world’s best EDM DJs. The dancefloor is spacious and illuminated by one of the most beautiful lighting installations I’ve ever seen in a nightclub. And the sound system is superb to boot.
The biggest selling point for many people is that Arena is one of the main socialization clubs in Gangnam. It is where the rich and famous tend to gather to party. Meaning, if you’re hoping to run into a celebrity or looking to ingratiate yourself into the Gangnam social scene, this is the place to do it! The dress code here is pretty relaxed in regards to gaining entrance. But you will want to dress to impress the influencers and celebrities.