The best nightclubs and karaoke in Seoul attract a steady clientele of local revellers and travellers looking to enjoy a fun night out in South Korea's modern capital. A favourite holiday destination for hard-core dance music fans, the capital city of South Korea hosts numerous nightclubs and bars, as well as international dance festivals such as Ultra, Seoul World DJ Festival and World Club Dome.

Another popular night-time activity in Seoul is noraebang, or karaoke, where you can belt out your favourite tunes until the early hours of the morning. Noraebang centres are available almost everywhere in the city, especially the Gangnam, Hongdae and Apgujeong districts. Experience South Korea’s diverse nightlife scene by checking out these top picks during your holiday in Seoul.  

  • 1

    Club Octagon

    World-ranking luxury dance club

    Club Octagon
    • Nightlife

    The extravagant Club Octagon is one of Gangnam’s elite nightclubs, where local celebrities and trendsetters party until late. Touted as one of the world's best clubs, it’s an underground hideout with top quality sound systems, VIP lounges, spacious dancefloors, private rooms and even a swimming pool.

    Club Octagon hosts an impressive line-up of international and Korean DJs that usually play electro dance and tech-house. Expect to pay a cover charge to party here, but it’s worth it for the impeccable drinks selection and luxury nightlife experience.

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    Location: 645 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

    Open: Thursday–Sunday from 11 pm to 8 am (Closed Monday–Wednesday)

    Phone: +82 (0)10-7328-8182

    Map
  • 2

    Hongdae Club Aura

    Two separate areas for EDM and hip-hop

    • Nightlife

    Hongdae Club Aura is one of the biggest clubs in the bustling Hongdae area, famous for its lively beats and dynamic crowd. This energising club is just a short walk from the Hongik University Station.

    While the layout primarily consists of table areas, it creates a unique dynamic for those who enjoy dancing in close quarters. With separate areas for EDM and hip-hop, and the ability to move between these 2 areas with a stamp, it caters to varied music preferences, making every night a new experience.

    Location: 364-24 Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

    Open: Wednesday from 10 pm to 6 am, Thursday from 10 pm to 7 am, Friday and Saturday from 9.30 pm to 7 am, Sunday from 10 pm to 6 am (Closed Monday and Tuesday)

    Phone: +82 (0)10-6667-6460

    Map
  • 3

    King Club

    Exciting gay club playing K-pop hits and techno

    • Nightlife

    Located in Seoul’s Itaewon district, King Club is a gay club that is a must-visit for every K-Pop enthusiast. This dynamic club redefines the clubbing experience with its alternating half-hour K-Pop and techno playlist.

    The club’s signature themed nights promise a unique twist to your usual clubbing, featuring a 1:1 head-to-head party where rival girl band hits are played. The crowd is predominantly a young one that revels in the chance to dance on stage. If you are seeking an all-night party, consider securing a VIP table for your convenience. 

    Location: 1st floor Indang Building, 136-46 Itaewon-dong Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

    Open: Friday from 11 pm to 6 am, Saturday from 11 pm to 6.30 am, Sunday from 8 pm to 1 am (Closed Monday–Thursday)

    Phone: +82 (0)10-7408-8730

    Map
  • 4

    Helicon

    Underground scene with electronic beats

    • Group
    • Nightlife

    Cakeshop stands as a beacon for lovers of eclectic electronic music in the bustling district of Itaewon. Just steps away from the Noksapyeong Station, this underground club boasts an industrial-chic interior adorned with exposed brick, neon lights and a spacious dance floor, setting the scene for unforgettable nights.

    Cakeshop's music is a harmonious fusion of genres, reflecting the diverse sounds of the global DJs who frequent its decks. The club prides itself on an atmosphere that's raw, intimate and fun, creating an experience that's as honest as it is exhilarating. If you're seeking a melting pot of aesthetics and sounds, Cakeshop is your choice.

    Location: 34-16 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea ‎

    Open: Friday–Sunday from 9 pm to 4.30 am (closed Monday–Thursday)

    Phone: +82 (0)10-7445-1926

    Map
  • 5

    Su Noraebang

    Multilingual karaoke bar with branches in all the city's hottest spots

    • Group
    • Nightlife

    Su Noraebang has several branches in Seoul’s nightlife districts, including Gangnam, Hongdae and Apgujeong. This noraebang has excellent service, stylish interiors and state-of-the-art facilities. Catering to an international clientele, their music collection is regularly updated, with thousands of songs in English, Malay, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai and Russian.

    The rate is modest, and you can add unlimited popcorn, ice cream and drinks for a small charge. Su Noraebang’s main branch in Hongdae has soundproofed rooms with windows overlooking the busy streets below.

    Location: 367-39 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

    Phone: +82 (0)2-322-3111

    Map