If you’re a Western teacher living in Seoul, you’ve probably been to Hongdae / Hongik University. Whether you come for the night life or just a casual visit, you’ve explored the several-square-block area of mostly bars and clubs near Hongik University and think you’ve seen it all. You know the area. I beg to differ. In a recent trip to the area I decided to find the hidden Hongdae – those areas that aren’t on the tourist map and aren’t usually discovered while perusing the aforementioned bars and clubs.
These are a few places I found within walking distance of the Hongik University station:
Witjandari Playground – at the first left from exit 4, the road splits into a Y. Take the right side of the Y, then follow and look to the left.
PhoMein – from exit 5, turn left, walk for a few meters and look left for the door between Artbox and the GS25. Go in, walk a few meters, and you’ll see it on your right. English menu and great food – just a little hidden from view.
The pedestrian underpass. While not particularly needed to cross the streets, it’s been transformed from a bland slate to a colorful scene of graffiti and a few tags. Take exit 5 and walk straight for a couple blocks. Cover the kids eyes for a couple, shall we say, colorful metaphors.
A hobby shop complete with those model cars, planes, and tanks you used to build when you were 12. Or 10, or 8… From exit 5, walk straight to the underpass, turn right then left (in other words, take the catty corner). Once at street level, turn an immediate right, then the next left, and you’ll see the hobby shop on your left.
The 24/7 FedEx – create, print, pack, ship, or just in case you get a Jerry Maguire moment while you’re in Korea. Take exit 5, go straight under the underpass, continue straight and you’ll see the FedEx on the left.
Finally, let’s not forget about Hongik University – you did know there’s a University in the area? You probably know where the University proper is – down the hill from the park, cross the street, and you’re there. Spend at least a half-hour exploring the actual reason why all the bars / clubs make their home here. Sometimes there’s some sports being played, while other times there’s an art presentation you hadn’t heard about. Either way, it’s part of the energy that makes the area fun.
Did I miss anything? Any favorite hidden spots in Hongdae (preferably with directions)? Comments are open!
