Introducing Seoul’s Next Hottest Neighborhood: Kondae

Kondae, short for Konkuk University (Konkuk Daehakyo) is a vibrant neighborhood characterized by its youthful energy, diverse dining options, and bustling nightlife. Located adjacent to Konkuk University Station on Subway Lines 2 and 7, Kondae has transformed from a factory area into a trendy locale popular with students and young professionals.

1. Location
2. History
3. Dining
4. Nightlife
5. Shopping

1. Location

Kondae is easily accessible via public transport, with Konkuk University Station on line 2 & 7 serving as a central hub. The area also boasts attractions like the Common Ground shopping complex and cultural venues like Gwangjin Culture and Art Hall.

Address: 243 Achasan-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (KakaoMaps)

2. History & Significance 

The area now known as Kondae was originally part of Gwangjin-gu, a district in eastern Seoul. Before its development, this region was primarily industrial, with factories dominating the landscape. However, originally founded in 1946 as Chosun School of Politics, Konkuk University was renamed in 1959, and its presence became the catalyst for transformation in the neighborhood.

After steadily gaining popularity thanks to the university population, Kondae became a cultural hub in the early 2000’s with both popular dining and nightlife options as well as its own ‘Kondae Rodeo Street’ for shopaholics.

3. Dining

1) Cheongchun Deungpan

Address: 34 Dongil-ro 22-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Kakao Maps)

Hours: Noon ~ 11pm Tue- Sun

Cheongchun Deungpan specializes in galbi jjim with options for different spice levels, making it a popular choice for those seeking flavorful Korean comfort food.

2) Hwagi Ae Ae

Address: 16 Achasan-ro 31-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Kakao Maps)

Hours: 1pm ~ 11pm Mon – Fri, Noon ~ 11pm Saturday & Sunday

Known for its sophisticated environment and high-quality charcoal-grilled meats, Hwagi Ae Ae offers unlimited kimchi stew and steamed eggs, making it a popular choice among students.

3) Maehwa Banjeom

Address: 105 Dongil-ro 18-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Kakao Maps)

Hours: 11:30am ~ Midnight Daily

The combination of tasty, affordable Chinese food, especially the lamb skewers, and the lively atmosphere make Maehwa Banjeom a standout dining option in the Kondae area.

4) Street Food

Usually found between exits 3 & 4 of Konkuk University Station, Kondae offers a wide range of street food & pochas for passing students & tourists to enjoy. From winter must-haves like roasted sweet potato and hotteok, to classics like tteokbokki & more, make sure to try some on your next visit!

Looking for more foodie adventures in Seoul? Check out these food tours:

• Small Group Night Food Tour in Seoul: 10 Tastings with Korean BBQ
• Insadong Half-Day Walking Food Tour
• Namdaemun Market Street Food Walking Tour
• Night Food Tour in Euljiro
• [Trazy Local Host] Seoul Food & Nightlife in Gangnam
• Seoul Night Hiking & Foodie Walking Tour

4. Nightlife

Kondae is known for its lively atmosphere, especially on weekends when the streets are bustling with people. The area is less touristy compared to hotspots like Hongdae or Itaewon, providing a more authentic experience. The crowd typically consists of university students looking to unwind after classes, as well as office workers seeking affordable dining and drinking options after work.

1) Kiki Hip Hop Lounge

Address: 19 Achasan-ro 33-gil Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Kakao Maps)

Hours: 10pm ~ 7am Thurs – Mon

A favorite among hip-hop enthusiasts, Club Kiki features vibrant music and a welcoming atmosphere

Check out our full list of Kondae nightlife recommendations on our blog here.

5. Shopping 

1) Common Ground

Address: 200 Achasan-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Kakao Maps)

Built from shipping containers, Common Ground is a landmark in Kondae. It features a mix of streetwear brands, lifestyle shops, and outdoor restaurants.

2) Star City Mall

Address: 272 Achasan-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Kakao Maps)

The Star City Mall is a large shopping complex that includes E-Mart, Lotte Department Store, and various restaurants.

Check out these other fun things to do near Kondae:

• Seoul Walking Tour: Seongsu-dong Cafes, Shopping, K-pop & Culture
• Action Painting Experience in Seongsu
• Seoul Highlights: Must-Visit Spots 1 Day Tour (+ Interactive Busking Performance)

Read more on the hottest neighborhoods in Seoul on our blog:

• The Ultimate Guide to Gangnam Neighborhood in Seoul
• 8 Must-Visit Places in Myeongdong
• All About Bukchon Hanok Village, a Living Museum in Seoul
• Yeonnam-dong: Seoul’s Instagrammable Hidden Gems Part 1
• Things to Do in Hongdae Based on Your Personality
• An Insider’s Guide to Seochon Village

We hope you’ve found this guide to one of Seoul’s trending neighborhoods and we hope to see you at one of these local hotspots soon! Find out more trendiest and latest things to do in Korea on Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop!