Are you looking for the best way to spend a Friday night in Seoul, or for exciting activities you might not have tried before? Keep reading for the top 10 unique things to do in Hongdae, one of Korea’s most vibrant youth districts!
Hongdae is arguably Seoul’s most energetic neighborhood, with youthful energy that carries through both day and night. Located near Hongik University in western Mapo-gu, it offers plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re after an Instagram-worthy Korean food experience, playful shows and games, or the perfect night out, Hongdae has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll recommend some great things to do in Hongdae based on your interests and personality.
1. Crafty Artists: Roll Up Your Sleeves and Get Crafty!
If you love letting your creative juices flow by doing hands-on activities, we’ve got you covered!
1) Custom Ring Crafting Workshop
Traveling with your besties, or your significant other? Go and make your own custom ring right at the heart of Hongdae. You can completely customize it, whether by changing the width, shape, plating, or adding gemstones or laser engraving. Join the new trend among young Koreans of getting matching rings with their loved ones. Friends, couples, singles ready to mingle… everyone’s welcome to hop on this trend!
- Book Your Custom Ring Session Now and Get Yourself a Discount!
- Join a Silver Ring Making Experience in Hongdae or Myeongdong!
2) Neon Sign Making Class
Make your very own neon light sign with your favorite shape or words! During this class, you’ll learn how to make a neon sign and make your own decoration piece with the step-by-step guidance of an experienced instructor. After the class, you’ll have your own custom neon sign that glows cool, electric lights in your favorite colors!
3) Unicorn Suncatcher Crafting with Resin & Beads Art Workshop
Create your own unicorn suncatcher while learning some useful resin and bead craft techniques. You can decorate your own suncatcher with glitter and crystals in different colors and shapes. It will be a unique and beautiful decoration for your room!
4) Make Your Own Custom Perfume
Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory experience as you explore over 30 fragrances and blend them into your signature perfume with guidance from expert instructors. Create a custom perfume that reflects your unique style!
5) Painting Workshop
Immerse yourself in a creative painting session, where you can slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of making art by hand. With guidance from an instructor, you’ll get to paint your own piece while exploring colors, textures, and your personal style.
6. Leather & Wood Craft Workshop
Discover the charm of handmade craftsmanship at a leather and wood craft workshop, where you can create a stylish and practical item from scratch. Using quality materials and step-by-step guidance, you’ll learn basic crafting techniques while making something that reflects your own taste.
2. Beauty Gurus: Get a Makeover at K-Beauty Hotspots!
If you love shopping for K-beauty products and spending time getting ready, click away!
1) OU Hair Salon
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If you’re looking to get a complete hair makeover, OU Hair Salon in Hongdae is one of the best places to pamper yourself! From cuts, perms, coloring, and care, there is a wide range of options for you to choose from! Make your hair look stylish like that of Korean celebrities with the help of experienced professionals.
2) Vog Hair
This trendy hair salon offers a range of services, including bleach, perm, treatment, dyeing, and the relaxing purehead spa. The expert stylists at Vog Hair are skilled in working with international clients, offering personalized consultations to ensure you get the perfect style.
3) NaNalog Hair Salon
Elevate your style at NaNalog, a chic hair salon with prime locations in Hongdae, Sinchon, and Seongsu. Enjoy personalized 1:1 hair consultations tailored to enhance your features, from scalp care and perms to vibrant coloring. Refresh your look with the expertise of top Korean stylists!
4) JUNO Hair Salon
JUNO HAIR is a highly regarded hair salon chain in Korea, known for its exceptional services and trendy styles. With 8 convenient locations in Seoul—Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, Apgujeong, and Garosu-gil, you can experience stylish haircuts, vibrant coloring, and restorative treatments designed specifically for you!
5) The Days Hair
With two branches in Hongdae, The Days Hair offers plenty of flexibility for travelers looking for a reliable salon experience. The stylists are fluent in English, experienced with clients from different backgrounds, and skilled at working with all hair types, so you can feel comfortable whether you’re visiting the main branch or the Grove branch. If you’re after a trendy, international-friendly salon with expert stylists, this is a great place to go.
- Find Your Signature Style at The Days Hair in Hongdae!
- Book The Days Hair Grove Branch in Hongdae with a Relaxing Atmosphere!
6) Noos Hair
In the heart of Hongdae, Noos Hair is the top destination for stylish cuts, vibrant colors, and expert perms. Skilled designers provide personalized consultations to help you find your perfect look. Enjoy comprehensive packages that include cuts, colors, perms, and treatments, keeping you on top of the latest K-beauty trends.
7) OU Nail Salon
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Have you been drooling over Korean nail designs on Instagram? You sure should! From luxurious and fancy designs to quirky and cute looks, the OU Nail Salon in Hongdae has all the designs you want. Go for a basic polish, or a long-lasting gel polish, depending on your preferences. If you’ve been wondering how all the K-pop artists keep their nails so pretty and healthy, head on over to the Salon to find the secret!
8) Hey Object Nail Art
Korean nail art has been blowing up on social media for its unique designs and techniques. At Hey Object, nail art is not just about decorating nails; it is about creating a true work of art. It’s a foreigner-friendly nail salon where the staff can communicate in multiple languages. Treat yourself to a trendy and relaxing nail art experience in Hongdae!
9) Nail Kimlee
Treat yourself to a stylish nail art experience at Nail Kimlee, where trendy Korean designs and careful attention to detail come together. Choose from a variety of colors, finishes, and art styles to create nails that match your mood and personal taste. It’s a relaxing and creative beauty session that leaves you with a fresh new look and a fun souvenir from your time in Seoul.
10) Noir Nail Studio
Indulge in a private luxury nail art experience at Noir Nail Studio, where the latest Korean nail trends meet meticulous one‑on‑one care. Choose from full‑color manicures, creative nail art, and restorative pedicures, all done with long‑lasting gel and gentle techniques that keep your nails healthy. Settle into a comfortable recliner in a clean, hygienic studio and leave with a polished, high‑end look that feels like a real K‑beauty treat.
11) House Waxing
Indulge in a smooth, professional waxing session at House Waxing, a trusted salon known for its expertise and hygienic, private treatment rooms. Whether you’re trying a Brazilian wax for the first time or opting for full‑body or facial waxing, the experienced staff will walk you through each step and customize the treatment to your skin and comfort level.
12) Tanning
Get the perfect glow at This is Tanning, one of Hongdae’s top tanning salons! This all-in-one shop offers machine tanning for a quick and even tan whenever you want. You can choose from high-performance brown tanning, skin-rejuvenating white tanning, or a fast and flawless spray tan using Korea’s latest technology.
13) Eyelash Extensions
Treat yourself to a professional eyelash extension service in Hongdae offered by a skillful English-speaking beautician! Shop Vivian uses a blend of high-quality silk and mink lashes to achieve a natural and stunning outcome. You’ll get gorgeous, long-lasting lashes without the need for mascara or curlers!
14) Kleam Beauty Clinic Hongdae
Get the full K-beauty experience with a non-surgical treatment. Kleam Beauty Clinic is a named aesthetic clinic in Korea, recognized as one of the top clinics for Botox and filler treatments. It offers a wide range of advanced, non-surgical facial enhancement solutions that deliver beautiful results.
15) Vivid Hue Personal Color & Body Shape Analysis
You can enjoy a private session for up to four people, choosing from personal color analysis, body shape analysis, or both. With expert guidance available in English or Chinese, you’ll discover the colors, clothing fits, and makeup that suit you best. The location is conveniently just a three-minute walk from Hongik University Station.
16) image HO Personal Color/Body Analysis
Unlock your most flattering look with a personal color & body analysis by Image HO, a hands‑on styling session that reveals the colors and shapes that best suit you. You’ll discover your personal “color season” and learn which tones brighten your complexion, complement your makeup, and work best for your clothes and hair. Add a body‑type analysis option to get tailored recommendations on silhouettes and patterns that flatter your shape, so you can shop and style with more confidence.
17) 1 Day Makeup Class/Professional Makeup Service
Discover the perfect makeup look for you in a 1-day class or enjoy a professional makeup service in Hongdae! No need to worry about communication – an English-speaking makeup artist will guide you, making your day extra special.
18) Pastel Mood Makeup & Hair Styling
Get a fresh K-beauty makeover at Pastel Mood, where expert makeup artists and hairstylists help you create a look that fits your occasion. From soft daily makeup to fuller glam styles, you can choose the finish that matches your mood, whether you’re heading to a photoshoot, a special event, or just want to feel extra polished.
19) iimi Hair Korean-Style Photoshoot Hair & Makeup
iimi Hair & Makeup can give you a K-beauty makeover, where expert stylists create fresh, camera-ready looks tailored to your features and vibe. From natural daily makeup to full-on photoshoot styling, you can enjoy a personalized beauty session that brings out your best side.
20) Korean Traditional Skincare Experience
Experience a relaxing Korean skincare session at Laurel Studio, where traditional charm meets personalized K-beauty care. Choose between the basic or premium program and enjoy a soothing treatment tailored to your skin concerns using high-quality Korean products. Set in a peaceful gallery-like space with hanbok-clad therapists and warm ondol flooring, it’s a calming way to unwind while learning more about Korean skincare.
3. K-pop Stans: Indulge in your fandom!
From busking to shopping, Hongdae is a hub of Korean culture, including the latest K-pop hits & trends. Don’t know where to start your fandom adventure in Hongdae? We’ve got a few suggestions!
1) Photocard Hunting & Deco at Pocaspot
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Shop for your bias & even make your custom clear card wallets or phone charms at the ultimate photocard destination in Seoul – Pocaspot! With an unrivaled library of photocards via Pocamarket, a convenient location, and exclusive early discounts & freebies for Trazy users, this a must-visit for collectors and casual fans alike!
2) 1 Day K-pop Dance Class
Learn your favorite choreography from the latest K-pop comebacks in these fun classes for all skill levels. Sign up to join their regular class or book a private lesson with your friends to learn a song of your choice!
- Pick Up Iconic K-pop Choreography in a Fun, Beginner-Friendly Class!
- Train With Professional Dancers and Refine Your K-Pop Dance Skills!
- Level Up Your Moves in a Focused K-Pop Dance Class for All Skill Levels!
3) K-pop Song Production Experience
Create your own K-pop song at Dear Story and experience what it feels like to step into a real recording studio. With guidance from professional producers and vocal coaching throughout the session, you’ll record your track and receive a fully polished final version to take home. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that lets you enjoy the full K-pop production process, even if you’ve never recorded a song before!
You can also enjoy a more personal K-pop recording session at Able Studio, where you can create your own song in a private studio environment. With support from experienced staff throughout the process, the experience feels easy and approachable while still giving you a true behind-the-scenes look at music production.
4. Party Animals: Party away with some booze!
Looking for late Friday nights and trying out new drinks? You’re at the right place!
1) Seoul Nightlife Tour: Pub Crawl
If you’re looking for a must-go pub around Hongdae to fully experience Korea’s amazing nightlife scene, join the Seoul Pub Crawl! Here, you can spend a Saturday night for a perfect night out, dancing the night away among Korea’s younger generation. Make sure you book in advance to get special discounts on drinks and to participate in lots of games. Ah! Also, make sure you’re legal and bring your ID. Go dive right into Seoul’s nightlife center!
You can also join a premium pub crawl and dive into Hongdae’s vibrant nightlife! With local guides leading the way, you’ll visit the hottest spots while enjoying a fun and safe night out. This exclusive tour includes stops at trendy cafe bars for coffee and cocktails, followed by a night of high-energy clubbing. Enjoy cover charges, skip-the-line access, and VIP bottle service—all included!
5. K-Food Enthusiasts: Learn How to Cook Authentic Korean Food!
1) Authentic Korean Cooking Class & Local Market Tour
If you love Korean food, learn how to make authentic Korean food! You’ll start the class with a visit to a local market near Hongdae and Mangwon. After the class, you will get to taste delicious Korean food, which is one of the best parts of the activity. There are a variety of cooking classes you can take in Hongdae!
- Authentic Korean Cooking Class with a Local Market Tour near Hongdae/Mangwon
- 4 Kinds of Kimchi Making Class near Hongdae/Mangwon
2) Korean Snack Making Experience
Make your own bungeoppang, the beloved fish-shaped Korean snack, and delicious walnut cakes in this fun hands-on class. You’ll mix the batter, choose your favorite fillings and toppings, bake your pastries, and even decorate a cute take-home bag for your creations. If you love interactive activities and are a foodie, then make sure you check it out!
6. Animal Lovers: Make a New Animal Friend!
1) Roof Cat Me Cat Cafe
Roof Cat Me in Hongdae is a whimsical cat cafe that offers a delightful escape for all cat lovers. Cozy up in one of the many nooks and enjoy complimentary drinks while interacting with one of the 50 friendly feline residents of this fairytale cat village!
7. Unique Experiences: Enjoy Hongdae’s One-and-only Activities!
1) Kawaii Butler/Maid Cafe
Originating in Japan as a niche subculture, butler and maid cafes have since gained mainstream popularity among tourists. Now you can enjoy this unique experience at Kawaii Cafe in Hongdae, Korea’s very first butler and maid cafe! Enjoy dining, interactive performances, and fun games with the butlers and maids.
2) Trick Eye Museum Seoul
Step into the world of illusions at Seoul’s Trick Eye Museum! At this museum, you’ll get to explore a world where reality blends with fantasy through augmented reality (AR) and immersive media art. Become part of the art, transforming each exhibit that turns you into the director, actor, and photographer of your adventure!
8. Experience the Energy of a Live Show!
1) Kokoon Show
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If you’re in the mood for something light, playful, and a little offbeat, the Kokoon Show is a fun pick. It mixes K-pop, comedy, and audience-friendly energy, so the whole experience feels easy to enjoy even if you’re just dropping in for a relaxed night out. Think of it as one of those shows that keeps things lively from start to finish!
2) Cookin’ NANTA Show
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The Cookin’ NANTA Show is one of those Seoul classics that’s easy to recommend. With fast-paced kitchen chaos, physical comedy, and plenty of crowd energy, it’s a performance that grabs your attention right away. You don’t need to know Korean to follow along, which makes it a great choice if you’re looking for a fun, universally enjoyable show.
3) Taekwondo Performance & Pub Night
For something a little more unusual, try a Taekwondo Performance & Pub Night, which blends powerful martial arts with a casual evening-out atmosphere. The performance itself is dynamic and impressive, and the pub setting gives the whole night a more relaxed, social feel.
Check out more blogs about Hongdae!
- Top 8 Vintage Shops in Hongdae for Unique Finds
- 6 Must-Visit Foreigner-Friendly Clubs in Hongdae
- Top 5 Must-Visit Animal Cafes in Hongdae
Did our list of top things to do in Hongdae match your personality well? Make sure to check out more hot spots in Seoul at Korea’s #1 Travel Shop, Trazy.com.
