If you are in Seoul and want to experience the nightlife here, you must consider hanging out in the following areas.

live performances keep audiences entertained (left), and the area around Gangnam Station (right)

First, experience the club scene at Hongdae. The area surrounding Hongik University -- called Hongdae -- is the center of Korea's youthful nightlife. The crowd is comprised mainly of students and young people, and Seoul's unique clubs that draw the younger set are clustered in this area. Admission is affordable, and some clubs even offer free admission to foreigners. The atmosphere is youthful and vibrant, with a lot of people keen on making new friends.

Itaewon, located in the shadow of Namsan (Mt. Namsan) in Seoul, is one of the most ethnically diverse areas in Seoul. Itaewon is known for its Western style pubs and nightclubs, and its many ethnic restaurants. People can shop in the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing dinner, and then hit the club scene. The atmosphere really heats up between the hours of 11 p.m. and 3 a.m.

If you want to see how the locals enjoy the nightlife in Seoul, head to the area around Gangnam Station (Gangnam means south of the river), the most popular area for young Koreans. You can find many singing rooms (“noraebang”), drinking establishments, restaurants, and other places to party all night.