If you’re headed this direction…
… from chic, bougie, and modern Gangnam to the notorious shopping district, Jamsil, there’s a lot of variety to be found on this side of the city. With a lot of scenic spots along the Han River, and home to the eastside’s Hongdae, Konkuk University or ‘Kondae’ is home to a small China Town, and the Common Ground container village. You’ll find many bright playgrounds filled with numerous fun digs to explore. Read on!
잼라운지 Jam Lounge
Jam Lounge is a gorgeous venue. The room itself is very modern with red accents that feel super luxurious. Here you can enjoy Italian food and jazz music. Often, there are even shows on weeknights! The cool thing about this space it that you can choose to sit floor level in front of the stage, or take a seat on a balcony that encircles the room. All-in-all, the high ceilings make for good acoustics.
상상아트홀 Sangsang Art Hall
This is Gangnam’s branch of the fabulous 상상마당 Sangsang Madang, which has locations in Hongdae, Busan, Chuncheon, and Nonsan. This space is used for a multitude of different events, but it’s very much a seated theater venue. See what’s happening on their IG page!
밉 MIP (Mind & Pervasion)
A very hip, modern spot not far from Jamsil. By day it’s a tasty brunch spot, but by night, the spacious room lights up with an impressive, neon ambiance. Located around 송리단길 Songridan-gil, this is a budding, hip neighborhood for young people to eat and drink, and they host music nearly every night of the week!
포지티브 제로 라운지 Positive Zero Lounge
Positive Zero Lounge is a very popular jazz venue in east Seoul. This is an underground venue, so the mood of the room is very dark and warm. They also boast an extensive wine menu. Wine and dine by candlelight in this make-believe speakeasy while you enjoy the music. There are performances every night of the week. Usually there are two bands featured everyday! Check it out.
에스팩토리 SFACTORY
This is a multi-media arts space that hosts all kinds of events. Although they host a lot of exhibits, it’s worth checking their schedule for the occasional musical performance. Not far from Kondae, it’s a very versatile space. SFACTORY is an abandoned warehouse that can be converted to host all kinds of events. If you’re passing through, make sure to check out more converted containers at the Common Ground.
디도 재즈 라운지 Dido Jazz Lounge
Dido is a fairly new spot in Gwangjin-gu, very close to the Kondae neighborhood. It’s a small, dark space with a classy vibe. The menu offers a variety of wines and appetizers that are as pleasing to the eye as they are the taste buds. Like many jazz bars around Seoul, Dido hosts music most nights of the week and offers an intimate, up-close experience for attendees.
꿀잼 COOLJAM 