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As one of the oldest districts in the center of Seoul, Haebangchon, or "HBC" for short, is not well-known to tourists visiting South Korea. Despite the area being all the rage with younger crowds, the history of HBC runs pretty deep. Known as the “liberation village,” it served as a camp for North Korean refugees and was one of the first slums in the capital. Then once the industrialization period of the 1970s hit, the neighborhood began to undergo urban development, transforming it into a gathering place for aspiring young artists and creators. Nowadays, it's the perfect getaway from the usual hustle and bustle of Itaewon that actively takes part in the support of the local community. On that note, we're here to introduce a few worthwhile live music bars you'll want to check out during your Seoul excursions.

• ✨ Late night dating spot
• 🎶 Intense, fast-beat Blues

Ever wondered what "Boogie Woogie" means? It is a style of blues played on the piano with a strong, fast beat. If you like that sound and jazz music in general, Boogie Woogie’s doors are open every day of the week, ready to welcome you for some fantastic live jazz performances. This hidden gem’s red and black theme provides an intimate vibe suitable for a date night, while also boasting a quintessential vinyl wall found behind the bar and DJ booth.

The place is relatively small and can only accommodate a limited number of people, hence the need to make a reservation beforehand. Come as a couple and grab a table, or come by yourself and grab a seat at the bar. Either way, an atmosphere apt for fun and relaxation is awaiting you. Every night of the week, two groups of jazz musicians perform for two hours each. On the weekend, there are three groups. The entrance is free, but an envelope will be provided for you to kindly donate money to the bands, so it's good to bring some cash.

Equally as important as the music, dining is an integral part of the experience. Pizza, wings, fries, cheese platters, crackers & spreads, and more, can be savored alongside delicious cocktails and wine.

• 🧑‍🎤 Rock, indie, heavy metal and various genres
• 🎸 Song request allowed!

Named after the Beach Boys’ 11th album, Pet Sounds is a bar for rock, indie, and alternative music fans. Although it feels very cozy, you'll want to get ready for an experience that will enliven your senses!

Entertainment is twofold. Local bands are invited to perform for an hour-long set on the stage located at the corner of the bar. On the other end, DJs will prepare playlists loaded with retro tunes from the '60s, '70s, '80s, and '90s. Open daily, Pet Sounds offers a slew of music genres, including rock, indie rock, alt-rock, dream pop, Britpop, synth-pop, garage, post-punk, heavy metal, alt-metal, new age, shoegazing, pop-punk, and more. The best part? You get to request your own song! You can even dare to sing out loud. And don't worry! No one will judge you; in fact, they might even join in the fun!

The friendly staff has enough selection at their disposal to concoct whatever cocktails your heart desires, with a nice beer menu to boot. You have everything you need to snack on with pizza, chicken wings, fries, and more, so sit tight on your high stool chair and enjoy a great night out with friends.

• 🎤 Live music and performance venue
• 🎶 Impressive stage with distinctive local bands

The Studio HBC is the only venue in HBC fully dedicated to live music and performances. It was created with Seoul's artistic and performing arts community, including that of expats and Koreans, in mind. The venue has a fully stocked bar and offers food, but the emphasis is on the performances and the artists. The Studio HBC livens up the mood with an array of genres from jazz and pop to rock & roll, punk, indie, and more.

South Korea is already known for its vibrant K-Pop scene, but those who want to indulge in the best performances by the edgy local bands from Thursday through Sunday are welcome to stop by. The Studio HBC is a home for artists to showcase their craft on a stage with top-line performance equipment, instruments, and great lighting.

Most events start early in the evening, and tickets can be between 10,000 won to 25,000 won, depending on the event. Sometimes the entrance is free, and donations to bands are greatly appreciated. The Studio HBC also offers up hip-hop and DJ nights! To cater to all tastes and forms of entertainment, the venue also regularly hosts a variety of shows from drag and burlesque to stand-up comedy, open mic, and karaoke.

• 🧑‍🦱 Typical local bar with a rustic atmosphere
• 🍻 Western pub menu and a selection of beers
• 🕺 Daily exciting entertainment

Phillies Pub , HBC's original expat pub, marked its 25th anniversary in 2022 and is the landmark of the diverse, ever-changing expat community that has taken root in HBC.

Phillies Pub is your quintessential neighborhood bar with its unpretentious atmosphere, friendly staff, and boisterous patrons from Korea and all over. While feasting delicious western-style pub menu items, patrons can enjoy a variety of international and local draft and bottled beers. Nonalcoholic beverages are also available.

Phillies Pub offers a variety of exciting entertainment almost every day of the week. There is trivia night on Wednesdays and Sundays, Wing Night on Thursdays, and Jokers Jackpot on Mondays. Football, American football, rugby, and a variety of other sports matches are also shown live with game replays displayed on TV screens on the first floor. The basement has a cool setup, featuring dart boards and a pool table, while also regularly serving as the stage for open mic nights, live DJs, live bands, and stand-up comedy nights.