Why Gangnam Never Sleeps
While most cities shut down after midnight, Gangnam comes alive. This upscale district, made famous worldwide by PSY's viral hit, offers some of Seoul's best late-night dining experiences. Whether you're club-hopping, finishing a K-drama marathon at your hotel, or simply jet-lagged, these spots have you covered.
Top Late-Night Food Experiences
1. Korean BBQ Past Midnight
Nothing beats grilling premium samgyeopsal (pork belly) at 2 AM. Many BBQ joints near Gangnam Station stay open 24 hours. Expect to pay around $15-25 USD per person. Pro tip: Order the doenjang-jjigae (soybean paste stew) to finish—it's the local way.
2. Pojangmacha-Style Tents
Experience authentic Korean street food culture at outdoor tent bars near Sinnonhyeon Station. Try odeng (fish cake skewers) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) while sipping soju. Budget around $10-15 USD.
3. 24-Hour Seolleongtang (Ox Bone Soup)
This milky-white soup is the perfect hangover cure. Traditional restaurants serve it with rice, kimchi, and radish—comfort food at its finest. Around $8-12 USD per bowl.
Practical Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Payment: Most places accept credit cards, but carry some Korean won for smaller spots
- Language: Download Papago or Google Translate—picture menus are common but not universal
- Getting there: Take the subway to Gangnam Station (Line 2) or Sinnonhyeon Station (Line 9). Taxis are affordable after midnight
- Etiquette: It's polite to pour drinks for others, not yourself
Best Areas to Explore
The streets behind Gangnam Station Exit 10 and the Garosu-gil area offer the highest concentration of late-night eateries. Wander freely—you'll discover hidden gems around every corner.