Following is part of a series on Seoul’s hottest bars and clubs. ― Ed.


Club Freebird is one of Hongdae’s oldest havens for indie lovers. Opened in 1995 in Seoul’s epicenter of youth culture, the live venue hosts gigs almost daily. Some 200 special events and 1,000 performances are held annually, including events for female vocalists, a “British Music Day,” “Indie Rock Party” and “Indie Electronic Live Party.” Freemarket and Deli Spice are among the notable bands to have performed here before making it big. Some other regular events include music video screenings, music request nights, impromptu parties and free cocktail and draft beer events. The venue recently began hosting hip-hop shows as well, adding further variety to an already diverse range of genres. The venue regularly plays host to expat performers and attracts a healthy foreign crowd in an area drawing foreigners in ever greater numbers for its cheap eats and vibrant nightlife. The club was purchased by music label UPPER MUSIC in 2007, and has since cemented its reputation as having one of the best sound systems in the area.

Unlike the clubs in Gangnam district, Club Freebird has no dress code or restrictions other than the age limit ― minors are not admitted and ID is required at the entrance. The staff is generally friendly and helpful, but it may take some time to order a drink during a packed show.

Club Freebird opens at 7 p.m. every day, and closes at 1 a.m. Monday to Thursday, 5 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 11 p.m. on Sunday. There is a cover charge of 5,000 won on weekdays and 12,000 won with a free drink on Friday to Sunday. No cover charge is covered after shows have ended. Prices of beer range from 4,000-7,000 won depending on the size, and cocktails are around 5,000-7,000 won.

Club Freebird

2nd floor, Geumsan building, 364-22 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

(02) 335-4576

By Lee Hyun-jae, Intern reporter