What Is Itaewon?
Located in Yongsan District, Itaewon is Seouls most international neighborhood. Originally popularized by its proximity to U.S. military bases, the area has transformed into a multicultural hub where freedom, food, and global fusion thrive.
Itaewon is not your average Korean streetits the one place where you can enjoy kebabs, Korean BBQ, and Belgian beer all in one night, surrounded by a crowd as diverse as the menu.
Eat Around the World in One Street
Itaewon is a foodie's dream come true, offering authentic dishes from dozens of countries. What sets it apart? Many of these restaurants are owned and run by native chefs, so you're getting the real deal.
Cuisine Must-Try Dish Suggested Restaurant
| Mexican | Tacos, burritos | Vatos Urban Tacos |
| Turkish | Kebabs, pide | Mr. Kebab |
| Indian | Curry, naan | Taj Palace |
| American | Burgers, pancakes | The Original Pancake House |
| Italian | Pasta, risotto | Brera Italian Kitchen |
There are also vegan, Halal, and gluten-free options widely available, making Itaewon incredibly inclusive for all dietary needs.
Itaewon at Night: When the Magic Begins
By day, Itaewon is colorful. By night, its on fire with music, lights, and culture. The streets come alive with live DJ sets, neon-lit bars, and dance clubs that stay open until sunrise.
Highlights include:
- Themed cocktail bars with rooftop views
- Underground clubs with international DJs
- LGBTQ+ venues that host drag shows and pride events
- Street performances and night markets under ambient lights
Itaewon is also Koreas most LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood, celebrating diversity and self-expression in a way few other areas do.
Unique Shopping: Vintage, Indie, and Global
Forget your mainstream malls. Itaewon offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience filled with:
- Vintage fashion shops
- Indie designer boutiques
- Custom leather goods and accessories
- Lifestyle concept stores in Hannam-dong
If youre searching for items that tell a story, this is where youll find them.
A Pop Culture Hotspot
K-drama fans will recognize Itaewon as the backdrop of Itaewon Class”, one of Koreas most iconic series. The building from the drama still standsand yes, you can take photos there!
Itaewon is also a frequent filming location for YouTube creators and Instagram influencers, making it a real-life content playground.
Where to Snap the Perfect Photo
Spot Why Its Great
| Itaewon Mosque | Exotic vibes and quiet contrast to nightlife |
| World Food Street entrance | Bright signs, buzzing energy |
| Haebangchon overlook | Amazing sunset views over Seouls skyline |
Pro tip: Come at dusk for golden-hour lighting and stay until the lights turn on for magical night shots.
Safety and Crowd Tips
While Itaewon is generally safe and welcoming, it can become overcrowded during major holidays like Halloween or New Years Eve.
- Visit on weekdays or early evenings for a relaxed experience
- Use the Seoul Safety App to check real-time crowd info
- Stick to wider streets and follow local traffic regulations
After recent crowd-related incidents, the city has implemented better management, security patrols, and access control.
Getting There
From Time
| Myeongdong | 20 minutes |
| Gangnam | 30 minutes |
| Hongdae | 25 minutes |
Itaewon Station (Line 6) is your main access point. Nearby stations include Noksapyeong and Hangangjin, especially useful if youre exploring Hannam-dong.
Taxis are easy to catch, and theres a wide range of accommodations, hostels, and boutique hotels nearby for late-night travelers.
Final Thoughts: A World Inside One Korean Neighborhood
Itaewon is more than a districtits a microcosm of global living inside Seoul. Here, boundaries blur and cultures collide in the best possible way. Its not just about bars and burgersits about celebrating identity, inclusion, and individuality.
So if you're looking to step outside the usual tourist paths and dive into a world of flavors, lights, and voices, Itaewon is where your adventure begins.
