Clubs, Art exhibitions & Sports Games
Clubs
Underlounge Seoul
Hongdae or Hongik University Area
This is the local club of a hip Japanese chain that’s also in Shanghai. Located in the famous clubbing area, Hongdae, it’s all flashy with loud music and lights. Spacious, with a supersized crystal ball hanging over your head, DJs from near and far make music while you can hang out at the bar or classy private rooms. Located near the main entrance of Hongik Univ. Call (02) 325-5715 or visit www.underlounge.kr.
Club M2
Hongdae
M2 features top DJs from home and abroad. The dance floor and the DJ are in the center of the club, which attracts a trendy crowd along with models and celebrities. Packed on the weekends. Check www.ohoo.net.
Cafe Mou
Sinsa-dong
This cafe has a rich ethnic interior that mixes inspirations that its owner got from travels to such places as Morocco and France. Its menu is limited, but features desserts. It’s located at the edge of Dosan Park. 650-9 Park View Building, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam, near the Cine City Theater in Apgujeongdong. Call (02) 3444-6069.
Club Heaven
Yeoksam-dong
Located next to the Renaissance Seoul Hotel, Heaven is gaining a reputation as a clubber’s paradise with star DJs and a celebrity clientele. Electronic music is the main menu, with laser light and paper confetti shows aplenty on the side. The club caters to partying at any hour of the night: the main stage on the first floor is open until 6:30 a.m., while club hoppers can enter the upper level’s after stage after 4:30 a.m. Call 1644-8466.
Le Nuit Blanche
Cheongdam-dong
Formerly Club Answer, Le Nuit Blanche is introduced as a posh restaurant, theater and club. Located in front of Hotel Prima in Cheongdam-dong, Le Nuit Blanche offers Cirque du Soleil-type performances at its theater restaurant. World class DJs from all over the world are invited to perform at the club. Call (02) 514-4311 or visit www.lenuitblanche.com.
Above
Itaewon
This medium-sized wine bar in the alley behind the Hamilton Hotel is one of Itaewon’s swankiest hangouts. The candlelight, tiled indoor pond and the designs on the door seem Moorish. Located at 19-25 Itaewon-dong store 22-ho. Call (02) 749-0717 for more information.
Once in a Blue Moon
Apgujeong-dong
Once in a Blue Moon is one of the best known jazz clubs in the city. It features live jazz sets from two different bands every night usually starting at 7: 30 p.m. The place exudes an elegant, sophisticated atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic date. It is located on the street between the Hakdong intersection and the Galleria intersection in Apgujeong-dong. Call (02) 549-5490 or www.onceinabluemoon.co.kr for more information.
The Spot
If you like punk or alternative music, then you should hit The Spot. It is a live music venue located next to the playground near Hongik University. The Spot is a small basement bar, and it is a mainly standing room-only place. Visit www.clubspot.co.kr or call (02) 322-5956, (02) 3141-6876 for more information.
Platoon Kunsthalle
Platoon Kunsthalle is a cultural space where visitors can enjoy various facilities, including an event hall, library lounge, art studios and a bar and restaurant. Open from Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. DJ nights on Thursday and Friday from 10 p.m. Located near exit 10 of Hakdong Station on subway line 7. Visit www.kunsthalle.com or www.platoon.org.
Naos Nova
A wine bar and restaurant with a design so stunning, that it was featured in several interior design magazines before its doors even opened to the public. Its location across from Namsan Park gives it a wonderful, cool atmosphere. Visit www.naosnova.com (448-120 Huam-dong Yongsan-gu, Seoul) or call (02) 754-2202.
Gachi
Salsa music enthusiasts can dance the night away here. The beat of salsa music will lead you to the club. To go to Gachi, get off at Apgujeong Line 3 and go out exit 5. After walking past six streets, look for Matilda Club and Bar on the seventh street, turn left and look for Gachi’s red and white sign. Gachi is open from Mondays to Fridays 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday to Sunday, 2 p.m. to 12 a.m. Call (02) 540-7087.
St.102
This hip-hop club often has special parties and performances. There are many Korean homies here with do-rags, dreads and baseball caps turned sideways. Visit st102.cyworld.com. 360-18 Seogyo-dong, Hongdae or call (02) 335-7166.
Moonyang Bar
This place is an Asian-inspired lounge on the third floor of a building on Parking Lot street in the Hongdae area. The stone walls feature photographs and rusted steel plates cover the windows. This place is in Mapo at Seogyo-dong, 366-17. Call (02) 338-1523.
Rocky Mountain Tavern
A down-to-earth place, the club was started by a couple of Canadians. With a spacious, woody bar, the tavern is spread out over two floors. Find it on Itaewon’s main drag across from the International Clinic. Located near exit 5 of Itaewon Station on subway line 6.
Club FF
This live music venue features all kinds of music. Depending on the night, they feature funk, punk, rock or pop. Club FF attracts an eclectic mix of people. Walk down to the alley with Club Tool on the corner and turn right. Visit clubff.cyworld.com.
Traditional
Folk Performances
Korea House
Open Run
Korea House regularly holds a series of traditional performances featuring dance, “pansori” (Korean opera) and more. Tickets cost 50,000 won. The venue offers various hands-on activities such as making kimchi. Visit www.koreahouse.or.kr or call (02) 2266-9101. Located near exit 3 of Chungmuro Station, subway lines 3 and 4.
The Hall of Masters
Museum of Traditional Music, National Gugak Center
Open run
The National Gugak Center has opened the exhibit “The Hall Of Masters” to honor the “gugak” (traditional Korean music) spirit of noted human cultural assets. More than 30 relics, including traditional Korean instruments and costumes, are exhibited with photos of 78 gugak masters, donated by their descendants and pupils. Various rooms to listen and experience gugak enrich the event. Call (02) 580-3130 for more information.
New Day, New Music
Ye-ak Dang, National Gugak Center
Feb. 3-5
The National Gugak Center (NGC) presents a new “gugak” (traditional Korean music) festival. Besides orchestral performances, a variety of fun events will be held for the upcoming Lunar New Year’s Day. Tickets cost 8,000 to 10,000 won. Located near exit 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3. For more information, call (02) 580-3300 or visit www.gugak.go.kr.
Gonggam
Hanuri Theater, Bupyeong Art Center
Jan. 29
Ahn Sook-sun and Kim Duk-soo, the representative musicians of “pansori” (traditional Korean song) and “samulnori” (traditional percussion), come together to stage a “gugak” (traditional music) performance with Hanoolim Art Company. Tickets cost 25,000 to 30,000 won. Located near exit 2 of Baegun Station on subway line 1. Call (032) 500-2000 or visit www.bpart.kr for more information.
Misooda
Seoul Namsan Gugakdang
Feb. 1-15
To welcome the “Seollal,” or Lunar New Year’s Day, the Seoul Namsan Gugakdang will offer an opportunity for foreigners and locals to experience traditional Korean culture, such as learning the correct way to set a memorial service table or dress in “hanbok” (Korean traditional costume). Tickets cost 35,000 won for students and 50,000 won for adults. Located near exit 3 and 4 of Chungmuro Station on subway line 4. For more information, call (02) 2261-0512.
Art Exhibitions
Chang Ucchin
Gallery Hyundai
Through Feb. 27
Pioneering painter Chang Ucchin’s 20th death anniversary is remembered in a special retrospective exhibition. Organized in collaboration with the Chang Ucchin Foundation, the large-scale showcase includes 60 oil paintings, 10 ink paintings and even the very last work created by the well-known modern artist. Located near exit 1 of Anguk Station on subway line 3. Call (02) 2287-3500 or visit www.galleryhyundai.com for more information.
World Stars In Contemporary Art
Hangaram Art Museum, Seoul Arts Center* (See venues on ‘Concerts, Museums and Theater’ for more information)
Through Feb. 25
This exhibition presents more than 200 pieces by great modern artists from Louise Bourgeois to Damien Hirst, as chosen by the international art magazine “Parkett.” Various experiential rooms, gallery talks, and modern art lessons are planned for children and students. Tickets cost 8,000 won for adult and 4,000 won for students. For more information call (02) 580-1609.
Left and Gone
Ryugaheon
Through Jan. 31
The idea that peace on Yeonpyeong Island is equally important for animals as it is for humans originated from KARA (Korea Animal Rights Advocates) and film director Lim Soon-rye. KARA members and six photographers hold a special exhibition about animal companions left behind during the Yeonpyeong Island shelling. Located near exit 4 of Gyeongbokgung Sation on subway line 3. For more information, call (02) 720-2010.
Song Eun Art Awards
Song Eun Art Space
Through Jan. 29
Celebrating the 10th year of its eponymous award, the Song Eun Arts and Cultural Foundation is holding a special exhibition. The 10 award-winning artists from 2001 to 2010 showcase their latest art works. Located near exit 9 of Cheongdam Sation on subway line 7. For more, call (02) 3448-0100 or visit www.songeunartspace.org.
Urban Landscape
Gallery Park Ryu Sook
Through Feb. 1
Seven photo artists (Koo Sung-soo, KDK, Ryu Jung-min, Park Sang-ho, Lee Ji-yen, Lee Chang-hoon and Hong Seung-hee) explore the dichotomous sides of urban cityscapes. Located near exit 9 of Cheongdam Station on line 7. Call (02) 549-7575 or visit www.parkryusookgallery.co.kr for more information.
Cleansing the Memories
KEPCO Plaza Gallery
New York-based artist Yoon Ja-young opens a domestic solo show. Her intriguing performances, installations and photography demonstrate the concept of being present. Located near exit 1 of Yangjae Station on subway line 3. Visit www.kepco.co.kr/gallery or www.jayoungart.com.
1st Public Discourse Sphere
Gallery Loop
Through Feb. 6
Gallery Loop presents its first public discourse exhibition focused on the “Aftereffects of Neo-liberalism.” Yangachi, AES+F, Rho Jae-oon, Daniel Beerstecher and various artists from all over the world participate in this exhibition themed on social and political issues. Located a 10-minute walk from exit 4 of Hongik Univ. Station on subway line 2. Call (02) 3141-1377 for more information.
Song Yige
Emerging Chinese artist Song Yige, discovered by the famed Zeng Fanzhi, holds her first exhibition in Korea. The 16 paintings portray her childhood experiences and raw emotions. Located near exit 2 of Apgujeong Station on subway line 3. Call (02) 519-0800 or visit www.galleryhyundai.com for more information.
The Blue
Gallery Palais de Seoul
Feb. 8-27
Artist Suh Kyoung-ja will hold a exhibition titled “The Blue.” Scattered flower petals, twigs and other parts of flowers imbued with blue express the artist’s innate vision through her own visual symbols. Located near exit 4 of Gyeongbokgung Sation on subway line 3. Call (02) 730-7707 for more information.
Da Vinci, the Genius
The War Memorial of Korea
A number of Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous inventions and artworks, as well as 25 interesting facts about the Mona Lisa, are on display. And audio guide system is available in English and special events will be held throughout the exhibition. Tickets cost 12,000 won for students and 15,000 won for adults. Located near exit 11 and 12 of Samgakji Station on subway line 6. Call (02) 541-3150 or visit www.davincithegenius.com for more information.
Hundertwasser
Hangaram Design Museum, Seoul Arts Center*
Through March 15
Friedensreich Hundertwasser, known for building the hobbit town in the “Lord of Rings” trilogy, is holding a special exhibition in his first display in Korea. More than 60 original paintings and eight construction models, original graphics and tapestries are on display. The architect, artist and environmentalist will donate three percent of all general admission fees to the World Vision organization. For more information, call (02) 545-3944.
Picasso and Modern Art
National Museum of Contemporary Art, Deoksu Palace
Through March 1
The Albertina Museum Collections from Vienna are on loan to the National Museum of Contemporary Art for an exhibition of classic work ranging from Picasso to Miro, Chagall to Kandinsky. The four-part showcase divided into four segments explores 121 paintings, sculptures and drawings, providing an exploration into the major Western art movements of the 19th and 20th centuries. General admission is 11,000 won; located behind Deoksu Palace in downtown Seoul. For more information, visit www.moca.go.kr or call (02) 2188-6069.
Chagall: Magician of Color
Seoul Museum of Art
Through March 27
The exhibition, organized by Hankook Ilbo-The Korea Times Media Group, will display some 160 masterpieces by Marc Chagall. The full seven-piece series comprising his decorations in Moscow’s Jewish Theater will make their Asian debut. Located near exit 10 of City Hall Station, subway line 2. For more information, call (02) 2124-8800.
Manga Realities
Artsonje Center
Through Feb. 13
Nine popular manga artists are featured in this spatially-designed exhibition that reflects the artistic potential of the medium. Organized in collaboration with art groups from Japan, Korea, Australia and the Philippines, the exhibition will travel to each respective country. Located near exit 1 of Anguk Station on subway line 3. Call (02) 733-8945 or visit www.artsonje.org.
Kim Tae-kyoon, Bae Jong-oh, Lee Kyung-il, Lim Jong-wook, Jeong Jae-young, Choe Gyu-mun, Han Sang-wook
Gallery 2
Seven young sculptors fresh from art schools or about to graduate hold a group exhibition at Gallery 2 to show their diverse, unique styles. Located near exit 9 of Cheongdam Station on subway line 7. Call (02) 3448-2112 or visit www.gallery2.co.kr.
M.IDEA
Arario Gallery
Through Feb. 20
Emerging artist “Insane Park” opens a solo exhibition with an array of works made of car paint and coaxial cables. Providing acute observations on society’s dependence on external images, Park explores the duplicity of media. Located near exit 1 of Anguk Station, subway line 3. For more information, visit www.arariogallery.com.
Kids
Guess How Much I Love You
Triangle Theater, Wonderspace in Daehangno
Based on the classic children’s book, the English musical “Guess How Much I Love You” takes to the stage here. Annabelle Ambrose of “Misooda” acts as narrator. Tickets cost 30,000 won. Located near exit Hyehwa Station on subway line 4. Call 1544-6399 for more information.
Sorts Games
Basketball
Sunday, Jan. 30
Dream Team vs. Magic Team
Jamsil Indoor Stadium at 1:50 p.m.
Gwacheon Seoul Race Track
The Gwacheon Seoul Race Track holds races from 10:30 a.m. to 5:10 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday. Get off at Seoul Racecourse Station, subway line 4, exit 3. For more information, call (02) 509-1114 or visit at www.kra.co.kr.