Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Top 3 Latin dance venues in Seoul
Whether you’re a seasoned salsero or a newcomer curious about bachata, Seoul’s Latin dance scene offers something for everyone. The city is home to a growing number of clubs where Latin rhythms come alive every night. Here are three standout venues where you can experience the heat, passion and community of Latin dance right in the heart of Seoul.
Latin dance club Latin A Class in southern Seoul / Courtesy of Latin A Class
By Park Jin-hai
1. Latin A Class
Latin A Class, which opened in November 2022 in Gangnam District, southern Seoul, is the largest Latin club in Korea, with a capacity of 1,000 people.
The venue features clean, modern interiors and bars. On both the first and second basement floors, there are three separate halls where you can enjoy a variety of dance genres — including bachata, salsa, kizomba and zouk — all for a single entrance fee of 11,000 won (about $8), which includes a nonalcoholic drink.
The club is open 365 days a year without holidays and attracts many dancers daily. More than 200 people visit on weekdays and the number jumps to around 800 people on Saturdays.
It is known for attracting serious dancers, with many regulars at the intermediate to advanced level. The scene leans toward vibrant and competitive, especially compared to those in the Hongdae area, where the atmosphere is often more beginner-friendly.
■ Instagram: @latin_gangnam
Latin dance club Bonita near Hongik University in Seoul / Courtesy of MACPAN
2. Bonita
Bonita, a Latin dance club established in 1999, is widely recognized as one of the oldest and most established salsa clubs in Seoul. It hosts regular Latin dance parties featuring salsa, bachata and kizomba. The club also offers Latin dance classes, social events and DJ parties, especially on weekends.
Located near Hongik University in Mapo District, this bar reflects the area’s distinctive vibe. Unlike more structured dance environments, Bonita attracts many who simply want to express themselves freely through dance. The club draws a diverse crowd of locals and foreigners and is known for its inclusive community.
The venue boasts one of the largest dance floors among salsa clubs in Seoul, featuring a spacious, open layout ideal for social dancing and workshops. It is open every day of the year from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., except on Fridays and Saturdays when it stays open until 2 a.m.
■ Instagram: @jessica_latinclub_bonita
Latin dance club Gangnam Turn in southern Seoul / Courtesy of Gangnam Turn
3. Gangnam Turn
Gangnam Turn, also known as "Gangturn," opened in 2005 near Gangnam Station on Seoul subway Line 2 and now stands out as one of Seoul’s most iconic and enduring Latin dance venues.
As bachata sweeps through the Korean Latin dance scene, this club is still striving to preserve the legacy of salsa. It plays a balancing role by maintaining salsa’s presence amid the constant trends and shifting popularity of new dance styles.
The club offers a lively and spacious setting that draws a mix of local and international dancers. Its energetic atmosphere is centered on social dancing, making it a favorite spot for those who want to focus on dance rather than just party.
Social dancing starts around 9 p.m. every night and continues until 3 a.m., with a break every other Sunday. The main dance styles on display at Gangnam Turn are salsa On2 (a variation of salsa), bachata and cha-cha-cha, and the club consistently attracts some of the most talented dancers in the city who showcase their technically skilled and dynamic moves.
■ Instagram: @turn_latinclub_no.1