Once known as the ‘city that never sleeps,’ Seoul was famous for its late-night eateries, bustling nightlife districts, and streets teeming with people even at 3 or 4 AM. However, in recent years, the city’s nightlife has undergone a dramatic transformation. Economic stagnation, slow growth, and the decline of self-employed businesses have led to an increasing number of restaurants, bars, and pubs closing their doors by 9 PM, fundamentally reshaping Seoul’s lifestyle.
The Gradual Disappearance of Nightlife
As more late-night restaurants and bars shut down, people’s nocturnal activities have also declined. In the past, it was common to have multiple rounds of drinks after work, but now many prefer to head home after just one round. The impact of COVID-19, which significantly reduced company gatherings, combined with financial burdens, has made it increasingly difficult for small business owners to operate late into the night.
Previously vibrant nightlife districts such as Itaewon, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Jongno now often appear quieter than before. Restaurants and street food vendors that once had long queues well past midnight are now either reducing their hours or shutting down entirely.
Changing Lifestyles: The Rise of Solo Drinking and Dining
In response to these changes, Seoul’s lifestyle is evolving rapidly. Whereas people once socialized over meals and drinks, solo drinking (‘honsul’) and solo dining (‘honbap’) are becoming more common. This shift mirrors similar cultural trends in Japan, leading to an increase in restaurants and bars designed for solo customers, featuring single-seat dining arrangements.
Additionally, Korea’s unique culture of ‘jeong’ (a deep sense of emotional connection and community) is fading. Previously, it was easy to strike up a conversation with strangers and even share tables with new acquaintances, but with the growing emphasis on personal space, social interactions are becoming less frequent.
Can Seoul’s Nightlife Regain Its Energy?
Although Seoul’s nightlife is changing, efforts are being made to revive it. Some areas are experimenting with late-night markets and special evening events to attract crowds, while certain bars and restaurants are adopting unique concepts to differentiate themselves.
However, if this transformation is not just a temporary trend but a fundamental shift in Seoul’s culture and lifestyle, the city may continue evolving in an entirely different direction. Whether Seoul can reclaim its status as a vibrant 24-hour city or will develop a new form of nightlife remains to be seen.
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