Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute

An honest look at the Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute

If you’re heading to Seoul and eager to experience its legendary nightlife, the Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute is often lauded as a must-do. This tour promises visits to some of the hottest bars and clubs in Itaewon and Hongdae, guided by friendly hosts, with a focus on socializing and having fun. With an impressive 5.0 rating from 138 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find it worth their while.

One of the standout features we love is the organized group atmosphere—it’s perfect for solo travelers or anyone looking to meet new friends amid Seoul’s energetic scene. The tour also offers free shots, drink discounts, and a chance to explore multiple venues in just a few hours—all at a very reasonable price of just $20.00. On the flip side, some might find the large group sizes a little overwhelming or the venues a bit crowded, especially during peak nights.

This tour is best suited for adventure-loving, social travelers who want to experience Seoul’s nightlife without the hassle of planning every stop on their own. If you’re after a lively, well-led night out that guarantees fun, you’ll likely find the Seoul Pub Crawl a great choice.

Key Points

Friendly guides make all the difference in creating a welcoming environment.
Visits to 3+ bars or clubs provide a taste of Seoul’s diverse nightlife.
Free shots and drink discounts add significant value to your evening.
Small groups on Thursdays offer a more intimate experience.
Guided and supervised activity ensures safety and fun, especially for solo travelers.
Flexible schedule with tours running multiple nights in Hongdae and Itaewon.
Affordable price point makes it accessible for many travelers.
Authentic local and international vibe with diverse group members and venues.

Exploring the Seoul Pub Crawl Experience

If you’re unfamiliar with Seoul’s nightlife, this tour acts as a guided introduction to the city’s bar scene. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about socializing, dancing, and soaking up the atmosphere in some of Seoul’s most popular areas. The tour’s structure offers a good mix of venues, each with its own vibe, ensuring you get a well-rounded experience.

What does the itinerary look like?

The crawl begins at 8:00 pm and lasts roughly 4 to 5 hours, which feels just right—long enough to enjoy several venues without burning out. The meeting points are in Hongdae on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and in Itaewon on Fridays, making it easy to access via public transportation.

The actual crawl involves visiting 3 or more bars or clubs, each for about an hour, with the first stop lasting around 1.5 hours. The tour is designed to give each venue enough time to settle in, enjoy drinks, and mingle without feeling rushed.

The venues and what to expect

In Hongdae, the tour kicks off at Dokkaebi Party House, near Hongik University, famous for its lively student vibe and artsy atmosphere. The venues are carefully picked to showcase different music styles and atmospheres—some more dance-oriented, others more relaxed and tapas-style. Reviewers have highlighted the variety of bars and clubs visited, from Latino-themed restaurants to karaoke spots, providing a taste of Seoul’s versatile scene.

In Itaewon, the tour starts at The Craic House, a place known for its welcoming environment and international crowd. Given Itaewon’s reputation as Seoul’s nightlife hub, you’ll find a mix of trendy bars, old-school pubs, and dance clubs, making it a favorite for many.

Guides and group dynamics

The guides, such as Zara, Maddie, Ricky, Manuel, and others, are consistently praised for their friendly, energetic attitudes and their ability to keep the night fun and safe. Multiple reviews mention how guides like Maddie and Ricky ensure everyone is enjoying themselves and provide an engaging, lively atmosphere.

Reviews also highlight the small group experience on Thursdays, which allows for more intimate conversations and a slightly different vibe, perfect if you prefer a quieter or more personalized outing.

Value for money

At just $20 per person, the tour packs in a lot. Included are free entrance to bars and clubs, free shots (over 4), and drink discounts at selected venues. Plus, you’ll get party photos capturing fun moments—which many reviewers cherish.

While food isn’t included, the tour’s focus on drinks and atmosphere makes it a suitable prelude to a full night out or a standalone activity for those just wanting a taste of Seoul’s nightlife without the hassle of planning.

The social scene and reviews

Travelers consistently rave about the friendly, diverse crowd. The group often numbers around 50+ guests, hailing from all over the world. Many mention how the guides go out of their way to create a safe, inclusive environment, which is especially appreciated by solo travelers or those new to Seoul.

Reviews also mention the professional photography, which helps participants relive the night afterward. And despite some comments about venues being crowded or the size of groups, overall, the consensus is that the experience is fun, well-organized, and worth every penny.

Practical details and considerations

• Timing: The crawl starts promptly at 8 pm, so arriving on time is key to making the most of each venue.
• Age Restrictions: You must be born in or before 2005 to join, and no more than 45 years old, due to club age limits.
• Dress Code: Casual attire is fine, but avoid gym clothing, flip-flops, or hiking gear to ensure entry.
• ID Requirements: Bring a valid ID with your birth date (no photocopies).
• Group Size: Up to 300 travelers, with smaller groups on Thursday nights.
• Safety & Conduct: Any misbehavior isn’t tolerated, and guides maintain a safe environment for everyone.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups wanting to explore Seoul’s nightlife without the stress of navigating unfamiliar venues alone. It’s also ideal for those who value a lively, social atmosphere and want to meet people from around the world.

If you’re after a fun, safe, and well-organized night out, the Seoul Pub Crawl fits the bill. However, if you prefer quieter venues or a more tailored experience, you might want to explore other options.

Final thoughts

The Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute offers a fantastic introduction to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. It’s a well-rounded, affordable way to enjoy multiple venues, meet diverse travelers, and experience Seoul’s lively party culture. The guides receive high praise for their friendliness and professionalism, creating a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.

You’ll love the mix of venues, the free shots, and the opportunity to dance and socialize into the early hours. It’s especially great if you’re new to Seoul, traveling solo, or simply looking to have a night full of fun without the hassle of planning each stop.

While some may find the large groups a bit overwhelming or venues crowded, the overall experience remains highly valued by past participants. It’s a social, energetic, and authentic way to taste Seoul’s famous nightlife—an experience that many travelers say they’d do again.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour includes guided visits to 4+ bars or clubs, free shots (more than 4), drink discounts at selected venues, free entrance to all visited bars/clubs, and party photos.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Are there different nights or locations?
Yes. On Thursdays, the crawl takes place in Hongdae with smaller groups, and on Fridays in Itaewon. Sundays and Saturdays also feature Hongdae options.

What should I wear?
Dress casual but avoid gym clothing like shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, or sweatpants to ensure entry into most venues.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Is this activity suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight how solo travelers feel welcomed and meet new friends quickly.

What age do I need to be to join?
You must be born in or before 2005 and no older than 45, due to club age restrictions.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included unless specified, but the tour provides drink discounts and free shots.

Do I need to bring my ID?
Yes, a valid ID showing your date of birth is required for entry into venues.

To sum it up, the Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute offers an authentic and lively glimpse into Seoul’s nightlife, perfect for those eager to socialize and explore. Its mix of well-chosen venues, friendly guides, and inclusions like free shots and photos make it a standout option for a fun night out in Korea’s capital. Whether you’re visiting Seoul for a few days or a longer stay, this tour promises a memorable, energetic experience you won’t forget.