The local drinking scene of Seoul is always hot and happening, and nothing can stop bar owners from taking the experience of guests to a whole different level—literally.
As the season changes, and the last few traces of summer slip into fall, here are some of the city’s best rooftop bars, where you can breathe in the crisp autumn air while enjoying a drink or two with a stunning view:
Rooftop Bar Floating
Tagging itself as the “best rooftop bar in Myeongdong,” L7 Hotels’ Floating brings the ultimate rooftop bar experience with breathtaking panoramic views of Namsan outlined by the vibrant neon glow of Myeongdong’s shopping district. This modern-chic bar boasts a wide array of wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails that go well with their sumptuous accompaniments like their Korean-style fried chicken.
Address: L7 Myeongdong, 137 Toegye-ro Jung-gu, Seoul
Hours:
January – March
6:00 PM – 12:00 MN (Sun – Thu)
6:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Fri – Sat)
April – December
6:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Sun – Thu)
6:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Fri – Sat)
Website: lottehotel.com
The Griffin
Another upscale rooftop bar, The Griffin presents itself as a great place to relax with friends and family. Sitting on the 11th floor of JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square, it treats you to fantastic views of the historic Dongdaemun district. Among the well-loved items on their menu is the “Griffin” crispy chicken, which you can pair with one or a couple of their world-class drinks prepared by award-winning baristas.
Address: JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul, 279 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Hours:
6:00 PM – 2:00 AM daily
Website: modules.marriott.com
Southside Parlor
Southern Texas meets Seoul—that’s pretty much the best way to describe this rooftop bar in the ever-busy melting pot that is Itaewon. Their menu boasts a hodgepodge of Texan-Korean fusion bites and their craft cocktails are not just to die for, but Insta-perfect, too! When you swing by, grab a seat in the outdoor area if you want a breath of fresh air, or you can also watch bartenders flexing their skills as they prepare bespoke drinks.
Address: 218 Noksapyeong-daero, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Hours:
6:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Tue – Thu)
6:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Fri – Sat)
6:00 PM – 12:00 PM (Sun)
*Closed on Mondays
Facebook Page: Southside Parlor
Playground Rooftop Cafe & Bar
Due to its proximity to Hongik University, this bar in the hip district of Hongdae bustles with youthful energy. Just like what its name suggests, Playground Rooftop Cafe & Bar makes playtime even more fun with their delicious cocktails and social events. Swing by during their language exchange nights to meet people from all over the world and add a few new words to your vocabulary.
Address: 14 Wausan-ro 21-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Hours:
6:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Mon – Thu)
6:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Fri – Sat)
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Sun)
Website: hongdaeplayground.com
Casa Corona Seoul
Casa Corona ticks all the boxes of the perfect rooftop bar—delicious food and drinks, a picturesque set-up, and a great view of the heart of Seoul. Of course, the star of their bar menu is the Corona Beer, but do feel free to try their other offerings (they have set meals good for small groups!), while enjoying some live music or tunes spun by international DJs.
Address: Yongsan-gu Bogwang-ro 60 gil 7, Seoul
Hours:
6:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Sun – Thu)
6:00 PM – 3:30 AM (Fri – Sat)
Facebook Page: Casa Corona Seoul
Which rooftop bar are you excited to hit in Seoul? Make sure you’ve got your T-Money card ready for a hassle-free commute to the locations listed above!