Gay district seoul

Seoul, an enchanting fusion of heritage and innovation, invites exploration with its intricate blend of ancient palaces and soaring skyscrapers. Landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the avant-garde Dongdaemun Design Plaza can be set up on the equal street, embodying South Korea's storied past and forward-looking society.

Amidst this vibrant cityscape, Seoul's, sometimes modest, LGBTQ+ community thrives. Itaewon, the city's nightlife district, radiates as an Queer hub, hosting a selection of homosexual bars, clubs, and community spaces. The annual Seoul Homosexual Culture Festival amplifies the spirit of acceptance, uniting Diverse individuals and allies in joyful celebration.

Art, culture, and technology converge seamlessly within Seoul's galleries, museums, and digital showcases. Echoes of King Sejong's legacy and the contributions of contemporary culture leaders enrich the city's vibrant creative landscape.

The traditional arts and crafts on Insa-dong, the coffee shops of Ikseon-dong, the street vendors selling everything from skewers to rice cakes everywhere you look: walk around Jongno 3-ga (pronounced jong-no-sam-ga) and you’d be forgiven for thinking this was a pretty traditional, albeit slightly eccentric, little corner of Seoul.

But take a closer watch and you’ll find that the neighbourhood – which we just named the third coolest in the world – is home to some 100 or so bars catering to Seoul’s LGBTQ+ community. These institutions are very much disguised in plain sight, and there really is something for everyone, even the city’s gay seniors.

Despite South Korea’s dynamic and tech-savvy image, its attitudes towards queer people cannot be said to be progressive. In this socially conservative country, LGBTQ+ people here are still made to feel invisible.

This became all the more visible in May 2020, when a Covid outbreak hit the club scene in Seoul’s more notable, but smaller gay district in Itaewon. That led to widespread homophobia that seemed to spread even fas