Experience the Magic of Korean Nights: Dive into “Yajang” Culture!

Hello, my amazing traveler friends! 💖 This is Your K-Friend at K.RIDE!

Are you ready to discover a side of Korea that truly comes alive after dark? Forget fancy nightclubs for a moment, because today, I want to introduce you to one of my absolute favorite things: “Yajang” (야장)!

This is the quintessential Korean outdoor dining and drinking experience, and it’s all about good food, great company, and the vibrant energy of the night.

Koreans enjoying Seoul's night market culture — Koreans enjoying Seoul’s night market culture (source : korean.visitseoul.net)

**🤔 So, What Exactly is Yajang?**

Picture this: The sun has set, the air is buzzing with excitement, and you find yourself seated at a simple table (often spilling out onto the sidewalk!) enjoying delicious Korean dishes under the open sky.

It’s casual, it’s lively, and I absolutely love it! Yajang isn’t just about eating; it’s about soaking in the atmosphere, sharing stories, and making memories.

Why We Locals Love Yajang 💖

You’ll typically find Yajang spots in bustling areas, near traditional markets, or as pop-ups during the warmer months. Here’s what makes it so special:

🍜 Amazing Food (and Drinks!): Yajang is perfect for enjoying all kinds of Korean comfort food. Think sizzling samgyeopsal (pork belly) cooked at your table, spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes), and crispy pajeon (green onion pancakes). And of course, my favorite part… washing it all down with soju (Korean spirit) or makgeolli (rice wine)!
✨ The Lively Vibe: The sound of laughter, clinking glasses, and the sizzle of food fills the air. It’s a fantastic, communal way to feel the true pulse of local life.
🌙 The Open-Air Charm: There’s just something magical about dining outdoors on a cool evening. The fresh air and the dynamic street scene make your meal feel even more special.

📍 My K-Friend Picks: Top Yajang Spots

You’ll stumble upon Yajang spots all over Korea, but here are a few of my personal recommendations that I always take my friends to!

1. Jongno 3-ga “Pojangmacha Street”

What to Expect: This is the classic Yajang experience! This street is famous for its line of pojangmachas (tent stalls) run by friendly ajummas (older ladies). It’s the perfect place for soju and simple, delicious dishes like dakbal (spicy chicken feet) or odeng-tang (fish cake soup).
Location: Along the road between Exits 3 and 6 of Jongno 3-ga Station (Line 5).
💡 My K-Friend Tip: Bring cash! Many of these stalls prefer cash over cards. Also, don’t be afraid to point and order—it’s all part of the fun!

2. Yongma Shelter (용마쉼터)

What to Expect: You’re right! This spot is super hot right now, especially after being featured on the popular dating show ‘Transit Love 3.’ It’s a go-to for Korea’s MZ generation. Here, you can enjoy classics like baeksuk (herbal chicken soup) and samgyeopsal while taking in stunning views of Seoul. It’s a unique blend of trend and tradition.
Location: Near Yongmasan Mountain (It’s a bit hidden, so using a taxi is your best bet!)
💡 My K-Friend Tip: This place gets packed, especially on weekends. Try to go a little early in the evening to grab a good seat with the best view!

Yongma Shelter where Yoo-jung and Joo-won date in 'Transfer Love 3' — Yongma Shelter where Yoo-jung and Joo-won date in ‘Transfer Love 3’

3. Rooftop Yajang (Various Locations)

What to Expect: Want Yajang with a view? Head to a rooftop! My favorites are at the Banpo Express Bus Terminal, where ‘Posukjeong’ & ‘Yukgakgogi’ offer BBQ with incredible Han River and Namsan Tower views. In Euljiro, ‘Beta Service OOOK’ is a hip, newer spot for both wine and samgyeopsal.
Locations: Banpo Express Bus Terminal (Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu) & Euljiro (Search ‘Beta Service OOOK’).
💡 My K-Friend Tip: These places are also very popular, so expect a line! It’s always a good idea to check their Instagram for opening hours before you go.

'Yukgakgogi' located on the rooftop of Gangnam Banpo Express Bus Terminal — At Banpo Express Bus Terminal, ‘Yukgakgogi’ offer BBQ with stunning Han River and Namsan Tower views

🚖 How to Get Home After a Fun Night?

Okay, let’s be real. One of the best parts of Yajang is that the fun stretches late into the night! You’re having such a good time, the hours just fly by… But then, you check the time, and the subways are closed. 😥

Don’t worry! I have the perfect solution. Don’t let that cut your amazing night short!

That’s why I truly recommend using K.RIDE! It’s the taxi-hailing app from Kakao Mobility, designed just for international travelers like you. It’s the app I always tell my foreign friends to download first.

Why K.RIDE is Your Best Friend for Late Nights:

✅ Multi-language app support: No language stress! The app works perfectly in English, Japanese, Chinese, and 130+ other languages.
✅ Foreign card-friendly: This is the best part! You can register your international credit card right in the app, so there’s no fumbling for Korean cash or worrying about payment.
✅ Automatic destination translation: Just type your hotel name in English, and the app automatically translates it for the driver. So easy!
✅ Fair pricing: The app runs on a fair, standard meter fare, so you never have to worry about being overcharged.

So go ahead, order that “one more round,” and soak in the vibrant Korean night. With K.RIDE, you know a safe and easy ride home is just a tap away.

Scan the QR code to download k.ride — Korea’s No.1 taxi app for global travelers.

Get it on Google Play badge for downloading the app.

Download on the App Store badge for iOS app installation.

💖 Enjoy Your Magical Korean Night!

I really hope this guide helps you dive into the amazing ‘Yajang’ culture and make some unforgettable memories.

Have a fantastic trip, and remember to travel smart and safe!

Thanks for reading!
— Your K-Friend at k.ride ✨
See you on the road!

Explore Korea Like a Local