Romance and entertainment may be two of South Korea’s most appealing travel trends, but sometimes they can be simply oversaturated. Why? Because there’s so much more in South Korea to explore beyond its magnificent mountains and beaches. This time, we’re going to invite you to explore South Korea—Seoul, especially—in a completely new transformed face as the 2024 Halloween approaches. So, get ready to join us on a spine-chilling journey through the scariest Korean occult hot spots for 2024 Halloween!
What is Korean Occult?
Have you watched the Korean hit movie, “Exhuma”? If you have, the movie basically gives you all the glimpses you need to know about Korean occult and shamanic culture.
Basically, the Korean occult theme revolves around that classic Halloween imagery with all things supernatural and phenomena that defy logic and science. While Western horror has its staples like “Dracula,”“Frankenstein,” and “The Conjuring,” South Korea prides on “Exhuma” and “The Wailing” as the country’s top contenders for the spookiest occult horror movies.
And yet, what makes Korean occult different from all these standard Halloween horror visuals?
The answer is simple. Because, unlike the usual, often predictable Western Halloween themes, Korean occult is grounded in cultural and historical roots, drawing from shamanism, Buddhism, and folk beliefs. It’s what gives Korean horror that extra layer, blending ancient spiritual beliefs with the unnerving, making it way more than just another scary story. Instead, it offers you that perfect blend of Korean dramatic stories and its bone-chilling occult culture.
Now, experiencing the real Korean occult theme can actually go beyond watching all these scary movies. Today, we’re going to invite you on a special tour across the best Korean occult hot spots and events for your 2024 Halloween trip to South Korea, especially Seoul.
Authentic K-Occult Experience with Seoul’s Top Places: Celebrate 2024 Halloween in South Korea!
Ju Og
Firstly, one of the most authentic Korean occult hot spots to celebrate Halloween 2024 in South Korea is Ju Og. This place is your go-to destination if you’re looking for that eerie Korean shamanism ambiance just like “Exhuma.”
Located around the Seongdong District, Seoul, Ju Og welcomes you with its impressive bone-chilling exorcism vibes with its talismans and fabric in the five traditional colors hanging from the ceiling and that classic menacing mother-of-pearl inlaid tables.
This Halloween, Ju Og returns with a more advanced decoration, blending all the traditional Korean occult with your classic pumpkin and skeleton décor.
Not only that, but with every drink you order, you can participate in the pub’s coin game. Collect 5 of these ancient coins for a free soju/beer or ten coins to exchange for a free side dish. For a bit of added fun, the pub has a game called “Coin Battle.” Just select it on the order tablet, and you’ll play rock-paper-scissors with the staff—win, and you score three coins; lose, and you’ll have to give up two.
Finally, you can also take these coins home for your next visit, but please be prepared because collecting all of them is quite challenging for tourists.
Ju Og
- Address: b1, 40-1 Majo-ro 1-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 507 1447 3634
- Opening Hours:
- 5 PM to 2 AM (Mon – Thu),
- 5 PM to 3 AM (Fri & Sat),
- Sunday CLOSED.
- Instagram: @ju___og
Geukrakwangsaeng
Secondly, among the best Korean occult hot spots to visit for your 2024 Halloween in South Korea is Geukrakwangsaeng.
Also known as Geukrak Coffee, this place focuses more on the newfound popularity of Buddhism along with its mystical features. The name of the cafe itself, “Geukrakwangsaeng,” refers to the term that signifies rebirth in the Pure Land after death.
Right from the entrance to an underground parking lot, the vibe here is both surreal and undeniably hip. Inside, you’ll find stunning Buddhist artwork and artifacts like statues and paintings, blending beautifully with retro touches like vinyl records, typewriters, and antique furniture. Colorful neon lights give the whole space a trendy pop, making it a sweet haven for tart lovers who might even find themselves casually chanting “Buddha Bless” while enjoying dessert.
Visit Geukrakwangsaeng and feel the thrill of authentic Buddhist culture, as Kpop idol Song Mino recommended!
Geukrakwangsaeng
- Address: B1, 14 Gyeongin-ro 77-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul.
- Phone: +82 507 1446 2469
- Opening Hours:
- 12 to 9 PM (Tue to Sun),
- Last order at 8.30 PM,
- Monday CLOSED.
- Instagram: @geukrak_coffee
59 Stairs
Thirdly, did you know? Beyond all that glitz and glamour of Seoul, there’s actually a wine bar that makes you feel like you’re starring in a Hollywood horror movie, 59 Stairs.
Tucked away in the shadowy alleys of Euljiro, you need to climb exactly 59 dark, creaky steps, counting each one to reach 59 Stairs. Then, as you open the bar’s red-lit door, an antique setting awaits, blending Western occult vibes with a hint of Eastern mystery. It includes those taxidermy deer heads, flickering candles, portraits of eerie counts, and even a statue of the Virgin Mary. Asian accents, like mother-of-pearl restroom doors and traditional art, add a unique charm.
At the same time, 59 Stair’s menu features wine-friendly dishes like steak, pasta, and garlic shrimp, perfect for a night of chilling atmosphere and great wine. Head up to the rooftop for a breathtaking view of Eulji-ro, where neon lights glow against old and modern buildings alike, creating a cyberpunk-like nighttime scene that makes the whole experience unforgettable.
59 Stairs
- Address: 32 Changgyeonggung-ro 5-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
- Phone: +82 507 1331 2784
- Opening Hours:
- 6 PM to 1 AM (Mon – Thu)
- 5.30 PM to 2 AM (Fri – Sat)
- 5.30 PM to 1 AM (Sun)
- Instagram: @59stairs_euljiro
Zoosindang
Meanwhile, Seoul’s Sindang-dong, known as a historic hub for shamanistic culture, has today transformed into the trendy “Hipdangdong,” thanks in part to Zoosindang, a unique themed bar in Seoul, embracing the neighborhood’s spiritual roots.
Zoosindang—meaning “a place where gods are enshrined”—immediately gives you that eerie tone from the entrance, where an old wooden dais, weathered sign, and mysterious Buddha statue welcome visitors. With only a step through the small door guarded by a cat god, you’re transported into a mystical world.
Not only that, but five-colored lights cast a dreamlike glow, while botanical decorations hanging from the ceiling create a forest-like vibe. You can also see various shamanistic touches everywhere: talismans, ancient texts, rosaries, and dragon statues fill the space.
And most importantly, it’s the signature Zodiac Guardian Cocktails, representing each of the twelve Korean zodiac animals, from rat to ox to tiger, that will get you hooked! Each of these cocktails is crafted with unique ingredients and an Instagram-worthy aesthetic. Watching these cocktails come to life with smoke and flames will give you this unforgettable one-of-a-kind experience.
Zoosindang
- Address: 411 Toegye-ro, Seoul, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 2 2231 1806
- Opening Hours:
- 6 PM to 2 AM (Tue – Fri),
- 5 PM to 2 AM (Sat – Sun),
- Monday CLOSED.
- Instagram: @zoosindang
Karma Bar
Finally, while you may find Haebangchon packed with hot spots, Karma stands out for the most genuine hip vibes for your 2024 Halloween in South Korea!
Imagine sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail to EDM beats, all under the watchful gaze of a giant Buddha statue! Intrigued? Well, it doesn’t get much cooler than that. The decor is a unique mix of ponds, monk robes, and monastery-inspired touches, creating a spiritual yet modern atmosphere. Plus, the cocktail menu aligns perfectly with this vibe, offering drinks that feel almost ritualistic.
But if you wish for that extra-unique experience, check out the lotus-filled bathroom! The spot definitely gives you that most cultish vibes. It is definitely the best corner at Karma.
Karma Bar
- Address: 3F, 95-1, Sinheung-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul.
- Opening Hours:
- 6 to 11 PM (Weekdays),
- 7 PM to 1 AM (Friday),
- 3 PM to 1 AM (Saturday),
- 6 PM to Midnight (Sunday),
- Monday CLOSED.
- Instagram: @onthekarma
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