If you’re planning a trip to Korea, you should know why the nights burn brighter than the days. From stories soaked in soju to sizzling street food under neon lights, Korea’s iconic pocha (tent bars) promise a magical local experience. Want to see the Korea that never makes it into the guidebooks? Keep reading.
It Always Starts with Soju and Ends with Pocha
As soon as night falls, there’s a place in Korea where laughter echoes, glasses clink, and steam rises into the chilly air. No fancy signs, just humble tents glowing with warmth—that’s a pocha.
If you’ve seen K-dramas where characters cry, confess, or laugh over drinks, you’ve already witnessed a pocha in action.
These tent bars capture the heart of Korean street drinking culture: affordable and flavorful dishes, a human touch in the atmosphere, and sometimes, unexpected new friendships. That’s why pochas are the perfect spot for travelers wanting to experience the real Korea.
What Do You Drink at a Pocha? Always Soju First!
Soju reigns supreme at pochas. Forget highballs or wine—this is the land of the “one more bottle?” mindset. But don’t worry, many pochas also serve flavored soju cocktails and makgeolli (rice wine) for lighter options.
Just remember—most pochas are cash only! So bring some Korean won with you; plastic cards may be politely refused.
Seoul’s Top 6 Must-Visit Pocha Streets
Seoul has several neighborhoods known for their pocha alleys. If you’re new to the pocha game, these are the best places to start. We’ve included map links so you can easily find your way.
📍 Mapo Station Pocha Street
A favorite among young office workers. Don’t miss the savory chicken gizzard stir-fry and spicy chicken feet. The alley is buzzing and friendly, lined with pochas each with its own quirky vibe. It’s half open-air, so the vibe gets extra cozy on a summer night.
📍 Yeongdeungpo Station Pocha Street
After-work haven for local professionals. Go classic with pan-fried oysters, tofu with kimchi, and fishcake soup. It has a retro charm, like stepping into the ’90s. Perfect for a quieter, nostalgic drinking night.
📍 Jongno 3-ga Pocha Street
Loved by older locals and full of authentic vibes. Try old-school favorites like spicy squid, rolled omelet, and even whole fried chicken. The scene turns magical after sunset with steam, lights, and stories in the air.
📍 Euljiro 3-ga Pocha Street
Also known as “Hipjiro,” this is where old meets trendy. Enjoy fusion dishes like cheese egg roll, grilled intestines, and creamy tteokbokki. Hidden pochas in retro buildings make great photo spots. Don’t miss Euljiro’s famous “Beer Alley”, packed with craft beer pochas and delicious beer snacks.
📍 Sindaebang Station Pocha Street
A local-only treasure. The raw tuna, spicy fish stew, and cartilage stir-fry are must-tries. It’s where real Seoulites unwind, with prices and flavors locals love. Great for avoiding tourist crowds.
📍 Jungrang Station Pocha Street
A family-friendly neighborhood vibe with leek pancake, stir-fried intestines, and egg soup. It may not be flashy, but it’s full of heart. A quiet spot to enjoy late-night drinks just like locals do.
A Night at the Pocha is a Night to Remember
A pocha is more than just a bar. It’s a place where strangers share snacks, where ajummas (aunties) offer life advice with your beer, and where laughter travels across tent walls. The charm isn’t just in the food or the soju—it’s in the shared human experience.
If you want to truly feel the heartbeat of Korean nightlife, pocha is the place to be. Picture this: it’s raining, you duck into a tent, your hoodie damp, the grill sizzling. Someone pours you a glass of soju. That moment? That’s Korea.
Tonight, the star of your trip could be… you, holding a soju glass under the neon sky.