Shisha in Seoul scene has grown steadily across the city’s more internationally oriented districts, shaped by a late-night café culture that keeps venues running well past midnight. Itaewon carries the longest-established concentration of hookah lounges, built on the area’s history as a hub for international residents and visitors. Hongdae and Gangnam have added their own options in more recent years, with interiors that blend Middle Eastern lounge references with contemporary Korean design.
This guide covers the most visited shisha venues across Seoul, with location details and key information for planning a visit.
Read more: Top 10 Best Shisha in Shibuya, Tokyo
Table of Contents
Cafe Slow Gangnam Shisha in Seoul
Address: Seocho District, 서초4동 Seocho-daero 77-gil, 35 카페슬로우 1층
Opening hours: 3 pm–2 am
Contact number: +82 2-3482-0111
Located in the heart of Gangnam, Cafe Slow offers a sophisticated ambiance complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and high-quality shisha in Seoul. The interior exudes elegance, and the outdoor terrace provides a refreshing environment for patrons. Their highball cocktails are particularly noteworthy, making it an ideal spot for gatherings with friends.
The Youn Shisha Cafe & Bar
Address: Jongno District, Jongno 2(i)-ga, 84-1 5FL
Opening hours: 5 pm–12 am
Contact number: +82 10-6504-7737
Located in the Jongno District in Seoul, The Youn Shisha Cafe & Bar offers a unique experience where patrons sit on pillows, creating a relaxed and intimate setting. The panoramic city views, especially on rainy days, add to its charm. Their berry mix with mint shisha is highly recommended, and the individual cabins provide ample privacy.
Forest Shisha Lounge
Address: Jung District, Myeongdong 3-gil, 17 3층
Opening hours: 3 pm–1 am
Contact number: +82 2-752-2003
A shisha bar near Myeongdong, Forest Shisha Lounge is renowned for its cleanliness and impeccable service. The menu boasts a variety of cocktails, and the staff’s proficiency in English makes it welcoming for international visitors. While the shisha might be on the pricier side, the overall experience justifies the cost.
Hype Rooftop Hookah Lounge
Address: Yongsan District, Itaewon-ro, 134 3F
Opening hours: 6 pm–1 am
Contact number: +82 10-9042-7571
For those seeking a rooftop experience, Hype Rooftop Hookah Lounge in Itaewon offers breathtaking views combined with excellent shisha and cocktails. The ambiance is enhanced by hip hop and R&B music, making it a lively spot for evening relaxation. Their illuminated lemon-flavored shisha is a visual and sensory delight.
Hansum Shisha in Seoul
Address: 2F, 30 Yonsei-ro 9-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 2 pm–1 am
Contact number: +82 2-365-0606
Hansum, located near Yonsei University, is a versatile space suitable for studying, working, or simply unwinding. The owner, a shisha expert, ensures that every detail is meticulously attended to. With a diverse selection of shisha flavors and delectable cocktails, Hansum caters to both shisha aficionados and novices alike.
Den Hookah Bar Yeonnam
Address: Mapo-gu, Donggyo-ro 38-gil, 42-6 3층
Opening hours: 6 pm–12 am
Contact number: +82 2-6352-1027
Tucked away in the Mapo-gu area, Den Hookah Bar Yeonnam is a hidden gem offering a cosy environment perfect for catching up with friends or a casual date. The extensive menu includes a wide variety of shisha flavors, cocktails, mocktails, teas, and even food, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Shimmy Shimmy
Address: B1, 127-22 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan District
Opening hours: 7 pm–2 am
Contact number: +82 70-8834-8902
Located in Itaewon, Shimmy Shimmy offers a comfortable atmosphere with excellent shisha options. The establishment’s unique song request system and availability of board games add to its appeal, making it a fun spot for groups. Its proximity to Itaewon Station makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Lit Lounge Itaewon
Address: 34-65 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan District
Opening hours: 8 pm–1 am
Lit Lounge is the perfect place to start and end your night, offering great drinks, live music or DJs, and quality shisha in Seoul. It’s a fantastic spot to meet locals and fellow travellers, with a vibrant atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back. The combination of flavourful shisha, excellent music, and unmatched hospitality makes it a must-visit.
UZU Hookah Bar Itaewon
Address: 1층~2층, 6-6 Itaewon-ro 19-gil, Yongsan District
Opening hours: 5 pm–3 am
Contact number: +82 10-2394-4636
Situated at the start of Itaewon Street, UZU Hookah Bar is a hidden gem known for its relaxing ambiance and high-quality shisha in Seoul. The welcoming staff ensure a great experience from the moment you walk in, while the modern and stylish interior adds to its charm. With an impressive selection of flavours and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for a cosy evening with friends.
Publyck Hookah Bar
Address: 24-4 Wausan-ro 17-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Opening hours: 7 pm–3 am
Contact number: +82 10-4759-0203
A spacious and inviting hookah bar in Mapo-gu, Publyck is perfect for small groups looking to unwind. The friendly owner speaks English, making it a great choice for international visitors. With a relaxed setting, great drinks, and live Premier League screenings, it’s an excellent place to socialise and enjoy quality shisha in Seoul.
Seoul continues to refine its approach to shisha, offering lounges that combine quality, comfort and a clear attention to detail. From intimate hideaways to larger, music filled spaces, each location brings its own character to the city’s growing landscape.
With these options, finding a reliable and enjoyable shisha in Seoul becomes a simple and rewarding part of exploring the city.
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