Pregaming in Korea usually involves soju, beer, and a host of greasy side dishes which are less than satisfying. Although this is to save money, there are better options. Oversound in Hongdae offers extremely affordable prices, yet provides a chic atmosphere with quality music (and a sound system setup which can only be described in pictures).
The interior all has a similar feel, yet each seating area of OverSound is different. All seats have a smooth fake leather style and each table has modern metallic and synthetic feel which help give the venue a progressive atmosphere and the ever color changing wall next to the group seating reminds me of an exhibit from a local art museum.
The music was primary a mix of commercial US Hip-Hop and R&B. Whoever picked out the music was very familiar with what was immediately happening on the US scene. Some of the songs that were played had been released the week before in America.
Per the bartender’s recommendation, I ordered a Sweet Killer and Melon Mojito. The melon Mojito was made with Midori Shower Mix, Monin Mojito Mix from Malaysia, mint, lime, and melon. Although sweet, it wasn’t something I would pass off as a “candy cocktail”. It was one of the best mojitos that I have had in Seoul. The Sweet Killer turned out to not be so sweet, but was definitely a killer. The amount of alcohol in the drink was large but not clearly distinguishable. It consisted of Baccardi Rum, Gin, Vodka, Peach Tree, and lime juice.
The best part about OverSound is that is offers an excellent décor combined with incredibly good prices. The prices are listed below and are some of the best in Hongdae unless you want to drink in a park. That being said, OverSound is one of my top picks in Hongdae.
Drinks
JD Coke
Sweet Killer
Melon Mojito
Beer Set
Tequila Tenampa (bottle)
Jose Cuervo (bottle)
Absolute Vodka (bottle)
J&B (bottle)
Hennessy (bottle)
3,500KRW
8,000KRW
10,000KRW
30,000KRW
60,000KRW
65,000KRW
69,000KRW
69,000KRW
160,000KRW
The Good
- Very low prices
- Not too crowded
- You can rent out the entire bar
- Music is good
- Décor is progressive and hip
The Bad
- The bar itself doesn’t hold any parties
- Waitress was under-informed about the drinks
- “Bread Sticks” tasted odd
Operating Hours
Weekdays: 18:00 ~ 06:00
Weekends: 18:00 ~ 08:00
Address
361-17 B01 Seokyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Contact
010-4127-4268 (Manager NakHeung Choi)
Directions
Facing the main gate of Hongik University, turn right and go straight. Within a 5-minute walk, Over Sound will be on your left. Its beside NB2 located where Club Harlem used to be.
Map:
View OverSound @ Hongdae in a larger map
