The K-occult craze has recently swept the world, and you can experience it right here in Seoul. Imagine a dream-like cocktail bar where it feels like an exorcism ritual could start at any moment, a Buddhist-themed cafe with an otherworldly atmosphere, or a mysterious wine bar perched 59 steps above the city. Instead of ghostly wails piercing the night, these four hot spots in Seoul offer a hauntingly beautiful occult ambiance accompanied by trendy music.

1. What is the Occult?

The occult genre deals with supernatural, bizarre, and scientifically inexplicable phenomena such as ghosts, zombies, and exorcisms. It ranges from classic novels like Dracula and Frankenstein to modern fantasies such as Harry Potter and Twilight, as well as horror films like “The Exorcist” and “The Conjuring.” More recently, Korean occult films such as “Exhuma (2024)” and “The Wailing (2016)” have gained popularity both in Korea and internationally.

2. The Charm of K-Occult

So, what makes K-occult so captivating? Unlike the Western occult genre, which often focuses on vampires and werewolves, Korean occult draws deeply from its cultural and historical roots, incorporating shamanism, Buddhism, and folk beliefs. This unique fusion offers a deeper understanding of Korean culture.

For example, “The Wailing (2016)” gives us a glimpse into typical Korean folk beliefs, which emphasize a strong connection to nature, ancestral spirits, and communication with the gods through shamans. In the film, the shaman borrows power from the gods to cure illnesses, bring good fortune, or exorcise demons. This is well depicted in a scene where the shaman tries to protect the village by performing a ritual, known as “gut,” to drive away evil spirits.

The recently released K-occult film “Exhuma (2024)” is based on the ancient Korean practice of Pungsujiri, the belief that the land holds energy that affects those who live or bury their ancestors there. Building on this concept, the film explores the supernatural phenomenon that misfortune and even ghosts may haunt families whose ancestors are buried in inauspicious land.

If you want to experience the occult and mystical atmosphere of these films in real life, why not visit one of these intriguing spots?

3. Four Fascinating K-Occult Spots

| Zoosindang

Sindang-dong is a neighborhood historically known as a home to shamans. The cocktail bar Zoosindang offers a modern take on the history and culture of this area—its name literally means “a neighborhood where gods are enshrined.”

From the outside, the worn wooden dais, eerie Buddha statue, and weathered signboard resemble an old shaman’s house. However, once you step through the small door guarded by the cat god, you enter a completely different world. The five-colored lights create a dreamlike atmosphere, and the botanical decorations covering the ceiling evoke the mystical feeling of being deep in a forest. The occult vibe is further enhanced by scattered props, including talismans, ancient texts, rosaries, and dragon statues.

The signature menu features Korean zodiac-inspired cocktails. Each of the twelve animals—rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, and so on—is represented by a unique combination of ingredients, with the cocktails boasting an Instagrammable aesthetic. The cocktail-making process, complete with smoke and flames, is a performance not to be missed. Choose a Korean zodiac cocktail according to your birth year at Zoosindang and experience Korean culture in a unique way.

| Geukrakwangsaeng

This is one of the cafes visited by Song Minho (MINO), a member of the boy group WINNER, while searching for #bunjoca (short for “cafe with a good atmosphere”) on the entertainment show MINO Line: MINO’s SEOUL TRIP by Subway. The cafe’s name, Geukrakwangsaeng, is a Buddhist term meaning rebirth in a peaceful world free of worries after death. Inside, Buddhist artifacts such as statues and paintings are perfectly harmonized with retro items like vinyl records, typewriters, and antique furniture, while colorful neon lights add a trendy touch.

MINO chose Wangsaeng Milk Tea, brewed from Earl Grey tea, and a Geukrak Tart. The milk tea is served without ice, allowing you to fully savor its rich flavor without it becoming diluted over time. The tarts come in three flavors—egg, sweet potato, and black sesame—featuring a delightful contrast between the soft filling and the crispy crust. Enjoying a cup of tea with a bite of dessert here will make you feel as if you’ve entered paradise.

| Ju-og

This pub feels like a scene straight out of the films “Exhuma (2024)” or “The Wailing (2016).” The talismans and five-colored cloths hanging from the ceiling evoke the image of an exorcism ceremony, while the traditional mother-of-pearl inlaid tables deepen the cultural ambiance. Sipping a beer alongside fusion Korean dishes like Beef Short Plate Mala Hotpot, Spicy Braised Chicken with Garlic, Cheese Kimchijeon (Kimchi Pancake), and Meat Tteokbokki is a delightful way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Interestingly, with each drink you order, you receive a brass coin resembling ancient currency. Collect five coins to receive a free soju or beer, or ten coins to exchange for a side dish. While you can save the coins for your next visit, tourists may find it challenging to collect them all. To add to the fun, the pub offers a game called “Coin Battle.” By selecting the Coin Battle option on the order tablet, you can play rock, paper, scissors with the staff— win, and you get three coins; lose, and you forfeit two.

This year’s Halloween season will be even spookier with enhanced immersive props, so if you and your friends are planning a special Halloween in Korea, Ju-og is a must-visit.

| 59 Stairs

Tucked away in the backstreets of Eulji-ro, an old building invites you to climb its dark, eerie 59 steps—a journey that feels like something straight out of a horror film. At the top, behind the red door, lies an antique wine bar called 59 Stairs (59 Gyedan). The bar’s decor, featuring taxidermy deer heads, a portrait of a count, flickering candles, and a statue of the Virgin Mary, creates an atmosphere reminiscent of Dracula’s mansion. Asian accents, such as mother-of-pearl inlaid restroom doors and traditional paintings, enhance the exquisite blend of Eastern and Western occultism. Wine-friendly dishes like steak, pasta, and gambas al ajillo (Spanish-style garlic shrimp) are also on offer.

From the rooftop, you can enjoy a striking view of Eulji-ro, where old buildings and modern office structures coexist. The true charm of the area comes alive at night, as neon lights glow through the dark alleys, offering a scene reminiscent of a cyberpunk film. For the best experience, it’s recommended to visit in the evening and take in the fascinating nighttime view of Eulji-ro.

* This column was last updated in October 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check details before visiting.