As the younger crowd continues to flow into the main streets of Hongdae at the speed of vomit, the thirties are, although slightly reluctant, moving their steps towards Itaewon. To provide a comfortable yet classy home for their enduring regulars, Woo Ken Ju renovated its existing building and with it, came the advent of a lounge and club-style bar. In the beginning, Woo Ken Ju was a coffee bar serving cocktails, but with time, a DJ was introduced to the space and in turn, the bar transformed into a chill lounge. Woo Ken Ju still carries its coffee menu, as well as a surprising selection of Italian dishes. Before Woo Ken Ju, there was really no other venue like it in Seoul. Styled to emulate the environment of a crisp boutique hotel, the interior is sophisticated, and the bathroom is immaculate—definitely a far cry from the clubs of Hongdae.
