SEOUL WEEKEND UPDATE (Apr 30 - May 4)

Last week at SOAP was less of a party and more of a collective cultural fever dream. To the +750 people that showed up, to the legends who waited in that line, and to the staff who pushed the curfew until 5:00 AM just to keep the frequency alive: THANK YOU.
 
We’re officially starting Year Two with almost 2,500 GSTV Newsletter subscribers! This is huge and we want to thank each and every single one of you guys, especially the ones that bump into us at events thanking us for Seoul Weekend Update.

This week, Seoul is not slowing down! We’re welcoming NYC legends to Modeci, catching Dumbfounded back in the motherland, and witnessing a 150-garden botanical takeover of the city. Whether you’re recovering with a quiet book in a beanbag or chasing a 4:00 AM hard techno baseline in Gangnam, as usual, Seoul’s map is wide open.

Seoul Weekend Update
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FEATURED EVENT OF THE WEEK

ORBIT is officially entering Seoul’s atmosphere with ‘MERCURY,’ the first launch in a series of events inspired by the solar system.

Founded by two third-culture kids, queer Korean selector J/WON and French-Moroccan DJ MinMin, this collective is pulling the city into a high-energy gravitational field of Acid, UKG, and Baile Funk.
The trajectory begins this holiday Monday at Cakeshop, the undisputed staple of Itaewon’s underground, for anyone ready to lose themselves in a truly global frequency.

📆 May 4th (Monday)
📍 Cakeshop Seoul, Itaewon
🕥 10PM - Late

Line-up KING SHE, MOHO, FAKEDEEPLEE, BASKERVILLE, J/WON, MIN MIN
Entry ₩15,000 Early Bird on Resident Advisor / ₩20,000 Door (Before 12 AM) / ₩25,000 Door (After 12 AM)

🌸 ON GOING 🌸

Seoul International Garden Show (Seoul Forest) 
May 1 – Oct 27 | Seoul Forest Area | Free 
The city is going green on a scale we’ve never seen before: we’re talking 150 experimental gardens spread across 710,000 square meters. Major names like Musinsa, Dior, and Porsche have built their own signature gardens for this massive six-month run. It’s essentially turning the whole Seongsu area into a living, breathing garden city.

Feel the Art, Play with the Senses @ MMCA Gwacheon
Apr 30 - Feb 2027 | MMCA Gwacheon Children’s Museum | Free
MMCA Gwacheon is opening a new interactive playground designed to bridge the gap between contemporary art and your five senses. This exhibition brings together artists like KKEKK and Ham Jin to create a space where rustling paper, magnifying glasses, and tactile sculptures replace the usual "do not touch" signs. It’s a sensory-heavy journey that invites you to play with the art rather than just look at it, making it the perfect low-stakes cultural reset for your long weekend.

Seoul Outdoor Library Opening (Multiple Locations)
Apr 23 – Nov 1 | Gwanghwamun & Cheonggyecheon | Free
To mark World Book Day, a massive open-air library unfolds across the city's landmarks. Perfect for those looking to balance the high-energy weekend with a moment of focused relaxation.

VERDY: "I Believe in Me" (Jamsil)
Apr 24 – Jul 19 | Lotte Museum of Art | Ticketed (10,000 won early bird)
The biggest exhibition to date for the legend who bridges street culture and fine art. Spanning from his early graphics to massive 3D character sculptures. This is a mandatory cultural check-in.

Blooming Mind: Lee Ji Hyun x Emily Young (Nonhyeon)
Until May 10 | 12 PM – 5 PM | Gallery O Square | Free
If you need a break from the noise, this joint exhibition between Gallery O Square and Busan’s Gallery Mare is your reset. Blooming Mind explores the physical and emotional arrival of spring through the distinct visual languages of two artists. It’s an exploration of inner landscapes and sensory growth that goes way deeper than just seasonal aesthetics.

Louis Vuitton: Visionary Journeys (Jung-gu) 
Until Dec 31 | LV The Place Seoul | Free (RSVP Required)
An immersive 12-room narrative spanning 170 years of travel philosophy. From the original 1854 trunks to modern art collaborations.
Perk: Audio guide narrated by actress Jun Ji-hyun.

Seoul Spring Festival 2026 (Hangang River Parks) 
Apr 10 – May 5 | 10 AM – 10 PM | Mostly Free 
Seoul's biggest spring event just got a serious upgrade! 26 days instead of last year's 7, and the entire Han River is the stage this time: drone light shows over the water, a floating merry-go-round, a Pokemon Road Show walk, K-culture performances, and the legendary "Hangang Ramyun in the Sky" experience zone. You can ride the Hangang Bus (boats) between piers, scan QR codes for prizes, and find your favorite corner of the river. There's genuinely something for everyone and you don't even need to plan hard, just pull up and wander.

THURSDAY — THE RIGHT BEGINNING OF A LONG WEEKEND

• Live Painting @ Cabrón (Hannam) 
  8 PM – Midnight | Cabrón Seoul | Free

  Hannam’s hidden gem Cabrón is hosting a night where the canvas and the sound waves merge into one. Watch artist Song Jung-min build a masterpiece from scratch while a rotation of DJs keeps the room vibrating. It’s the kind of high-concept, low-lit evening that reminds you why you live in this city.

• Reddy: "Runouttt" Documentary Screening (Samseong) 
  7 PM | Tarret Samcheong | Invite Only (Send DM)
  Rapper Reddy is bringing his journey from the studio to the asphalt with a private screening of his marathon documentary. It’s an intimate look at his training for the Kochi Marathon and the mental shift that comes with long-distance running. If you won the lottery for this, you’re also walking away with a pair of Adidas Hyperboosts.

• Satz: Listening Bar Takeover (Hannam) 
  9 PM – 2 AM | SATZ (2F) | Free
  Satz is arguably one of the most aesthetic listening bars in Seoul, and they’re opening the doors for a night of delicate sounds and subtle scents. Join Sun of June and Crab for a session that’s as much about the drinks as it is about the acoustic curation. It’s the perfect high-end Thursday pivot for when you need to actually hear your friends talk.

• CHANNEL201 & Friends @ TIMES (Apgujeong)
  10 PM – 5 AM | Times Apgu | ₩20,000
  Celebrate the release of the third remix and edit pack from the CHANNEL201 crew in the heart of the Rodeo. This lineup features the city’s favorite local diggers spinning everything from future-beats to high-energy edits. It’s the last night of April, and the basement energy is going to be high.

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FRIDAY — DUMBFOUNDEAD, SPANISH NIGHT & MORE

• 50-50 CURRY LUV @ Maple (Apgujeong Rodeo) 
  1 PM – 8 PM | Curry Shop Maple | Free
  PalPal Skates and Curry Shop Maple are taking over the Rodeo this Friday for a spicy intersection of skate culture and premium comfort food. Grab their signature 50-50 hotdog featuring curry ragu and corn cheese, or step up to the PalPal ledge for the "Grind Challenge" to score your lunch and a beer for free. With a full afternoon DJ rotation, this is the definitive daytime hangout for anyone who likes their kicks fresh and their curry hot.

• Dumbfounded: "Spit" Book Release Party (Apgujeong) 
  From 6 PM | Courte Cafe | Free 

  LA legend Dumbfounded is back in the motherland to drop his new book Spit and celebrate with the day-ones. Catch him at Courte Cafe for a birthday bash and a deep dive into the chapters that defined his journey through Korea. It’s a rare chance to connect with one of the most important cultural bridges between the US and Seoul.

• Spanish Night @ Yeminham Haus (Yeonnam)
  8 PM – Midnight | Yeminham Haus | ₩10,000 
  If you want to sharpen your Spanish or just drink too much Sangria with a new crew, this is the move. This social night in the heart of Yeonnam is designed for the Spanish-speaking community and friends to connect in a low-pressure setting. Come solo or bring a friend; you’re guaranteed to leave with new contacts and a few stories.

• Vangad Vinyl Sessions: Minoria Grupo (Gongdeok) 
  8 PM – Midnight | Vangad Record Bar | Free

  A collective of vinyl collectors from Yeonhui-dong are crossing over to Gongdeok for a night of exceptionally rare selections at Vangad Record Bar. Expect a warm, analog atmosphere filled with "minority tastes" like Brazilian MPB, ambient textures, and deep AOR cuts. It’s the ultimate low-key hideout to enjoy the spring weather with a rotating cast of selectors who prioritize depth over mainstream loops.

• [Once, Ever] Live Ambient @ Kunst Kabinett (Jongno) 
  8:30 PM – 10 PM | Kunst Kabinett Seoul | ₩30,000 
  For those needing a sonic detox, this immersive listening environment captures a distinctly Korean emotional sensibility. Producers like archie (who’s worked with Samuel Seo and George) blend ambient and folk textures with live improvisation. It’s a rare, seated opportunity to experience the way sound transforms and evolves in a quiet, intentional space.

• MIX IT, HYPE @ XimXim (Seongsu) 
  7 PM – 2 AM | XimXim Seoul | ₩20,000 
  Seongsu's XimXim is playing host to a high-energy collision between the city's best house dancers and local DJs. Catch the renowned house dancer Neoh as he brings his European-influenced energy to the floor for a session focused entirely on the art of movement. It’s a "DJs meets Dancers" concept that turns the bar into a living, breathing performance space.

• Fresh Faces Comedy @ Lit Lounge (Itaewon)
  8 PM - Late | Lit Lounge | ₩10,000 
  Lit Lounge is hosting a night of laughs featuring the next wave of talent from Seoul’s vibrant English stand-up scene. It’s a mix of rising voices and familiar faces, including a very special guest from the original Standup Seoul era. Get your Friday night laughs in early and support the city’s comedy community for the price of a single drink.

• PULS x LION: DJ Juicce (Gangnam)

  11 PM - Late | LION Super Club | ₩50,000 
  DJ Juicce is touching down to bring that high-velocity "Tek Tek Tek" energy to the Lion basement for a massive collaboration with Puls (DJ Root’s crew). Expect the room to reach peak humidity as they move through heavy bass and the kind of global grooves that have been conquering festival stages. This is the start of a new chapter for Gangnam’s club energy, so don't be the one scrolling through stories about this party.

• Blackout 005 @ Grain Haus (Itaewon) 
  10 PM – Late | Grain Haus | ₩20,000 
  Blackout is back with their first edit pack release and a live performance by Choilb to keep the energy raw. The vibes at Grain Haus don't follow genres, so expect everything from house to heavy edits. This is a "dress up" affair, so leave the slippers at home and come ready for high-energy sets.

• NTDJ @ Cakeshop (Itaewon) 
  10 PM – Late | Cakeshop Seoul | ₩20,000
  Montreal powerhouse TDJ is bringing her signature blend of euphoric trance and eurodance nostalgia to the Cakeshop basement. Known for her "SPF INFINI" audiovisual projects, she crafts a club world that feels both massive and deeply personal. It’s a masterclass in modern emotional storytelling through high-tempo, trance-infused energy.

• Posture Club @ Nyapi (Itaewon)
  10 PM – Late | Nyapi | ₩20,000 
  Architect-founded collective Posture Club is taking over both stages at Nyapi for a night of curated, structural sound. They’re sharing the room with ARGA founder Cityboy From Seoul for a session that bridges the gap between design and the dancefloor. Expect a focused, high-energy room where the curation is as sharp as the aesthetics.
  

• Grace Kim: ‘I Believe’ Release Party @ Casa Corona (Itaewon) 
  7 PM – 3 AM | Casa Corona | Free Entry
  Celebrate the release of Grace Kim’s new single ‘I Believe’ with a night of groove-driven house and rooftop energy. The session kicks off early with sets from Ruta and Isco, building up to Grace Kim’s headline set at 11:00 PM. It’s the perfect Itaewon Friday pivot for those who want their house music with a view of the skyline.
  

You missed GSTV’s 1 Year Anniversary?!
Lol, well first of all… you missed out on a legendary night (ask anyone that was there). Second of all, we got you with a recap of the night, ha!

BACK TO THE WEEKEND UPDATE

SATURDAY — FULL DAY, FULL NIGHT ✨

• Morning Rave @ YLESS (Bukchon) 
  8 AM – 10:30 AM | YLESS Bukchon | Free

  Bukchon is hosting a sunrise experiment where 120 BPM rhythms meet high-end skin wellness. This "Morning Rave" offers more than just house music, it’s a sensory detox complete with free caviar finger food and personal color makeup experiences. It’s the ultimate healthy pivot for those looking to swap a hangover for a glow-up.

• Bordi Studio Flea Market & Picnic (Seocho) 
  11 AM – 8 PM | Bordi Studio | Free
  Bordi is opening up their lawn for a massive flea market that doubles as a spring picnic. Browse through vintage collections in the basement studio or grab a spot on the grass while DJs provide the soundtrack for your afternoon. Dogs and kids are welcome, and you can even order delivery straight to the garden for the full picnic experience.

• Dong-Yo Market & Party @ XimXim (Seongsu) 
  1 PM – 1 AM | XimXim Seoul | Free
  Saturday at XimXim kicks off with a curated flea market filled with brand goods and vintage finds before pivoting into a late-night afterparty. They’re running a live raffle with everything from 50,000 KRW vouchers to bottles of champagne up for grabs for anyone participating. It’s the perfect spot to hunt for new gear during the day and stay for the vibes as the sun goes down.

• Pisco Palooza @ 448 by Southside (Noksapyeong) 
  From 4 PM | 448 by Southside | Free
  The next Pisco Palooza is here, starting early in the afternoon for those who like their cocktails with a view. They’re slinging 10,000 KRW Pisco Highballs all day with zero cover charge to keep the vibes easy. It’s the ultimate day-drinking session that inevitably turns into a late-night Itaewon mission.

• Reading is Sexy: Book & Wine @ Yeminham Haus (Yeonnam)
  8 PM – Midnight | Yeminham Haus | ₩30,000
  Grab a glass of wine, a book, and find a corner for a sensual, quiet evening among people who share the same sensitivity. You don't need to know anyone to belong here; the quiet atmosphere of the room does all the heavy lifting for you. Every ticket includes wine and light snacks for a slow-paced, atmospheric reset.

• One Size Seoul x SKIIDA (Itaewon)
  9 PM – Late | One Size | Free 
  One Size is keeping it local this Saturday with a heavy-hitting set from Seoul underground veteran SKIIDA. Expect a masterclass in turntablism that weaves deep hip-hop energy with house and world music textures. It’s a high-density, free-entry session for those who want a chill bar vibe without sacrificing technical excellence.

• Audio Master Class with Peakboy @ RYSE (Hongdae)
  8 PM – 10 PM | Side Note Club (15F) | Free Entry (buy a drink)
  RYSE is launching a new series starting with a deep dive into the creative DNA of producer Peakboy. Head up to the 15th-floor Side Note Club to hear the specific reference tracks that fuel his sound followed by an intimate live set. It’s a rare, behind-the-boards look at the craft that’s free to attend as long as you grab a drink.

• Pasa Passa @ Bolero (Itaewon) 
  10 PM – 6 AM | Bolero Seoul | ₩25,000 
  Bolero is hosting a night of live sets and dance performances that center around the heavy pulse of Afro and Baile grooves. Catch a live set by Koreangroove and stay for a "Special Guest" reveal that the crew is keeping strictly under wraps until the night begins. If you want high-energy performance mixed with a proper club atmosphere, this is the primary target.

• Haich Ber Na @ SCR (Itaewon)
  6 PM - Late | SCR | RSVP via Bio 
  Haich Ber Na is touching down in Seoul for an intimate "Music for Making Friends" listening party hosted by SCR. This isn't a typical performance but a curated session designed to showcase his new EP to the city's community before it hits the internet. RSVP via the link to secure your spot for a night focused on real connections and first-listen exclusivity.

• Bloody Bell: Gugak Techno (Itaewon) 
  9 PM | Chunhee | ₩25,000
  The deep sorrow of traditional Gugak meets the relentless pulse of Hard Techno in this chaotic aesthetic feast. Experience a live Geomungo performance that transitions into heavy gabber and industrial sounds under the "Angel’s Eye."The dress code is strict! All Black or All White.

• Sundown @ Uplift (Itaewon)
  From 9 PM | Uplift Seoul | ₩20,000 
  Itaewon is getting its first-ever mashup of live music and burlesque right in the heart of Gyeongridan. This night features original live sets followed by performance art from some of the city's most captivating burlesque artists. It’s a high-concept Saturday plan for those who want their entertainment with a side of mystery and grit.

• GE-OLOGY @ MODECi (Mapo)

  10 PM – Late | Modeci | ₩25,000
  Brooklyn veteran GE-OLOGY lands at Modeci with 40 years of sonic expertise ranging from underground hip-hop foundations to deep house selections. Joined by Seoul’s own DJ Soulscape, this is a rare chance to catch a legend who’s shared credits with everyone from Mos Def to Tupac. Expect a masterclass in mixing that priorities depth and history over the usual club loops.

• SR PRO x D.L.i.P. Records @ Rosso (Hannam) 
  10 PM – Late | Rosso Seoul | ₩15,000

  Rosso becomes the center of the Korea-Japan hip-hop connection as the D.L.i.P. Records crew lands in Hannam. Witness a masterclass in turntablism by Japan's DJ Bunta alongside heavy-hitting live sets from Dusty Husky and Deepflow. It’s a rare gathering of underground excellence where you can also snag exclusive vinyl test pressings and limited merch.

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SUNDAY — DRAG SHOW & HIP-HOP

• Seoul Drag Cabaret (Gyeongridan) 
  4 PM – 7 PM | Uplift Seoul | ₩15,000 
  The city's favorite Sunday afternoon drag show returns just in time for the upcoming Pride season. Host Hurricane Kimchi leads a stacked lineup of queer artists for a fun, cozy, and high-energy cabaret session. Note the venue change: this month’s show has moved to Uplift, just a few minutes from the usual spot.
  

• Hiphop Is Head (Sinchon)
  6 PM | Honey Clover | ₩30,000
  If you’ve been missing real rap and freestyle mastery, this is the sanctuary you’ve been looking for. Featuring the "point of freestyle" Huckleberry P and punchline king Olltii, this night is built on skill rather than name value. It’s a limited 100-capacity event designed for those who want to hear the music, not just see the flash.

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MONDAY — OFF DAY, FUN DAY

• CORTIS [GREENGREEN] @ S-Factory (Seongsu)
  8 PM | S-Factory | Check S-Factory for Entry Rules
  The phenomenon new Kpop group Cortis is taking over Seongsu for a massive release party celebrating their second EP, GREENGREEN. This holiday-eve session at S-Factory is designed to be the ultimate close-range experience for fans looking to dive into their new sound. Expect a high-resolution production in one of the city's most industrial-chic spaces.

• AFTERFORM at Nué (Itaewon) 
  9 PM – Late | Nué (2F/3F) | ₩10,000 
  Monday night is a holiday eve, and AFTERFORM is capitalizing on the long weekend by taking over both floors of Nué with heavy UK support. Featuring Mortalyf from the UK’s Leftback Records, the night scales through deep house and techno before dissolving into a massive B2B session until the early hours. It’s an underground journey that’s best experienced with their 1+1 early bird deal for the crew.

• Space 92 @ Undercity (Seongsu)

  9 PM – Late | Undercity | ₩53,000 Global techno heavyweight Space 92 returns to the city where his international career first touched down. As one of Beatport’s best-selling artists, his sound is a relentless blend of trance-driven energy and futuristic textures. This is a peak-time masterclass for anyone who wants a dark, industrial homecoming session to kick off the holiday.