One really needs a personal assistant to coordinate their weekends when it comes to partying on the peninsula. The scene, like the country itself, has risen from obscurity to become one of the most pulsating and tantalizing destinations in the world. Electronic dance music (EDM) is played everywhere, but there are only a few clubs and promoters that spend their cover charges and sponsorship to finance international talent.

In Daegu, you need to grab yourself a copy of Daegu Pockets to see what events are on the go. The only club that we can recommend is Pasha. Their event with Make the Girl Dance was one of the best blowouts of the year. Their scene is still in its infancy, but outside promoters such as Spark Media are putting in a strong effort to change the electronic landscape. With almost three million people residing in this area it is just a matter of time before things explode.

In Busan, it is hit-and-miss with everyone vying for a share of the tourist dollars. The most consistent clubs are Maktum and Elune, and both posh venues are located at Haeundae Beach. The summer capital is now staking its claim to being one of the marquis destinations for artists on tour in Asia. Perhaps it is the sea air or the transient crowds that pack the clubs, but there is no question that this metropolis has a vibe unique unto itself.

In Seoul, the selection is quite vast with the city’s clubs divided by the Han River. The capital  has the added advantage of employing some talented production companies that are brought in to do events. This forward thinking has benefited both club and clubber. The production companies to follow are Foundation, HSK Management, Multi, On & On Communications, Riskei Productions, Seoulcialite Agency, and Space Academy. The promotion and talent that these companies have brought has made the city one of the most sought after destinations the world over. Their risk and toil have elevated the scene to what it is.

In Gangnam, events used to shutdown before dawn, but that is no longer the case as the poseur crowd has been elevated to balconies and the pit is packed and thrives with stylish party-goers. If you are looking to be seen in the scene then we recommend Answer and/or Heaven, both of which have a decent party vibe and at times book some exceptional DJs. The most vivacious club is maSS which seems to be the playground for the capitals’ youth. Our top choice is Eden located in the basement of the Ritz Carlton. This club has been one of the most consistent for booking reputable artists. Their music policy is firm and their monthly roster usually rivals any club on the globe.

North of the Han, the top ranked venue according to DJ MAG is Volume. Unfortunately, their bookings seem to be more directed towards the so-called psychedelic trance crowd. M2 & Vera have been battling for supremacy in Hongdae, but both seem to concentrate on quantity as opposed to quality. Mansion has had some massive blowouts thanks to some outside promoters that have reinvigorated the varsity ghetto with fresh sounds and artistry. In Itaewon, Function has been used by many promoters to host some exceptional acts. However, Luv seems to be the club of choice with a firm music policy and bookings based on quality not rank.

The scene is heavily subsidized by sponsors and that attributes to the amount of talent that graces the decks every weekend from Seoul to Busan. When sponsorship pulls out then cancellations are inevitable, so it is best to confirm artists via Myspace or Facebook.  Print out the club map or get the directions put on your phone in Hangul. With GPS tracking most taxi drivers will have you at the club while others aimlessly search for sunrise. Pack your shades because you are going to need them in the morning-- since that is the only “calm” you will get clubbing on the peninsula.

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