SangSangMadang is the cultural anchor of Hongdae, a striking ribbed tower run by the KT&G arts foundation that packs the neighbourhood's creative energy into one building. Inside there is an art-house cinema, rotating exhibition galleries, a live-music hall that has hosted Korean indie bands for years, and a design shop on the lower floors stocked with work by independent local makers.
It is a good first stop for getting the measure of Hongdae's art-school spirit, and the design store alone is worth a browse for quirky, well-made souvenirs you won't find in the tourist markets. Check the schedule for gigs and screenings, which run most evenings.