Charles H. is a hidden speakeasy in the basement of the Four Seasons, consistently ranked among Asia's 50 Best Bars. Open daily 5pm-1:30am, 19+, small cover charge. World-class cocktails and service. Book ahead; it fills fast on weekends.
Key facts
| Hours | Mon-Sun 5:00pm-1:30am |
|---|---|
| Price | $$$ |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), Exit 7, 3-min walk |
| Time needed | 1.5-2 hours |
| Best time to go | Weeknights right at 5pm opening or after 10pm for the buzz |
| Last verified | July 15, 2026 |
Friend Score
7.7/10- Value7.0
- iconic7.0
- Freshness9.3
- excellence8.5
- Crowd level6.5
- Authenticity7.5
- Accessibility8.0
Frequently asked questions
- Is there a cover charge?
- Yes, a small cover charge of around 10,000 won per person. It typically includes a welcome snack and finger foods. Cocktails run premium on top of that, so budget accordingly for a proper night out.
- Is it worth it if I do not usually drink cocktails?
- If you appreciate craft and atmosphere, yes. The bartenders are genuinely world-class and will build something around what you like. If you just want cheap beer, this is not your spot; Seoul has better-value options for that.
- How does it compare to other Seoul bars?
- It is the most internationally decorated bar in the city and the benchmark for polish and consistency. Alice Cheongdam and Zest also rank on Asia's 50 Best if you want to bar-hop the top tier during one trip.
- Can I go if I am under 19?
- No. Korean law sets the drinking age at 19, and Charles H. enforces it. Bring your passport, since staff do card, especially foreign guests who look young.
- How do I find the entrance?
- It is deliberately hidden on the lower level of the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. Walk into the hotel lobby and ask staff, or head down to B1. The unmarked door is part of the speakeasy charm, so do not expect a big sign.
- What is the dress code?
- Smart casual is the safe call. No strict suit-and-tie rule, but this is a polished hotel bar, so skip flip-flops, athletic wear, and beachy shorts. Most guests lean into dressing up a little.
- Do I need a reservation for Charles H.?
- Strongly recommended, especially Thursday through Saturday. A limited number of first-seating reservations are available via TableCheck. Walk-ins are possible early on weeknights, but weekends without a booking mean a wait or a turned-away night.
- What should I order?
- Ask the bartender for a bespoke drink based on your taste; that is where they shine. If you want a signature, the menu rotates seasonally and leans on Korean ingredients. The negroni and any barrel-aged option are reliably excellent.
Nearby in Ask Seoul
- CheonggyecheonPark0.29 km · 4 min walk
- Felt CoffeeCafé0.32 km · 4 min walk
- CongduRestaurant0.34 km · 4 min walk
- Seoul Museum of HistoryMuseum0.47 km · 6 min walk
- Deoksugung PalaceAttraction0.52 km · 6 min walk
Where to stay near Charles H.
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