Showcasing revenues of 14.3 trillion KRW in 2024, gaming in South Korea has been maintaining a strong presence for more than 20 years. A unique gaming culture was initially formed through so-called PC bangs, meaning ‘PC rooms’ in Korean. Cheap, full of high-end equipment, PC bangs were designed to provide a stable Internet connection and an array of multiplayer games to play. From the 1990s till 2020, the number of PC bangs in Korea ranged from 12,000 to almost 20,000 venues. Some even make an alternative to hostels with people spending days in computer chairs for less than 10$ a night.

What stands behind the phenomenon of PC bangs and how they manage to profit at a high scale is in our article below.

PC방, or ‘PC bang’/’PC room’, is a South Korean name for internet cafes that are designed entirely for gaming. They became popular during the 1997 economic crisis that hit countries in Southeast Asia and left many people unemployed. By that time, the government of South Korea had arranged nationwide broadband coverage, supplying the country with a stable and fast internet connection. For those who were laid off and turned to self-employment, running internet cafes as a business was a relatively easy option. Developing a solid cyber cafe business plan became essential for these entrepreneurs, helping them outline their services, target market, and operational strategies to create a successful venture.

For a short amount of time, jobless Koreans would use internet cafes to monitor the stock exchange, occasionally playing video games to kill time. With the release of StarCraft in 1998, gaming started to consume most of visitors’ time near screens. ‘Stock rooms’ slowly evolved into places for gaming, from that time known as PC bangs.

PC Bangs in South Korea are not just places to play games; they are deeply embedded in Korean culture and society. The popularity of these gaming cafes goes beyond just having access to high-performance computers—it’s a phenomenon fueled by social, economic, and cultural factors.

Why Are PC Bangs So Popular in South Korea?

There are several reasons why PC Bangs in South Korea have become so widely popular:

1. Affordable Gaming Experience: PC Bangs offers a cost-effective alternative for people who may not be able to afford a high-end gaming setup at home. For a minimal hourly fee (often less than a few dollars), gamers can enjoy top-tier hardware and fast internet, which might be financially out of reach otherwise.
2. Social Interaction: Unlike gaming alone at home, PC Bangs provide a social environment where players can gather with friends or meet new people. Gaming in South Korea is a communal activity, and many enjoy the atmosphere of playing alongside other esports teams, creating a unique social experience.
3. Convenience and Comfort: With 24/7 availability, PC Bangs provide a convenient gaming option at any time of day. Many gamers visit after school or work, finding it a comfortable space to relax, game, and socialize. The presence of snacks, drinks, and even full meals in some locations makes it easy to spend hours gaming without interruption.
4. Support for Competitive Gaming and Esports: South Korea is one of the global leaders in esports, and PC Bangs are a breeding ground for competitive gamers. Many professional players started out practicing in PC Bangs, making them a critical part of South Korea’s esports infrastructure. Popular games like League of Legends, Overwatch, and StarCraft often have exclusive promotions in PC Bangs, further enhancing the experience for players.

The Role of PC Bangs in Korean Youth Culture

For young people in South Korea, PC Bangs are more than just gaming cafes—they’re a social haven. Many teenagers and young adults see them as a place to unwind, connect with friends, and even escape the pressures of school and work. The accessibility, combined with the affordable rates, has made PC Bangs a staple in Korean youth culture, similar to how cafes and shopping malls are social spaces in other countries.

PC Bangs also offer exclusive in-game bonuses for players who log in from these locations. Game developers in South Korea often partner with PC Bangs to provide special perks for popular games, such as exclusive skins, experience boosts, or in-game currency. These perks make playing at a PC Bang even more appealing and contribute to the loyalty of gamers who frequent them.

As of November 2020, there were up to 1 800 PC bangs in Seoul. It is the biggest amount of computer clubs that can be found in any other city in South Korea. Among Seoul PC bangs we would definitely highlight the one near Jonggak subway station – LoL Park.

Located in Gran Seoul Mall, LoL Park is actually an esports arena built by Riot Games for the main League of Legends competition in South Korea. However, LoL Park is open to the public every day with its themed cafe, Riot Store, and a 100 seats PC bang. An hour of gameplay in their PC bang would cost 1 500 KRW making it one of the most expensive PC bangs in Korea. For venues at lower rates Koreans recommend to search areas near university campuses, with Sinchon and Hongdae being the most rowdy ones.

However, looking for cheaper places to play, gamers should be aware of illegal gambling parlours disguising themselves as ordinary PC bangs. Such venues have similar signs out on the streets, but they are much smaller, darker, and most importantly — they don’t have online games on their computers. To distinguish legit PC bangs from illegal ones, gamers rely on the exterior of internet cafes and also search for certain franchises that are popular across the country. Best PC bangs in Seoul are usually endorsed by celebrities, having their images placed on window wraps or facades of buildings.

For anyone visiting a Korean PC Bang for the first time, the experience can be exciting and a bit overwhelming. PC Bangs are designed with gamers in mind, offering everything needed for a comfortable and immersive experience. Here’s what you can expect when you step inside a Korean PC Bang.

1. High-Quality Gaming Equipment

One of the standout features of a Korean PC Bang is the high-quality gaming equipment. Unlike typical internet cafes, PC Bangs are equipped with powerful gaming PCs that feature the latest graphics cards, high-refresh-rate monitors (usually 144 Hz or higher), and comfortable ergonomic gaming chairs. Every aspect of the setup is geared toward creating the best possible gaming experience.

• High-Performance PCs: PCs in PC Bangs have top-tier specs to ensure smooth gameplay, especially for popular, high-demand games like League of Legends and Overwatch.
• Gaming Peripherals: PC Bangs provide high-quality keyboards, mice, and headsets, so you won’t need to bring your own. This includes mechanical keyboards and gaming mice with adjustable DPI for precision.
• Monitors with High Refresh Rates: Most PC Bangs offer monitors with refresh rates of 144 Hz or more, ideal for games requiring quick reactions.

2. Comfortable Environment and Amenities

PC Bangs in Korea go beyond just providing gaming PCs; they offer a comfortable and welcoming environment that makes it easy to spend extended hours gaming.

• Ergonomic Seating: Gaming chairs in PC Bangs are typically well-cushioned and adjustable, allowing players to stay comfortable even during long gaming sessions.
• Climate Control: Many PC Bangs have air conditioning or heating to maintain a comfortable temperature year-round, regardless of the weather outside.
• Low Lighting and Quiet Atmosphere: The lighting in a PC Bang is often dimmed to reduce eye strain, and noise levels are kept low to help gamers focus on their screens without distractions.

3. Food and Beverage Options

One of the unique features of PC Bangs is the availability of food and beverages. Many PC Bangs offer a range of snacks, drinks, and even full meals to keep players fueled while they game. Food options vary but often include items like instant noodles, rice dishes, sandwiches, and beverages like coffee, soda, and energy drinks.

• Ordering from Your Station: In many PC Bangs, players can order food directly from their gaming station. A digital menu allows you to place an order, and the staff will bring your food to your desk so you can keep playing uninterrupted.
• Affordable Pricing: Food and drinks at PC Bangs are generally affordable, making it easy to spend hours there without spending too much money.

4. Payment System and Rates

PC Bangs operate on an hourly rate, with most locations offering extremely affordable prices. Rates typically range from 1,000 to 1,500 Korean won per hour (about $0.80 to $1.20 USD), though some high-end PC Bangs may charge a bit more.

• Prepaid Time: Most PC Bangs allow you to purchase a set number of hours upfront, often at a discounted rate for bulk purchases.
• Membership Discounts: Regular customers can often sign up for a membership, which may offer additional discounts, exclusive promotions, or bonus in-game items for specific games.

The affordable pricing, combined with high-quality equipment and amenities, makes PC Bangs in Korea an attractive option for gamers of all ages.

PC Bangs in South Korea are more than just internet cafes; they are essential to the country’s gaming culture and esports infrastructure. South Korea has long been a leader in the global gaming and esports industry, with PC Bangs playing a significant role in nurturing talent and popularizing competitive gaming.

The Role of PC Bangs in South Korea’s Esports Industry

South Korea’s esports dominance, particularly in games like StarCraft, League of Legends, and Overwatch, can be traced back to the influence of PC Bangs. Many professional players began their careers in PC Bangs, where they spent hours honing their skills and competing with other players. The accessibility of high-quality gaming setups in PC Bangs has democratized esports in South Korea, allowing talented players from all backgrounds to compete on an equal footing.

• Training Grounds for Aspiring Players: For those who dream of becoming pro gamers, PC Bangs serve as informal training grounds. Many players form teams and practice together in PC Bangs, learning game mechanics, strategies, and teamwork.
• Support for Esports Tournaments: Some PC Bangs host amateur tournaments and events, giving young players a chance to compete in a structured environment. These small-scale competitions often serve as stepping stones to more significant esports tournaments.
• Access to the Latest Games and Hardware: PC Bangs in South Korea are quick to update their hardware and game libraries, ensuring that players have access to the latest technology and games. This makes them ideal places for serious gamers who want to stay competitive without constantly upgrading their own systems.

Social Hub for Gamers and Fans

For South Koreans, PC Bangs are not just places to play games but also social spaces where friends gather and communities form. The communal nature of PC Bangs brings gamers together, creating a strong sense of camaraderie and connection. Many young people view PC Bangs as social hubs where they can unwind, chat with friends, and bond over shared interests.

• Group Play and Community Building: Many PC Bangs encourage group play, allowing friends to sit together, form teams, and compete with others in the same room. This fosters a sense of community and makes gaming a more social experience.
• Fan Gatherings and Watch Parties: PC Bangs often host gatherings for esports fans, where they can watch live-streamed tournaments together. This creates a stadium-like atmosphere and builds excitement around major esports events, reinforcing the social role of PC Bangs in Korean gaming culture.

Exclusive In-Game Benefits for PC Bang Users

In South Korea, game developers frequently partner with PC Bangs to offer exclusive benefits to players who log in from these locations. Known as “PC Bang benefits,” these perks are often provided by popular games such as League of Legends and MapleStory and include bonuses like increased experience points, special items, or exclusive skins. These incentives encourage players to visit PC Bangs rather than play at home, further solidifying the importance of PC Bangs in the gaming community.

The integration of these in-game benefits makes PC Bangs even more attractive to players who want to maximize their gaming experience and receive exclusive rewards.

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