Wikipedia
Haebangchon (Hangul: 해방촌 Hanja: 解放村) (Haebang - meaning: freedom or liberation, and Chon - meaning: village) is a district of Yongsan-gu, in Seoul, South Korea. It is one of the oldest towns in the central Seoul, today. It is also known as the town at the foot of the Namsan (남산자락). The neighborhood's close proximity to Itaewon and the Yongsan Garrison US Army facility has made the area popular for expatriates and for military residents. In recent years, the area has become a haven for people from a variety of English speaking nations. The neighborhood is home to Korean residents, as well as Canadians, Americans, Filipinos, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Nigerians, and Russians. Have all found their freedom in "Freedom Village". Many businesses in HBC are foreign owned and offer a distinct flavor you can't find elsewhere in Seoul.
Today, Haebangchon has become the 'new' area in Yongsan to open or establish a new business. It became one of the hot places in Seoul juxtaposed with Itaewon and Gyeonglidan-gil (right across the street of Haebangchon). On the old alleyways up to Namsan, cafes, restaurants, pubs, studios, and bakery are taking up. It is known for its unique atmosphere of co existence of past and present and Korean and foreign. The HBC Music festival has been a main component in drawing people and new business to the Hae bang Chon area.