Updated on November 19 at 10 am (GMT+8): Improved relevance.
In the heart of Seoul’s bustling Hongik University district, known as Hongdae, T1 has established a stunning PC cafe with aspirations of becoming one of the best in South Korea.
Officially known as T1 Base Camp, it is a place that beautifully combines the country’s vibrant gaming culture and its formidable esports prowess.
As one of the world’s leading esports organizations, T1 has etched its name in history by securing victory in the League of Legends World Championship in 2013, 2015 and 2016.
Enter Base Camp T1, where this historical legacy comes to life. The space is adorned with its iconic red, black and white colors, along with striking portraits of famous players such as Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok and Choi “Zeus” Woo-je.
But Base Camp is more than a tribute; represents the future of esports, seamlessly combining a high-end internet cafe with a central hub for gaming enthusiasts.
Beyond gaming, you can explore the on-site store offering a wide range of gaming equipment and watch live esports competitions on the large LED screens broadcasting the team’s exciting esports matches.
Immerse yourself in the latest generation computer setup, with Intel 13400F processors, Samsung RAM and powerful Nvidia 4070 graphics cards, and enjoy maximum gaming comfort with Secretlab ergonomic chairs and top-notch peripherals from Steelseries.
What sets T1 Base Camp apart is its commitment to nurturing aspiring esports talents. At the same time, the venue serves as an excellent scouting location for T1 Esports Academy coaches, who frequently visit in search of promising players.
Those lucky enough to catch their attention are offered a unique path to joining their junior divisions, which could open doors in their budding esports career.
How to get to and navigate Base Camp T1 in Hongdae, Seoul
Seoul’s extensive subway system spans nine main lines, which can initially be overwhelming to navigate. To make your trip hassle-free, it is advisable to have an up-to-date subway map or rely on a reliable app with accurate timetables.
For a perfect trip to Base Camp, you’ll want to hop on Line 2, easily identifiable by its green color.
This line will take you directly to Hongik University Station. It is essential to ensure that you are traveling in the correct direction to avoid potential confusion.
Still, regardless of the direction, you will eventually reach your destination. However, to save time, it is recommended to double check that you are going in the right direction.
To make the most of the Seoul subway system, it is recommended to purchase a T-Money card. This reloadable card serves as a convenient payment method for transportation fees and is accepted at several stores.
To get a T-Money card, you will need to pay a deposit of 4,000 KRW (3.40 USD) and then you can load it with up to 20,000 KRW (17.10 USD).
You can purchase and reload your card at any nearby convenience store.
Once you leave Hongik University Station, be sure to exit via Exit 11, which is distinguished by its prominent yellow signage displaying numbers.
As you exit, you will see Holly’s, a well-known coffee brand in Korea. In front of Holly’s, turn left and continue walking straight for approximately 50 meters until you see the base camp on your right.
T1 Base Camp Address
English: Seoul, Mapo-gu, Yanghwa-ro 147, B1
Korean: 서울 마포구 양화로 147 지하1층
Prices at Base Camp T1
Upon arrival at base camp, head to the kiosk to pre-pay for your desired length of play time.
While the current menu does not offer an English option, you will be pleased to know that there are plans afoot to introduce English support in the near future.
Trained staff members are available to provide assistance should you need it.
The numbers displayed on the kiosk represent the rates for the selected play time. The amount varies depending on whether you are a member or not.
| Member (KRW) | Non-member (KRW) |
| 1 hour = 2000 | 1 hour = 3,000 |
| 3 hours = 5,000 | 2 hours = 6,000 |
| 6.5 hours = 10,000 | 3 hours = 9,000 |
Once the payment process is complete, members can access any available computer using their login credentials.
Non-members, on the other hand, will receive a designated number that they can enter to log in and occupy an unoccupied seat.
For those looking for a more exclusive gaming experience, premium rooms can be rented. These private rooms at T1 Base Camp cater for individuals or groups of friends and are equipped with console games for added entertainment.
Premium rooms cost approximately 20,000 to 25,000 KRW ($17.10 to $21.40) per hour.
T1 Base Camp review and how it stands out from other PC Cafés
Upon entering Base Camp, visitors are immediately captivated by its unique charm.
Not only does it boast a spacious layout adorned with an abundance of souvenirs and merchandise, but it is also distinguished by its unwavering commitment to impeccable hygiene and remarkable culinary offerings.
In addition to its state-of-the-art gaming equipment, T1 PC bang prides itself on maintaining a pristine environment. After each use, the computer area undergoes a meticulous cleaning, with small signs proudly indicating its state of sanitization.
When it comes to satisfying your taste buds, T1 Base Camp delights visitors with a wide variety of delicious Korean street food, including the ever-popular tteokbokki, tasty ramyeon, and tantalizing chicken skewers.
These culinary delights not only tempt the palate but are also reasonably priced, offering a refreshing alternative to the often mediocre and overpriced options found at other PC cafes.
Visitors also have the opportunity to savor dishes recommended by T1 players, each accompanied by a collectible coaster.
Faker’s personal favorite, the seafood jjambbong ramyeon, is priced at 7,500 KRW ($6.40), while Ryu “Keria” Min-seok’s sausages and rice cake sticks can be enjoyed for 4,500 KRW ($3.80).
It is no exaggeration to say that the food provided at Base Camp exceeds expectations and stands as one of the best offerings in PC cafes.
To complete the delicious experience, you can add a cup of refreshing iced Americano, the total cost of the meal amounted to approximately 15,500 KRW ($13.20 USD).
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READ MORE: You must visit T1’s PC bang next time you are in Seoul as it is an experience like no other.