A Comprehensive Guide to Korean Karaoke: Mastering the Noraebang Atmosphere
Stepping into a Korean noraebang for the first time can be rather disorienting. A colourful splash of lights, updatable volume controls and Korean language menus create an immersive but potentially overwhelming experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about navigating these beloved singing rooms that are central to Asia’s cultural landscape.
Noraebang Basics
A noraebang is a private karaoke room different from the Western-style karaoke bar. These rooms are soundproof and include:
- Professional-grade audio equipment
- Dual screens for lyrics and music videos
- Digital song selection systems
- Multiple microphones
- Tambourines and percussion instruments
The Song Ordering System
Modern noraebang use touch screens with Korean and English options. To find songs:
- Use number pad to enter a song code or menu
- Search by artist name, song title, or genre
- Switch between multiple languages
- Save up to 10 songs in a playlist for continuous play
How to Do Better at Noraebang
- Reserve longer blocks of time during off-peak hours for better rates
- Use intercom to order fries and drinks
- Adjust key, tempo, and echo settings
- Share microphone time fairly 호치민밤문화
- Use the scoring system for friendly competition
Getting and Booking Your Song Room
Finding Korean Karaoke
In Korea, traditional noraebang are marked with large microphone symbols. Booking can be done through platforms like Naver and Kakao. Entertainment districts and local downtown areas offer multiple options.
Booking Process and Pricing
- Hourly rates range from 15,000 won to 30,000 won
- Pricing depends on room size, time of day, and duration
- Peak surcharges apply from 18:00 to 24:00
Best value bookings are during off hours or through package deals and extended sessions.
Room Options and Capacity
- Small rooms: 2 to 4 people
- Medium rooms: 5 to 8 people
- secrets for building
- Large rooms: 15 to 20 people
Group bookings often have lower rates.
Understanding the Control System
Essential Control Overview
Digital karaoke systems use a central touchscreen or remote with numeric buttons. Functions include:
- Song selection and queuing
- Volume control
- Tempo and pitch adjustment
- Audio enhancements
Song Selection and Queue Management
- Search by number, artist, title, or language
- Input numeric codes to load songs
- Add, rearrange, or delete songs from the queue
Adjustments for Audio Precision
- Key adjustment (up/down)
- Tempo speed controls
- Echo effect settings
- Balance between music and vocals
Technical Assistance
Some venues offer a “service call” button for technical support or song requests. On-screen tutorials are also available.
The Complete Guide to Song Selection and Queue Management
Finding and Choosing Songs
- Digital songbooks sorted by language, artist, or title
- Use numeric codes for direct song selection
- Add songs to queue using remote or control panel
Advanced Queuing Controls
- Delete songs using “delete” button
- Move songs up or down in the list
- Organize by preference
Modern Search Features
- Artist name search
- Lyrics keyword search
- Genre filtering
- Language-specific browsing
- Access to new releases and popular tracks
Etiquette for the Essential Noraebang
Fundamental Rules
- Stay quiet and respectful during others’ performances
- Offer encouragement and applause
- Follow a two-song limit per turn
- Share the mic and give everyone a chance
- Focus on fun and participation rather than skill
Room and Equipment Care
- Keep the space clean
- Handle microphones and remotes carefully
- Respect venue rules on outside food and drink
- Monitor volume during late hours
Other Practical Considerations
- Dress modestly
- Keep sound at enjoyable levels
- Clean the space between customers
Food and Drink at the Venue
Follow venue-specific rules for food and beverages. Some rooms offer menus and delivery to your room.
Popular Starters
Noraebang Songs for Beginners
Classic English Pop Hits
- Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond
- I Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys
- Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
- YMCA – Village People
Korean Pop Songs with English Refrains
- Gangnam Style – PSY
- DDU-DU DDU-DU – BLACKPINK
- Dynamite – BTS
- The Feels – TWICE
Eternal Sad Songs
- My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion
- Yesterday – The Beatles
- Good Day – IU
- If You – Big Bang
Classic Karaoke Numbers
- Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Wonderwall – Oasis
- Dreams – The Cranberries
- Eye of the Tiger – Survivor