Daejeon escape room for an after-work date: Martian theme, Cube Escape

How did we book Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch?

You can check the themes and time slots on Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch's website and book online. Since escape rooms run on fixed themes and time slots, I'd recommend booking ahead before you visit.

With the hot weather lately and quite a few rainy days, we were looking for an indoor date and decided to try an escape room again after a long while. Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch is in Dunsan-dong so it wasn't hard to find. We booked ahead to visit right after work on a Friday, checking the theme and time slot on the website and booking online easily.

What's the price and discounts like at Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch?

We paid ₩45,000 for two that day. They're currently running a happy hour from 12:00 to 17:00, so if you can visit during that window you can save a bit more.

There are extra perks for paying cash, plus a range of discounts including student discounts, early-bird discounts, and birthday discounts, so it's worth checking before you go.

What about location and parking?

Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch is on the 5th floor of the Gulttukmakchang building, and there's no dedicated parking lot. We drove there but unfortunately had to park nearby and walk in.

If you're driving, it's a good idea to scope out parking beforehand. Especially if you're visiting right after work like we did, parking might take a little time, so I'd recommend leaving with more buffer than your booking time.

What's the vibe like inside Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch?

Heading up to the 5th floor, Cube Escape comes into view like this. Opening the door revealed that mysterious, atmospheric space unique to escape room cafés. Maybe because it had been a while since our last escape room, I felt a little thrill the moment I stepped in.

There was a waiting area inside, and overall the place felt neatly kept. We arrived a bit early, so we looked around and waited for a while. Then we were given a few instructions before starting the escape room.

What should you prepare before entering?

Put your phone and smartwatch in the locker

At Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch you can't use your phone during the game, so smartphones and smartwatches aren't allowed inside. There were personal lockers set up on one side to store bags and belongings, and we put away anything we needed to before entering.

Use the restroom beforehand

Since the game runs for about an hour once it starts, I'd recommend using the restroom before entering. It can be hard to step out once the game is underway.

If you're thirsty, there's a water dispenser, and slippers and a phone charger were also available on one side.

Arrive at least 10 minutes before your booking time

One tip: I'd recommend arriving at least 10 minutes before your booked time at Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch. I'd assumed the booking time was when the game itself would start, but you actually need time to store your belongings, use the restroom, and get briefed on the theme and how to use the locks. We arrived a bit early too, so we got ready with time to spare before starting.

How was the Martian theme?

We chose the Martian theme. There are several themes at escape room cafés, and since we don't have a ton of escape room experience, we picked something fun rather than too scary. Before entering, we got a brief explanation of the theme along with instructions on how the game works.

Three hints total

At the time of our visit, Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch allowed a total of 3 hints. Even first-timers shouldn't have much trouble since they explain the locks and hint system beforehand. But since hints aren't unlimited — only 3 total — you have to be a bit strategic about when to use them.

Polaroid photo event for those who escape

There was also a Polaroid photo event running for anyone who escaped within the hour using 3 hints or fewer.

On top of that, if you escape using 2 hints or fewer, you get a photo plus a discount coupon. We went in hoping we'd get to take that photo.

The result: failed to escape within the hour

But... despite solving puzzles hard and using our hints right from the start, we ultimately failed to escape the Martian theme within the hour. The owner came in personally to explain the part we couldn't solve at the end, and once I heard the explanation, it seemed so obvious. Escape rooms really are easy once you know the answer, but genuinely hard while you're solving them. 😂

Would I recommend this for an indoor date in Dunsan-dong?

Even though we failed to escape the Martian theme this time, we're planning to try a different theme again next time. My brain was exhausted from using it so much after a long while, but it made for a fun and refreshingly different date. If you're looking for a unique or indoor date in Dunsan-dong, Daejeon, Cube Escape Daejeon Dunsan Branch is worth checking out!