[5] The dabang is decorated to evoke nostalgia, in reflection of its long history and prominent place in the city's culture.

[7][1] The dabang was popular with SNU students; it became a regular hangout for prominent figures in the culture and arts world, including Cheon Sang-byeong, Yi Cheong-jun, Hwang Ji-u, Kim Seungok, and more.

[1][6] A student group (전국민주학생연맹; 전민학련) involved in pro-democracy activities during the Chun Doo-hwan administration held their first meeting in the dabang.

[1][6] During the 1989 June Democratic Struggle, Lee reportedly offered assistance and shelters to student protestors fleeing persecution and tear gas.

[6] The cafe came to host private parties for the local universities, and again became a popular social space for students.

[1] For its 50th anniversary in 2006, they held an event where former regulars from the arts shared stories, gave dance performances, and played music.

The popular drama My Love from the Star was partially filmed in the dabang;[1][6] this led to a boom in tourism for the cafe.