Korean Shamanism in KPop Demon Hunters: History, Beliefs & Activities
I watched KPop Demon Hunters a few weeks back. Most of it was great, just the ending left me confused, like many online. Later, I learned the movie’s shaman-inspired demon-fighting elements actually came from real Korean Shamanism.
I decided to check it out on a trip to Korea last week. This was just what I found: the link between the movie and shamanism, what shamanism actually is, and which experiences are worth your time.👀
What Is Korean Shamanism? (Definition, History & Core Beliefs)
Korean shamanism Archives - Korean Quarterly
Korean Shamanism Definition
Korean Shamanism—known as “Muism” (무교) or “Sinism” (신교)—is Korea’s indigenous, animistic belief system. It centers on the idea that all things (mountains, rivers, trees, ancestors) have spirits (“sin” or “shin”), and that humans can communicate with these spirits through trained practitioners (mudangs). It’s not a rigid religion with a holy book or centralized church—more a living, adaptive tradition of healing, ritual, and cultural identity.
Korean Shamanism History
- Origins (3000 BCE–500 CE): Shamanism predates recorded Korean history. Archaeological finds (stone tools, cave paintings) suggest early Koreans practiced spirit worship and ritual healing. It was the dominant belief system until Buddhism and Confucianism arrived.
- Influence of Buddhism & Confucianism (500 CE–1900s): Buddhism (introduced 4th century) and Confucianism (adopted as state ideology in the Joseon Dynasty, 1392–1910) marginalized shamanism. Confucianism, which valued social hierarchy, labeled mudangs “low class” for their unconventional roles (women often led rituals, and they didn’t fit Confucian gender norms). Buddhism absorbed some shamanic elements (e.g., ancestor veneration), but shamanism persisted in rural areas.
- Colonial Era & Suppression (1910–1945): Japan’s colonial rule brought further suppression—shamanic rituals were banned, and mudangs were arrested. Despite this, the tradition survived underground, passed down through families.
- Modern Revival (1980s–Present): After democratization in the 1980s, shamanism reemerged. Young Koreans and foreigners have rediscovered it as a cultural heritage, not just a “superstition.” Today, it’s a mix of tradition and modernity—you’ll find mudangs using social media to book clients, alongside traditional shrine rituals.
Korean Shamanism Core Beliefs
- Animism & Spirituality: All natural elements (mountains, rivers, wind) and ancestors have “sin” (spirits). These spirits aren’t good or evil—they’re powerful forces that require respect to maintain balance.
- Balance (Harmony Between Worlds): The goal of shamanism is “ganjang” (간장)—balance between the human world (“in-gan”) and the spiritual world (“cheon-ji”). Imbalance causes suffering (illness, bad luck, anxiety).
- Mudangs as Mediators: Only mudangs can communicate with spirits. They’re “called” to their role through a spiritual awakening (“sin-nae-rim”)—often a period of illness or distress that ends when they accept their calling and undergo training (including rituals to “connect” with their guiding spirit).
- Rituals for Healing & Transition: Gut ceremonies are held for major life events (birth, marriage, death) or to resolve imbalance (e.g., a gut for someone grieving a loss, or for a community hit by natural disaster). Smaller rituals (like saju fortune-telling) are for personal guidance.
Types of Shamanic Practice
- Shrine-Based Mudangs: Work out of “gutdang” (굿당)—small shrines decorated with spirit symbols, drums, and offerings. They perform full gut ceremonies and one-on-one consultations.
- Mobile Mudangs: Travel to clients’ homes or communities to perform rituals (common in rural areas).
- Fortune-Tellers (Saju Masters): Specialize in “saju” (four pillars of destiny)—a fortune-telling system based on the year, month, day, and hour of birth. Many work in cafes or markets (the ones popular with foreigners).
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Is KPop Demon Hunters based on Korean Shamanism?
KPop Demon Hunters' Review: As Catchy as the Korean Music Phenom
Yes, its core elements (shaman-like warriors, talismans, rituals, and the idea of “demons” as emotional pain) draw directly from Korean Shamanism. They are arranged as follows:
(⚠️Spoiler alert! If you haven't watch the film, please skip this part)
- Shamanic practitioners (mudangs) as “hunters”: The girl group in the film acts as shaman-like fighters. In real Korean Shamanism, a “mudang” is a shaman, like someone who communicates with spirits. They don’t hunt demons, but they help people work through spiritual distress.
- Rituals (gut) and tools: The movie’s over-the-top rituals draw loose inspiration from “gut” (굿), which means real shamanic ceremonies with chants, music and dances to connect with spirits. The talismans the hunters use? Real mudangs give out similar items for protection.
- Demons as “spiritual imbalance”: Online, fans debate whether the demons in the movie are real or metaphors of shame and trauma. South Korean Shamans hold a similar view, spiritual struggles are often related to real-life problems such as anxiety or sadness. These matters need to be addressed, not ignored.
- Whistling as spirit communication: Hunters use quiet signals to call allies. In the true Shamanism, the Mudang people whistle to summon souls. I asked Mudan about this during my trip; she said it was like sending a message to the spiritual world.
Top 3 Korean Shamanism Experiences for Foreigners
How K-dramas are making shamanism cool for Gen Z and millennials ...
I tried this experience more than 3 times last week. These three are the most important-skip the others; they are just for tourists:
English-Speaking Fortune-Telling Cafes (사주 카페)
These are small cafes where mudang does saju (birthday reading) in English. They are not as scary as traditional shrines. I went to a hotel near Shindang Station in Seoul. Ms. Mudang Li speaks fluent English. She did not use confusing terms. She asked me about my work stress, linked it to my Saju chart, and gave simple advice-not something like "you'll get rich", just advice to stop overworking. Booking online (via Klook or Naver) helps; reservations are accepted in most places. If you want, mention that you like KPop Demon Hunter-Ms. Li has the same thoughts on the ending as I do. It costs about 100,000 to 150,000 won in 45 minutes. Talking about culture alone is worth it.
Night Palace Spiritual Tours
These tours take you through palaces such as Gyeongfu Palace or Changdeokgung after dark. The guide explained the shaman symbols in the building-which was more interesting than sightseeing during the day. I joined it with an English-speaking guide. They point to dragon statues (designed to drive away evil spirits) and garden designs (designed to balance energy). We stopped at a small shrine where Mudang sometimes held brief ceremonies. The palace I went to in winter was brightly lit and the snow was very special. Book a week in advance; during the busy season, they will fill up quickly. The tour lasted two hours and cost between 80,000 and 120,000 won.
Name-Giving Services (작명소)
These stores provide you with custom Korean names based on your saju. It's a cheap, meaningful carry on-better than a keychain. My name is "Seo-yun", which means "happy cloud". The staff explained what this meant, how to write it in Korean, and gave me a small certificate. There are many such shops in Myeongdong, and most of them have English menus. It cost 30,000 to 50,000 won.
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Korean Shamanism Tips for Travelers Visiting Korea
Korean Shamanism — NOTES FROM THE EDGE. On Art, Culture, Korea ...
- Respect customs: Take off your shoes at the shrine. Do not take photos during the ceremony without asking. Even if you are skeptical, don't make fun of this practice.
- Budget-wise: Enjoy two to three experiences for just 200,000 won. This is much cheaper than big purchases.
- Timing helps: Go to the cafe in the afternoon-there are not many people there. Book a night tour for a better atmosphere.
- Avoid over-hyped tourism: "K-pop shaman tourism" is just too expensive. I suggest you stick to the basic experiences; they feel more real.
That's it. Just honest info from someone who checked. If you like KPop demon hunters, or if you want to skip common travel content in South Korea, these Shaman experiences are a great way to connect with real Korean culture. I hope everything goes well for your trip.
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5 star
Amazing585 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km from city center
I didn't have high expectations for the Westin Seoul, just hoping for something decent. However, from the moment I checked in, the front desk attendant provided thoughtful service. Later, due to a minor issue, we had to switch rooms, and the hotel management was incredibly accommodating. A big brand really does make a difference; it's upscale, and the overall hotel environment, atmosphere, and service are all outstanding. It will definitely be my first choice next time I'm in Seoul.FromINR 31,153
Amazing309 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.21km from city center
The location is super convenient, with direct access to the subway downstairs. The underground passage leads straight to Myeongdong Lotte Department Store. This is my second time staying here, and I really love it! The swimming pool and gym are a highlight; they're large and have professional equipment. I used them twice this trip, and I'll definitely stay here again next time! Oh, and a big thank you to the front desk staff – they allowed me to check in early both times, which was a great experience.FromINR 25,179
Great260 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.51km from city center
I had an incredible stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. The service was exceptional, with a special mention to Jenna, I met the first day with 6 hours flight delay who went above and beyond to make my experience unforgettable. The housekeeping team was equally outstanding, ensuring my room was always spotless and adding thoughtful touches that enhanced my stay (Thank you for the yummy chocolate pastries and eye masks). The hotel’s facilities, location, and overall atmosphere were flawless, truly embodying luxury and comfort.
The only minor downside was the mattress, which was a bit softer than I prefer. However, this didn’t detract from the amazing experience. Highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Seoul!
Also no worries about restaurants there, many restaurants you can see nearby. The BBQ restaurant opposite the hotel is absolutely amazing! The two ladies there are incredibly friendly and especially attentive to children. The Korean beef and pork are truly delicious, and the kimchi, along with the slightly spicy mushroom soup, is fantastic. It’s even better than the Michelin one-star BBQ beef restaurant I visited the next day in Gangnam.SOLD OUT
Very Good389 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city center
Grand Hyatt Seoul: Classic Luxury with Breathtaking Views
A classic luxury hotel offering spectacular city views and extensive facilities, but with some considerations regarding its location and age.
🏨 Location & Ambiance
Situated atop Namsan Mountain, the hotel provides stunning panoramic views of Seoul. While offering a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere, it’s on a hillside, which means walking to nearby areas like Itaewon involves slopes, and reaching downtown areas typically requires a short taxi or subway ride.
🛌 Rooms & Service
Rooms are comfortable, often with impressive city or mountain views. However, guest reviews note that some rooms and bathrooms feel compact, and the decor (despite a 2019 renovation) can show its age compared to newer hotels. The staff are generally praised for being professional and helpful.
🌟 Amenities & Dining
It features an extensive range of facilities, including multiple pools, a well-regarded spa, a fitness center, tennis courts, and even a seasonal ice rink. There are several dining options on-site, from a steakhouse to Japanese restaurants. A common critique is that the breakfast buffet, while good, can get crowded and may require waiting.
⚖️ Balanced Verdict
Ideal for travelers seeking a full-resort experience with fantastic views and comprehensive facilities within Seoul. It is less ideal for those who prioritize walking directly into a bustling urban neighborhood or prefer ultra-modern room interiors.
希望这份基于真实情况的客观总结能帮助你。如果你对酒店的餐饮选择、水疗中心，或是前往首尔塔等景点的交通方式有更具体的问题，我可以提供更详细的信息。FromINR 53,270
Very Good388 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|4.43km from city center
a very pleasant stay at this hotel. The location is excellent, making it easy to get around and access nearby attractions, shopping, and food options. The room was clean, well-maintained, and comfortable, with all the basic amenities needed for a good stay.
The staff were friendly and helpful throughout, from check-in to check-out, and were responsive whenever assistance was needed. Housekeeping did a good job keeping the room tidy, and the overall environment felt safe and welcoming.
Facilities were well-kept, and the hotel offered good value for money compared to similar options in the area. Overall, it was a smooth and enjoyable experience, and I would consider staying here again on my next visit.FromINR 17,647
Business travel
Very Good805 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.17km from city center
Had a lovely stay at New Seoul Hotel. The staff were extremely helpful, especially when we were finding our way around Seoul (The second picture the staff printed out the ways for us to get to Elysian Ski Park 🥺). The hotel is clean and comfortable, and the doorman and cleaners always greeted us warmly, which made our mornings better. The price is reasonable for the location, and Myeongdong is just around a 20-minute walk. Overall, very happy with this hotel and would recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul.FromINR 7,983
Great1205 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km from city center
Cleanliness: Very good, couldn't see any dust.
Service: Good, quite enthusiastic. The cleaning lady on the 11th floor was very polite.
Environment: The hotel's location is excellent. You can take bus 6001 or 6015 to and from Incheon Airport, both stopping right in front of the hotel (adults 17,000 KRW, children 15,000 KRW). Myeongdong, City Hall, N Seoul Tower, and Lotte Mart can all be reached on foot. There's also Hoehyeon subway station right outside, and Namdaemun Market (snacks, department stores, late-night food) is across the street. There's a coffee shop and a GS25 convenience store downstairs, so you don't even have to leave the hotel for meals.
Facilities: Not very new. The bed was quite soft. Since the windows are sealed, the room felt a bit stuffy and warm (I suggest considering making the windows open slightly to allow for some ventilation).FromINR 16,486
Good2382 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.84km from city center
The location is really great, just beside myeongdong mrt exit 5. There is escalator at exit 7, so please exit via exit 7 instead of 5. One of the hotel staffs that attended to us during check in is not so friendly, we didn’t feel welcome at all. This hotel does not provide toothbrush/toothpaste, please bring your own. The slipper is not disposable slippers, so it makes me wonder if they cleaned it everytime guests check out. The walkway is quite narrow, we had a hard time putting our luggage as well. If I can choose again, I’ll book another hotel. I don’t think it’s worth this price.FromINR 8,803
Very Good1401 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km from city center
Had a fantastic stay! The customer service staff were really friendly, and the hotel facilities weren't as old as I'd imagined. The room was a good size, and the double bed looked like it was 1.8 meters, with comfortable bedding. There was also a large bay window. The hotel's location is super convenient; bus 6015 stops right outside, and subway lines 2 and 5 are very close by. Lotte Department Store is just an 1.1km walk. If I get the chance, I'll definitely stay here again. Forgot to take pictures of the room, so I uploaded some of Cheonggyecheon Stream and the Han River instead.FromINR 10,348
Very Good1414 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.05km from city center
After a lot of research, I finally chose the Sejong Hotel.
1. **Excellent Location**: It's right outside Myeongdong subway exit 10. It's super close to Myeongdong shopping district, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae, and Bukchon Hanok Village, all within about 2 kilometers.
2. **Comfortable and Clean Rooms**: This is an older, established hotel, previously 4-star, now seemingly 3-star. The rooms are very spacious, around 30 square meters (compared to similarly priced hotels). The decor has a millennial vibe with a reddish-brown color scheme. It has a bathtub for showering, a vanity, and a small round table.
3. **Well-Equipped Rooms**: The rooms are very well-equipped, featuring a smart toilet, a mini-fridge (hidden in the cabinet), a safe, and power outlets suitable for all countries! No need to buy an extra adapter (this was a huge plus).
4. **Great Service**: The front desk staff speak Korean, Japanese, Chinese, and English, so communication was completely seamless. Housekeeping kept the room very clean.
5. **Important Notes**: They don't provide disposable toothbrushes, toothpaste, or single-use slippers. The front desk does not require a deposit.FromINR 10,457
Family friendly
Great1271 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km from city center
This is my second time staying at Koreana Hotel. We book the apartment style room. The room is spacious and very clean. The location is at Gwanhamun which is very convenient. it is easy to get a taxi outside the hotel. From the airport we just get on a bus (6701) and the bus stop right in front of the hotel. We arrived quite early and inquire if we can check in early and the staff are very helpful. We manage to check in early with a small fee which is not a big problem since we are travelling from the night before and really need to freshen up and take a bit of rest. We did not try the food as we are muslim and need Halal food but there are room service menu that we can order for food from the room. I hope the the hotel will be more upgraded after their refurbishment. Will look forward to the new renovated room. Will definitely come back againFromINR 10,854
Very Good1892 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.5km from city center
The room facilities are great, and it's very close to Myeongdong, Seoul. I've stayed here many times. The big bear in the lobby has been there for years, and the Christmas atmosphere is lovely. The cleanliness is good, and the soundproofing is decent too.FromINR 11,537
Very Good1756 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km from city center
The hotel's biggest highlight is its excellent location. There's a 7-Eleven right downstairs, and the Myeongdong walking street is just outside. Turn left from the hotel and OLIVEYOUNG is a mere 2-minute walk away. It's also close to Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station, Exit 5, and the 6015 airport limousine bus stop.
To get to the hotel, take airport bus 6015 to the stop in front of the Ibis Hotel, across from Lotte Department Store. From there, it's less than a 10-minute walk to the hotel.
Even though I arrived before 3 PM, the front desk was kind enough to check me in early.
The room is quite basic, but it was cleaned daily.
I wouldn't recommend the breakfast. There's very little variety. For main dishes, besides bibimbap and three types of bread, there were only small cups of instant noodles. The price isn't cheap either. For the same price, you could find many other dining options nearby.FromINR 14,312
Great2622 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city center
This hotel offers incredible value for money! It's really luxurious and easy to find, located on the side of the building. It's about a seven-minute walk from Dongdaemun or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, just follow the directions on Naver Maps. There are lots of shops nearby, especially towards Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, but it doesn't feel chaotic; I, as a solo female traveler, felt very safe. On the ground floor, there's a concierge who was very warm and polite, guiding me to the 14th floor for check-in. The lobby on the 14th floor is spacious, with several staff members, including some who speak Chinese. There's also a photo booth and a convenience store in the lobby. The room was huge! And it even had a bathtub! It was spotless, and the entire hotel smelled lovely. The cleaning lady was super cute and pretty, haha. I really enjoyed my stay, but there are two minor drawbacks, in my opinion. Firstly, the hairdryer's airflow was a bit weak, which wasn't very comfortable to use. Secondly, the soundproofing wasn't amazing, but it didn't disturb my sleep, so it was fine overall.FromINR 12,002
Great704 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km from city center
For my recent Seoul trip, I stayed at the Aloft Myeongdong, and to my surprise, it was the building I always used to walk past! The location is absolutely fantastic – right in the Myeongdong shopping district, with Lotte and Shinsegae department stores just across the street, directly accessible via an underground pass. Plus, the Line 2 subway station is only a 5-minute walk away, making it incredibly convenient for both shopping and getting around.
What truly impressed me was the thoughtful touch: every time I came back from the cold outdoors, the lobby had hot coffee and popcorn ready, which was an instant pick-me-up. This first-time stay at a new hotel was a huge success, and I highly recommend it to anyone planning a shopping spree in Myeongdong.
Oh, and a tip: the airport bus stops at Ibis Hotel, and it’s just a few minutes' walk back from there!FromINR 19,507
Hot spring
Very Good2093 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km from city center
Overall, everything was great.
The hotel room was spacious and comfortable.
The staff at the front desk were very kind and friendly.
Housekeeping cleaned the room every day.
The hotel has coin-operated washing machines and dryers, as well as a microwave, which is very convenient
.
Bathroom amenities are provided. For toothbrushes and toothpaste, you can get them from the hotel’s vending machine, which is very convenient.
Free WiFi
I really loved this place and did not want to leave.
If I have a chance in the future, I will definitely stay at this hotel again.FromINR 7,423
Very Good2933 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.57km from city center
When we arrived downstairs, the doorman was incredibly friendly, greeting us every time we left and returned. The front desk staff who checked us in were also very welcoming and friendly, making an effort to communicate with us. The room was cleaned daily and kept quite tidy, with the sheets and bedding refreshed. The mini-fridge was stocked daily with complimentary snacks, drinks, and beer, though we only had one bottle. The hallway had an ice machine, microwave, and hot water dispenser, which was very convenient and a thoughtful touch. The chairs on the balcony were comfortable, but it was too cold to use them much; we only sat out for a few minutes on the first day. Downstairs, there's a good-sized CU convenience store and a GS25, both very handy, located just to the left of the hotel's main entrance. Getting to the subway station was also easy; we didn't realize it at first and ended up taking a taxi from Myeongdong. Of course, it's about a 15-minute walk to Myeongdong, so it's not right in the heart of it, but aside from that, everything else was perfect.FromINR 10,403
Very Good926 Reviews
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km from city center
We really enjoyed our stay at Hotel Venue G. The room was very clean, quite spacious, and there was cleaning available every day. The location was also very convenient and we could walk to most locations. We would definitely choose this hotel the next time we come to Seoul!FromINR 7,409
Great2474 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km from city center
Getting to the hotel from Seoul Station required a subway transfer to Chungmuro, and then a bit of a walk, which felt a little far. For the rest of my trip, I mostly used Line 2, and the walk to Euljiro 3-ga was quite manageable.
Service: Check-in isn't until 3 PM, but the hotel offers free luggage storage, even for large suitcases, which was really convenient. After dropping off my bags, I could explore without a worry. The lobby staff were incredibly friendly and always quick to resolve any issues.
Facilities: The hotel's exterior is quite nice, and the room was spacious. For me, the accommodations were great, especially since I spent most of my time out exploring and only really used the hotel for sleeping at night.
Environment: There are plenty of places to eat nearby, like BHC fried chicken and Sukseongdo BBQ, all within walking distance. Plus, there's a convenience store right on the ground floor of the hotel, which was very handy.FromINR 9,623
Great913 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.72km from city center
Facilities: There are plenty of power outlets, including USB charging ports. The shower is in the bathtub, so you need to pull the shower curtain (no separate wet and dry areas, but it wasn't a big issue).
Cleanliness: The room was very tidy, and I didn't have to sort trash (which can be a bit of a headache at B&Bs).
Service: The service was excellent, with friendly, smiling staff that made me feel very comfortable.
Environment: The location is fantastic! OY (presumably a store or landmark) is right next to the hotel. There are also many convenience stores and shops nearby (perfume stores, Adidas, etc.). At night, there's a street food market. The subway (with elevators, very friendly for luggage) and buses are all easily accessible, making transportation very convenient.
Overall, my stay was great! My sister and I were both very satisfied. 🥰FromINR 17,456
Gym
Very Good2529 Reviews
Seoul|3.88km from city center
Super convenient! There's an airport shuttle directly to the hotel, and even for early morning flights, the shuttle is available for the return journey. It's also very close to the subway, making it easy to get anywhere. Since it's Christmas month, the lobby decorations are absolutely beautiful.FromINR 10,020
Good227 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.2km from city center
⚠️ This hotel is mainly for Chinese guests, but avoid it at all costs!⚠️
First, the good points: The location is great, convenient for the subway, airport bus, and shopping. The room was also tidy and slightly larger than typical Japanese hotels.
Now, the bad: The staff's attitude was terrible 👎🏾. They overcharged for early check-in/late check-out.
I arrived at the hotel at 9 AM local time today. Since I hadn't slept all night on a red-eye flight, I asked the front desk if I could pay for an early check-in. The receptionist immediately told me: ”You can check in at 10 AM, but it will cost 66,000 KRW.” (There was absolutely no miscommunication! The receptionist showed me the number on a calculator!) I felt that paying almost a full night's rate for just a few hours early was clearly unreasonable, so I gave up on checking in and went out to work, despite my exhaustion. (At the time, I even tried to negotiate a discount, but the receptionist told me that was the fixed price.) Later, when I checked in normally at 6:30 PM, the hotel provided an ”Check-in Guide” which clearly stated in black and white: Early check-in / Late check-out will incur an additional charge of 11,000 KRW per hour.
This means: They inflated the price in the morning and deliberately didn't mention the hourly rate until guests saw the clear pricing standard for the first time during evening check-in.
What's even more ironic is that when I asked about late check-out in the evening, the staff still just mechanically repeated: ”11,000 KRW per hour,” showing no awareness that there was any issue with the information provided in the morning.
It's not that they can't charge, it's that they shouldn't charge *like this*. Because I complained to Trip.com and reported the issue to the hotel manager that same night, the next day at check-out, the staff member who quoted me the price had a 180-degree change in attitude compared to yesterday. Their face showed their displeasure directly – this is South Korean service for you.
I strongly advise against this hotel for travelers who are sensitive about rules, have tight schedules, or need flexible check-in times. Be cautious and avoid this place.FromINR 7,477
Great3339 Reviews
Seoul|3.79km from city center
It's rare for me to write a review, which just goes to show how satisfied I am with this hotel.
It's not that the facilities are amazing or the service is extraordinary, as this hotel isn't positioned as a resort-style property.
First and foremost, I have to rave about the mattress! I looked it up, it's a Japanese brand called France Bed, which started out making medical mattresses. It was incredibly comfortable.
Secondly, the location is fantastic! Airport buses 6701/6702 go directly to and from the airport, and bus 6015 is also an option. The hotel is situated between Mapo Station and Gongdeok Station, so you can also take the Airport Express to Gongdeok Station, though it's a bit more walking than taking the bus.
The hotel offers free coffee on the 3rd floor. The coffee beans are good, but the milk isn't great – probably UHT milk. I'd suggest buying fresh milk from a nearby convenience store to mix with it for a better taste.
There are laundry facilities, microwaves, and ice machines on the 10th and 20th floors, which is perfect for younger travelers.
Facilities: It's a Japanese-style eco-friendly hotel, so no toothbrushes or toothpaste are provided, but slippers are available. It's clean and refreshing.
For breakfast, there are six options, all of which are excellent Korean dishes. I highly recommend trying the local way of eating.FromINR 10,621
Great691 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.73km from city center
I rarely write hotel reviews, but I just had to for this one! Today, I decided to explore a different area and moved to a hotel in Hongdae. The contrast was shocking – both are in popular Seoul areas, but the difference was huge! On that note, I'm going to call out 9 Bricks Hotel Hongdae as one to avoid. I'll be reviewing them when I check out tomorrow…
Now, let me praise L'escape – the location is absolutely fantastic! It's right by Hoehyeon Station on Subway Line 4, Exit 7. From the escalator at the exit, there are signs directing you to the hotel! Honestly, you don't even need the signs because you can see the hotel as soon as you step out onto the street. There's a slight uphill walk, and as I was halfway up with my luggage, a hotel staff member came running out to help! The service was incredible! 👍
If you don't go above ground from Exit 7, the other direction leads directly into Shinsegae Department Store. It’s a multi-story department store with food, a duty-free shop, luxury goods, and affordable items – great for browsing! Outside on the ground level of Shinsegae, there's a 3D mega-screen, similar to the one at Taikoo Li in Chengdu, but much more visually appealing and with fewer advertisements.
The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Myeongdong. As a proper tourist, Myeongdong is a must-visit! Especially after exploring Hongdae today… I really want to go back to Myeongdong! 😢
Now, about the hotel itself (my picture arrangement is a bit messy, can't adjust it yet…)
The hotel itself has a distinctive style. It might feel a little old-fashioned and perhaps not ideal for families with young children, but it's clean, tidy, and still very refined! Even the elevators are decorated, somewhat reminiscent of The Ritz in London. The toiletries are BYREDO, just like at Six Senses. The mini-bar is completely free, and the Nespresso capsules and chocolates are excellent. The hotel's restaurant is Michelin-starred year after year – not cheap, but certainly fantastic. The Tea Lounge was closed by the time I arrived, but I'm sure it's also wonderful. The bar on the 26th floor is very chill, and you can get great photos with ease!
The postcards provided in the room are beautiful, and they even offer free mailing! I also love the design of the notepads and the toiletry packaging – the hand-drawn illustration style is gorgeous!
The hotel service is also excellent. Most of the staff speak English and are always ready to help with luggage, calling taxis, and opening car doors.
In summary, it's a high-end hotel service experience through and through! But I only paid just over 800 RMB for my stay – it far exceeded my expectations! Next time I come to Seoul, I will 100% rebook this hotel.FromINR 20,860
Very Good525 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.39km from city center
Booked connecting rooms. Rooms were clean and spacious. Amenities were sufficient too. Location is just opposite the road from Myeongdong, very convenient. There is GS25 and a local coffee chain and Starbucks right downstairs. Only downside was the aircon is centrally controlled and it turns off when the set temperature is reached, so it can get a bit stuffy at times. Otherwise, it was a rather comfortable stay!FromINR 15,939
Swimming pool
Very Good354 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.79km from city center
The location is fantastic, especially if you love nightlife. There are tons of bars and clubs nearby, and it's super close to Hannam-dong too. Just a heads-up, you can definitely hear the music from the neighboring bars at night, but it didn't bother me much. I'd definitely stay here again.FromINR 8,379
Very Good438 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.14km from city center
Very good hotel, comfortable and clean! Staff are very very friendly, the room was a bit small if you have many languages, we are 2 people with 4 bags it was a bit of struggle but if you have less bags it will be perfect for you to stay! The bar also was in rooftop which has indoors and outdoors, outdoor view was amazing!FromINR 13,219
Great430 Reviews
Yeouido Seoul|6.44km from city center
The location is fantastic! You can access Hyundai Department Store directly from the basement, and it's a short walk to Han River Park. There's a street with tons of restaurants just a few hundred meters away, including some famous BBQ spots popular with celebrities. The hotel is right above subway lines 5 and 9. Taxis to Seongsu or Myeongdong are under ₩10,000, and a taxi to Incheon Airport during the day is under ₩20,000.FromINR 36,498
Amazing1018 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.68km from city center
The Shilla Hotel is where South Korea's old money elites gather for events and entertaining. It's quite common to see them in the lobby, dressed in furs and carrying Hermès bags. The service is excellent, and our room faced N Seoul Tower, though the winter view was just so-so. Right next door is the Shilla Duty Free Shop, which isn't very big and doesn't have a huge selection. There's a scheduled shuttle bus that goes to most areas of Myeongdong, and it's also quite convenient to the subway; there's a pick-up service at the subway station entrance for the return trip. The hotel's bakery is quite pricey, and the taste is just average.FromINR 41,105
Great824 Reviews
Seoul|4.07km from city center
Location: Connected to Yongsan Station by a skybridge, the hotel is a convenient 5-minute walk away. Yongsan Station is only two stops from Seoul Station. An Uber from Incheon Airport costs about 250 RMB and takes approximately an hour, which is also very convenient.
Room: This is almost the largest hotel room I've ever stayed in, at 40 square meters. It features a two-seater sofa and a recliner, plus a kitchen. The bathroom has a separate wet and dry area. The bed was a bit small, probably only 80 cm.
Service: The front desk staff was incredibly beautiful, just like Korean celebrities, and they even gave us a room with a view of Namsan Tower. So grateful!
Environment: Novotel Suites and Novotel are in the same building, but their elevators are separate, so be sure to note the distinction.
Value for money: For New Year's Day in Seoul, it was just over 800 RMB per night. Although breakfast wasn't included, for such a great location and a spacious room, it was an incredible value. Highly recommend! I hope to experience the breakfast next time.FromINR 17,429
Breakfast
Great943 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km from city center
The hotel's location is absolutely fantastic!
**Transportation:** If you're heading to Incheon, you can catch the Airport Limousine Bus 6015 directly from the Ibis side. For other destinations, the subway station is just a short walk away.
**Shopping:** Downstairs, you'll find stores like Apple and Lululemon, and Lotte Department Store is right across the street.
**Dining:** There's an incredible variety of delicious food options, from hotpot and samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) to Korean BBQ, steak, and various noodle dishes – it couldn't be more convenient.
We booked the 'Supreme Twin' room because it offered two 1.6-meter beds, which was perfect for us traveling with two kids. I had checked several other hotels in the area, and none could accommodate this requirement. The room isn't huge, but if you utilize the space efficiently, you can fit two carry-on suitcases, two 26-inch large suitcases, and a foldable stroller.
The room came with an air purifier, but no humidifier. Seoul has been a bit dry these past few days, and I woke up with a sore throat every morning. It would be great if they could provide humidifiers.
Breakfast ends at 9:30 AM. It's sufficient, but the offerings don't change much day-to-day, so it's not particularly exciting. After a few days, the kids even skipped breakfast, preferring to sleep in and go straight to lunch.
Overall, if they had humidifiers, I would have slept incredibly comfortably here. I'd definitely consider this hotel again on my next visit to Seoul.FromINR 14,804
Great1518 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city center
I am glad to stay at this hotel during my 5-day stay in Seoul. The location is good, walkable to Dongdaemum wholesale market and shopping plazas. If you plan to or want mid-night shopping, this is a good location. Facilities are good, 24-hr complimentary coffee and tea is available at the lobby floor. Staffs are helpful and speaks good English. Room is a bit tiny but still good enough to open up 2 suitcases. Room and facilities are clean. Just the housekeeping lady forgot to give me the bottle water until the last day; however, drinking water machine is available in the corridor as well. Bascially I am very satisfied with my stay. Going to Incheon airport is convenient too, airport bus stop is just outside the hotel, less than 1 min walking. Just allow extra time for the traffic within the city, but at least better than taking airport train with the luggages. I will recommend this to friends, and if I will stay here again for next travel.FromINR 9,364
Great2152 Reviews
Sinchon/Hongdae Seoul|5.05km from city center
I really enjoyed my stay at this hotel. The room was clean, modern, and comfortable. The location in Hongdae is excellent, with many restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby. The staff were professional and helpful throughout my stay. I would definitely consider staying here again on my next trip to Seoul.FromINR 15,939
Very Good1015 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.02km from city center
The guy who checked me in was really polite and thoughtful. The hotel is super close to the subway station, and there are tons of food options and convenience stores right downstairs. Plus, there's a fantastic aged Hanwoo Korean BBQ place, Sukseongdo, on the second floor – absolutely amazing! Although my room didn't have a view of N Seoul Tower, you can catch a glimpse of it from the elevator waiting area. I'll definitely stay here again next time I'm in Seoul!FromINR 14,982
Very Good933 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city center
The room size was excellent, easily accommodating two 20-inch suitcases. I had requested a high-floor room with a good view when booking on Ctrip, and they delivered! The in-room facilities were clean, and housekeeping was very prompt every day. The mattress was super comfortable, and the air conditioning worked perfectly. It's a great budget hotel, just a notch below a Ji Hotel. The hotel is very close to the subway station, and there are tons of dining options nearby. Overall, excellent value for money.FromINR 4,210
FAQs about Korean Shamanism
Is KPop Demon Hunters based on shamanism?
Yes—its core elements (shaman-like warriors, talismans, rituals, and the idea of “demons” as emotional pain) draw directly from Korean Shamanism. The movie amplifies these concepts into a K-pop-fueled action narrative, but the spiritual foundation is authentic.Is shamanism still practised in Korea?
Yes—there are ~150,000 practicing mudangs, and millions of Koreans engage with shamanic practices (saju, talismans, gut ceremonies) during their lives. It’s no longer marginalized—young Koreans and foreigners view it as a cultural heritage and form of healing.Why do Korean shamans whistle?
Whistling is a traditional way to communicate with spirits. Short, soft whistles summon benevolent spirits (ancestors, mountain spirits), while longer whistles ward off restless or negative spirits. It’s a “gentle signal” that respects the spirit world—loud noises are seen as disrespectful.How is Korean Shamanism different from Buddhism/Confucianism?
Buddhism focuses on enlightenment and reincarnation; Confucianism on social hierarchy and ethics. Korean Shamanism is animistic—centered on spirit communication and balance. It’s not mutually exclusive: many Koreans blend shamanic practices (e.g., ancestor rituals) with Buddhism or Confucianism.Where are the best shamanic shrines to visit in Korea?
Top spots: Inwangsan Shrine (Seoul), Geomun Island Shrine (Jeollanam-do), and Bukhansan Mountain Shrines (Seoul). These are authentic, not tourist-focused—you may see locals participating in rituals.Can foreigners participate in a full gut ceremony?
Yes—some rural mudangs welcome foreigners to full gut ceremonies (for life events or community healing). Contact a local tour company (like Korea Cultural Travel) to arrange—advance notice (2–3 weeks) is required, and you’ll need to follow etiquette (dress modestly, remove shoes, no photos during rituals).How much does a shamanic consultation cost in Korea?
Prices vary: Saju readings cost ~100,000–150,000 won (45 mins), gut ceremony observations ~80,000–120,000 won, and one-on-one healing rituals ~300,000–500,000 won (1 hour). Avoid overpriced “VIP tours”—stick to local shops or trusted platforms like Trip.com.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
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