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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Seoul Hotels
5 star
Amazing574 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km from city center
The family room was great, and they even upgraded our bed to a King-size for free when we checked in. The hotel's service was also excellent. Initially, I had trouble with the phone screen mirroring, but they sent an engineer the next day to help, which was incredibly thoughtful. I was a bit worried when booking because I saw the hotel was older, but it's very well-maintained. The breakfast was delicious too. Overall, I'm very satisfied. The hotel is close to Myeongdong Night Market and the pedestrian street, and Lotte is right next door, making shopping very convenient.From$258
Amazing300 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.From$254
Great257 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.From$565
Very Good371 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city center
The Grand Hyatt, being an established brand, definitely delivers on quality and service. All the staff speak excellent English, so communication was a breeze, and their service attitude was wonderful. The only drawback is the small room size, which seems to be a common issue in Seoul. Also, there were too many people taking photos in the lobby, making it quite noisy. On the plus side, room service was prompt, and any issues I had were quickly resolved when I called housekeeping. Overall, I would still recommend staying here.From$226
Very Good375 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.From$161
Business travel
Very Good779 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.16km 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.From$101
Great1106 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km from city center
I booked this hotel because it's convenient for Seoul Station, as I was taking the KTX to Busan the next day. I'm not sure if it was because I booked with points, but when I arrived at the hotel around 7 PM, the front desk staff were completely unenthusiastic, or rather, provided no service at all. When checking in, I asked if I could get a higher floor, but after checking in, I found I was given the lowest fifth floor. It really felt deliberate, and it was too late for me to ask for a change. When I got to the room, the AC didn't work, the room was really cold, and it faced the road, so it was incredibly noisy at night. I had originally booked a mountain view room for the last two nights of my trip back to Seoul from Busan, but with this kind of service, I immediately canceled and booked another hotel. Honestly, after staying in so many hotels, this is the first time I've ever felt like checking out the moment I checked in.From$145
Very Good1332 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km from city center
First, the pros: The room was quite spacious and clean, with a comfortable temperature and bedding. The location is excellent, with an airport shuttle right outside the door. It's only a 2-minute walk from the Exit 10 of Metro Lines 2 and 5. Downstairs, there's a convenience store and a pharmacy, which is very handy. Now for the cons: The Wi-Fi was terrible; I couldn't connect at all. There was a constant gurgling sound in the bathroom, I'm not sure if it was coming from the toilet or the bathtub. Also, the shower head was inconvenient; the overhead one couldn't be adjusted. Given the poor Wi-Fi, I probably won't stay here again.From$97
Very Good1371 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.From$85
Very Good2002 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km from city center
Facilities: I felt very safe. You need a password to reach your room's floor before taking the subway. It's self-check-in, and the staff all speak Chinese and are very nice.
Cleanliness: Pretty good.
Environment: Perhaps because I requested a quiet location in advance, my room was in a good spot.
For food, you can turn left and go up the hill, and they all speak Chinese. Since I was alone, I chose soup and rice.
Turn left out the door, cross the zebra crossing, and go straight to subway exit 6. I think it's the closest exit.
The staff are all very friendly and gentle, and they speak Chinese very well. I might choose to stay here again next time.From$69
Family friendly
Very Good1905 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.From$103
Very Good1687 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km from city center
The hotel's location is great, with plenty of restaurants nearby, right on the edge of Myeongdong shopping street. Public transport and subways are very convenient. The front desk had a staff member who spoke Chinese during check-in. I stayed for four nights straight to avoid moving around (the only downside was the slightly small room). It offers excellent value for money, and I'd definitely choose it again if I come to Seoul in the future.From$90
Great2534 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city center
The room was a bit small, and the bed was quite tiny. We could feel the strong winter winds coming through the window right by the bed. Pushing the beds together wasn't difficult, and the air conditioning worked well, though it was a bit windy. The cleanliness wasn't perfect; we found hair in three different spots, good thing we brought our own disposable bedding. The location is superb, with very convenient subway access. Check-in had Chinese-speaking staff, so communication wasn't an issue. They gave us Doota coupons, but what we saw there wasn't great.From$89
Great682 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km from city center
This was a rather unpleasant trip. When I checked into my room, I found yellow stains on the bedding. I was too tired that night to bother with it. But the room temperature was consistently cold. At first, I thought it was just me. I had the air conditioning on since I got back to the room, set to 30 degrees Celsius, but the room felt drafty all night. I didn't pay much attention, just hoping it would eventually warm up. However, I woke up freezing at 4 AM. My feet, even under the covers, were icy cold everywhere that wasn't already warm. I got up for a drink, and the water in the glass on the table was also ice cold – yes, truly ice cold. I had no choice but to go down to the front desk to ask for a room change, telling them, 'The lobby is warmer than my room.' The front desk staff moved me to another room and brought an electric heater. But this room was right next to the road. I won't even go into the noise, as it was already 4:30 AM, and I didn't want to go back down to complain again. I put on my headphones, endured it, and managed a few hours of sleep. This room, even without the electric heater, had a decent temperature. However, when I laid out the floor towel in the morning, I again found yellow stains on it. I don't know what's going on with the laundry at this hotel. I stayed for two nights in total, and one entire night was spent dealing with these issues. The next day, I had to go buy a pair of earplugs. I won't be staying here again.From$218
Very Good740 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.34km from city center
The airport bus 6001 stops about 100 meters to the right of the main entrance; just walk back from there. The front desk is on the 20th floor, and the lady there spoke excellent English. I had booked a random room but requested twin beds in the notes, which wasn't honored. The bathroom layout is a bit impractical, especially the lighting. If you need to use the restroom in the middle of the night, it's either the brightly lit hallway or the exhaust fan blasting away, and that fan is incredibly loud. I couldn't figure out the switches for the other lights either; there was just no night light. Disposable amenities weren't provided, but there were slippers and water. The hairdryer was really old-fashioned.From$211
Hot spring
Very Good30 Reviews
University Road area Seoul|4.59km from city center
Good location near public transportation subway&bus, the room was quite nice but the lighting was a bit dim. The bathroom was big for Ryokan which I enjoyed. The relaxing scent Shampoo , Conditioner and Body are provided.
Atmosphere of staircase is using dim lighting with a black wall paint in Cave Theme interior design
No elevator and can check in at 22:00 and check
out at 12:00 noon
There are free water and coffee.From$53
Great1223 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km from city center
Location of the hotel is superb! It's very convenient if you take k-limuisine bus 6701 from the airport, the bus stop is just in front of the hotel. All sights of the city center are walkable, but subway and bus stops are also 5 min away, so you can discover all areas of this beautiful city. The staff were friendly and hospitable, don't expect checking in earlier than 15.00 through. Amenities of the hotel are quite old, but mostly okay. The breakfast is just perfect! So tasty and various, highly recommend to add them to your booking.
The only thing that disappointed us was the lighting system of the first room. It was turning on and off automatically and randomly during the night, we've experienced a pure torture. Reception sent us an electrician few times, but he couldn't fix it, so we requested changing the room. Thanks to the staff, they found a new room quickly and made a little upgrade, so we finally could have a couple of hours of sleep.
Overall it was a good experience, so I can recommend the hotel Koreans for your trip to Seoul!From$85
Very Good2895 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.57km from city center
This hotel is truly amazing, words can't even describe it, and I'm incredibly picky when it comes to hotels! Especially with bathrooms – I have very high standards. But PJ Hotel genuinely nailed it perfectly! It has a dry and wet separation; the toilet is in its own cubicle, the shower in another, with the wash basin in between. Then there's an independent door, and *then* another door before you even enter the main room! This isn't even a suite, just a twin room, and they managed to do all that! I absolutely love it!
Now, onto the room facilities: it has a balcony, a washer/dryer, a fridge (all drinks are free!), and a coffee machine.
And the service! Check-in is on the second floor, but there are staff members on the first floor all day. As soon as you get out of the car, they help with your luggage, open the doors, and even help you call a taxi using an app when you're leaving, so you never have to worry about not being able to find a ride. For the first three days, we had an older gentleman who was just exceptional!!!
The location is also fantastic – very close to Olive Young in Myeongdong and the duty-free shop, and it's super convenient to get to all the major shopping areas. There's also a great barbecue restaurant nearby!
I had seen some negative reviews previously, which made me hesitate to book. I ended up booking another hotel first, and only booked this one half a month later, by which time the price had gone up by over 300 (Korean Won, presumably, or a similar currency). The fourth night was also fully booked, so I couldn't extend my stay, which was a bit of a shame. Honestly, everyone should just go for it and book this place!From$106
Very Good898 Reviews
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km from city center
The location of this hotel is perfect. It is directly on Chyeonggyecheon Stream and close to many subway and bus lines, including one bus stop (173) that is right in front of the hotel. The hotel is centrally located, but the area immediately around the hotel is not chaotic; I found it rather peaceful because of the stream.
The room was comfortable and cozy and the wifi was decent. The only thing that I didn’t like was that there are no outlets close to the beds, but I suppose that’s healthier. I would definitely stay here again.From$58
Great2352 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km from city center
This was my second stay, and it was a good experience. The room was quite spacious and quiet. The convenience store on the first floor is great and offers excellent service – highly recommended! It's very close to Myeongdong on foot, and there's a food street behind the hotel with traditional, authentic small restaurants, as well as some fusion places combining Western and Korean cuisine. I just got back yesterday, and many locals frequent those spots. I genuinely recommend this hotel to everyone!From$111
Gym
Very Good898 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.72km from city center
I recently stayed at the Royal Hotel Seoul in Myeongdong, and overall, it’s a solid choice if you want convenience, comfort, and easy access to everything in the city. The location is definitely the hotel’s biggest advantage — you step right out into the heart of Myeongdong where shops, street food stalls, cafés, and subway stations are all just a few minutes away. It’s incredibly easy to explore Seoul from here.
The rooms are clean and well-maintained, though on the smaller side, which is common in busy city-center hotels. The bed was comfortable, and housekeeping did a great job keeping the room tidy throughout the stay. The décor leans a bit more classic than modern, but everything functions well.
The staff were friendly and helpful, especially during check-in and when handling luggage. They responded quickly to requests and were polite throughout the stay. However, a few service inconsistencies were noticeable — nothing major, but some guests might pick up on it.
Facilities are decent but not standout. The breakfast was okay, though the selection felt limited for the price. The lounge and common areas are clean but could use a refresh. Some bathroom layouts also feel a little dated, and water pressure/temperature can vary at times.
Overall, Royal Hotel Seoul is best for travelers who want to be right in the center of the action and value convenience above everything else. If you prioritize bigger rooms or modern luxury, you might find it a bit modest. But for location, cleanliness, and a comfortable stay, it’s a reliable option in Myeongdong.From$124
Great2477 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.From$85
Very Good220 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.From$66
Great3241 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.From$70
Great695 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.From$198
Swimming pool
Very Good339 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.79km from city center
Great location, right outside Itaewon subway station. It's a bit noisy though, with a lot of thumping music at night. The room itself is nice, fully equipped, and you don't even need to bring your own power adapter as they're all provided.From$79
Very Good424 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!From$116
Great422 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.From$329
Amazing1006 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.From$341
Great794 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.From$166
Breakfast
Great903 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, right next to Ibis and across from Lotte. After arriving at Incheon, I took the 6015 bus, which took about an hour and a half to reach the Ibis hotel stop. From there, I walked a short distance to see the Apple store, and the hotel is located upstairs. You can enter the building from either side. I went to the 9th floor for check-in.
I booked the most basic room, and it was indeed small. I couldn't fully open my 26-inch suitcase at the foot of the bed, so I organized my belongings in the area near the door and then stored the suitcase away during the day. On each floor, near the elevators, there's a water dispenser with both hot and cold water. During check-out, a Korean gentleman who spoke Chinese provided excellent service. Additionally, the hotel offers luggage storage lockers, which are free for up to 8 hours.From$111
Great1484 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.From$83
Very Good983 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.02km from city center
Amenities: They have a fridge and a kettle, and the air conditioning is nice and quiet.
Cleanliness: My room was cleaned daily, and towels were changed. There were no strange odors, very clean.
Environment: There's a water dispenser in the hallway, which is really convenient.
Service: The staff were warm and attentive.
I'll definitely come back next time. The airport shuttle is right outside the door, which is super convenient. There are also lots of restaurants nearby, and the ginseng chicken soup was delicious! 🤤From$130
Very Good917 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city center
The hotel is conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from Exit 1 of Changhanpyeong Subway Station. If you have luggage, you can take the escalator up instead of climbing stairs. There's a CU convenience store right next to the hotel, and a 7-Eleven across the street, which is very handy.
The downside is that the hot water for showering only lasts about 30 minutes. If a second person showers, it starts getting cold towards the end. Also, the hotel's cleaning staff leave after 4 PM, so when I checked in, I noticed one of the beds was a bit dirty, and I had to wait for the front desk staff to be available to help change it.From$46
Very Good536 Reviews
Samseong-dong Seoul|9.79km from city center
I always stay here. Everything is great except for the ongoing construction. But seriously, I can't get any sleep, it's so noisy, noisy, noisy, noisy. Even earplugs don't help. I really wouldn't recommend it if you're a light sleeper.
The location is pretty good, and the service is decent. Breakfast is also quite impressive.
Satisfied.From$106
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.