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.👀
AI Summary
This summary is AI-generated by Trip.com. For the complete guide, please refer to the article below.
Korean Shamanism, or Muism, functions as an indigenous animistic tradition balancing spiritual and human worlds. Practitioners, known as mudangs, facilitate rituals like gut ceremonies to resolve spiritual distress. Foreigners can engage via saju fortune-telling cafes, costing 100,000 to 150,000 won, or night palace tours featuring traditional spiritual symbolism and architectural analysis.
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
Amazing617 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km from city center
I've been to Seoul several times, and this trip I finally got to experience the Westin Josun. The airport bus goes directly to the hotel, and the service was impeccable from the moment I got off the bus until check-out. All the staff spoke excellent English and were proactive in helping with luggage, giving directions, and even making change. The location is also fantastic; I could walk to duty-free shops, Myeongdong, and other places. The nearby BBQ restaurants were also delicious. My only minor complaint is that you have to stand in the bathtub to shower.FromTHB 11,176
Amazing353 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.21km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, right in the city center next to Seoul Plaza. Myeongdong, N Seoul Tower, and Gyeongbokgung Palace are all within walking distance. The City Hall subway station is right downstairs, with Line 1 and 2 intersecting there. Exit 6 of City Hall Station leads directly to the hotel's main entrance. What's more, the 6701 Incheon Airport Limousine Bus starts and ends right at the hotel entrance, making transportation incredibly convenient. From Incheon Airport, you can take the AREX express train to Seoul Station, then transfer to Line 1 for one stop to City Hall Station, and exit 6 takes you right to the hotel. I booked a Premier King Suite for a 4-day, 3-night stay. The room was a spacious 40 square meters, featuring a living room and a walk-in closet. It was incredibly clean, tidy, and very quiet – not noisy at all. The bathroom facilities were also well-maintained and spotless. The hotel staff were all very friendly, enthusiastic, and proactive in offering help. My stay was absolutely fantastic, and I'll definitely choose this hotel again when I return to Seoul.FromTHB 10,632
Great693 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.73km from city center
The hotel's location is truly excellent; you can walk to Myeongdong from any direction in under ten minutes.
Reception is on the first floor, and check-in is on the seventh. Your luggage will be delivered to your room.
The hotel's overall style is very 'old money' chic.
The room cleaning is incredibly thorough, and coffee capsules are replenished daily. The bedding is very comfortable, and the conditioner is especially good.
Toothbrushes are priced, so it's best to bring your own. The shower is a seated type, which means it's quite low; if you prefer to stand, you'll need to hold the showerhead yourself.FromTHB 7,533
Very Good521 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city center
Perched on a hillside, getting around was a bit of a hassle, but the hotel itself felt very high-end. The entrance and lobby had a very elegant, old-school luxury hotel vibe, and the service was incredibly professional. From my room, I had a panoramic view of the city. The room hallways and the rooms themselves felt a bit dated but were very clean, with an older decor style. The hotel has a gym, pool, and tennis courts. It's a really large property, nestled against the mountain, offering beautiful and comfortable scenery – perfect for a relaxing getaway.FromTHB 11,329
Very Good410 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|4.43km from city center
Very beautiful hotel. Greeted by staffs who helped open the car door, and get your bags and luggage to the check in counter every day!
Only bummer was at check out timing is 11am, we tried asking for later check out timing during check-in and was told hotel is full. Managed to get a late check out of 12pm when we tried again the night before leaving the hotel.
Hotel has a little mall,a coffee bean, CU, some expensive restaurants. It also has a sauna (30K won per pax), 1 hot and cold tub and one sauna room.
Room amenities can be requested via the web app in your room. Rooms were very modern, however Water from the shower does flood the dry toilet area a little. Generally a great stay.FromTHB 7,578
Business travel
Very Good962 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.17km from city center
The room was very clean and tidy, and the location was excellent. City Hall Station is not far away, and it's a 10-minute walk to Lotte Department Store. There's an Olive Young right outside the hotel. The most convenient part is the 6701 airport bus to Incheon, which you can catch right on the main road outside the hotel, and it takes about 50 minutes to get to the airport. I'll definitely stay here again next time.FromTHB 2,163
Great1589 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km from city center
Originally, I booked a hotel in Gangnam, but considering factors like shopping and sightseeing, I decided to switch to Voco Myeongdong at the last minute. Overall, I'm quite satisfied.
In terms of service, from the front desk reception to the lounge, the swimming pool, and breakfast, every staff member was smiling and dedicated to providing excellent service. It was really good.
For dining, the breakfast selection was extensive and the food tasted great. Enjoying a hot bowl of Vietnamese pho in the morning was very comforting. The lounge also had a good selection; happy hour offered three hot dishes, along with cold platters, desserts, drinks, and alcoholic beverages, all of high quality.
The room was also quite satisfactory. It was well-equipped with all sorts of amenities. The first round of the mini-bar was complimentary every day, and the quality was decent. The smart toilet and bathtub were very convenient. There were also USB and Type-C chargers. The only minor issues were that the USB charging port seemed to be of poor quality and often disconnected. The 0.8m bed was a bit narrow, and there was a slight risk of falling off when turning over. Also, upon check-in, there were two bottles of shampoo and one conditioner in the shower, and I had to inform the front desk to get a bottle of body wash sent up. Furthermore, the swimming pool closes quite early, at 8:00 PM.
The location is truly excellent. There's a subway station and several bus stops right downstairs. From the lounge, you can directly see Namsan Tower. Namdaemun Market is right across the street, and it's a direct walk to Lotte and Shinsegae Duty-Free Department Stores, as well as Myeongdong's main shopping street, making it very convenient for shopping. The hotel also has a GS25, Burger King, and coffee shops, making it incredibly easy to grab a bite or a drink.
I would definitely choose this hotel again next time.FromTHB 5,732
Very Good1666 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, very close to the subway and bus stops. You can easily walk to the Hanok village near Changdeokgung Palace, and Gwangjang Market is also very nearby. At the eastern end of the market, there are fruit shops, so you can really indulge in fresh fruit. Downstairs, there's a supermarket that seems to be open all the time, so no matter how late you come back, you can always find something to buy. We were given a room facing north, which offered fantastic views of the mountains and the palace. The bed in the room was large, and there were no strange odors, making it perfect for a family trip.FromTHB 3,395
Very Good1565 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.05km from city center
The downside is that there were former employees striking outside the hotel the entire time. It seems this hotel treats its staff very poorly. The daily room cleaning was also done very late, probably because they laid off so many employees. For these reasons, I wouldn't recommend this hotel.
The location, however, is excellent. It's super convenient for getting to major shops in Myeongdong like Olive Young (though a bit far from the duty-free shop). The subway station is right downstairs, and there's also a very large 7-Eleven downstairs with spacious seating for instant noodles. Other stores like GS25 are also nearby, and a 12-story Daiso is just across the street. The hotel doesn't provide disposable dental kits, so you can just buy them directly from Daiso.
Myeongdong Cathedral is right behind the hotel, and there are quite a few historical attractions in the vicinity. Luggage storage is very convenient, and check-in is self-service.FromTHB 2,668
Very Good2351 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km from city center
Sky Garden Dongdaemun 1 is in a fantastic location. It's just a few minutes' walk to the Dongdaemun shopping area, and there's an airport shuttle stop right across the street, making transfers to and from the airport super convenient. The room was clean and tidy, and the bedding was comfortable. The 24-hour front desk had staff who spoke Chinese, which made communication very smooth. There are plenty of convenience stores and restaurants nearby. It's definitely my top choice for shopping and getting around – I'll stay here again next time I'm in Seoul.FromTHB 1,911
Family friendly
Very Good1556 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km from city center
The location is excellent! Right downstairs is the 6701 airport shuttle bus stop, and the subway entrance is just outside, super convenient. We booked a room for four people this time, and it was quite spacious – enough to open all three of our suitcases. The service was also great; they cleaned the room daily, and the front desk staff spoke fluent English, making check-in and check-out very smooth! I just forgot to take pictures of the room! I only got shots of the exterior. The Seoul Finance Center is right across the street, you can see N Seoul Tower, and there are tons of restaurants and convenience stores nearby. Plus, there are two Olive Youngs, a Daiso, and even a Chabaidao tea shop!FromTHB 2,435
Very Good2113 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km from city center
Stayed for three nights in Seoul, right in the Myeongdong area. It was super convenient for food and shopping, with several great restaurants nearby. It's also very close to the subway station and Lotte Department Store, perfect for dropping off your shopping and heading back out. The hotel facilities are a bit old, but everything else was good.FromTHB 3,247
Very Good3230 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.57km from city center
Big shoutout to the front desk guy who spoke Chinese! Communication was a breeze, and he was super nice, even helped us with a taxi. The location is great, with subway lines 3, 4, and 5 all nearby. Lines 4 and 5 are the closest, which is really convenient; it's just one stop to Myeongdong. But since we enjoy walking, we often just walked to Myeongdong anyway – it's not too far, maybe three blocks. The hotel has a CU convenience store, which is perfect for breakfast or a late-night snack. Our room was newly renovated, very comfortable, tidy, and clean. The soundproofing was excellent; even when people next door had their door open, we couldn't hear a thing with our door closed. The facilities are also great – there's an ice machine, hot and drinking water, and a microwave. The only downside is that the price was a bit high during the summer holidays.FromTHB 3,851
Great3005 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city center
The room size was just right, not too big, not too small, and it had a balcony with a great view for watching the sunrise – absolutely stunning! I’ve uploaded pictures of the view at different times of the day for everyone’s reference. The transportation is incredibly convenient; there are several subway lines right downstairs to choose from, and as soon as you step out, there are all sorts of dining options. The mall is also right downstairs, making it super easy to buy anything you need! Most importantly, I love to run, and this hotel is very close to Cheonggyecheon Stream, which is a dream come true for running enthusiasts! It's a 5km one-way run, making it 10km round trip! Fantastic! The hotel breakfast was also a highlight; the fried chicken, noodles, and mixed salads were absolutely delicious! Plus, the front desk staff were very friendly. When we arrived, there was even a guide who spoke Chinese, which was very nice! I'll definitely choose this place again next time! Unforgettable Seoul, you brought me endless surprises!FromTHB 3,643
Great1173 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km from city center
This hotel boasts an excellent location, being close to the subway station and situated above the Apple Store. Olive Young is right across the street, and Myeongdong is just downstairs. We encountered a few minor issues during our stay, but Celina was incredibly enthusiastic and helpful in resolving them, and she showed us great care. We were very satisfied with our stay in Seoul 🧡FromTHB 5,395
Hot spring
Very Good1839 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.5km from city center
This hotel is fantastic! To get there, take airport bus 6015 and get off at Namdaemun Station. The hotel is located in the alley directly opposite where you get off. Just cross the road via the underpass, and it's a maximum 10-minute walk. It's also incredibly close to Myeongdong. If you exit the other end of the alley, it's a three-minute walk, and a right turn will lead you to an underground shopping center. From there, you can access Lotte Department Store through several entrances, or keep walking to exit 18 which leads directly to Myeongdong Shopping Street – perfect for avoiding the sun during the day. I highly recommend this hotel; the breakfast is excellent with a self-service ramen machine, and there were many Western guests. They provide disposable slippers and two bottles of mineral water. The room is cleaned, but they don't fold the duvet. Check-in was easy; even with a bit of gesturing and guessing, there were staff who spoke Chinese, though you might not always encounter them. I didn't experience any unfriendliness. This hotel is far superior to the Ibis I stayed at later near Myeongdong. If you're going to Seoul, this hotel is highly recommended for its convenience to attractions and shopping, plus direct airport bus service for your return. Lotte, Shinsegae, and Myeongdong Shopping Street are all within a 10-minute walk.FromTHB 3,237
Very Good1097 Reviews
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km from city center
This hotel is very close to Myeongdong, within walking distance. It's also conveniently located near Lotte Duty Free and Shinsegae, and there are convenience stores nearby, so the location is quite good. However, for the triple room I booked, the pillowcases and sheets hadn't been changed, and they felt incredibly dirty. After arriving late at night, I spoke to the front desk, and they brought three new sheets that were noticeably cleaner. We spread them out and slept for the night. The staff's attitude was decent, especially the person who brought the new sheets, who was very polite.FromTHB 2,306
Great3053 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km from city center
Overall, it was a great experience. The hotel offers good value for money, and the hygiene was excellent. It's very close to the subway station, just a 3-5 minute walk away. Downstairs, across the street, there are plenty of restaurants and small bars. The hotel is located in the city center, near Myeongdong, and you can walk to the pedestrian street in about ten minutes. It's also quite quiet at night. There's a convenience store in the lobby downstairs, making it easy to buy things. I initially booked for 3 nights and wanted to extend, but there were no suitable rooms available. I'd definitely recommend it for future visits.FromTHB 3,376
Great1069 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.72km from city center
An all-around amazing option for 1st time visitors. I’ve seen nothing but hospitality and top notch service from the staff. The breakfast has a good variety of options (I’ve seen many 4-star hotels do less with it). The hotel is very clean and spacious. No noises from the adjacent rooms whatsoever, so I could really relax after the long days of exploring the city.
The area is very walkable, and you can get to Euljiro and Myeongdong stations within minutes.
If you don’t mind the occasional hustle and bustle in the street in the evening, then this is a solid option for your stay in Myeongdong.FromTHB 4,984
Very Good2580 Reviews
Seoul|3.88km from city center
I took my daughter on a trip to Korea, and a friend recommended this hotel before we left. Although the price was a little high, I still booked it.
**Transportation:** From Incheon Airport, if you don't have too much luggage, you can easily take the subway. It's very convenient. A subway ticket is around 5,000 Korean won, which is cheaper than a bus ticket. After exiting the subway, it's about an 8-minute walk to the hotel.
**Service:** There's a young man at the front desk who can communicate in Chinese. The staff clean the rooms daily and provide two bottles of water in the fridge. Everyone is very polite.
**Amenities:** There's a power outlet on the desk that accepts plugs from my home country (only one, see my photo). There's a slow-charging Type-C port by the bed. The room has a mini-fridge, hairdryer, and kettle. The hotel lobby has a self-service currency exchange machine where you can exchange RMB for Korean won (cash only, no Alipay, etc.). However, the exchange rate is slightly higher than at home.
**Dining:** Behind the hotel, there's a food street. There are many reviews on Xiaohongshu. I tried chicken soup, Lee Garden, potato and pork bone soup, and tteokbokki. All were delicious. The tteokbokki was very spicy. The portions were generous!
**Local Transport:** I used the subway for all my travels (Gongdeok Station and Mapo Station are both accessible); I didn't use buses. Korea has shared bicycles, so those who can download the app might want to try it.
Overall, the hotel is good.
**P.S.:** Trip.com's service was also good. They helped me communicate with the hotel regarding my booking, which was very helpful.FromTHB 2,707
Gym
Great3590 Reviews
Seoul|3.79km from city center
I had a layover for a day and wanted to book a hotel near the subway for easy access. To my surprise, it was a fantastic stay! Upon arrival, I found self-service check-in machines, which was fun, and there were staff members who kindly guided me. The room size was just right and thoughtfully arranged. As soon as I entered, I noticed charging outlets with various ports, which was very convenient. The separate toilet and shower were also a big plus. The location is excellent, making dining easy. Downstairs from the hotel is a large Korean chain coffee shop with a wide selection of pastries, and it was still bustling with customers past 9 PM. Just across the street, there's a McDonald's open until 2 AM, and a 7-Eleven. Overall, I'm very satisfied.FromTHB 3,098
Great718 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km from city center
The hotel has a simple yet stylish design, and the rooms are very clean. The bed and pillows were incredibly comfortable, ensuring a great night's sleep. The room also gets good natural light, with pleasant sunshine during the day. Plus, being on a high floor, I had a great view of the Myeongdong streetscape.
The location is super convenient, right below the Myeongdong shopping district. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and convenience stores, and it's really lively at night. The subway station is also very close by.
The hotel staff were very friendly and helpful, and both check-in and check-out were smooth. I'd definitely choose this place again on my next trip to Seoul; it's perfect for first-time visitors to Korea.FromTHB 7,652
Very Good688 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.39km from city center
This hotel is conveniently located near Myeongdong, with a Starbucks right next door and a duty-free shop across the street. The subway station is just outside, making it super easy for shopping, dining, and transportation. The room size was decent, and the cleanliness was also quite good. For a summer stay, the value for money was pretty reasonable.FromTHB 4,940
Very Good998 Reviews
Gimpo Airport/ Magok Seoul|9.04km from city center
The location is super convenient, making it easy to get around and find places to eat. The lobby is clean and grand, and the room layout is practical, tidy, and odor-free. The bedding is very comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep. The bathroom has a separate wet and dry area, and the hot water comes on instantly. The toiletries are also of high quality. The staff are gentle, polite, and very responsive to requests. Overall, it offers excellent value for money, making it my top choice for accommodation when traveling.FromTHB 1,490
Very Good3137 Reviews
Yeouido Seoul|8.19km from city center
Location: First time staying in Yeongdeungpo; it's a short walk from the airport limousine bus stop so that was convenient. There's a Starbucks and C U convenience store right outside the hotel. YDP station and Lotte Department Store are a short walk away, though I recommend taking a short bus ride to the Hyundai Department Store. It's also near the Yeouido Hangang Park.
Room: Layout is a little strange as other reviewers have noted, and indeed there's very little space to open your suitcase. I placed mine at the wardrobe area, which meant it was a little difficult to access the clothes I hung up. I liked the two couches against the window.
Toilet: The sink is the first thing you see when you enter the room. I didn't like how the shower and toilet shared a door, and there's no bidet for the toilet. Water pressure and temperature control for both the rain shower and handheld shower were good.
Bed: Fairly comfy, however it was the first time I've ever experienced a creaky hotel bed.
Miscellaneous: Might be a minor thing for most but the room slippers were a joke...the top part was literally paper and difficult to slip on and off because of the way the paper was folded. Fridge was small and not very cold but did its job. Lobby is small and only has one seating area, so it's not a place to chill or wait around long. Staff were friendly, and I was allowed to check in slightly earlier than 3pm. Checkout was fuss-free.FromTHB 2,623
Swimming pool
Great511 Reviews
Yeouido Seoul|6.44km from city center
My overall experience at the Conrad Seoul was absolutely fantastic. The hotel is located in the heart of Yeouido's business district, with direct underground access to IFC Mall and The Hyundai department store, making it incredibly convenient for dining, entertainment, and shopping – a one-stop shop for everything you need. The rooms are exceptionally spacious for a Seoul hotel, with a well-designed layout clearly separating the living area (with a sofa) and the workspace. The public facilities are impeccably maintained; the 37th-floor pool is quiet and uncrowded, offering stunning city and river views while you swim. The gym is well-equipped with a great panoramic view. Breakfast offers a wide variety, from authentic Korean local dishes like abalone porridge and bibimbap to Western cuisine. The front desk and room service staff are professional and patient, with seamless English communication, and the turndown service is thoughtful and meticulous. Whether you're traveling for leisure or business, this is a top choice for luxury accommodation in Seoul.FromTHB 14,943
Great1094 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.68km from city center
For this price point, the basic room hygiene was excellent, no complaints there! But apart from that, everything else was a letdown. If you're looking for a comfortable and convenient trip, this isn't the place.
Location and Dining: The hotel is located on a mountain with a great view, but don't even think about walking anywhere. Besides a duty-free shop nearby (which is mostly frequented by personal shoppers), even getting a taxi is a hassle.
For breakfast, be prepared to wait an hour. The front desk suggested I go before 7 AM to avoid the queue, which, to be fair, made breakfast quite good. When I checked in, I also inquired about dinner and good restaurants. The front desk staff claimed all their hotel restaurants were famous and delicious, especially the Japanese one. When I asked them to make a reservation for us, they said reservations usually needed to be made 30 days in advance. Fine.
Then I thought, I'll just grab a coffee at the hotel cafe. Another wait... at least 30 minutes. Ugh...
Returning to the hotel on the second evening, I found the lobby packed with people queuing all the way to the door, like a bustling market. They were all lining up for the buffet. If your F&B is that good, why bother with the hotel? Guests staying here can't even get a table because it's full of outside diners.
The swimming pool was the same – tiny and completely overcrowded, impossible to actually swim. There must have been at least 50 people in there; it was more like a hot tub than a pool. Honestly, apart from sleeping, nothing else was good.
Let's talk about the service: It felt like they were particularly reluctant to serve Chinese guests. When checking out, my child and I were carrying our luggage out, and there were many staff standing in the lobby who didn't offer to help. It was only when a car pulled up outside that someone came to assist us with our bags. What were all those people standing around in the lobby doing then?
After my luggage was loaded, I got into the car and looked out the window to see the person who just helped me with my bags using my car window as a mirror to fix his hair. Hilarious! (This happened at 7 AM Korean time on the 19th).
For this price, you're better off staying in Gangnam. Josun Palace is much better and similarly priced.
To be honest, I'm very disappointed. It's a beautiful hotel, and the staff are all good-looking, but they clearly haven't been properly trained. I hope whoever cares about this hotel sees this review and seriously considers whether you are in the F&B business or hospitality. My experience of your hospitality was very poor.
You did great in terms of the beautiful location and clean rooms, but you missed out on how to treat your guests that are staying at the hotel. Horrible experience. I don’t think you deserve the reputation you once had.FromTHB 13,428
Great966 Reviews
Seoul|4.07km from city center
I really liked the work of the administrator, the guy, and the young female translator at the front desk. She was very clever and pleasant. And that's about it. It's also probably convenient that a mall and a currency exchange are nearby, but those are everywhere, so it's not really an issue. Honestly, this hotel doesn't deserve more than a 3-star rating. The rooms are messy, the cleaning is terrible. Everything is old and dilapidated. The view is mediocre. If you arrive late, there are no stores nearby, just one small grocery store around the corner. It's a residential area. For a claimed 5-star hotel, and being listed second among the best (which is what caught my attention before I booked), it absolutely doesn't live up to it! The washing machine in the room leaks, and there's no detergent. The bathrobe 'smelled' of sweat on our first day 🤢🤮. The furniture is scratched, there are no dishes, not even a knife. What a nightmare.FromTHB 5,737
Amazing693 Reviews
Seoul|12.73km from city center
The room was great, located on the 23rd floor with a stunning lake view. When I booked, I selected a three-person meal option for two adults and one child. The price for a two-person meal and a three-person meal was different at the time of booking. However, upon arrival, the hotel informed me that one of the meals in my three-person package was a complimentary children's meal. Since my child is 13 years old, exceeding the 12-year age limit, they were not eligible for the free buffet breakfast, and I was asked to pay. To avoid disrupting our travel plans and mood, I paid for the meal. However, I find this explanation completely unacceptable. I purchased a three-person meal package, but at the hotel, it was treated as if I bought two meals and received one free. If I had known it was a complimentary meal from the hotel, why would I not just book the two-person meal package and save some money?! I urge Trip.com and the hotel to communicate and provide a satisfactory resolution.FromTHB 9,082
Great256 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.75km from city center
Facilities: Excellent, the flowers in the lobby are beautiful.
Service: The staff are all very friendly and helpful.
Hygiene: Very clean, the room was great, they even helped with an extra bed.
Facilities: Excellent, the lunch buffet was delicious, reasonably priced, and had a great variety. The steak on the second floor was also very good.FromTHB 10,760
Breakfast
Great1704 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city center
Hygiene: The room was cleaned very well, almost like a Japanese-style hotel.
Facilities: The lobby offers complimentary ice and coffee. There's also free filtered ice water available on each floor, which is very convenient. Ice water is definitely a must-have in Seoul during the summer.
Location: It's about a 10-minute walk from DDP, and there are subway stations both in front and behind the hotel, making transportation easy.FromTHB 3,079
Very Good1122 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.02km from city center
I stayed at the Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong for one night before flying out of ICN. My only requirement was that the hotel have easy access to the airport limousine route. While there is a stop a few steps from the hotel, we found that, given the time of our flight the following morning, we ultimately needed to use a different stop. We trekked the extra 10 minutes in the morning with our luggage, which was less than ideal, but ultimately worked out fine. The hotel was easy to access, tucked into a quiet corner of Myeongdong. While we arrived quite late in the evening, the staff was glad to receive us. The check-in instructions were simple and easy. We received a room on the 20th (I think) floor with a lovely view of the city. It was clean and well-appointed with space for four suitcases, which was necessary as we prepared to depart Korea with many new purchases. The famous Myeongdong walking street was only a 7-minute walk away, which is a major selling point. I would definitely recommend this hotel for a solo traveler, a pair, or a couple. The room is small, but clean, and the location is prime.FromTHB 3,534
Very Good1022 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city center
Stayed another night, nothing much to add. The facilities are decent, and the hygiene is acceptable. If you get a twin room, it's very quiet as it faces the community behind. The service is standard. There are convenience stores, coffee shops, and a subway station nearby, so it's a pretty good choice. It's a bit far from the main tourist attractions, but very close to Seongsu-dong.FromTHB 1,579
Very Good638 Reviews
Samseong-dong Seoul|9.79km from city center
My stay at the Shilla Stay Samsung COEX Center was excellent from start to finish. The location is perfect, especially for business trips and shopping, with easy access to COEX Mall, restaurants, cafés, and the subway. The rooms were modern, spotless, and very comfortable, with great city views and all the amenities needed for a relaxing stay.
What truly stood out was the professionalism and kindness of the staff. Check-in was smooth, and everyone was always helpful and welcoming. The breakfast selection was also very good, with a nice mix of Korean and international options.
The hotel offers great value for money considering the quality, cleanliness, and prime location in Gangnam. I would definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul for business or leisure.FromTHB 4,370
Very Good364 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.04km from city center
Very convenient, clean and hygienic hotel, impressive quick self check in service. I booked a 5 nights twin bedroom. The room was clean and tidy, the air in the room smell nice, the bedsheets were neat and clean. However, the shower room ventilation needs to be improved. Other than that, this hotel provides excellent complimentary breakfast, everything was perfect to me. Will definitely stay again next time.FromTHB 4,935
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