How to Complete Korea e-Arrival Card Onine 2026
Everything you need to know about Korea’s e-Arrival Card—who needs it, how to fill it out online, submission rules, K-ETA differences, and exemptions for smooth immigration.
See all flights
What is the Korea e-Arrival Card?
Korea e-Arrival Card Source: theseoulguide
The Korea e-Arrival Card is a mandatory digital entry declaration form launched on February 24, 2025, replacing traditional paper arrival cards . It allows foreign visitors to submit their entry information online in advance, streamlining immigration procedures at Korean airports and ports. Here are some key things to know:
- It’s 100% free (beware of third-party sites charging fees), and you don’t need to print it—immigration accesses it electronically.
- You can submit it up to 72 hours (3 days) before your arrival in Korea (based on Korea Standard Time, KST/GMT+9), and it’s valid for 72 hours after submission.
- If you don’t enter Korea within that window, you’ll need to resubmit.
Who Needs to Submit Korea e-Arrival Card?
Nearly all foreign visitors entering Korea must submit the e-Arrival Card, including tourists, business travelers, friends/family visitors, and transit passengers who leave the airport (e.g., to pick up baggage or stay overnight). For kids under 14, parents or guardians need to complete the form on their behalf—no separate submission is required for each child if you add them to your application.
- Tourists on short-term stays (up to 90 days)
- Business travelers
- Visitors staying with friends/family
- Transit passengers who leave the airport (for baggage claim or hotel stay)
Important: Parents/guardians must complete the form on behalf of children under 14 years old.
Fly to Seoul
Seoul Hotels
Seoul Things to Do
See all flights
Korea e-Arrival Card Exemptions (Who Doesn't Need It?)
The following individuals are NOT required to submit an e-Arrival Card :
Exemption Category | Details |
|---|---|
K-ETA Holders | Valid Korea Electronic Travel Authorization holders |
Registered Foreign Residents | Foreigners with valid residence permits or permanent registration in Korea |
Airline/Cruise Crew | Employees of transportation companies in uniform |
Group Visa Holders | Specific group visa categories (C-3-2) for tourists from China, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, India, and Cambodia |
Transit Passengers | Same-day transit passengers who remain airside (don't enter Korea) |
Pro Tip: Use the official e-Arrival Card website's "e-Arrival Card Navigator" to check if you need to submit.
How to Fill Out the Korea e-Arrival Card Online
Follow these simple steps to complete your e-Arrival Card :
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Start by prepping what you’ll need: a valid passport (must be good for at least 6 months after your arrival date), your email address (to get confirmation), flight details (arrival date, flight number), and your exact accommodation address in Korea (this is a mandatory field—no vague “hotel in Seoul” answers allowed). You’ll also need a phone number (international calling code included) and your travel purpose (tourism, business, etc.).
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival date)
- Email address (to receive confirmation and issuance number)
- Travel details:
- Arrival/departure dates
- Flight number
- Accommodation address in Korea (hotel name and address or friend's address—required field)
- Contact information
Step 2: Access the Official Website
Once you have everything ready, head to the official website: https://www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr/portal/main/index.do (this is the only legitimate site, ignore any others that ask for payment). The site supports English, Chinese, Japanese, and other languages, so you won’t struggle with translations.
- Go to www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr (recommended over QR code scanning for stability)
- The website supports multiple languages (including English, Chinese, Japanese)
Step 3: Complete the Application
- Agree to terms and conditions
- Enter email address
- Upload passport bio page (clear photo/scan without glare)
- System uses OCR to auto-fill most information
- Input travel itinerary:
- Select arrival date
- Enter flight number
- Choose purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
- Enter accommodation address in Korea (must be complete and accurate)
- Add additional travelers (if any):
- For groups: Up to 9 people via mobile, up to 1,000 via PC
- For children under 14: Check "minor" box and provide their details
Step 4: Review and Submit
Once all info is entered, take a final pass to verify everything. Make sure your accommodation address is correct, your flight number is right, and your passport expiration date is up to date. When you’re satisfied, click “Submit.” You’ll instantly get a confirmation email with an e-Arrival Card issuance number—save this (and maybe screenshot the confirmation page) as a backup, even though you won’t need to print it.
Pro Tip: If you make a mistake, you can edit your submission using your issuance number or email verification—but only within 72 hours of submission .
See all attractions
3838 booked
When to Submit Korea e-Arrival Card?
The best time to submit is 1–2 days before your departure. This gives you enough time to fix any errors and avoids last-minute panic (or internet issues at the airport). The submission window opens 72 hours before your arrival in Korea, so you can’t submit earlier than that—but you can do it on the day of arrival if you forget (though we don’t recommend it, as it might slow down your immigration process).
- Submission window: 72 hours (3 days) before arrival in Korea (based on Korea Standard Time, KST/GMT+9)
- You can submit on:
- The day of arrival (before immigration inspection)
- One day prior
- Two days prior
What if your plans change?
- If you don't enter Korea within 72 hours of submission, your e-Arrival Card becomes invalid—you must submit a new one
- If you change flights or accommodation after submission, resubmit a new e-Arrival Card with updated information
Korea e-Arrival Card vs. K-ETA: What’s the Difference?
What is a K-ETA? How to apply for it? |Korea-ETA| - YouTube
A common confusion: the e-Arrival Card and K-ETA are two separate systems with totally different purposes. Here’s a clear breakdown to avoid mix-ups:
Feature | e-Arrival Card | K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) |
|---|---|---|
Purpose | Replaces paper arrival forms—declares entry info to immigration | Grants permission for visa-free entry to eligible travelers |
Who Needs It | Most foreign visitors (unless exempt) | Visa-free travelers from 112 designated countries (e.g., US, EU, Australia) |
Cost | Free | $10 (one-time fee for 2-year validity) |
Validity | 72 hours per trip (single entry) | Multiple entries over 2 years |
Submission Timing | Up to 3 days before arrival | At least 72 hours before departure (to avoid delays) |
Critical note: K-ETA isn’t required for kids under 17, adults 65+, or travelers with diplomatic/official visas. And if you have a valid K-ETA, you don’t need the e-Arrival Card—this is a big time-saver for frequent visitors.
Tips for a Smooth Korea e-Arrival Card Experience
- Stick to the official website: The only legal website for electronic entry cards is www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr. Any third-party website that charges is a scam, do not share your passport information and do not pay for this free service.
- Book accommodation first: If you do not have a valid address in South Korea, you cannot submit the form. Therefore, lock in your hotel or host accommodation before you start.
- Check your passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of arrival. If your passport has expired or is close to expiration, the immigration authorities will refuse entry.
- Use stable internet: Submit via a reliable Wi-Fi or data connection. If you are in a country with Internet restrictions, use a valid VPN to access this website.
- For groups: Designate 1-2 person to handle each submission, this avoids repetitive work and ensures the consistency of all information.
What Happens If You Forget to Submit Korea e-Arrival Card?
- Don't panic: If you arrive in Korea without submitting an e-Arrival Card, you can:
- Fill out the electronic entry card online at the airport before entering the country (airports usually offer free Wi-Fi).
- Fill out the paper entry card at the immigration office (by December 2025)
- Important: Both the paper and electronic versions are equally valid during the transition period (until December 31, 2025). After this date, only electronic arrival cards will be accepted.
[10% OFF] Find Best Hotels in Seoul
Seoul Hotels
5 star
Amazing592 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km from city center
The hotel service is excellent, especially the staff at the front desk. They are very friendly to Chinese guests, and some even speak Chinese. Check-in was super fast, and they also helped us book restaurants and arranged a taxi. They even made sure our luggage was loaded and gave instructions to the driver – truly thoughtful and attentive! Definitely a huge thumbs up! The hotel is clean and tidy, and the location is great, making it convenient to get anywhere. Highly recommend this well-established hotel! (^O^)From$374
Amazing317 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.21km from city center
This hotel is perfectly located! It's just south of Seoul City Hall Square and west of Myeongdong. The subway station is only a few dozen meters from the lobby entrance, and Sejong-daero is right to the west. It's also not far from the major palaces and Namsan, so the location couldn't be better. The staff are very friendly, attentive, and welcoming. While the facilities might feel a bit more compact compared to newly built five-star hotels in China, they are well-maintained and perfectly adequate. Overall, it offers great value for money.From$245
Great261 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$619
Very Good417 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city center
I thoroughly enjoyed my brief stay at the Grand Hyatt. It was the perfect place for a relaxing yet invigorating reset before a two-week trip around Korea. The hotel is well situated for those who do not mind a bit of effort: Namsan Park is nearby if you are in the mood for a refreshing but fairly challenging hike, and Itaewon and Hannam are close enough for culture, dining, and a livelier atmosphere.
That said, I would not recommend it as a first-time base for someone visiting Seoul, as it is not the kind of hotel where you can simply walk out of the lobby and begin exploring. However, I would absolutely recommend it for anyone looking to recharge, enjoy stunning views, and make full use of the hotel’s outstanding facilities.From$237
Very Good393 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.From$199
Business travel
Very Good827 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.17km from city center
The hotel's location is super convenient, right around the corner from City Hall subway station, and the airport shuttle bus stop is only about 100 meters away. Picture 6071 shows the travel time from the hotel to the airport for reference; it costs 18,000 KRW. The last bus from the airport departs at 10:30 PM. The hotel's condition is pretty standard; slippers are provided, but they're not disposable. There's no toothbrush or toothpaste, but shampoo and soap are available. The air conditioning works great, so it's not cold at all. There's also a coffee shop on the ground floor.From$71
Great1267 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km from city center
The room was very clean, and water was replenished daily. The location is super convenient, making it easy to get to and from the airport, and the subway station is also very close. It's about a ten-minute walk to Myeongdong, Lotte, and Shinsegae. The single room size is pretty standard for Korea, nothing surprising. The air conditioning wasn't great though, so the room got a bit warm at night.From$203
Very Good1457 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km from city center
The hotel entrance is right by a bus stop, and there's a smoking area to the left of the main entrance. There's also a convenience store on the first floor that closes at 11:50 PM (they don't accept Alipay or WeChat Pay, but they do sell T-Money cards, so you'll need cash). A pharmacy is also available. The hotel lobby is on the second floor. Two subway stations, Euljiro 3-ga and Euljiro 4-ga, are nearby. Myeongdong is also within walking distance, about 10 minutes away. The front desk staff are very friendly and can communicate in English.
The room size is decent, not too small. The king bed in the family room is good, and the 1.1-meter small bed is suitable for women. The shower has plenty of hot water, but there's no overhead shower, and the hot water from the sink faucet is very low pressure. The bathroom mirror is quite large, but the full-length mirror by the window gives a clearer view for makeup.
Shower gel and shampoo are provided, but you'll need to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste. Since it was a family room for three, towels and slippers were already prepared. The hotel provided a magnetic portable charger by the bed with Type-C and Lightning cables, allowing you to charge three devices simultaneously. There aren't many dining options right around the hotel; most people go to Myeongdong for food. There's another convenience store like CU a street away that accepts Alipay and WeChat Pay. Overall, the value for money is good, and it's convenient for getting to Myeongdong – just walk straight out of the hotel and turn right for about 3-4 blocks.From$109
Very Good1430 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$104
Very Good2146 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km from city center
The transportation is incredibly convenient; the 6001 airport bus drops you off right across the street, and it's just a few minutes' walk to the subway. The hotel front desk staff are very welcoming and speak Chinese, which is really friendly for us Chinese travelers. The hotel seems to have been recently renovated, as the rooms feel quite new. The only minor downsides are that the beds are smaller compared to hotels of the same caliber in China, and all rooms have bathtubs instead of walk-in showers. I would still choose this hotel on my next trip to Seoul.From$74
Family friendly
Great1303 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km from city center
It's an old hotel, but the location is great. There's a direct shuttle bus from the airport. You can see the schedule in the picture; the latest bus from the airport to the hotel is around 10:30 PM, costing about 80+ RMB. The airport bus is super convenient; I've found that bus transport in Korea is often faster than the subway. The hotel facilities are old, for example, there are no power outlets by the bed. However, the room is very spacious, and it offers excellent value for money. It's within walking distance of places like Myeongdong, and most of these routes have underground passages, making it very comfortable to get around. Many nearby attractions are also within walking distance. The price is right, it's just the facilities that are old, but the soundproofing and other aspects are quite good!From$102
Very Good1883 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.5km from city center
Location: The hotel's location is super convenient, just a 7-8 minute walk to Myeongdong shopping street. I remember there are two nearby subway lines, both about an 8-10 minute walk away. The only downside is that it's situated on a slope, like the top of a small hill, so you have to walk uphill no matter which way you come from.
Environment: Both the overall and immediate surroundings are good.
Hygiene: Good.
Facilities: Has all the essentials.
Service: Quite good, but still not quite on par with Japanese hotels.From$116
Very Good1828 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km from city center
I had a wonderful stay at Skypark Hotel Central Myeongdong. The location is excellent right in the heart of everything, making it super convenient for shopping and exploring the area.
Although our first room didn’t have a view, the staff were incredibly accommodating and allowed us to change rooms without any hassle, which we really appreciated. The service overall was outstanding.
A special thank you to Haneuo Lee, who was extremely helpful and made our stay even more pleasant with their kindness and professionalism.
Highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Seoul. Great service, great location, and a very comfortable stay!From$105
Great2703 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city center
First off, the location is absolutely fantastic. There's an outlet mall right downstairs, and the hotel is super close to the subway exit. Plus, a new APM mall just opened nearby and stays open late, which makes shopping incredibly convenient. One evening, I couldn't get a ride-hailing service to pinpoint my location correctly, and the front desk luggage staff were incredibly patient and thorough in helping me contact a taxi. A huge thank you to those two gentlemen for their help, even though I don't know their names. It's easy to get anywhere from here, and there are plenty of dining options too. All in all, it was excellent!From$121
Great715 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km from city center
This is the ideal hotel to stay-in in Seoul because it is literally located right at the heart of Myeong-dong everywhere happening. There is a large 7-11 conveniently located just 10 metres away, the start of a night market just another 20 metres away. Cross over to the other side and there's all the luxury shopping (Lotte Deparment Stall) which in my opinion is better than Gangnam. another direction and you will hit Myeongdong shopping main street. Go underneath and there will be a huge underground shopping mall that leads all the way to City Hall main station.
Rooms are very spacious, the gym was excellent and last but not least, the staffs were all very friendly and kind to allow us to check-in early due to available vacant rooms. My family and I will definitely be back here when we comes back to Seoul again.From$228
Hot spring
Very Good41 Reviews
University Road area Seoul|4.59km from city center
The hotel's design is quite unique and seems well-suited for Korean travelers or solo adventurers.
Communication was a bit challenging as the hotel staff didn't speak English, so we relied on Google Translate. However, they were very helpful and had a great attitude.
Regarding the room, we booked a city view, but it wasn't quite what we expected. Instead of a clear glass window, you had to open one window, then another, to see the view. The frame of the first window also had to remain open to enjoy the scenery.
Also, the window was quite high up; you essentially had to stand on the bed to get a glimpse of the view.
The bathroom had a bathtub that could be used for a stone-style hot spring. If you prefer showering, it's not ideal as there's no shower curtain, meaning the entire bathroom gets wet.
The room offered Netflix, but the remote control was a bit finicky and sometimes unresponsive.
On a positive note, there was a speaker system in the room to play music.
Overall, the soundproofing needs improvement as we could hear conversations from the adjacent room.
The hotel's location is convenient, close to the subway and bus stations. There's a small night market and a snack discount store right behind the hotel, and it's also near tourist attractions.
This hotel is more suitable for backpackers looking for a local experience. I wouldn't recommend it if you have a lot of luggage.From$79
Very Good35 Reviews
Seoul|11km from city center
This time I traveled to Korea alone to watch a performance. I was a bit hesitant to choose this hotel because it's quite new and there weren't many reviews available. Ultimately, I decided to stay because it was close to the venue.
The staff were friendly and could communicate in English. The location is convenient; it takes less than five minutes to get to the subway station. Downstairs, there's a convenience store and a fairly large shopping mall with a big supermarket inside. The room also has international power sockets, which was a huge plus. The shower had plenty of hot water, and the toilet had good water pressure.
The only downsides are that it's a bit inconvenient for solo travelers if you return to the hotel late, as there aren't many restaurants nearby where you can dine alone. The bed was a bit hard, and it creaked with even small movements. The pillows were too soft, making it hard to get comfortable. Also, the soundproofing is mediocre; you can hear noises from outside the door quite clearly, so I recommend bringing earplugs.
Nevertheless, the overall experience was very good, and I would stay here again if needed.From$35
Very Good2953 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.57km from city center
I was quite apprehensive after seeing so many negative reviews, but their quad room was really appealing, so I ended up booking it. We booked a quad room for two nights and a double room for one night, and I was quite satisfied, even beyond my expectations. The main reason was the very kind and helpful front desk staff, especially one gentleman who spoke Chinese. His service was truly memorable; he not only arranged the rooms we wanted but also thoughtfully explained all the services and answered our questions. The quad room was also very spacious – no problem at all opening up suitcases, plus there was a table, a wardrobe, two bathrooms, a vanity, and even a clothes freshener. The fridge was well-stocked with snacks, drinks, and water. However, the decor is a bit peculiar; there were no charging outlets near the two beds in the quad room, and there was only one toilet, which felt a bit cramped. Later, in the standard twin room, the bathroom was very small and cramped, which took some getting used to. The charging outlets were also very old. Despite that, the room itself was large. Oh, and we could hear renovation noise in the mornings, which wasn't ideal, but it was a minor inconvenience that we could tolerate. The hotel isn't exactly close to Myeongdong shopping street; it's about a fifteen-minute walk. We usually walked there and took a taxi back.From$113
Very Good944 Reviews
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km from city center
The hotel isn't far from two subway stations, and Cheonggyecheon Stream is right outside. However, you'll need to walk a few dozen meters to find a convenience store. The facilities are generally a bit old, especially the hairdryer, which is the worst I've ever encountered in a hotel – it's hot but has very weak airflow. The hotel doesn't provide disposable toiletries, so you'll need to bring your own adapter. The upside is that rooms are cleaned daily.From$79
Great2592 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km from city center
Location: Superb! It's close to Myeongdong, though it's still about a 10-15 minute walk. I loved that there are GS25 and CU convenience stores everywhere nearby, making it incredibly easy to grab local milk.
Room Size: I specifically chose a hotel with relatively larger rooms because there were three of us, and luckily they had a triple room with three beds – perfect!
Soundproofing: The soundproofing was decent; it was pretty quiet at night.
WiFi: It was relatively fast.
Value for Money: It was a bit pricey, so not the best value.
Bed: The mattress and pillows were quite comfortable, and the bed was large enough.
Room Amenities: You need to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as shower slippers. Remember to bring a universal adapter, though there are USB ports available for charging.
Surroundings: There are many coffee shops around, and the subway is very convenient from here. The alley behind the hotel also has lots of restaurants, but they tend to be closed for a break in the afternoon.From$103
Gym
Great927 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.72km from city center
I wanted to highlight some details I noticed during my trip:
1. They cleaned all the stains off the magnifying mirror, a service I haven't received at other hotels of the same star rating.
2. I visited during the ***** New Year (CNY), and the hotel diary correctly labeled it as CNY, not LNY – much appreciated! 🫶
3. The hotel was very attentive to personal belongings; even when I went downstairs to pick up takeout, they carefully verified the order number.
Additionally, the hotel breakfast was excellent. I stayed for four days and three nights, and I had a very satisfying breakfast every morning.
The room itself was a bit small, but its convenient location made up for it. It was easy to get around by taxi or on foot!
Just a heads-up: if you're heading to Incheon Airport from here, you should allow 1.5 hours for travel time, as there can be traffic. Gimpo Airport might be a more convenient option.From$193
Very Good2533 Reviews
Seoul|3.88km from city center
This hotel offers excellent value for money at its price point, no wonder it's a top choice for K-pop fans.
Location: It's close to Mapo Station (Line 5) and Gongdeok Station. If you're flying in/out of Gimpo Airport, the direct subway connection is very convenient. Taking a taxi also saves a lot of time compared to getting to Gangnam. It's also very close to Yeouido and Hongdae, making it an ideal place for younger travelers to stay.
Hotel Facilities: The room was a little larger than those I've stayed in at Mapo Grand and Gangnam L7. The downside is that it's a bit old, so the style and facilities feel a bit dated. The upside is that the soundproofing on the windows facing the street is excellent. When I checked in, I requested a room away from the elevator and more secluded, and they accommodated my request, so there wasn't much noise from the hotel corridor, which I was very happy with.
Staff: The male front desk staff who checked me in spoke Chinese and was very friendly. He fulfilled all my requests for a non-smoking, high-floor room away from the elevator for quietness. When returning by taxi, the hotel security guard would also proactively help open the door. For a hotel at this price point, they really do a great job.
Summary: I'll definitely be back. For such an affordable hotel, what more could you ask for?From$102
Very Good231 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$127
Great3435 Reviews
Seoul|3.79km from city center
Location-wise, it's really great, very convenient to get around. There are two OY restaurants downstairs and plenty of good food nearby. Since it was our last stop, catching the 6015 bus to the airport meant standing room only; it's better to wait for other larger buses.
Facilities: The room itself was good overall, but the pillows were way too soft. I'm used to latex pillows, and these really made my neck uncomfortable. Many hotels now offer a pillow menu, and it would be fantastic if they could make that change here. The ice machine on the 3rd floor was better than the one in the laundry room, and the dryer was excellent – my jeans were dry in 45 minutes.
Hygiene: I'm not sure why there was a lot of lint in the room. Is that why there's an air purifier in the room? My sister only stopped coughing after we turned it on.From$121
Great686 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$292
Swimming pool
Very Good366 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.79km from city center
I had a really pleasant stay at Hamilton Hotel in Seoul’s lively Itaewon neighbourhood. The location was excellent, right next to Itaewon Station and within walking distance of many restaurants, shops, and bars — perfect for exploring the city easily by foot or subway.
The room was comfortable, clean, and spacious, with a cozy bed that made it easy to relax after a day of sightseeing. I especially appreciated how well-maintained the space felt — everything was tidy and modern, and the housekeeping team did a great job keeping things fresh.
The staff were friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with directions or recommendations for local eateries and attractions, which made my stay feel even more welcoming.
Another highlight was the value for money. For its central location and quality service, I felt this hotel offered great overall value compared to other options in the area.
Overall, I really enjoyed my stay and would recommend Hamilton Hotel to anyone visiting Seoul — especially if you want to be right in the heart of the city’s nightlife and cultural sceneFrom$80
Great451 Reviews
Yeouido Seoul|6.44km from city center
The room facilities are very new, clean, and the view is excellent. The front desk, restaurant, concierge, and service staff were all very enthusiastic, providing a top-notch experience. The food was also great. The location is even more amazing, with direct underground access to IFC and Hyundai Department Store. Highly recommended! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻From$395
Amazing1033 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.68km from city center
This hotel definitely lives up to its reputation as a classic luxury hotel. The decor and facilities are exquisite. The desserts on the first floor are absolutely delicious, and it's conveniently located right across from Shilla Duty Free, and quite close to Dongdaemun as well.From$411
Great843 Reviews
Seoul|4.07km from city center
Location: The hotel is right next to Yongsan Station, making it super convenient for getting around by subway or bus.
Service: The front desk staff were really friendly and helped us switch to a room with a view of the Han River, and the night view of the Han River was absolutely stunning.
Amenities: The room was spacious, clean, and well-equipped with everything we needed. We had a very comfortable stay. We're planning to book this hotel again next time.From$173
Great658 Reviews
Seoul|12.73km from city center
The first morning I woke up to a strong smell of urine in the room, but it was fine on the second day. Breakfast was normal on the first day, but on the second day (the 9:30 slot), there was a huge queue. The local guests were really over the top; people were even queuing for fruit, and green bananas were being snatched up – it was quite a sight to behold! But it's still much better than staying at Lotte Tower. At least the front desk service was excellent, and the staff were proactive when I left the hotel. Plus, the surrounding area is great for walking around and exploring, a vast improvement over Lotte.From$282
Breakfast
Great988 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, right behind the Myeongdong Apple Store. You can take the elevator on the right side of the Apple Store up to the 9th floor for check-in. Olive Young and Lululemon are next door, and there are tons of restaurants right behind the hotel, which is super convenient. It's also very close to Euljiro Station on Subway Line 2. The bathroom in this room type is quite spacious. I'll definitely choose to stay here again in the future.From$155
Great1556 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city center
This hotel is near Dongdaemun subway station, about a 10-minute walk away. However, it's right by a subway entrance, which is great because rain or wind won't be an issue. The room was also very clean. Highly recommend! Plus, there's a ramen shop nearby and the 6001 airport bus stops right in front, making it super convenient to get to and from the airport.From$88
Very Good1036 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!From$154
Very Good958 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city center
The service at this Korean hotel was truly impressive; the staff were always smiling and eager to help. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, making for a very relaxing stay. Its convenient location, with excellent transport links and diverse dining options nearby, really added to the ease and enjoyment of our trip. Overall, we had a very satisfying experience and would highly recommend it to anyone planning a trip to Korea.From$45
Very Good566 Reviews
Samseong-dong Seoul|9.79km from city center
The hotel was modern and clean, and its main selling point was its proximity to my conference.
Simple things like no plug on one side of the bed, no floor length mirror , small towels, small bed..
However, there is a lot of construction outside, making it very noisy. I was initially allocated a front-facing room on the 12th floor, where I could hear constant traffic and construction. Metal plates on the road created loud noises every time a car drove over them—which was every few seconds.
I moved to another room at the back of the building on the 17th floor. It was quieter, but there was still construction noise, and the frosted windows meant there was very little natural light.
Unfortunately, both rooms were very hot, and the air conditioning was not available.
This is not a cheap hotel, and they really need to make it clear that sleep may be disrupted. They should also provide air conditioning during warmer periods, even in winter when heating is not required.
On this occasion, it was not good value for moneyFrom$110
FAQs about Korea Arrival Card
Do I need to print Korea e-Arrival Card?
No—immigration officers access your info electronically. But saving a screenshot or PDF of the confirmation email is smart as a backup, just in case of technical glitches.Is the Korea e-Arrival Card mandatory for all visitors?
Yes, unless you’re in an exemption category (e.g., K-ETA holder, resident). Until December 2025, you can choose between the e-Arrival Card or paper form—after that, only the digital version is accepted.Can I use Korea e-Arrival Card for multiple trips?
No—each trip requires a new submission. The form is valid for one entry and expires 72 hours after you submit it.Can I submit Korea e-Arrival Card for my family?
Yes—you can add up to 9 people to one submission (via mobile) or 1,000 (via computer). Just enter each family member’s passport details, and mark minors under 14 as “minor.”
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.
<h3>Trending Searches</h3>
Air Travel Guide
Latest Flight Deals
Popular Flight & Hotel Packages
- Zhangjiajie Vacation Packages
- Langkawi Vacation Packages
- Paris Flight and Hotel
- Tokyo Flight and Hotel
- Seoul Flight and Hotel
- Presque Isle Vacation Packages
- Ahmedabad Vacation Packages
- Placencia Vacation Packages
- Saint Petersburg Vacation Packages
- Vienna Vacation Packages
- Anchorage Vacation Packages
- Baguio Vacation Packages
- Pattaya Vacation Packages
- La Paz Vacation Packages
- Mombasa Vacation Packages
Getting Around
- Wakayama Transportation
- Beijing Airport to City
- Beijing Metro
- Osaka to Kyoto
- Shanghai Airport Transfer
- Incheon International Airport to Seoul
- How to Use DiDi in China
- Wenzhou Airport
- China Metro
- Fuzhou Airport
- Eurail Pass Discount
- Kunming Airport
- Guangzhou Airport to City
- Haneda Airport Limousine Bus
- Macau to Hong Kong
- Narita Airport to Shinjuku
- Osaka Station to Kyoto Station
eSIM/SIM card
About
Payment methods
Our partners
Copyright © 2026 Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.