Plan your 2026 Korea trip with our guide to Korea public holidays, including dates, traditions, and practical tips for Seollal, Chuseok, Buddha's Birthday, and other national observances.
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South Korea Public Holidays 2026 Calendar
2026 has 16 official public holidays in South Korea, with most clustered around traditional festivals. The year begins with New Year's Day and culminates with Christmas, with major breaks at Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) creating extended family gatherings. Note that dates for lunar-based holidays (Seollal, Buddha's Birthday, Chuseok) vary annually.
List of 2026 South Korea Public Holidays
This guide covers all the key holidays in South Korea for 2026 and how they might affect your trip.
Date (2026) | Weekday | Public Holiday | Key Details (Celebrations, Crowds, Openings) |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan 1 | Thu | New Year's Day (신정) | Celebrations: Fireworks, temple bell-ringing at midnight. Crowds: Heavy at city centers and temples. Openings: Banks/government offices closed; major malls and tourist attractions open. |
Feb 16-18 | Mon-Wed | Seollal (Lunar New Year) (설날) | Celebrations: Ancestor rites, rice cake soup (tteokguk), traditional games (yutnori). Crowds: Extreme - nationwide travel to hometowns. Openings: Most shops closed; convenience stores open limited hours. |
Mar 1 | Sun | Independence Movement Day (삼일절) | Celebrations: Parades, memorial services. Crowds: Moderate at independence-related sites. Openings: Banks/government offices closed; malls open. |
Mar 2 | Mon | Substitute Holiday for Independence Movement Day | Note: Observed because March 1 falls on Sunday. Same as above. |
May 5 | Tue | Children's Day (어린이날) | Celebrations: Family outings to parks, amusement parks. Crowds: Heavy at family attractions. Openings: All attractions open; special discounts for children. |
May 23-25 | Sat-Mon | Buddha's Birthday (부처님의 탄생일) & Substitute | Celebrations: Lantern festivals (Yeon Deung Hoe), temple visits. Crowds: Heavy at temples; festive atmosphere in streets. Openings: Most businesses open; temples bustling. |
Jun 6 | Sat | Memorial Day (현충일) | Celebrations: Tributes at war memorials. Crowds: Moderate at national cemeteries. Openings: Banks closed; tourist sites open. |
Jun 7 | Sun | Substitute Holiday for Memorial Day | Note: Observed because June 6 falls on Sunday. Same as above. |
Aug 15 | Tue | Liberation Day (광복절) | Celebrations: Flag-raising ceremonies, national concerts. Crowds: Heavy at government buildings and national plazas. Openings: Banks/government offices closed; malls open. |
Aug 16 | Wed | Substitute Holiday for Liberation Day | Note: Observed to create three-day weekend. Same as above. |
Sep 24-27 | Thu-Sun | Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) (추석) | Celebrations: Ancestor rites, rice cake (songpyeon) making, family reunions. Crowds: Extreme - worst traffic of year. Openings: Most shops closed; traditional markets open for holiday foods. |
Oct 3 | Fri | National Foundation Day (개천절) | Celebrations: Parades, cultural performances. Crowds: Moderate at historical sites. Openings: Banks/government offices closed; malls open. |
Oct 9 | Thu | Hangeul Day (한글날) | Celebrations: Exhibitions on Korean alphabet, cultural events. Crowds: Light to moderate. Openings: All businesses open; special educational events. |
Dec 25 | Fri | Christmas Day (크리스마스) | Celebrations: Church services, holiday markets, decorations. Crowds: Moderate in Christian areas; festive in shopping districts. Openings: Banks closed; department stores open with holiday sales. |
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1580 booked
South Korea Holiday Types
South Korean holidays fall into three main categories:
1. National Celebration Days (국경일):
- Highest-level holidays commemorating significant national events
- Include New Year's Day, Independence Movement Day, Liberation Day, National Foundation Day
- Key: All government offices, banks, and most businesses closed
2. Traditional Festival Holidays:
- Based on lunar calendar, celebrating agricultural cycles and ancestral traditions
- Include Seollal (Lunar New Year), Buddha's Birthday, Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving)
- Key: Nationwide observance with varying business closures; family-centered
3. Special Purpose Holidays:
- Memorial Day (honoring war dead), Children's Day, Hangeul Day (celebrating Korean alphabet)
- Key: Government offices closed; businesses may remain open
Note: When a holiday falls on a weekend, a substitute holiday is typically observed on the following Monday (except for Chuseok, which may have different rules).
Major Holidays and Cultural Highlights in South Korea
🧧 Seollal (Lunar New Year) — February
Families honor their ancestors and share meals like tteokguk (rice cake soup). You’ll see people in hanbok, folk games, and traditional performances.
🌕 Chuseok (Harvest Festival) — Late September
Families reunite, cook special foods like songpyeon (rice cakes), and celebrate the harvest. Streets fill with festive spirit and folk dances.
🎆 Liberation Day — August 15
Koreans celebrate freedom from Japanese rule in 1945. Expect concerts, parades, and national flags everywhere.
🎑 Buddha’s Birthday — May
Temples glow with thousands of lanterns. Join local parades and watch peaceful Buddhist rituals.
South Korea Holiday Openings & Crowd
General Opening Rules:
- Always Open: Airports, train stations, major hospitals, 24-hour convenience stores (CU, GS25, Ministop)
- Usually Closed: Government offices, banks, post offices (on all national holidays)
- Variable Hours:
- Shopping malls: Open 11am-8pm on most holidays (closed on Chuseok Day)
- Restaurants: Many close on Seollal and Chuseok; others offer special holiday menus
- Tourist attractions: Almost all remain open with regular or extended hours
Crowd Intensity by Holiday:
- Extreme Crowds: Seollal (Feb 16-18), Chuseok (Sep 24-27) - nationwide travel chaos, book everything early
- Heavy Crowds: Buddha's Birthday (May 23-25) - temples and lantern festivals packed
- Moderate Crowds: Children's Day (May 5), Liberation Day (Aug 15) - popular with families and tourists
- Light Crowds: Memorial Day (Jun 6), Hangeul Day (Oct 9) - fewer tourists, good for sightseeing
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Tips to Visit South Korea During 2026 Holidays
- Plan Ahead for Major Holidays:
- For Seollal and Chuseok: Book flights/hotels 4-6 months in advance
- For Buddha's Birthday: Reserve temple visits early
- National holidays (Independence Day, Liberation Day): Book attractions a month ahead
- Transportation Strategies:
- During peak holidays (Seollal, Chuseok):
- Use KTX high-speed trains (book 30 days early) instead of buses
- Avoid driving - highways gridlocked for hours
- Consider flying to secondary cities (like Busan, Daegu) to avoid Seoul congestion
- Dining & Shopping:
- Research restaurants open during holidays (many close, especially for Seollal and Chuseok)
- Visit traditional markets for holiday-specific foods (songpyeon at Chuseok, tteokguk at Seollal)
- Department stores like Lotte and Hyundai typically remain open on most holidays (except Chuseok)
- Cultural Etiquette:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples or attending ancestral ceremonies
- Bow slightly when greeting elders during Seollal and Chuseok
- Ask permission before taking photos of people participating in traditional ceremonies
- Money Matters:
- ATMs may run out of cash during holidays - withdraw money in advance
- Credit cards accepted at major establishments but carry $50-100 in cash for small vendors
[8% OFF] Find Best Hotels in Seoul
Seoul Hotels
5 star
Amazing584 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km from city center
I didn't have high expectations for the Westin Seoul, just hoping for something decent. However, from the moment I checked in, the front desk attendant provided thoughtful service. Later, due to a minor issue, we had to switch rooms, and the hotel management was incredibly accommodating. A big brand really does make a difference; it's upscale, and the overall hotel environment, atmosphere, and service are all outstanding. It will definitely be my first choice next time I'm in Seoul.From£270
Amazing308 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£225
Great259 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£524
Very Good382 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city center
Grand Hyatt Seoul: Classic Luxury with Breathtaking Views
A classic luxury hotel offering spectacular city views and extensive facilities, but with some considerations regarding its location and age.
🏨 Location & Ambiance
Situated atop Namsan Mountain, the hotel provides stunning panoramic views of Seoul. While offering a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere, it’s on a hillside, which means walking to nearby areas like Itaewon involves slopes, and reaching downtown areas typically requires a short taxi or subway ride.
🛌 Rooms & Service
Rooms are comfortable, often with impressive city or mountain views. However, guest reviews note that some rooms and bathrooms feel compact, and the decor (despite a 2019 renovation) can show its age compared to newer hotels. The staff are generally praised for being professional and helpful.
🌟 Amenities & Dining
It features an extensive range of facilities, including multiple pools, a well-regarded spa, a fitness center, tennis courts, and even a seasonal ice rink. There are several dining options on-site, from a steakhouse to Japanese restaurants. A common critique is that the breakfast buffet, while good, can get crowded and may require waiting.
⚖️ Balanced Verdict
Ideal for travelers seeking a full-resort experience with fantastic views and comprehensive facilities within Seoul. It is less ideal for those who prioritize walking directly into a bustling urban neighborhood or prefer ultra-modern room interiors.
希望这份基于真实情况的客观总结能帮助你。如果你对酒店的餐饮选择、水疗中心，或是前往首尔塔等景点的交通方式有更具体的问题，我可以提供更详细的信息。From£340
Very Good385 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£178
Business travel
Very Good794 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£78
Great1162 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km from city center
Cleanliness: Very good, couldn't see any dust.
Service: Good, quite enthusiastic. The cleaning lady on the 11th floor was very polite.
Environment: The hotel's location is excellent. You can take bus 6001 or 6015 to and from Incheon Airport, both stopping right in front of the hotel (adults 17,000 KRW, children 15,000 KRW). Myeongdong, City Hall, N Seoul Tower, and Lotte Mart can all be reached on foot. There's also Hoehyeon subway station right outside, and Namdaemun Market (snacks, department stores, late-night food) is across the street. There's a coffee shop and a GS25 convenience store downstairs, so you don't even have to leave the hotel for meals.
Facilities: Not very new. The bed was quite soft. Since the windows are sealed, the room felt a bit stuffy and warm (I suggest considering making the windows open slightly to allow for some ventilation).From£159
Good2281 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.84km from city center
The location is really great, just beside myeongdong mrt exit 5. There is escalator at exit 7, so please exit via exit 7 instead of 5. One of the hotel staffs that attended to us during check in is not so friendly, we didn’t feel welcome at all. This hotel does not provide toothbrush/toothpaste, please bring your own. The slipper is not disposable slippers, so it makes me wonder if they cleaned it everytime guests check out. The walkway is quite narrow, we had a hard time putting our luggage as well. If I can choose again, I’ll book another hotel. I don’t think it’s worth this price.From£70
Very Good1374 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km from city center
Stayed for three nights, and it was super convenient for getting around, right by Metro Exit 10. You have to pay the deposit with a credit card or cash. My credit card only had the UnionPay logo, so it didn't work, and I had to withdraw cash. The triple room was perfect for us; the kids weren't crowding me, and I slept really well.From£93
Very Good1399 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£97
Family friendly
Great1252 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km from city center
This is my second time staying at Koreana Hotel. We book the apartment style room. The room is spacious and very clean. The location is at Gwanhamun which is very convenient. it is easy to get a taxi outside the hotel. From the airport we just get on a bus (6701) and the bus stop right in front of the hotel. We arrived quite early and inquire if we can check in early and the staff are very helpful. We manage to check in early with a small fee which is not a big problem since we are travelling from the night before and really need to freshen up and take a bit of rest. We did not try the food as we are muslim and need Halal food but there are room service menu that we can order for food from the room. I hope the the hotel will be more upgraded after their refurbishment. Will look forward to the new renovated room. Will definitely come back againFrom£97
Very Good1903 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£87
Very Good1732 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km from city center
The hotel's biggest highlight is its excellent location. There's a 7-Eleven right downstairs, and the Myeongdong walking street is just outside. Turn left from the hotel and OLIVEYOUNG is a mere 2-minute walk away. It's also close to Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station, Exit 5, and the 6015 airport limousine bus stop.
To get to the hotel, take airport bus 6015 to the stop in front of the Ibis Hotel, across from Lotte Department Store. From there, it's less than a 10-minute walk to the hotel.
Even though I arrived before 3 PM, the front desk was kind enough to check me in early.
The room is quite basic, but it was cleaned daily.
I wouldn't recommend the breakfast. There's very little variety. For main dishes, besides bibimbap and three types of bread, there were only small cups of instant noodles. The price isn't cheap either. For the same price, you could find many other dining options nearby.From£74
Great2599 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city center
This hotel offers incredible value for money! It's really luxurious and easy to find, located on the side of the building. It's about a seven-minute walk from Dongdaemun or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, just follow the directions on Naver Maps. There are lots of shops nearby, especially towards Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, but it doesn't feel chaotic; I, as a solo female traveler, felt very safe. On the ground floor, there's a concierge who was very warm and polite, guiding me to the 14th floor for check-in. The lobby on the 14th floor is spacious, with several staff members, including some who speak Chinese. There's also a photo booth and a convenience store in the lobby. The room was huge! And it even had a bathtub! It was spotless, and the entire hotel smelled lovely. The cleaning lady was super cute and pretty, haha. I really enjoyed my stay, but there are two minor drawbacks, in my opinion. Firstly, the hairdryer's airflow was a bit weak, which wasn't very comfortable to use. Secondly, the soundproofing wasn't amazing, but it didn't disturb my sleep, so it was fine overall.From£96
Great700 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km from city center
For my recent Seoul trip, I stayed at the Aloft Myeongdong, and to my surprise, it was the building I always used to walk past! The location is absolutely fantastic – right in the Myeongdong shopping district, with Lotte and Shinsegae department stores just across the street, directly accessible via an underground pass. Plus, the Line 2 subway station is only a 5-minute walk away, making it incredibly convenient for both shopping and getting around.
What truly impressed me was the thoughtful touch: every time I came back from the cold outdoors, the lobby had hot coffee and popcorn ready, which was an instant pick-me-up. This first-time stay at a new hotel was a huge success, and I highly recommend it to anyone planning a shopping spree in Myeongdong.
Oh, and a tip: the airport bus stops at Ibis Hotel, and it’s just a few minutes' walk back from there!From£240
Hot spring
Very Good2065 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km from city center
Overall, everything was great.
The hotel room was spacious and comfortable.
The staff at the front desk were very kind and friendly.
Housekeeping cleaned the room every day.
The hotel has coin-operated washing machines and dryers, as well as a microwave, which is very convenient
.
Bathroom amenities are provided. For toothbrushes and toothpaste, you can get them from the hotel’s vending machine, which is very convenient.
Free WiFi
I really loved this place and did not want to leave.
If I have a chance in the future, I will definitely stay at this hotel again.From£39
Very Good2917 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.57km from city center
When we arrived downstairs, the doorman was incredibly friendly, greeting us every time we left and returned. The front desk staff who checked us in were also very welcoming and friendly, making an effort to communicate with us. The room was cleaned daily and kept quite tidy, with the sheets and bedding refreshed. The mini-fridge was stocked daily with complimentary snacks, drinks, and beer, though we only had one bottle. The hallway had an ice machine, microwave, and hot water dispenser, which was very convenient and a thoughtful touch. The chairs on the balcony were comfortable, but it was too cold to use them much; we only sat out for a few minutes on the first day. Downstairs, there's a good-sized CU convenience store and a GS25, both very handy, located just to the left of the hotel's main entrance. Getting to the subway station was also easy; we didn't realize it at first and ended up taking a taxi from Myeongdong. Of course, it's about a 15-minute walk to Myeongdong, so it's not right in the heart of it, but aside from that, everything else was perfect.From£90
Very Good921 Reviews
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km from city center
The lobby is very grand and check out time is 12pm which is later than most hotel around the area. There is no place to hang cloths in the toliet and shower water pressure is low. The hot water from the tap does not seem to work as we need to turn to max for the water to feel warm. The is pretty spacious and bed is comfy.From£38
Great2431 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km from city center
The location is super convenient, with a convenience store downstairs and tons of restaurants nearby. I ate around here for two days straight! There's this one BBQ place – I forget the name, but their original roasted chicken was absolutely incredible. The staff there were all Southeast Asian women. Even though I can't recall the restaurant's name, the taste alone makes me want to highly recommend it!From£120
Great914 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.72km from city center
Facilities: There are plenty of power outlets, including USB charging ports. The shower is in the bathtub, so you need to pull the shower curtain (no separate wet and dry areas, but it wasn't a big issue).
Cleanliness: The room was very tidy, and I didn't have to sort trash (which can be a bit of a headache at B&Bs).
Service: The service was excellent, with friendly, smiling staff that made me feel very comfortable.
Environment: The location is fantastic! OY (presumably a store or landmark) is right next to the hotel. There are also many convenience stores and shops nearby (perfume stores, Adidas, etc.). At night, there's a street food market. The subway (with elevators, very friendly for luggage) and buses are all easily accessible, making transportation very convenient.
Overall, my stay was great! My sister and I were both very satisfied. 🥰From£195
Gym
Great2507 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£77
Good224 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£93
Great3300 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£92
Great691 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.73km from city center
I rarely write hotel reviews, but I just had to for this one! Today, I decided to explore a different area and moved to a hotel in Hongdae. The contrast was shocking – both are in popular Seoul areas, but the difference was huge! On that note, I'm going to call out 9 Bricks Hotel Hongdae as one to avoid. I'll be reviewing them when I check out tomorrow…
Now, let me praise L'escape – the location is absolutely fantastic! It's right by Hoehyeon Station on Subway Line 4, Exit 7. From the escalator at the exit, there are signs directing you to the hotel! Honestly, you don't even need the signs because you can see the hotel as soon as you step out onto the street. There's a slight uphill walk, and as I was halfway up with my luggage, a hotel staff member came running out to help! The service was incredible! 👍
If you don't go above ground from Exit 7, the other direction leads directly into Shinsegae Department Store. It’s a multi-story department store with food, a duty-free shop, luxury goods, and affordable items – great for browsing! Outside on the ground level of Shinsegae, there's a 3D mega-screen, similar to the one at Taikoo Li in Chengdu, but much more visually appealing and with fewer advertisements.
The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Myeongdong. As a proper tourist, Myeongdong is a must-visit! Especially after exploring Hongdae today… I really want to go back to Myeongdong! 😢
Now, about the hotel itself (my picture arrangement is a bit messy, can't adjust it yet…)
The hotel itself has a distinctive style. It might feel a little old-fashioned and perhaps not ideal for families with young children, but it's clean, tidy, and still very refined! Even the elevators are decorated, somewhat reminiscent of The Ritz in London. The toiletries are BYREDO, just like at Six Senses. The mini-bar is completely free, and the Nespresso capsules and chocolates are excellent. The hotel's restaurant is Michelin-starred year after year – not cheap, but certainly fantastic. The Tea Lounge was closed by the time I arrived, but I'm sure it's also wonderful. The bar on the 26th floor is very chill, and you can get great photos with ease!
The postcards provided in the room are beautiful, and they even offer free mailing! I also love the design of the notepads and the toiletry packaging – the hand-drawn illustration style is gorgeous!
The hotel service is also excellent. Most of the staff speak English and are always ready to help with luggage, calling taxis, and opening car doors.
In summary, it's a high-end hotel service experience through and through! But I only paid just over 800 RMB for my stay – it far exceeded my expectations! Next time I come to Seoul, I will 100% rebook this hotel.From£185
Very Good522 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.39km from city center
Booked connecting rooms. Rooms were clean and spacious. Amenities were sufficient too. Location is just opposite the road from Myeongdong, very convenient. There is GS25 and a local coffee chain and Starbucks right downstairs. Only downside was the aircon is centrally controlled and it turns off when the set temperature is reached, so it can get a bit stuffy at times. Otherwise, it was a rather comfortable stay!From£137
Swimming pool
Very Good346 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£70
Very Good436 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£111
Great425 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£373
Amazing1009 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£253
Great809 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£136
Breakfast
Great923 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km from city center
The hotel's location is absolutely fantastic!
**Transportation:** If you're heading to Incheon, you can catch the Airport Limousine Bus 6015 directly from the Ibis side. For other destinations, the subway station is just a short walk away.
**Shopping:** Downstairs, you'll find stores like Apple and Lululemon, and Lotte Department Store is right across the street.
**Dining:** There's an incredible variety of delicious food options, from hotpot and samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) to Korean BBQ, steak, and various noodle dishes – it couldn't be more convenient.
We booked the 'Supreme Twin' room because it offered two 1.6-meter beds, which was perfect for us traveling with two kids. I had checked several other hotels in the area, and none could accommodate this requirement. The room isn't huge, but if you utilize the space efficiently, you can fit two carry-on suitcases, two 26-inch large suitcases, and a foldable stroller.
The room came with an air purifier, but no humidifier. Seoul has been a bit dry these past few days, and I woke up with a sore throat every morning. It would be great if they could provide humidifiers.
Breakfast ends at 9:30 AM. It's sufficient, but the offerings don't change much day-to-day, so it's not particularly exciting. After a few days, the kids even skipped breakfast, preferring to sleep in and go straight to lunch.
Overall, if they had humidifiers, I would have slept incredibly comfortably here. I'd definitely consider this hotel again on my next visit to Seoul.From£127
Great1508 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£73
Great2126 Reviews
Sinchon/Hongdae Seoul|5.05km from city center
The highlight this time was how lively and convenient the surrounding area was. A big shout-out to a gentleman at the front desk; his attitude was exceptionally good and he made me feel very welcome. However, compared to my stay at this hotel a year ago, I was quite disappointed this time. Firstly, there's absolutely no need to book a balcony room – it's just a tiny corner, incredibly small, and the balcony room actually felt a bit smaller than a standard room. My next complaint is about the hotel breakfast; it was exactly the same for all four days, with no variety whatsoever. Lastly, the complimentary snacks and drinks in the room were only provided on the first day. Although the room was cleaned afterwards, they were never refilled.From£135
Very Good999 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.02km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, right next to the subway station, making daily travel very convenient. There's a convenience store and many food shops downstairs, and if you're willing to walk a bit, you can even reach the duty-free shop. Luggage storage is also very convenient. Highly recommended! ദ്ദിᵔ.˛.ᵔ₎✧From£160
Very Good924 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£37
FAQs about South Korea Holidays
How long is Chuseok holiday 2026?
Chuseok 2026 runs from September 24 to September 27 (Thursday to Sunday), creating a four-day weekend. This includes the actual Chuseok Day (September 25, Friday) plus the days immediately before and after, with an additional day due to the weekend falling within the holiday period. Most Korean workers receive these days off as paid leave.Which month is best to visit South Korea?
The best months to visit South Korea are April-May (spring) and September-November (autumn) when weather is mild and skies are clear. April features cherry blossoms, while October offers stunning fall foliage. For cultural experiences, visit during Buddha's Birthday (May) or Chuseok (September) for traditional celebrations. Winter (December-February) is ideal for skiing, and summer (June-August) good for beach activities and festivals.What is the main holiday in Korea?
Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) are Korea's two most important holidays, with both considered national treasures. Seollal (February 16-18, 2026) marks the lunar new year with ancestral ceremonies and family gatherings, while Chuseok (September 24-27, 2026) celebrates the harvest and honors ancestors. Both are three-day holidays that bring the country to a virtual standstill as families reunite.Is it hard to find restaurants open during Seollal and Chuseok?
It can be especially in smaller cities. Most family-run restaurants close, but chain cafes and restaurants in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju usually stay open.