Korea Tax Refund Guide 2026: Rates, Eligibility, and Procedures
A guide for tourists on how to claim VAT refunds in South Korea. Learn about refund rates, minimum spend requirements, and how to get your money back at stores or the airport.
Fly to Seoul
Seoul Hotels
Seoul Things to Do
See all flights
NO.1
![[South Korea] 5G | eSIM | 1-30 day validity | Subscribe and use now | QR Code | LGU/SK dual network](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images//0580w12000n1d84xt0913_C_568_320.jpg)
What is the Korea Tax Refund?
When you buy goods in South Korea, a 10% Value-Added Tax (VAT) is typically included in the price. As a foreign tourist, you aren't required to pay this tax on items you take home. The "Tax Refund" is simply the process of reclaiming that 10% (minus a small administrative fee).
How Much is Korea Tax Refund Rate?
While the VAT is 10%, your actual cash back will be between 4% and 7% after the refund agency (like Global Blue or Global Tax Free) takes their processing fee.
- Actual Refund Rate: Typically between 4% and 7% of the purchase price.
- Minimum Purchase: You must spend at least 15,000 KRW in a single transaction at a participating store.
- Immediate Refund Limits: You can receive an instant refund for purchases up to 1,000,000 KRW per receipt. The total limit for immediate refunds during your entire stay is 5,000,000 KRW.
What Items Qualify for Korea VAT Refunds?
Most general consumer goods are eligible, provided they are taken out of the country unopened and unused within 3 months of purchase.
- Qualifying Items: Cosmetics, clothing, shoes, electronics, and sealed snacks/food.
- Minimum Spend: As of 2026, you only need to spend 15,000 KRW (approx. $11 USD) in a single transaction to qualify.
- Excluded Items: Used goods, tobacco, and (as of January 1, 2026) cosmetic surgery and aesthetic procedures are no longer eligible for tax refunds.
Who is Eligible for a Korea Tax Refund?
To receive a tax refund, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Foreign Tourists: You must have stayed in South Korea for less than six months.
- Overseas Koreans: Those who have lived abroad for more than two years or have stayed in Korea for less than three months.
- Status: You must not be a resident of Korea or pay Korean income tax.
How to Get Your Tax Money Back
1. At the Store
Look for stores displaying "Tax Free" or "Tax Refund" signs. When paying, present your physical passport and ask for a tax refund receipt.
2. At the Airport (Before Check-in)
Before you check your luggage, go to the Tax Refund Kiosk.
- Scan your passport and your refund receipts.
- If the kiosk indicates a "Customs Inspection" is required, you must take your items to the customs desk to be stamped. Do not pack high-value items in your checked luggage until this step is complete.
3. After Immigration
Once you have cleared passport control and are in the departures area, go to the Refund Desk (often near Gate 28 at Incheon Terminal 1) to collect your cash or confirm the refund to your credit card.
See all attractions
![[South Korea] LG U+ Combo Card | 4G/5G SIM Card + T-money Transportation Card (from 3 days) | 1–90 Days | Pickup at Incheon, Gimpo, Gimhae Airports](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0354w12000ti6vb6xC6B8_C_568_320.png)
Where to Find Korea Tax Refunds? 3 Types
South Korea offers three ways to get your money back, depending on where you shop and how much you spend.
1. Immediate Tax Refund (The Best Way)
Look for stores with the "Tax Free" logo (like Olive Young, Daiso, or major department stores).
- How it works: Present your physical passport at the checkout.
- The Result: The tax is deducted instantly. You pay the "net" price right there.
- Limits: Available for purchases between 15,000 KRW and 1,000,000 KRW per receipt.
2. Downtown/City Refund
If the store doesn't offer immediate deductions, they will give you a Tax Refund Slip.
- Where: Look for self-service kiosks in Myeongdong, Hongdae, or major malls.
- Requirement: You'll need your passport and a credit card as a "guarantee" while you remain in the country.
3. Airport/Seaport Refund
For high-value items (over 1,000,000 KRW) or receipts from stores without kiosks.
- Step 1: Before checking your luggage, go to the Customs Declaration counter or kiosk.
- Step 2: Scan your passport and receipts.
- Step 3: If the kiosk shows an "X," a customs officer must physically inspect your items. If it shows an "O," proceed to the departure gate to collect your cash.
How to Identify Korea Tax-Free Stores
Always look for these logos on the storefront or near the cash register:
- Global Blue (Blue/White logo)
- Global Tax Free (Orange/White logo)
- Easy Tax Refund (Purple logo)
Common Mistakes and Tips about Korea Tax Refund
- Carry Your Passport: Digital copies or photos of your passport are often not accepted for tax refunds; you should carry the physical document while shopping.
- Leave Time for the Airport: Kiosk lines can be long during peak travel hours. Arrive at the airport earlier than usual if you have multiple receipts to process.
- Three-Month Rule: You must depart South Korea within three months of the purchase date to be eligible for the refund.
- Keep Items Unopened: Technically, items should remain unopened and unused until you leave the country, as customs may ask to see them.
[10% OFF] Find Best Hotels in Seoul
Seoul Hotels
5 star
Amazing616 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km from city center
The room was very clean, and they even offered a complimentary drink. The bedding was spotless, and the bed was very comfortable, a bit on the softer side. The service was excellent; the front desk offered Chinese-speaking staff, making communication seamless. The hotel breakfast tasted good, though the variety wasn't as extensive as a five-star hotel, but everything I tried was delicious. It was also very quiet, and the staff were very polite. Just be mindful of the dining hours; it ends at 10 AM. Even as it approached 10 AM, the staff tidied up very orderly, showing great punctuality. The only downside was staying on the 5th floor, right next to the hotel's outdoor air conditioning units, which made a bit of noise at night. Also, the duvet was down-filled, and moving it or turning over made a rustling sound that slightly affected my sleep.FromVND 8,821,470
Great351 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.FromVND 6,927,266
Great263 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.51km from city center
The view is great, and as a suite, it's generally very good with no major drawbacks. The suite includes breakfast, afternoon tea, and happy hour. I didn't take photos of the breakfast, but it was extremely rich and delicious. Afternoon tea is shown in the pictures; there were no alcoholic beverages. The lighting and curtains are all smart-controlled, and there's an iPad by the bed to contact the hotel for requests. The space is also ample. The shower water pressure is excellent; both the overhead and handheld showers can be used simultaneously, and there's a seat. Various types of pillows are provided, such as memory foam pillows. Seoul's air quality is often poor, so the room is equipped with an air purifier, and you can call to have a humidifier delivered.
The location is convenient, with the subway station just a 5-minute walk away.
If I had to point out a drawback, the hotel has indeed been open for a number of years, and some basic features are a bit old. For example, the air conditioning lacks any advanced functions like scheduled shut-off; it only has a single temperature and fan speed setting.FromVND 18,685,336
Great680 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.73km from city center
This is a decent hotel, right next to Shinsegae Department Store, and directly outside Exit 7 of Hoehyeon Subway Station. There's a large ramp leading up to the lobby on the first floor, but you have to go to the seventh floor to check in. It seems like there's a police station building nearby with an escalator that takes you right to the lobby entrance.
The hotel gave me a room on a higher floor, the 25th floor, which I believe is the top floor for guest rooms, but it was a corner room. The room layout was a bit odd; the room itself wasn't very big, with not much space beyond the bed, but the bathroom was exceptionally large, almost the same size as the room. There was a connecting door to the adjacent room, which was a suite. From the layout, this room seemed designed as a maid's room for the adjoining suite. When I complained about the corner room to the front desk, I was told that all rooms of this type are corner rooms, likely due to the design. Those who dislike corner rooms should consider this carefully.
The mattress in the room was exceptionally high. Before arriving, I had requested a baby crib, but the hotel didn't reserve one for me that day and instead provided a rail. This rail was hard to describe – it made little difference from having nothing at all. There's a tablet by the bed that controls the mattress and air conditioning. You can directly order bath towels, water, ice, etc., and even send text requests to the front desk.
The hotel appears to be a recommended hotel by LV. Upon check-in, I received an invitation to the LV exhibition, where you could get an LV canvas bag at the Shinsegae LV exhibition across the street. Overall, the hotel is quite good, with medium value for money.FromVND 5,737,067
Great512 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city center
I highly recommend the Grand Hyatt Seoul. It feels like the heart of the city and is rumored to be a very auspicious location. The hotel's ambiance and design are excellent, especially the city views. I tried the hotel bar and the lobby lounge, and both had a great atmosphere. It was a very enjoyable experience, and I'll definitely be back.FromVND 9,618,825
Business travel
Very Good946 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.17km from city center
The hotel's location is super convenient, just a few minutes' walk to the subway station, Lotte Duty Free, and Cheonggyecheon Stream, with plenty of cafes and bakeries nearby. The staff were very helpful and communication was quick. The main entrance has stairs, and there's a small slope leading to the back entrance, but the signs aren't very clear, which can be a bit inconvenient if you're lugging suitcases. There was a used cotton swab on the carpet that hadn't been cleaned, but otherwise, the cleanliness was quite good.FromVND 2,162,583
Very Good1522 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km from city center
For the past few years when I've visited Korea, I've always stayed at Voco. Firstly, I trust the InterContinental brand. Secondly, the hotel's price is reasonable. Thirdly, the location is excellent; there's a direct shuttle bus from the airport to the hotel, and subway and bus stations for shopping are conveniently nearby. Fourthly, the hotel's breakfast offers a wide variety of options, including local specialty bibimbap. This was my third stay, so I didn't take any photos of the hotel.FromVND 4,683,003
Very Good1633 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km from city center
The biggest advantage is the convenient transportation. Airport bus 6015 goes directly to the hotel entrance. For the return trip, you can wait at the same spot where you got off. This bus is a loop service back to the airport and runs every 10 minutes, saving you the hassle of lugging your luggage and transferring subways. You can pay with cash on the bus, but they don't give change. It's also right next to Line 2 subway station. You can walk to the Myeongdong area in about 10 minutes, or take the subway two stops to the upper part of Myeongdong.FromVND 3,504,473
Very Good1541 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.05km from city center
Close to airport bus drop off point bus 6015 just alight at hotel L and walk 3 min . Close to myeongdong shopping area walk 5min . 1 min to myeongdong station exit 10. Free luggage storage at locker room. Lightings in room a bit dim but got used to it after a while. There is a bathrobe, fridge, electric flask and safe in room. Feel safe, convenient, clean and not too expensive.FromVND 2,843,252
Very Good2348 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km from city center
First off, this is a legitimate hotel, not a guesthouse or a self-built inn. It has all the standard hotel amenities. It's definitely a suitable place to stay. Now, regarding the location, don't trust some of the online guides. This area isn't a commercial district or where tourists would typically want to go. It's a wholesale market hub, much like Beijing's Zoo Market or Chengdu's Lotus Pond Market – places that open at night for stocking up and close during the day. Within a two-kilometer radius, there are tens of thousands of tailor shops. Of course, there are some malls that are open during the day, but they're very few, so it's not recommended for tourists to stay here. I chose this place because I was returning to China from Busan, wanted a good night's rest, and needed to go to Gimpo Airport the next day. For everyone else, it's probably best to stick to hotels near Myeongdong; having Lotte Department Store right outside is the way to go. The hotel doesn't provide toothbrushes or toothpaste; you have to buy them from a vending machine. They really don't offer them at all, unlike other hotels where they might not actively provide them but will give them to you if you ask, like a razor. The two beds are roughly the size you'd find in a student dormitory. The breakfast *looked* like it would be good, but the reality was that it ended at 10 AM, with last entry at 9:30 AM. I went around 8:40 AM, and all that was left was sliced bread, sliced baguette, and instant noodles. As for scrambled eggs, bacon fried rice, which should have been there, I didn't see any – they were gone by at least 8:30 AM, and they didn't restock at all. The small pots for dishes in my pictures were all empty. I only managed to eat four small mushrooms. The hotel description mentioned sausages and other items, but there was absolutely nothing. In the end, I had a cup of instant noodles and a glass of grape juice.FromVND 2,045,897
Family friendly
Great1486 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km from city center
Facilities: It's an older hotel with somewhat outdated facilities. However, the location is very convenient, with multiple subway lines nearby and the airport shuttle right at the doorstep. The rooms are spacious, with two 1.5-meter double beds, making it a top choice for families with children. Gwanghwamun, Gyeongbokgung, and Cheonggyecheon are all within walking distance, and Myeongdong is also accessible on foot.
Service: The service is what you'd expect from an established hotel. We even stored our luggage there for two days while we made a trip to Gangneung.FromVND 2,205,368
Very Good2051 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km from city center
The room had two queen-sized beds and was quite spacious, located at the end of the hallway, with plenty of room for two suitcases.
The bathroom sink was tiny; there was hardly any space once a few tooth-brushing cups were placed on it.
I have to complain about the shower gel—it had a strange smell on the first day, so I never used it again. There wasn't a separate shower, just a shower-bathtub combo with a simple curtain, so if you weren't careful, water would splash all over the floor, which was annoying!
They provided four bottles of water daily, which was great. The location was super convenient: there's a 7-Eleven downstairs, and the airport shuttle, subway, and buses are all easily accessible right outside. However, being in Myeongdong, the restaurant prices are definitely inflated, so I'd advise walking a bit further to eat. It'll be much cheaper and the food will be better.FromVND 2,450,408
Great2944 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city center
First off, the location is super convenient! It's right opposite Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and in the same building as Hyundai City Outlets. There's a subway station, bus stops, and express bus stops nearby, so getting around is a breeze. The room itself was pretty spacious and very clean, and the staff were all very welcoming. And remember, kids' breakfast is FREE! Kids' breakfast is FREE! Kids' breakfast is FREE! On our first day, there was a ********* staff member at the front desk who insisted we pay for our child's breakfast. She seemed unfamiliar with the policy; kids' breakfast should have been half price (5,000 KRW per day), but she didn't know and was too hesitant to ask, so she tried to charge us 10,000 KRW. We thought that was too much and didn't pay. Interestingly, the next day, the breakfast staff just waved us in, and for the entire four days we stayed, no one ever asked us for a breakfast voucher for our child. Everything else was great though. Lots of Japanese guests stay here, probably because of the bathtubs in the rooms.FromVND 2,516,531
Very Good887 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.34km from city center
The room was really tiny. Whatever you do, don't buy any package deals, like the one for Petite France – it's incredibly far, like an hour and a half to two hours away, and you can't even get a refund. It doesn't really feel like a five-star hotel; more like a four-star. You can walk to Myeongdong in about 20 minutes from the hotel by taking the underground passage straight from Dongdaemun. But I found Korea to be quite run down, with power lines everywhere. Unless you're a big K-pop fan or love concerts, a trip to Korea can be pretty disappointing.
The photo is of a cafe in a shopping area near Dongdaemun. This hotel isn't far from Dongdaemun.FromVND 6,623,882
Great590 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.6km from city center
I had an excellent 6-night stay at ENA Suite Hotel Namdaemun. The hotel is in a fantastic location, within walking distance of City Hall Station, Namdaemun Market, Deoksugung Palace, and many restaurants and convenience stores. It was very convenient for sightseeing and using public transportation throughout Seoul.
The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, especially by Seoul standards. The bed was comfortable, the bathroom was well maintained, and housekeeping did a great job every day. The in-room amenities and reliable Wi-Fi made the stay even more enjoyable.
What impressed me most was the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. They were always helpful, courteous, and willing to assist whenever needed.
The hotel offers excellent value for money, combining a convenient location, comfortable accommodations, and quality service. After spending 6 nights here, I can confidently recommend ENA Suite Hotel Namdaemun to both first-time visitors and returning travelers to Seoul.FromVND 4,247,375
Hot spring
Very Good1841 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.5km from city center
The hotel was exceptionally clean and well-maintained throughout my entire stay. What impressed me the most was the cleanliness of the bathroom and toilet area. Everything was spotless, fresh, and clearly cared for with great attention to detail, which made me feel very comfortable and relaxed.
The location was also excellent, with convenient and easy access to Myeongdong and other popular areas. Getting around the city was simple, making the hotel a perfect base for exploring Seoul.
The lobby was modern, welcoming, and beautifully presented. Most importantly, every member of the staff was incredibly kind, professional, and helpful. They always greeted guests with a smile and were happy to assist whenever needed, which made the overall experience even more enjoyable.
After staying here, I have set a very high standard for future trips to Korea. I would be delighted if I could find hotels as clean and comfortable as this one. If I return to Seoul and there is availability, I would not hesitate to book this hotel again.
Overall, I had a wonderful stay and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a clean, comfortable, and conveniently located place to stay. It truly exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to visiting again in the future.FromVND 3,438,351
Very Good3159 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.57km from city center
I booked a triple room, and it was really good. The hotel is very clean, and the front desk staff speaks Chinese. It's a five-minute walk from the hotel to the subway. There are breakfast places in the alleys on both sides of the hotel. The earliest ones to open are in the alley directly opposite the hotel's main entrance; two of them open quite early, with customers already finishing up and leaving by 7:30 AM. They mainly serve soup dishes. If you walk straight out of the hotel's main entrance, cross the main road, and turn right, you'll find BHC fried chicken. On the left side, facing the hotel's main entrance, if you walk into the alley, there's Twotwo fried chicken, but it's closed on Sundays. Both of these fried chicken places are good. Take the hotel elevator to the first floor, exit, and turn left for a CU convenience store. Across the road, there's a GS25 convenience store.FromVND 3,757,293
Very Good1064 Reviews
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km from city center
Had a nice stay here for a couple of nights while in Seoul. Was adequately clean and comfortable but the real highlight is the location - super close to transport links and key sites if you’re visiting Seoul for the first time. Would recommend if you’re staying in Seoul for a couple of days.FromVND 2,294,827
Great2956 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km from city center
The location is excellent, just a five-minute walk from Euljiro 2(ga) station after taking bus 6015. The subway station is also very close, and there are tons of dining options downstairs, with places like 'Water Parsley Beef' and 'Wild Wild' right around the corner. 😂 The hotel lobby has a luggage scale and a convenience store, and you can do laundry on B2. The room size is acceptable, and there's a window, though no view. However, there's no shelf or platform in the bathroom to put toiletries. The narrow strip under the mirror is too small to hold anything. The motion-sensor light near the entrance can't be turned off, which can be startling when getting up for the restroom at night. The soundproofing in the room is decent, but I could clearly hear people shouting on the street in the middle of the night. I understand and appreciate the eco-friendly concept, but the lack of cups in the room was a bit inconvenient.FromVND 3,667,834
Great1033 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.72km from city center
Location: The hotel is perfectly situated right in Myeongdong's shopping district, making it incredibly convenient for dining and shopping. There's even an Olive Young right next door.
Cleanliness: The cleanliness was also excellent. The room was tidy, spotless, and odorless. Housekeeping was quite frequent.
The room wasn't too small; it was perfectly adequate for two people, and the air conditioning worked really well.
Breakfast is on the 21st floor. While the variety isn't extensive, the food isn't amazing, but it's not bad either – just average.
The front desk staff were also quite friendly, and there was even a receptionist who spoke Chinese.FromVND 6,106,573
Gym
Great2592 Reviews
Seoul|3.88km from city center
Recommended place: The location is excellent, with two subway lines nearby. However, Gaode Maps doesn't show the exits clearly, and it's particularly tricky to find the right exit when coming from the airport line. It's actually more convenient and closer to take the subway one more stop to Mapo Station on Line 5. It's very easy to get to places like Hongdae and Gwangjang Market by subway. Walking to the nearby Gongdeok market takes about ten minutes. Most restaurants open quite late.
The area is bustling, with many restaurants and 24-hour convenience stores nearby, including quite a few trendy spots.
There's a front desk staff member who speaks Chinese. I noticed many Chinese guests staying here. The service is average; perhaps they don't encourage eating in the rooms as they don't provide cutlery. If you buy food, remember to ask the store for disposable utensils.
The bed is quite large. The cleanliness and quality of the bedding are average. Nowadays, all Korean hotels don't provide toothbrushes and toothpaste, so remember to bring your own or buy them at a convenience store.
If you're out exploring all day and just need a place to sleep and eat at night, it's a decent option.FromVND 3,691,171
Very Good266 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.2km from city center
The room was quite spacious, the location was convenient, and the breakfast was plentiful. The ambiance was okay, the service was good, and the cleanliness was impeccable.FromVND 3,204,979
Great3556 Reviews
Seoul|3.79km from city center
The location is fantastic, right next to the airport shuttle, subway, and bus stops. For a hotel in Japan or Korea, the bathroom is quite spacious. The service is great, and the room is clean and tidy. It's a bit on the smaller side though; we could barely open two 28-inch suitcases flat on the floor, and they did block the way a bit. There's also a famous 40-year-old ginseng chicken soup restaurant right across from the hotel.FromVND 2,963,827
Great717 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km from city center
The hotel’s location is excellent, and the facilities are also very good. I especially loved the city view facing the large screen at shinesgae Mall. It’s a great choice for families or groups of friends staying together. There is also an airport bus stop just about 2 minutes away from the hotel, which is very convenient.FromVND 6,985,609
Very Good656 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.39km from city center
My business trip to Korea was made much more pleasant by my stay at this hotel. The front desk staff spoke both Chinese and English, were incredibly polite and helpful, and made the check-in and check-out process smooth and efficient, with no communication issues whatsoever. My room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped – perfect for my stay. Just a heads-up: make sure to book in advance as rooms tend to fill up quickly, and you might have trouble finding a suitable room if you just walk in. As a solo business traveler, my overall experience was excellent in every aspect. This hotel is ideal for both business and leisure travel, offers great value for money, and comes highly recommended. If you're planning a trip, I suggest booking early.FromVND 4,434,072
Swimming pool
Very Good407 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.FromVND 6,534,422
Great494 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.FromVND 11,400,233
Great1079 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.FromVND 13,730,066
Great948 Reviews
Seoul|4.07km from city center
I really liked the hotel, its location, and the fact that there was a lot of delicious food and local branded clothing nearby.
There was one downside: my iPhone charger went missing. I reported it to the front desk, and the next day, while I was out, they supposedly found the charger under the sofa, even though I hadn't unplugged it from the wall. So, I recommend putting all small items in the safe. Even though it's a minor thing, it left a bad taste in my mouth. 😕FromVND 6,075,457
Amazing683 Reviews
Seoul|12.73km from city center
I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The room was exceptionally spacious, clean, and comfortable, with a beautiful view that made the stay even more enjoyable. The staff provided excellent service throughout, always being friendly, attentive, and helpful.
One of the highlights was the smart home system in the room, which made controlling the lights and other features very convenient. The in-room water dispenser was a great touch, allowing easy access to filtered drinking water without the need for bottled water. Having a washer and dryer in the room was also incredibly useful, especially for longer stays.FromVND 8,661,999
Breakfast
Great1136 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km from city center
## Location: Perfect Score
Right across from Lotte Duty-Free and less than a 5-minute walk to Shinsegae Duty-Free, making it incredibly convenient for shopping. Its location is comparable to the Aloft nearby but significantly better than Voco (which requires a bit of a detour). If you're here for serious shopping, this location will definitely save you time and effort.
## Room & Facilities
The room size is similar to Aloft's – both are on the 'compact' side. It's a bit smaller than Voco, so if you have a lot of luggage, you might want to reconsider. The hotel is located within a mixed-use building, so you'll need to go to the 9th-floor lobby for check-in. Waiting for elevators during peak hours can be a bit of a pain. There are free luggage lockers on the 9th floor lobby, which are very convenient to use.
## Service & Details
The service was adequate, neither exceptionally good nor bad. However, there's a noticeable drawback: my Trip.com reservation explicitly requested a 'high floor,' but I was given the 11th floor (guest rooms are on floors 10-18). This compromised both the view and the quietness. I recommend calling ahead to confirm or actively requesting a higher floor upon arrival. The central air conditioning noise from the adjacent building runs 24/7, which somewhat affected my sleep.
## Alternatives
Next door is Ibis. If you're not sensitive to floor level or room size, you could compare prices for the same location and pick whichever is cheaper.
## Summary:
If you're looking for ultimate convenience and don't mind a smaller room or the occasional elevator wait, this place is worth considering. However, if a great view, spacious rooms, or a high-floor experience are important to you, I suggest lowering your expectations or looking elsewhere.FromVND 3,197,200
Great1679 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city center
The room was very clean and tidy, and the price was just right. It was also very conveniently located, with four subway lines nearby and a convenience store just a short walk away. David at the front desk was very accommodating; even though it wasn't yet 3 PM for check-in, he told us we could check in early because a room was already cleaned. All the staff were very friendly and helpful. It was excellent, and I'll definitely come back again.FromVND 2,777,130
Very Good1100 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.02km from city center
Staying at the Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong was a fantastic experience. First off, the location is incredibly convenient; you just cross a small road and you're at the subway station in about 10 seconds. Walk 20 meters to the left of the subway station, and you'll find the bus stop, offering a seamless connection to Airport Limousine bus 6015. Myeongdong's shopping district is also within walking distance. The hotel itself is clean, comfortable, and bright, featuring two beds, a desk, and two chairs, which was perfect for getting some work done or doing my makeup. The bathroom had a great wet/dry separation and a well-thought-out, comfortable layout, plus the water pressure from the faucet was excellent, which I truly appreciate. From my room, I had clear views of the mountains and N Seoul Tower – truly picturesque. The front desk service was polite and clear in their communication. After four nights, I felt very good about my stay and would definitely choose the Four Points by Sheraton again if I'm ever in the Myeongdong area.FromVND 4,834,695
Very Good1000 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city center
Upon entering to check-in, there was no proactive greeting. The attitude during check-in was also just so-so. I chose this hotel specifically because it was advertised as a 'Chinese selection,' but I felt their attitude towards Chinese guests was indifferent. Other explanations were general, mainly emphasizing the 11 AM check-out time, warning of a penalty otherwise. Personally, I think the hot water issue, which I'll mention next, is more important than that.
Aside from these points, the hygiene was acceptable. The facilities are a bit old. There's a convenience store nearby, and the bus stop downstairs is also very convenient.FromVND 1,275,768
Very Good627 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.FromVND 5,546,480
FAQs about Korea Tax Refund
-
How much is the tax refund in Korea?
-
Is there a tax refund for tourists in Korea?
-
How much is VAT in South Korea?
-
Is the tax refund no longer available in Korea?
-
Where can I get a Korea Tax Refund?
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.
Find Cheap Travel Deals & Explore Destinations on Trip.com
-
Air Travel Guide
-
Latest Flight Deals
-
Popular Flight & Hotel Packages
-
Getting Around
-
eSIM/SIM card
- Medellin Vacation Packages
- Hong Kong Vacation Packages
- Tokyo Flight and Hotel
- Hong Kong Flight and Hotel
- Langkawi Flight and Hotel
- Grand Turk Vacation Packages
- Providence Vacation Packages
- Tokyo Vacation Packages
- New Orleans Vacation Packages
- Liverpool Vacation Packages
- Zacatecas Vacation Packages
- Havana Vacation Packages
- Larnaca Vacation Packages
- Subic Bay Vacation Packages
- Jakarta Vacation Packages
- Shanghai Pudong Airport Transit
- Narita Airport Lounge
- JR Central
- Shanghai Maglev Train
- Shinkansen Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka
- Kunming Metro Map
- Nanjing Airport
- narita express
- Kyoto Station
- Suzhou metro
- Suzhou Metro Map
- Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok
- Xiamen Metro Map
- Qingdao Metro Map
- Macau to Hong Kong
- Narita Airport to Shinjuku
- Kunming Airport to City