Sollago Myeongdong Hotel & Residence

Overall generally the location is good within walking distance to subway Station and there is a airport express bus stop nearby within 500m. Surrounding has many korean eateries and convienece shops. Rooms are not big but reasonable for a comfortable stay for 2 pax. Hotel room layour is more like a service apartment style and can get pretty crowded during peak season.

I stayed at this hotel in Seoul for 9 nights. While the room and location were acceptable, my experience at the hotel buffet was extremely disappointing and left a very negative impression on my overall stay. During breakfast, I personally witnessed multiple guests being treated rudely by both the buffet staff and the manager. In one instance, an elderly couple and two female friends were dining nearby, speaking English and happily sharing their travel experiences. Although they sounded excited, they were not being disruptive. However, the manager suddenly approached them and harshly told them they were “too loud.” Later, when they combined their tables so they could sit closer and talk more comfortably, the manager returned and rudely told them they were not allowed to move or separate the tables. The way this was handled felt unnecessary and very uncomfortable to watch. I also witnessed another disturbing incident involving a guest who arrived just before the buffet closing time at 9:30am. The manager repeatedly told the guest “close, close” and refused to let him enter, despite the fact that his family members were already inside dining. The guest pointed toward his family and tried to explain that he only wanted to join them briefly, but the manager rudely refused and chased him away. What made this even more confusing was that guests who arrived earlier were also forced to leave immediately at 9:30am, even if they had not finished their food. There was no flexibility, explanation, or courtesy — only abrupt and forceful instructions to leave. Unfortunately, I personally experienced unacceptable behavior as well. On another morning, I took a sunny-side-up egg from the live cooking station. The egg was placed on a small plate, and I simply transferred it onto my larger dining plate where my other food was. The chef immediately reacted very aggressively — loudly saying “NO” and repeatedly gesturing “no no no,” without any explanation. As she did not speak English, I was left confused and startled by her reaction. To avoid any issue, I carried both plates back to my table. Shortly after, a waiter approached me and firmly said that I “should bring the small plate back” and that guests are not allowed to transfer food between plates. I replied calmly that I understood, although I found the rule confusing, and thanked him. As he walked away, the waiter used the word “Shibal,” which is a very strong Korean curse word. I clearly understood what was said and informed him that I understood the meaning. He immediately walked away and later spoke to the manager while pointing in my direction. At that point, I chose not to escalate the situation further, as it was already clear that disrespectful behavior toward guests was common at the buffet. I travel frequently and fully respect house rules and cultural differences. However, there is no excuse for rude treatment, public scolding, or profanity toward guests, especially in a hotel serving international travelers. This stay could have been enjoyable given the length of my trip, but the repeated hostile and unwelcoming behavior at the buffet significantly affected my experience. I hope management seriously reviews their service standards, staff training, and communication with guests.

I booked this trip last minute and didn’t have many expectations for the hotel, but I ended up having such a pleasant stay. They have a mini kitchen with kitchen utensils available apon request which was a big plus because I could reheat and cook simple meals. There’s also a washing machine for quick laundry and a toilet with a bidet — super plus point! The location is great — very close to Chungmuro Station, near Myeongdong but much quieter and peaceful. There are buses that go almost everywhere, and a CU right in front of the hotel. The bed was comfy, the room size felt just right, and housekeeping was consistent. Rubbish was cleared every day and fresh towels were provided daily too. Thank you for the lovely stay! I’ll definitely be back the next time I’m in Seoul 🫶