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  • Guesthouse

    【 A hanok-style guesthouse (Credit: Gen. 4 Kim Min-jeong ) 】

    One of the most preferred types of accommodations among young Korean travelers is guesthouses. Guesthouses can easily be found in regions that are reputed as popular tourist attractions like Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong, and Seongsu-dong in Seoul; Haeundae and Gwangalli in Busan; and cities like Jeju, Gyeongju, and Jeonju. One of the greatest advantages about guesthouses is that they are relatively cheaper than other accommodation options. There is also a wide selection of the types of guesthouses including dormitories and 1- to 2-person rooms depending on the traveler’s preference. Some guesthouses host parties at night for their guests to promote friendship while others offer quiet relaxation. Read on to explore the different types of guesthouses available and see what suits you best.

    【 Credit (right): Clipart Korea) 】

    Recommended areas to use guesthouses

    • Hongdae & Yeonnam-dong, Seoul: Hongdae (Hongik University) is a popular area for young people insomuch to be called a “street of youth.” It features countless cafes, bars, clubs, and boutiques loved by young adults as well as many guesthouses. Yeonnam-dong  next to Hongdae is another popular place favored by the younger crowd. Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong are located close to Hongik University Station, which is connected by the Airport Railroad, allowing convenient access for travelers as well.
    • Haeundae & Gwangalli, Busan: Haeundae and Gwangalli, the two must-visit places in Busan, are home to many guesthouses. Near the beaches, there are many shops and venues to enjoy including cafes, bars, and restaurants. If the price of a hotel is a bit burdensome, staying in a guesthouse is a great alternative for enjoying the romantic night sea and splendid nightlife.
    • Gangneung, Gangwon State: It is also easy to find guesthouses in Gangneung, one of the most popular travel destinations in Korea. A city by the sea, Gangneung is widely loved for its famous cafes, restaurants, and tourist attractions, and unique guesthouses can be found both on the coast and in the city center.

    【 Credit (right): Danim Gen. 3 Hwang Jeong-bin 】

    Things to note when using a guesthouse

    • Guesthouse parties in Korea are famous as some host barbeque parties while others set up the mood like that of a club. Travelers who love a fun atmosphere in which they can mingle with other travelers stay at guesthouses with parties. However, those who prefer a quiet stay without a lot of noise and buzz are recommended to find a guesthouse that doesn’t host parties.
    • Most guesthouses provide breakfast with simple meals featuring bread, coffee and beverages, and, normally, you can help yourself during designated hours 
    • Some guesthouses provide tour programs for travelers so it is recommended to find out in advance.
    • Guesthouses either have private bathrooms in the rooms or shared bathrooms, so make sure to check in advance.
    • Considering the nature of guesthouses, many of do not have private parking spaces.
    Tip. Useful websites
    Refer to the official tourism websites below to get information on available guesthouses in major cities.

    * 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay) 
    * This page was last updated on October 17, 2025, and therefore the information may differ from what is presented here.