Where to Stay in South Korea

The metropolitan heart of South Korea offers the country's most diverse accommodation options, from global luxury brands to traditional hanok guesthouses in Bukchon and budget hostels in university districts. This region serves as the primary gateway for most international visitors and provides unmatched access to cultural sites, shopping, dining, and transportation hubs. Accommodation here tends to be 20-30% more expensive than other regions but offers the best infrastructure and English-language support.

South Korea's second-largest city Busan anchors this dynamic coastal region that combines beach resorts, historic temples, and vibrant urban culture. Accommodation ranges from beachfront hotels in Haeundae to traditional stays in historic Gyeongju, the ancient Silla capital. This region offers excellent value compared to Seoul while providing coastal scenery, hot springs, and rich cultural heritage.

Korea's premier resort destination offers distinctive volcanic landscapes, beaches, and a unique island culture reflected in its accommodation options. From luxury beachfront resorts to pension-style guesthouses and traditional stone houses, Jeju caters primarily to honeymooners and domestic tourists. Prices can be significantly higher than mainland Korea, especially during summer and holidays, but the island's natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere justify the premium.

Home to South Korea's premier ski resorts and the 2018 Winter Olympics venues, this mountainous northeastern region transforms seasonally from winter sports paradise to summer hiking destination. Accommodation concentrates around ski resorts like Pyeongchang and Alpensia, with traditional mountain temples offering unique temple stay experiences. Coastal cities like Gangneung provide beach alternatives with notably lower prices than southern coastal areas.

Often overlooked by international visitors, this region is Korea's culinary heartland and offers exceptional value accommodation alongside authentic cultural experiences. Traditional hanok stays in Jeonju's historic village, coastal resorts in Yeosu, and island-hopping bases in Mokpo provide diverse options at prices typically 30-40% below Seoul. The region's slower pace and fewer international tourists create a more intimate Korean experience.

This centrally-located region serves as a convenient base for exploring both Seoul and southern destinations, with the administrative capital Sejong and historic Gongju offering quieter alternatives to major tourist centers. Hot spring resorts in Asan and Onyang attract domestic wellness tourists, while temple stays in mountain areas provide spiritual retreats. Accommodation is generally affordable and less crowded than coastal or capital areas.

Stretching from Gangneung to Pohang, this dramatic coastline offers stunning sunrise views over the East Sea, pristine beaches, and fresh seafood. Accommodation tends toward family-run pensions, minbak (homestays), and small resort hotels rather than major chains. Summer brings peak pricing and crowds, but spring and autumn offer exceptional value with mild weather and fewer tourists.

The areas surrounding the Demilitarized Zone offer unique historical tourism opportunities with limited but adequate accommodation options. Most visitors base themselves in nearby cities like Paju or take day trips from Seoul, but staying overnight allows for early access to DMZ tours and exploration of border observatories. Accommodation is primarily functional business hotels and basic motels rather than tourist-focused properties.

The archipelago of small islands off Korea's southern coast, including Namhae, Geoje, and the Dadohae Marine Park islands, offers tranquil escapes with pension-style accommodations and small family-run guesthouses. These areas attract primarily domestic tourists seeking peaceful retreats, with limited English support but genuine hospitality. Ferry connections and remote locations mean accommodation should be booked in advance during peak seasons.

Scattered throughout Korea's mountain ranges, Buddhist temples offering temple stay programs provide unique cultural immersion experiences. These accommodations, found in areas like Haeinsa, Guinsa, and numerous smaller temples, offer simple dormitory-style rooms with vegetarian meals and participation in monastic life. While basic in amenities, temple stays provide unmatched cultural value and spiritual retreat opportunities at very reasonable prices.