Seoul is often overlooked, but it’s youthful, dynamic and packed full of as much food as it is filled with stunning slices of history; alongside malls and orange-tented street food there’s great hiking to be had in the mountains that dot the city.

But since the visitors to the city don’t seem to extend past a slew of expats and a few adventurous backpackers, it’s difficult to know what areas of the city to stay in – or even what the Seoul is about. What are hostels like here, for instance?

Don’t worry: we’ve done the hard work for you, diving into the city’s hostel scene to find the best hostels in Seoul!

What awaits you in Seoul? Is your hostel an apartment-based, homestay-like affair? Or will you go for something a little cooler? You can find these – and more – in the South Korean capital, so let’s scroll down and see!

Editor’s note – Keep exploring South Korea and check out our 15 best day trips from Seoul!

Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Seoul

#1 Best Overall Hostel in Seoul – ZZZIP GUESTHOUSE
#2 Best Party Hostel in Seoul – Time Travelers Party Hostel
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Seoul – Hongdae Lazy Fox Hostel
#4 Best Hostel near Gyeongbokgung – Socuri Home
#5 Best Hostel near Changdeokgung – Insa Hostel
#6 Best Hostel near N Tower Seoul – Bodeum Guest House Seoul Tower
#7 Best Hostel near Incheon International Airport – Lian Guesthouse
#8 Best Hostel near Seoul Station – Kimchee Downtown Guesthouse
#9 Best High-end Hostel in Seoul – Whitetail Backpacker and Hostel
#10 Best Budget Hostel in Seoul – Backpackers INSIDE
#11 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Seoul – Bunk Guest House

#1 – ZZZIP GUESTHOUSE

 Best Overall Hostel in Seoul

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 366-37, Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like ZZZIP GUESTHOUSE…
The location, staff, cleanliness, design (newly and stylishly renovated) and pretty much everything about ZZZIP GUESTHOUSE make it the best overall hostel in Seoul. This is a firm favourite that does just about everything a Seoul backpackers hostel should do for guests. We enjoy its all-round amazingness, if we’re honest.

ZZZIP GUESTHOUSE is perfect for…
A hostel may be amazing overall, sure, but what tops that is what people love in general when it comes to a hostel: perks. There’s a fair few complimentary things on offer at this top hostel in Seoul: breakfast, tea and coffee, coupons for attractions, luggage storage. You’ll love it.

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#2 – Time Travelers Party Hostel

Best Party Hostel in Seoul

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 457, Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Time Travelers Party Hostel…
We love a hostel that offers up a good chance for a party, and this one doesn’t disappoint. The basement bar – complete with pool table, retro arcade machine, music and cheap beer – makes for a great atmosphere that goes towards putting this place on the map as the best party hostel in Seoul.

Time Travelers Party Hostel is perfect for…
Simply put, Time Travelers Party Hostel is literally perfect for anyone looking to socialise over a drink or two. Located in the ever-bustling area of Hongdae, choc-a-block with bars and restaurants, it’s not just the hostel itself that’s itching for a party but the surrounding streets too.

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Heading to Busan? Save some money with our guide to the coolest hostels in Busan!

#3 – Hongdae Lazy Fox Hostel

 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Seoul

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 483-16, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hongdae Lazy Fox Hostel…
Another recommended hostel in Seoul that’s located in the cool area of Hongdae, Lazy Fox has an interesting eclectic approach to design – both inside and out – which we love. The idea of staying somewhere that’s in keeping with its surroundings makes sense to us, so this cool hostel in Seoul ticks that box.

Hongdae Lazy Fox Hostel is perfect for…
But it’s not all about the decor. The owners at Lazy Fox make an effort to help you feel welcome – combined with nights out and a fun common room, it’s the best hostel for solo travellers in Seoul. And fashionistas, take note: Hongdae is jostling with boutiques and independent stores.

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jeju is incredible! There are tons of things to do there!

#4 – Socuri Home

 Best Hostel near Gyeongbokgung

Why we like Socuri Home…
If there’s one thing we truly love, it’s a bit of style. And when it comes to style, Socuri Home is a winner. Specifically we’re very into their cool pod-style bunks in the dorm, featuring plenty of space for yourself and your stuff. Combined with a free, serve-yourself breakfast, this place is awesome.

Socuri Home is perfect for…
On top of having this solid layout, culture-lovers will be all over this place since it’s just a 5-minute walk to 620-year-old palace of Gyeongbokgung. Plus for those wanting to wander around an Instagram-worthy area, the extremely charming Bukchon Hanok Village is just nearby. It’s our top pick for the best hostel near Gyeongbokgung – alongside other cultural hotspots nearby.

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#5 – Insa Hostel

 Best Hostel near Changdeokgung

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 48, Insadong 14-gil, Jongno-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Insa Hostel…
We love the location of this Seoul backpackers hostel: not only is it the best hostel near Changdeokgung (another grand palace with sprawling gardens), but it’s also very near to Insa-dong, a district known for its tea shops, galleries and cafes. We love being able to tumble out the door and explore right away.

Insa Hostel is perfect for…
So Insa Hostel is for people who want to be near cultural sights as well as amazing shopping, anyone who likes complimentary breakfast and noodles anytime you want ’em – and especially anyone who likes to get to know their fellow travellers: the rooftop area here is immense.

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#6 – Bodeum Guest House Seoul Tower

Best Hostel near N Tower Seoul

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 17-5, Sogong-ro 4-gil, Jung-gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Bodeum Guest House Seoul Tower…
Although this place has no dorms, we really love Bodeum Guest House Seoul Tower not only because of its location but (mainly) because of the rooms here. They look brand new, with an effortlessly stylish minimalist design, featuring all pale wood and white – plus it’s super tidy and clean.

Bodeum Guest House Seoul Tower is perfect for…
But aside from this being one of the coolest hostels in Seoul (including common area, kitchen and free breakfast), those who love to wander will love Bodeum; it’s the best hostel near N Tower Seoul, a spectacular viewpoint – with revolving restaurant – of the city set in the rambling mountain park of Namsan.

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#7 – Lian Guesthouse

 Best Hostel near Incheon International Airport

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 331-18 Seogyo-dong, mapo-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Lian Guesthouse hostel…
About as close to it as you can get without actually locating yourself in Incheon, Lian Guesthouse is the best hostel near Incheon International Airport. From here it’s just a 5-minute walk to Hongik University metro stop – and a direct train all the way to the airport (even Gimpo International Airport is on the way).

Lian Guesthouse hostel is perfect for…
Fans of not having to trudge around a city wearing a backpack – or worse: navigating various changes on a metro system with luggage – will love the ease of getting to both of Seoul’s airports. It’s actually quite a social Seoul backpackers hostel, too – plus buzzing Hongdae’s on the doorstep.

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#8 – Kimchee Downtown Guesthouse

 Best Hostel near Seoul Station

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 43-45, Seosomun-ro, Seodaemun-gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Kimchee Downtown Guesthouse…
Just a stone’s throw away from the main station in town, Kimchee Downtown Hostel is more than just a typical station hostel. We found it to be the best hostel near Seoul Station not just because it’s nearby, but because it’s got a lot going for it all-round: staff, atmosphere, common areas – everything.

Kimchee Downtown Guesthouse is perfect for…
Stay here if you’re a fan of a casual hostel with helpful staff and a friendly vibe, plus a clean and tidy environment, complete with rooftop smoking area for some after hours drinking and chatting with fellow guests. It all adds up to what makes this a top hostel in Seoul.

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#9 – Whitetail Backpacker and Hostel

Best High-end Hostel in Seoul

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 390-69 Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Whitetail Backpacker and Hostel…
Spacious dorms with innovative cube-esque bunks, private rooms that wouldn’t look out of place in a design magazine, a general knock-out chic aesthetic: yep, this is (maybe) the coolest hostel in Seoul. Whitetail Backpacker and Hostel is a Seoul backpackers hostel with a difference, definitely more like a boutique hotel.

Whitetail Backpacker and Hostel is perfect for
If lounging around in surroundings that make you feel like you’re in an Instagram fashion shoot or something sounds good to you, then here’s the place for you. And although it’s our best high-end hostel in Seoul the prices aren’t as high-end as other hostels, which makes this some affordable luxury indeed.

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#10 – Backpackers INSIDE

 Best Budget Hostel in Seoul

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 5 Sungkyunkwan-ro-4-gil, Jongrogu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Backpackers INSIDE hostel…
A little far out from some of Seoul’s more central areas, but still with a wealth of culture, shopping and general city exploration opportunities just nearby, Backpackers INSIDE is a great budget hostel in Seoul. We love the particularly hostel-y vibe here, helped by a cosy common room complete with board games, guitars and lots more.

Backpackers INSIDE hostel is perfect for…
For those looking for a bargain, the award-winning Backpackers INSIDE is our pick for the best budget hostel in Seoul. It might not be the most cutting-edge and it might not have Hongdae’s energetic streets outside its door, but if you’re all about affordability, this chilled hostel is for you.

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Want to take Seoul to the next level? These incredible tours in Seoul will leave you speechless. 

#11 – Bunk Guest House

Best Hostel with a Private Room in Seoul

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 19-1 Wausan-ro 29ra-gil, Mapo-gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Bunk Guest House…
When the rooms at a hostel look more like those you’d find at a boutique hostel you know you’re onto a winner. So with that in mind we’d say that Bunk Guest House is the best hostel with a private room in Seoul – clean, well sized and with chic minimalist design. Love it.

Bunk Guest House is perfect for…
Those who want the hostel experience without the whole, you know, dorm room experience, will love staying at Bunk Guest House. By hostel experience, we mean everything that makes a good budget hostel in Seoul: affordability, a bar crawl, Korean BBQ nights, a good location and extremely comfy beds.

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More of the Best Hostels in Seoul

#12 – Dustin Guest House

• Cost – $$$
  
• Location – 346-42 4F, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Dustin Guest House…
Though this isn’t one of the coolest hostels in Seoul, Dustin Guest House is still a great place to stay. Located in the heart of Hongdae, with its many bars and restaurants, we love the espresso machine, the rooftop terrace and the cosy, homely feel of this top hostel in Seoul.

Dustin Guest House is perfect for…
Those looking for a balance of location and price will love this place. This Seoul backpackers hostel will also suit anyone looking to be in the thick of things – it’s sandwiched in a myriad of eateries and shops. But if you don’t want to venture out, drinking soju on the roof overlooking the city s a fine past-time.

Check for Best Price

 

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#13 – Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 275-3, Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse…
This is the direct counterpart to the more party-based Time Travelers Party Guesthouse, a cousin hostel that boasts a library and places to sit and be quiet instead of a party atmosphere. That doesn’t mean it’s not social: in fact, we love the hipster-cafe vibe going on here. Looks very cool, too.

Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse is perfect for…
Digital nomads will look upon this place like a sight for sore eyes – having a place to work with a laptop that isn’t a cramped hostel environment is a luxury, so this youth hostel in Seoul will cure what ails you, laptop-wise anyway. Those after a peaceful oasis in the middle of a busy city will also dig Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse.

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#14 – Fully Hong Hostel

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 57, Gwansu-dong, 110-420
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Fully Hong Hostel…
This recommended hostel in Seoul is a great spot for lingering over a cup of coffee or tea: the cafe downstairs is a great place to people-watch, work or mingle with your fellow guests. That’s definitely a major plus of Fully Hong Hostel – alongside its very clean rooms.

Fully Hong Hostel is perfect for…
Foodies and nature-lovers rejoice: the staff at this place put on cooking lessons, so you can learn how to make Korean staples like kimchee – plus they’ll take you out on some of Seoul’s hiking trips. If there’s one thing in South Korea you absolutely have to do it’s take advantage of its amazing hiking.

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#15 – K-Guesthouse Insadong

Why we like K-Guesthouse Insadong…
When the weather’s nice there’s nothing we like more than sitting on a sunny rooftop terrace looking out over a city with a drink in hand. Well, there doesn’t have to be a drink. But it helps. And that’s part of the reason why K-Guesthouse Insadong is a top hostel in Seoul for us.

K-Guesthouse Insadong is perfect for…
Those who are looking for an all-round amazing location will love this Seoul backpackers hostel. Not only is K-Guesthouse Insadong near a few different metro stops, it’s also near to cultural sites like the palace of Changdeokgung and Jongmyo Shrine – plus the warren of alleys that is Insa-dong.

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#16 – NAMU Guesthouse

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Hanil heights # 101,504-42 yunnam-dong, Mapogu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like NAMU Guesthouse…
The cosy, homely feel of NAMU Guesthouse is something that makes it a top hostel in Seoul for us. The environment is warm and comfortable, the staff are really friendly and even offer up a home-cooked breakfast on Sundays (though there’s a ‘regular breakfast’ complimentary every day). Their bread is from a local organic bakery, too.

NAMU Guesthouse is perfect for…
Needless to say, those who are interested in feeling a very warm welcome when they’re staying at a budget hostel in Seoul should definitely keep this place in mind. As an additional extra, there’s the chance to try on traditional Korean hanbok for a great photo-op.

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#17 – Kimchee Sinchon Guesthouse

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 503-19, Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Kimchee Sinchon Guesthouse…
We love the energy going on at Kimchee Sinchon Guesthouse. This Seoul backpackers hostel is the sort of place we can imagine making a fair few friends – or at least some travel buddies for exploring the buzzing city of Seoul itself. The amazing staff definitely help to cultivate an air of sociability, that’s for sure.

Kimchee Sinchon Guesthouse is perfect for…
We love the energy going on at Kimchee Sinchon Guesthouse. This Seoul backpackers hostel is the sort of place we can imagine making a fair few friends – or at least some travel buddies for exploring the buzzing city of Seoul itself. The amazing staff definitely help to cultivate an air of sociability, that’s for sure.

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#18 – Seoul I Guesthouse

Why we like Seoul I Guesthouse…
Located right in the middle of the very lively Hongdae area, it’s the location of this Seoul backpackers hostel that really gets us. In a good way, of course. Coupled with a fresh decor and clean, spacious rooms, Seoul I Guesthouse is a dream of a destination in a hectic city.

Seoul I Guesthouse is perfect for…
Fans of traditional Korean decor and living spaces will really love what Seoul I Guesthouse has to offer. Sliding doors, sitting on the floor, and a high degree of tidiness and cleanliness make it feel different to a regular Seoul backpackers hostel – so we’d really recommend checking this one out.

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#19 – Itaewon N Guest House

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 79-67 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Itaewon N Guest House…
Itaewon is a lively area that’s popular with expats and locals alike – and as such there are a plethora of international restaurants and hip bars nearby. It’s also only 10 minutes away from the vibrant Itaewon Street – one of the reasons Seoul is my favorite city in South Korea. We love the location; it’s away from Hongdae, but it has a good vibe of its own.

Itaewon N Guest House is perfect for…
Muslim travellers particularly might be interested to know that Seoul Central Mosque – the only mosque in the Seoul Capital Area – is nearby and, due to the international feel of the area, so are many halal eateries. So if you’re after convenience coupled with a lively area to explore, here’s a very good choice.

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#20 – Kimchee Gangnam Guesthouse

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Seoul Gangnam-gu Nonhyeon dong 112-5
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Absolute Paris Boutique Hostel…
There are loads of cool hostels in Paris and with its fancy bar area downstairs, and the street-art-style decor of the common areas and rooms upstairs, this Paris backpackers hostel embraces an eclectic style that feels just at home in the City of Lights. Welcome to Absolute Paris Boutique Hostel.

Absolute Paris Boutique Hostel is perfect for…
If you like being well located when you’re travelling, here’s the place for you. This budget hostel in Paris is certainly one of the best when it comes to that: République metro stop is nearby, a hub of 5 different lines that can get you pretty much anywhere in the city!

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#21 – Hongdae Pencil Guesthouse and Hostel

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 113-32, donggyo-dong, Mapo Gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hongdae Pencil Guesthouse and Hostel…
We utterly adore the minimalist, almost space-age decor of this top hostel in Seoul. There’s a lot of white going on in the design, which may not suit some people, but it’s something that makes us feel like we’re in an R&B video and we love it.

Hongdae Pencil Guesthouse and Hostel is perfect for…
On top of that, people who want to feel like they’re in a hotel but not necessarily for hotel prices will be interested in staying in one of this hostel’s private rooms. Even without staying in a private room, the lux feel of this hostel in general – complete with airy lobby/cafe – is enough.

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#22 – Lazy Fox Den

Why we like Lazy Fox Den…
Seemingly unrelated to the similarly named Lazy Fox, the Lazy Fox Den is a recommended hostel in Seoul because of its great location and very tasteful decor – both of which are all about style and fresh energy. Hongdae is the place to be and, when you’re done exploring, so is this hostel.

Lazy Fox Den is perfect for…
If you’re also interested in beautiful, airy, minimalist surroundings, then Lazy Fox Den is one to put on your where-to-stay-in-Seoul list, that’s for sure. Cosy and cool at the same time, there’s not much to the common area but the dorms are a dreamy place to recline at night.

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#23 – Brownie Guesthouse

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 3F, 24, Yanghwa-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Brownie Guesthouse…
Cute, cute, cute! We love cute – and this budget hostel in Seoul is cute indeed. Featuring white-painted wood-panelled walls, naked light-bulbs in a generally stripped back urban aesthetic, Brownie Hostel fulfils our cute quota as much as it does our need for coolness. It’s very possibly the coolest hostel in Seoul.

Brownie Guesthouse is perfect for…
Naturally, anyone with an eye for design will enjoy the polished concrete and metal-frame beds flaunted at this Seoul backpackers hostel. At the same time, anyone looking for an interesting night out or even a day browsing independent boutiques and stores will love the location – in walking distance of fashionable, student-y Hongdae.

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#24 – G Guest House Itaewon

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 14-38, Bogwang-ro 60-gil, Yongsan-gu 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like G Guest House Itaewon…
Another hostel located in the popular expat and tourist area of Itaewon, G Guest House Itaewon is not only noted for its location (there are metro stops in walking distance, too) but it’s also very stylish: the polished concrete, metal frame beds and general industrial-chic aesthetic makes us very happy.

G Guest House Itaewon is perfect for…
Prospective guests of this top hostel in Seoul will be happy to know that it’s a very social place indeed – there’s even a movie night every Thursday. Elsewhere the cafeteria area of G Guest House Itaewon is a great place to chat and mingle with other guests over complimentary coffee.

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FAQ’s

How Much are Hostels in Seoul?

Dormitory rooms are generally around $15 per night, though you can find cheaper options. If you want a private room, you can find budget options for around $20 or up to $80 on the high end.

What are Hostels in Seoul Like?

Ultra modern, classy, and often with an artsy flare! Seoul is known for its cool shopping centers, fantastic cuisine, and contemporary style, which hostels definitley highlight. In such a big city, Hostels can be found in a variety of areas so whether you're hoping to experience the nightlife or you prefer something quieter, you can find a place.

Are Hostels in Seoul Safe?

Despite its size, Seoul is a fairly safe city and hostels generally have great security features. Of course, you should always exercise standard precautions when traveling!

How to Find Hostels in Seoul?

Check out HostelWorld to see all your options and compare prices. If you're traveling around other places in South Korea, you can ask at your current hotel or hostel for a recommendation of where to stay!

 

	Best Overall Hostel in Seoul ZZZIP GUESTHOUSE Free breakfast, free city maps, free wifi	Check Best Price
	Best Party Hostel in Seoul Time Travelers Party Hostel Free city maps, free wifi, bar	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Seoul Hongdae Lazy Fox Hostel Free breakfast, free parking, towels included	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Gyeongbokgung Socuri Home Free wifi	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Changdeokgung Insa Hostel Free breakfast, free wifi, towels included	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near N Tower Seoul Bodeum Guest House Seoul Tower Free breakfast, free wifi, towels included	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Incheon International Airport Lian Guesthouse hostel Free breakfast, free wifi, towels included	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Seoul Station Kimchee Downtown Guesthouse Free wifi, free city maps, towels included	Check Best Price
	Best High-end Hostel in Seoul Whitetail Backpacker and Hostel Free breakfast, free wifi, towels included	Check Best Price
	Best Budget Hostel in Seoul Backpackers INSIDE hostel Free city maps, free wifi, towels included	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel with a Private Room in Seoul Bunk Guest House Free breakfast, free wifi, towels included	Check Best Price

 

Last thoughts on the best hostels in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul’s hostels say a lot about how you’ll be welcomed to the city: the hosts are warm, staff are attentive, the spaces are cosy and cute. You’ll feel like a guest of honour in a plain ol’ Seoul backpackers hostel and it means a lot!

We hope that, thanks to our handy list, you’ll be able to find your perfect base to explore this bustling, still-growing metropolis.

And thankfully hostels come in pretty cheaply on the list of accommodation in the South Korean capital, meaning that anybody from couples on a budget to long-term backpackers will be able to afford a comfy stay in Seoul.

Can’t decide where you want to stay? We know: the best hostels in Seoul are all so good, but the best overall hostel in Seoul is Kimchee Downtown Guesthouse, if you really are spoilt for choice. And with that, it’s annyeonghi gaseyo from us!

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