I see this every day: tourists dragging heavy suitcases up steep hills in Seoul, looking utterly exhausted. My heart aches a little, honestly. After 25 years living here, watching you guys make the same rookie mistakes with accommodation drives me a little crazy. Please, stop booking hotels just because they are ‘famous’ on Instagram or some influencer raved about a ’boutique’ stay
| District | Top Pick | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Gangnam | Dormy Inn SEOUL Gangnam | Luxury, Business |
Table of Contents
Gangnam — Shopping, Nightlife, K-pop
I step out at Gangnam Station, and it hits me—the sheer, loud energy. The air smells like street food and exhaust, a constant hum of people rushing, music blaring from shops.
It’s a full-on sensory overload, intense and almost overwhelming, but that’s the whole point. You come here for the chaos, the relentless pace, the feeling of being right in the thick of it all.
🚇 Getting There: 80 min by Airport Limousine Bus #6009. Nearest station: Gangnam Station (Line 2, Exit 11).
📍 Nearby: COEX Mall & Starfield Library · Bongeunsa Temple · Garosu-gil · K-Star Road · Apgujeong Rodeo Street
Dormy Inn SEOUL Gangnam
💡 Editor’s Verdict: The onsen here is legit, super nice after a long day of walking around. If you want to relax and don't mind spending a bit, this is a great pick.
- ✅ Great Spa
- ✅ Great View
- ✅ Great view
UH FLAT THE SEOCHO
💡 Editor’s Verdict: This place is crazy cheap for Gangnam and you get a whole apartment with city views. It's perfect if you're on a budget but still want some space.
- ✅ Excellent room comfort & quality
- ✅ Top Value
- ✅ Sparkling clean
UH FLAT SIGNATURE GANGNAM
💡 Editor’s Verdict: You get a fully-equipped apartment here, which is awesome if you're staying a while. Great for families or if you want to cook some meals yourself.
- ✅ Check-in [24-hour]
- ✅ Rated highly by Couples
- ✅ 450 meters to public transportation
Ananti at Gangnam
💡 Editor’s Verdict: The design here is super unique, like a fancy monastery mixed with a yacht, and the outdoor pool is serene. If you're looking for a splurge with a cool vibe, this is it.
- ✅ Check-in [24-hour]
- ✅ Sparkling clean
- ✅ The rooms were amazing and extremely clean.
Shilla Stay Gangnam Yeoksam
💡 Editor’s Verdict: It's right in the middle of everything, super close to all the nightlife and cool spots. Perfect if you want to hit the clubs and bars without a long taxi ride home.
- ✅ Front desk [24-hour]
- ✅ Hygiene Plus
- ✅ 560 meters to public transportation
Frequently Asked Questions
The Seoul subway system is incredibly extensive, efficient, and user-friendly, with English signage and announcements. Purchase a rechargeable transportation card like T-Money (티머니) or Cashbee (캐시비) at convenience stores or subway stations for easy travel on subways and buses.
While many younger Koreans and those in tourist-heavy areas like Myeongdong (명동) or Gangnam (강남) speak some English, it’s not universally spoken. Learning a few basic Korean phrases like “Annyeonghaseyo” (안녕하세요 – Hello) and using translation apps like Papago (파파고) will greatly enhance your experience.
No, tipping is generally not expected or customary in South Korea, whether in restaurants, cafes, or for services like taxis or hotel staff. The service charge is usually included in the price, and attempting to tip might even cause confusion.
Popular areas include Myeongdong (명동) for shopping and central access, Hongdae (홍대) for vibrant nightlife and youth culture, and Gangnam (강남) for upscale shopping and entertainment. Itaewon (이태원) is also well-known for its international atmosphere and diverse dining options.
Staying connected is easy with various options such as renting a portable Wi-Fi egg (와이파이 에그), purchasing a local SIM card, or using an eSIM. Free public Wi-Fi is also available in many cafes, subway stations, and public areas throughout the city.
Final Tips
Alright, that’s the scoop! Hope this helps you pick a spot in Gangnam. There’s a perfect vibe for everyone, from trendy cafes to buzzing nightlife. My advice: Book early if you’re coming in spring/fall – those seasons are super popular. Enjoy your visit!
