Published on
August 21, 2025
Seoul is famous for its amazing blend of old and new. This year, 2025, several hotels and guesthouses have won the new “Excellent Seoul Stay” award. This program shines a light on places where travelers—both locals and visitors from abroad—can relax in comfort and also soak up Korean culture. Managed by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Tourism Foundation, the award goes only to those lodgings that impress guests with top-notch service, cozy rooms, and a true taste of Korean tradition.
The ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ Program: What It Means for Travelers
The ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ initiative has been developed as part of the city’s efforts to boost sustainable tourism and improve the quality of accommodations available to travelers. Unlike traditional hotels, these accommodations are often smaller, independent businesses that give guests an opportunity to experience Seoul more like a local. From charming hanok stays in the heart of the city to sleek, modern guesthouses by the Han River, the program ensures that travelers can find a place that suits their preferences and enhances their stay.
Currently, over 670 accommodations are registered under the ‘Seoul Stay’ program. These accommodations range from private lodging businesses and guesthouses to specialized hanok experience accommodations, making it a comprehensive offering for all types of tourists. The ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ title is reserved for the most outstanding establishments, recognized for their excellence in comfort, safety, customer service, and contribution to the local community and tourism industry.
A Rigorous Selection Process
The selection process for the 2025 program was highly competitive, with 63 accommodations submitting applications. The rigorous evaluation led to a final selection of 18 accommodations. This competition ratio of 3.5:1 reflects the level of interest and the high standards expected for recognition under the program. The selection was done in two stages:
- Document Evaluation: In the first phase, each applicant’s documentation was carefully reviewed. The focus was on the current condition of the accommodation, its management practices, and its ability to offer a high-quality stay. The review also considered the facility’s approach to customer service, cleanliness, and overall operational standards.
- Field Evaluation: The second phase was more hands-on. A panel of experts from the lodging and tourism industries visited each accommodation in person. They assessed factors such as:
- Facility and sanitation standards: Ensuring the property is well-maintained, clean, and hygienic.
- Safety management: The establishment’s commitment to guest safety, including emergency protocols and health regulations.
- Customer service: The quality of service provided by the staff, with an emphasis on friendly, efficient, and helpful interactions.
- Cultural contribution and promotion: How well the accommodation helps promote Korean culture and contributes to the local tourism ecosystem.
- Sustainability: Evaluation of practices related to noise management, waste disposal, and communication with local residents.
This thorough and multifaceted evaluation ensures that the selected accommodations uphold high standards across all aspects of hospitality and tourism.
The 2025 ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ Accommodations
The 2025 selection includes a diverse mix of accommodations, each offering a distinctive experience of Seoul. From traditional hanoks to trendy guesthouses, here are a few highlights:
Rakgojae Bukchon Vacation Hall
Located in the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, Rakgojae Bukchon Vacation Hall is a beautifully restored hanok offering a traditional Korean stay right in the heart of Seoul. With its charming wooden interiors, open courtyards, and warm hospitality, it provides a peaceful and immersive experience of Korean culture. Guests can relax in the tranquil surroundings of the village while being just a short walk from key landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Deokseonjae Hanok Stay
For those who appreciate scenic beauty and tranquility, Deokseonjae offers a traditional hanok stay with breathtaking views of Bukhansan Mountain. The property’s tranquil ambiance is ideal for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while still being close to all the major attractions.
BinB with Black Stone
Situated along the Han River, BinB with Black Stone provides a serene retreat with modern amenities and a sleek design. Its location offers easy access to riverside parks and cycling paths, making it a great choice for nature-loving travelers. The accommodation’s minimalist design emphasizes comfort and relaxation, with large windows allowing guests to enjoy spectacular views of the river.
La La Guest House
Located in the vibrant Hongdae area, La La Guest House is perfect for those who want to experience the lively culture and energy of Seoul. Known for its youthful atmosphere, this guesthouse blends modern convenience with artistic flair, making it an ideal spot for creative travelers. The surrounding area is filled with cafes, art galleries, and indie shops, perfect for exploring Seoul’s artistic side.
Other accommodations on the list include:
- Let’s Stay in Seoul: An adults-only hostel offering modern facilities in a location close to Ewha Womans University.
- Stay H Seoul: A guesthouse offering comfortable, budget-friendly stays near popular Seoul landmarks.
Financial Support and Marketing Opportunities
Accommodations that receive the ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ designation are not only recognized for their excellence but also supported with up to 5 million KRW in funding. This financial support can be used for various improvements, such as:
- Interior Design Upgrades: Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of rooms and common areas to create a more welcoming environment for guests.
- Safety Enhancements: Installing safety measures, such as advanced fire prevention systems, emergency exit plans, and medical kits.
- Promotional Activities: Partnering with foreign experience groups and utilizing social media platforms to promote their offerings to a wider audience.
This support ensures that accommodations continue to grow and maintain their high standards, benefiting both the businesses and their guests.
Embracing Life-Oriented Tourism
The rise of alternative accommodations in Seoul is reflective of a broader global trend toward life-oriented tourism. Rather than staying in standard hotels, many visitors now seek out places that offer a more authentic and immersive experience. Accommodations under the ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ program cater to this demand by offering unique, localized stays that allow guests to live like locals, explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, and engage with the culture on a deeper level.
As the demand for more personalized travel experiences increases, the ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ program continues to support businesses that cater to this shift in traveler expectations.
Conclusion
The 2025 list of ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ places is your ticket to the city’s top hospitality gems. Whether one wants to unwind in a cozy hanok, relax by the river, or stay in a lively guesthouse, these hand-picked spots blend Seoul’s cultural warmth with its sleek modern side. Seoul’s tourism keeps growing, and the ‘Excellent Seoul Stay’ program keeps shining with its focus on quality, eco-friendliness, and genuine local flavour.
