South Korea Public Holidays 2026 Calendar & Travel Guide

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South Korea Public Holidays 2026

Planning a trip to South Korea in 2026? Understanding the country's public holidays will help you make the most of your visit. From the vibrant Lunar New Year (Seollal) to the festive Chuseok, South Korea’s holidays offer a unique chance to experience its rich traditions and culture. Whether you're joining in the celebrations or exploring local customs, this guide will help you plan a memorable trip.

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Overview of Korea Public Holiday 2026 ✨

South Korea’s public holidays in 2026 offer a one-of-a-kind chance to immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. These holidays blend national celebrations, time-honored observances, and solemn commemorations, inviting visitors to dive into the heart of Korean life. Key holidays include:

Korea Public Holiday 2026
🏨 Pro Tip: Don’t rely on public Wi-Fi at the airport. Activate a South Korean eSIM and go straight to your hotel without delays.

Korea Public Holidays 2026 Calendar 🗓️

The following is a list of public holidays in Korea for 2026:

Date

Holiday

Duration

Description / Cultural Notes

Travel Impact

Jan 1 (Thu)

New Year’s Day 🎆

1 day

This marks the start of the year. Locals often head to the mountains or beaches to catch the first sunrise.

Minor closures, busy sunrise spots.

Feb 16–18

Seollal (Lunar New Year) 🧧

3 days

Families gather for ancestral rites, games, and traditional meals.

Major closures and very high travel demand.

Mar 1 (Sun)

Independence Movement Day 💫

1 day

Honors the 1919 independence uprising.

Government offices are closed, and local ceremonies are being held.

May 5 (Tue)

Children’s Day 👧👦

1 day

Families spend the day at parks, zoos, and theme parks.

Busy family attractions.

May 24 (Sun)

Buddha’s Birthday 🕯️

1 day

Lanterns adorn temples across the country.

Temples are crowded; services elsewhere are reduced.

Jun 6 (Sat)

Memorial Day 🕊️

1 day

A solemn day to remember fallen soldiers.

National ceremonies; partial closures.

Aug 15 (Sat)

Liberation Day 🎉

1 day

Celebrates Korea's independence in 1945.

Patriotic events; government offices are closed.

Sep 24 – Sep 26

Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) 🌕

3 days

Families honor ancestors and share traditional dishes.

Major closures; high travel activity.

Oct 3 (Sat)

National Foundation Day 🏛️

1 day

Marks the founding of the Korean nation.

Government offices are closed; cultural festivals are held.

Oct 9 (Fri)

Hangeul Day ✍️

1 day

Celebrates the invention of the Korean alphabet.

Educational events; some closures.

Dec 25 (Fri)

Christmas Day 🎄

1 day

Widely celebrated, especially in cities.

❤️‍🩹Pro Tip: Always carry some cash and a portable Wi-Fi or eSIM card, as payment and app access may be limited in smaller areas during holidays.

How Korea’s Public Holidays Can Affect Your Trip? 🧳

Holiday in South Korea

Spend the Holiday in South Korea

Traveling during Korea’s public holidays can be a mixed bag, depending on your preferences. Major holidays like Seollal and Chuseok are centered around family time, and many shops, restaurants, and attractions—especially in more traditional areas—may be closed. That said, cities like Seoul stay lively, with special events, festivals, and parades.

Transportation can get crowded during these holidays, as many Koreans travel to their hometowns. For example, during Seollal and Chuseok, bus terminals and train stations can experience heavy traffic, leading to longer travel times.

If you’re planning a trip to Korea in 2026, be sure to check the specific dates of these holidays to adjust your itinerary accordingly. While some attractions may be closed, many other cultural experiences are enhanced during these times, offering travelers a chance to experience Korea's rich traditions up close.

Major Holidays and Cultural Highlights in Korea 👀

🌅 New Year’s Day (Jan 1)

  • Celebrates the start of the New Year.
  • Families come together to savor traditional meals and offer prayers for prosperity.
  • Many businesses and shops may be closed on New Year’s Day.

🌕 Seollal (Lunar New Year) — Feb 16-18

  • Korea's most important holiday.
  • Families perform ancestral rites and share traditional foods like tteokguk (rice cake soup).
  • Shops and public transport are packed as many people head back to their hometowns.

🗓️ Independence Movement Day — Mar 1

  • Commemorates the 1919 protest against Japanese colonial rule.
  • It’s celebrated with ceremonies and public events, especially in major cities.
  • Government offices close for the day.

🌸 Children's Day — May 5

  • A day dedicated to celebrating children.
  • Families take their children to parks, zoos, and amusement parks.
  • Most schools and businesses are closed.

🕯️ Buddha's Birthday — May 24

  • Commemorates the Buddha's birth.
  • Temples are adorned with colorful lanterns, and people come to pray and take part in parades.
  • Some businesses may be closed or have reduced hours.

🌾 Memorial Day — June 6

  • A tribute to those who gave their lives during the Korean War and in the fight for the nation's independence.
  • Ceremonies and events are held to remember fallen heroes.
  • Government offices and schools are closed.

🗓️ Liberation Day — Aug 15

  • Celebrates Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule in 1945.
  • Public events and exhibitions reflect on Korea’s independence.
  • Many businesses remain open, but government offices are closed.

🌾 Chuseok (Harvest Festival) — 24-26 Sept

  • Korea's version of Thanksgiving.
  • Families come together to honor their ancestors, savor traditional foods like songpyeon (rice cakes), and celebrate the harvest.
  • Prepare for crowded journeys as people return to their hometowns, and expect many shops to be closed.

🏛️ National Foundation Day — Oct 3

  • Celebrates the founding of Korea's first kingdom, Gojoseon, in 2333 BCE.
  • Cultural events and ceremonies are held across the country.
  • Government offices and schools close for the day.

📜 Hangul Day — Oct 9

  • Commemorates the creation of the Korean alphabet, Hangul.
  • Schools and cultural institutions host events to celebrate Hangul’s heritage.
  • Most businesses stay open, though some cultural institutions may close for special events.

🎄 Christmas Day — Dec 25

  • Celebrated by Christians and many Koreans as a festive day.
  • Christmas decorations are a common sight, and people enjoy festive meals.
  • While many businesses close, major attractions and shopping centers remain open.

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Closures and Disruptions to Expect During Korea’s Public Holidays 🛎️

During Korea’s public holidays, especially Seollal and Chuseok, there are some common closures and disruptions:

  • Public Transportation: Buses, trains, and subways may run on modified schedules or offer limited services during public holidays. For Seollal and Chuseok, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as routes are often overbooked.
  • Shops and Restaurants: Many shops—especially in smaller towns or traditional markets—close for holidays, particularly during Seollal and Chuseok. Larger shopping malls and restaurants in major cities often stay open, but they can be crowded.
  • Attractions: Some museums, historic sites, and cultural institutions may close on certain holidays. Always check in advance to make sure your planned destination will be open on specific holidays.

Travel Tips for South Korea’s Holiday Seasons 🌟

Nuwemaru Street (Pedestrian Shopping Street)

Make your trip happen in South Korea

  • Plan ahead: Book your travel and accommodation well in advance, especially for popular holidays like Seollal and Chuseok. Public transportation can be tricky to navigate, so securing tickets early is essential.
  • Expect Crowds: Major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island remain popular during public holidays. While many businesses close, some attractions and events are designed to celebrate the season. Be prepared for crowded streets, festivals, and outdoor events.
  • Experience the Traditions: If you’re lucky enough to be in Korea during Seollal or Chuseok, take the opportunity to engage in local traditions like playing traditional games, enjoying special foods, and witnessing ceremonies at temples or ancestral shrines.

By understanding how Korea’s public holidays work, you can make the most of your 2026 trip and immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

[8% OFF] Hotel Recommendations

Seoul Hotels

5 star

9.4/10Amazing607 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km from city center
The hotel service is excellent, especially the staff at the front desk. They are very friendly to Chinese guests, and some even speak Chinese. Check-in was super fast, and they also helped us book restaurants and arranged a taxi. They even made sure our luggage was loaded and gave instructions to the driver – truly thoughtful and attentive! Definitely a huge thumbs up! The hotel is clean and tidy, and the location is great, making it convenient to get anywhere. Highly recommend this well-established hotel! (^O^)
FromBRL 1,857
9.4/10Amazing331 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.21km from city center
This hotel is perfectly located! It's just south of Seoul City Hall Square and west of Myeongdong. The subway station is only a few dozen meters from the lobby entrance, and Sejong-daero is right to the west. It's also not far from the major palaces and Namsan, so the location couldn't be better. The staff are very friendly, attentive, and welcoming. While the facilities might feel a bit more compact compared to newly built five-star hotels in China, they are well-maintained and perfectly adequate. Overall, it offers great value for money.
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8.8/10Very Good447 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city center
My wife and I booked this hotel for our cherry blossom viewing trip to Seoul during the Qingming Festival. After a long search on Trip.com, we finally decided on the Grand Hyatt Seoul, and it truly proved to be worth every penny of its high price! Firstly, getting to the Grand Hyatt from Incheon Airport is incredibly convenient. You just need to buy a bus ticket at the airport, and it takes you directly to the hotel lobby entrance. The bus driver was very helpful with our luggage, and upon arrival, the bellhops were also very enthusiastic in guiding us through check-in and assisting with our bags. However, after checking in and getting to our room, we were truly amazed. The view outside the window was absolutely breathtaking – I'd even go so far as to say it's the best room in all of Seoul for views of Namsan (perhaps even *the* best). This view alone practically makes the hotel room rate worth it. Furthermore, the hotel's facilities are up to international five-star luxury hotel standards. The restaurant in the hotel lobby requires reservations, and its backdrop is the entire Seoul city skyline, which is quite spectacular. The hotel staff's service attitude is excellent; every team member is enthusiastic, professional, and also quite attractive (which probably has something to do with Koreans' emphasis on appearance). Additionally, getting to popular attractions like Namsan, Gyeongbokgung, and Hongdae from the Grand Hyatt is very easy and convenient by Uber. Overall, if you have the budget, I highly recommend this hotel!
FromBRL 3,008
8.6/10Very Good401 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|4.43km from city center
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon was such a great surprise. The design of the hotel is stunning — every corner feels thoughtfully curated and different from the usual hotel experience. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, and the overall experience feels very premium without being too formal. Everything from the rooms to the common areas has a cool, modern edge that we really enjoyed. Definitely a perfect spot if you’re looking for a hotel with personality in Seoul. Would happily come back.
FromBRL 1,075
9.5/10Amazing1035 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.68km from city center
From the moment I stepped out of the car until I reached my room, someone was there to assist me. When I opened the door, the turndown service was already done, and my charging cables were neatly organized and plugged in. By the bed, there was water and a sealed glass. I've stayed in many hotels, both domestically and internationally, but very few make me feel comfortable enough to use their kettle and glasses. The entire service process was seamless and unobtrusive, yet they anticipated every detail I could possibly need for my trip.
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Business travel

8.9/10Very Good864 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.17km from city center
Excellent stay at New Seoul Hotel Myeongdong! The hotel location was perfect very convenient and close to Myeongdong shopping street, restaurants, convenience stores, and subway/train stations, making it easy to travel around Seoul. Airport bus access was also very convenient. The room was clean, comfortable, and well maintained. Staff were friendly, helpful, and always welcoming during our stay.
FromBRL 368
9/10Great1322 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km from city center
I highly recommend the voco Seoul Myeongdong! The service was incredibly thoughtful and patient; even with language barriers, the staff were always proactive and helpful. The room was exceptionally clean and tidy, making for a very comfortable stay. The location is absolutely fantastic – ordering food delivery was super convenient, and Nandaemun Market is right downstairs where you can grab traditional snacks. It's also very close to Seoul Station and Lotte Duty-Free Myeongdong, and you can walk to the Myeongdong shopping district. The hotel even has its own GS25 convenience store, a coffee shop, and Burger King, making food and drinks incredibly easy. There's an airport bus stop right outside the hotel; you can take the 6001 bus directly from Incheon Airport (get off at Nandaemun Station, just tell the driver 'voco hotel' and they'll stop). It made getting around so hassle-free. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time I'm in Seoul!
FromBRL 904
8.8/10Very Good1507 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km from city center
Staying at this hotel in Seoul is incredibly convenient. Getting here from Incheon Airport is a breeze – just take bus 6015 directly to the hotel, and for your return, you can catch the bus right outside. It's super handy! There are also several subway stations nearby. If you're coming from Line 2, exit 10 has an escalator, which is great if you're traveling with luggage. Check-in was fast and the staff were lovely, always smiling. The room itself was clean and comfortable. The housekeeping staff did an excellent job daily, even noticing I have long hair that needs blow-drying and kindly swapped out my old hairdryer for a newer, more efficient one. That was a really thoughtful touch!
FromBRL 462
8.1/10Very Good1457 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.05km from city center
I’ve stayed here several times in the past, and it didn’t disappoint again. The room is huge, the bathroom is nice and clean, and the staff are always kind and helpful. The room temperature was excellent and kept very warm during the cold winter in Seoul. The hotel is right outside a metro station, which makes getting around very convenient. This time I also discovered they have self-lock luggage lockers, free for the first 24 hours (or available for a small fee after), which was very useful. The laundry machines are also affordable and work well, with dryers available too. Overall, a very comfortable and reliable place to stay that I would happily return to again.
FromBRL 508
8.7/10Very Good2247 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km from city center
The hotel's cleanliness was decent, but it felt like it was located right next to a landfill; every morning when I opened the window, there was a faint smell. The air conditioning in the room wasn't great, and I actually caught a cold from it. However, the hotel staff were very friendly and attentive, and they all spoke Chinese. One rather strange detail, especially for Chinese guests, was a large mirror facing directly towards the head of the bed... so if that bothers you, you might want to look elsewhere. The location itself is good, right next to a subway station, but unfortunately, that station doesn't have an escalator or elevator.
FromBRL 478

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Family friendly

9/10Great1337 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km from city center
The biggest plus of this Seoul hotel is its fantastic location. Deoksugung Palace, Gwanghwamun, and Gyeongbokgung Palace are all within walking distance, and if you're up for it, even Myeongdong and other commercial areas are reachable on foot, making sightseeing a breeze. Coming back to the hotel at night and gazing at the bustling city lights outside the window creates that classic, old-school hotel vibe straight out of a K-drama, with a touch of 'old money' sophistication. There's also a large Paris Baguette nearby, which is super convenient for grabbing breakfast or coffee. The room size is quite spacious for a Seoul city hotel. We paid around 600-something per night for our two-night stay, and the hotel even upgraded us, which significantly enhanced our overall experience. While the facilities do show their age a bit and aren't brand new, if you appreciate that vintage charm, you'll find it quite appealing. Considering the price, space, and location, the value for money is excellent. I'd very likely consider staying here again on my next trip to Seoul.
FromBRL 544
8.8/10Very Good1855 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.5km from city center
Friendly and great service by the front desk staff. Initially was given a room on the 8th floor according to my request, but the room size was far too small than what I anticipated for 3 senior citizens. There was no walking space and no place for us to hang our clothes. However, the staff and the manager was helpful and kind to switch us to another bigger room on the 2nd floor. He even was willing to let me view the room first before I decide to take it up without added cost. When I called them during the night to say the room was very cold and cannot adjust the temperature since it is centralized controlled, they immediately sent a portable heater up to us. The front desk staff were all very courteous and helped us with our direction to find a nearby hospital for my sister who sprained her ankle and even wrote in Korean language for us to show to the hospital and also our tour meeting place to the taxi driver. On our last day, when it rained, they also offered us umbrella to get around outside. We could also order food in. Room was always cleaned up. Checking in and out also a breeze. Thumbs up for their excellent service. 👍👍👍👍
FromBRL 549
8.8/10Very Good1882 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km from city center
The location is really convenient. It's super easy to find places to eat and shop, and there are several OY stores nearby, so you can just buy things and have them delivered back. We tried a few different restaurants, and they all had great food. I'd definitely stay here again next time.
FromBRL 701
9.1/10Great2798 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city center
Overall, our stay was great. The location is perfect, 4 metro stations, plenty of buses, a lot of cafes are near by. The room is pretty spacious, there was everything that you might need. The TV is smart, it’s possible to watch Netflix or YouTube. The room was clean, well-prepared. The check-in process is super fast, the staff is friendly. The WiFi was great as well, I joined zoom-call easily There were two minor things that we were a bit dissatisfied about: 1) the AC doesn’t have a night mode so it’s hard to adjust it, it’s either cold or hot.. we struggled. 2) we wanted to dinner at BBQ restaurant at the hotel, which works till 10pm as was stated at Ad. However, we came at 9, it was already closed, they said that the last order is at 8:30.. which is rare.. usually last order is 30 min before closing. So we left hangry. Anyway, the hotel is great, we would definitely come back and recommend all friends.
FromBRL 654
8.9/10Very Good912 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1km from city center
My husband and I had an amazing experience staying at Skypark Hotel 3 in Myeongdong! We stayed here for 12 days, and it was the best decision ever. The rooms are clean, and the service and staff were fantastic - friendly, helpful, and super polite. They also offer amenities like drinking water, weighing scale for your luggages, and coin laundry. But my favorite part is its location! It's near everything - the airport limousine bus station, train station, Myeongdong shopping street, namsan tower, malls and shopping centers, convenience stores, coffee shops, and restaurants. This is now our go-to hotel in Seoul!
FromBRL 551

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Hot spring

8.8/10Very Good3020 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.57km from city center
For Myeongdong, an area where every inch of land is precious in Seoul, the room at this hotel can truly be described as spacious. On the day we departed from home, my wife unfortunately twisted her back. After checking in at the hotel, I was pleasantly surprised to find grab bars and a foldable seat in the shower, clearly installed for people with mobility issues. This was incredibly helpful. Although the hotel is a bit of a distance from Myeongdong Station (about 1.2 km), it's only about 35 RMB by taxi, and not too far to walk. Plus, the hotel offers a free shuttle bus, and I've attached the timetable for reference. The mini-bar in the room provides 2 bottles of water daily, along with beer, cola, and Chilsung Cider, all free of charge. This was even better than the five-star hotel I stayed at later. Another thing worth mentioning is that I forgot my credit card on this trip, so the hotel required a deposit upon check-in (I paid 200,000 Korean won in cash). An older gentleman at the front desk was so diligent, repeatedly reminding me to keep the deposit receipt safe, fearing I might lose it. He was very responsible. The only minor issue to note is the drying cabinet in the room. It's best not to use it for light-colored clothes. After washing a white Burberry T-shirt, I put it in to dry. Perhaps it was a user error, but after drying, faint blue marks appeared on the fabric. Thankfully, the marks washed out, and I had no issues when drying darker clothes afterward. P.S.: For those sensitive to noise when resting, staying here is better than near Myeongdong Station, which can be quite noisy late into the night. I will definitely choose to stay here again on my next visit to Seoul.
FromBRL 533
8.4/10Very Good985 Reviews
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km from city center
This hotel has an excellent location, very close to Jongno 3-ga Station and Euljiro 3-ga Station. Right in front of the hotel is Cheonggyecheon Stream, where you can enjoy a nice walk anytime. The hotel is located near the road connecting the two stations, and at night, the street comes alive with red tent stalls lining both sides. The staff here are incredibly kind and helpful. Their service was excellent, and they provided all the information we needed. We asked to borrow an adaptor and chopsticks, and they brought them to us right away. Very impressive service. As for the room and bathroom, they were spotlessly clean. If I visit this area again, I would definitely stay here again.
FromBRL 310
9/10Great2695 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km from city center
Had a really good stay here. The hotel is about 5mins walk from Myeongdong Street, which was nice as it’s close enough to the action but still away from the crowds. The nearest subway station is only 2minsaway and has 2 lines, making it super convenient to get to places like Hongdae and Seongsu. The room was spacious and nicely renovated, and there’s also a convenience store right downstairs. Would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking to stay near Myeongdong!
FromBRL 600
9/10Great951 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.72km from city center
I wanted to highlight some details I noticed during my trip: 1. They cleaned all the stains off the magnifying mirror, a service I haven't received at other hotels of the same star rating. 2. I visited during the ***** New Year (CNY), and the hotel diary correctly labeled it as CNY, not LNY – much appreciated! 🫶 3. The hotel was very attentive to personal belongings; even when I went downstairs to pick up takeout, they carefully verified the order number. Additionally, the hotel breakfast was excellent. I stayed for four days and three nights, and I had a very satisfying breakfast every morning. The room itself was a bit small, but its convenient location made up for it. It was easy to get around by taxi or on foot! Just a heads-up: if you're heading to Incheon Airport from here, you should allow 1.5 hours for travel time, as there can be traffic. Gimpo Airport might be a more convenient option.
FromBRL 1,283
9.3/10Great720 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km from city center
This is the ideal hotel to stay-in in Seoul because it is literally located right at the heart of Myeong-dong everywhere happening. There is a large 7-11 conveniently located just 10 metres away, the start of a night market just another 20 metres away. Cross over to the other side and there's all the luxury shopping (Lotte Deparment Stall) which in my opinion is better than Gangnam. another direction and you will hit Myeongdong shopping main street. Go underneath and there will be a huge underground shopping mall that leads all the way to City Hall main station. Rooms are very spacious, the gym was excellent and last but not least, the staffs were all very friendly and kind to allow us to check-in early due to available vacant rooms. My family and I will definitely be back here when we comes back to Seoul again.
FromBRL 1,283

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Gym

9.1/10Great689 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.73km from city center
I rarely write hotel reviews, but I just had to for this one! Today, I decided to explore a different area and moved to a hotel in Hongdae. The contrast was shocking – both are in popular Seoul areas, but the difference was huge! On that note, I'm going to call out 9 Bricks Hotel Hongdae as one to avoid. I'll be reviewing them when I check out tomorrow… Now, let me praise L'escape – the location is absolutely fantastic! It's right by Hoehyeon Station on Subway Line 4, Exit 7. From the escalator at the exit, there are signs directing you to the hotel! Honestly, you don't even need the signs because you can see the hotel as soon as you step out onto the street. There's a slight uphill walk, and as I was halfway up with my luggage, a hotel staff member came running out to help! The service was incredible! 👍 If you don't go above ground from Exit 7, the other direction leads directly into Shinsegae Department Store. It’s a multi-story department store with food, a duty-free shop, luxury goods, and affordable items – great for browsing! Outside on the ground level of Shinsegae, there's a 3D mega-screen, similar to the one at Taikoo Li in Chengdu, but much more visually appealing and with fewer advertisements. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Myeongdong. As a proper tourist, Myeongdong is a must-visit! Especially after exploring Hongdae today… I really want to go back to Myeongdong! 😢 Now, about the hotel itself (my picture arrangement is a bit messy, can't adjust it yet…) The hotel itself has a distinctive style. It might feel a little old-fashioned and perhaps not ideal for families with young children, but it's clean, tidy, and still very refined! Even the elevators are decorated, somewhat reminiscent of The Ritz in London. The toiletries are BYREDO, just like at Six Senses. The mini-bar is completely free, and the Nespresso capsules and chocolates are excellent. The hotel's restaurant is Michelin-starred year after year – not cheap, but certainly fantastic. The Tea Lounge was closed by the time I arrived, but I'm sure it's also wonderful. The bar on the 26th floor is very chill, and you can get great photos with ease! The postcards provided in the room are beautiful, and they even offer free mailing! I also love the design of the notepads and the toiletry packaging – the hand-drawn illustration style is gorgeous! The hotel service is also excellent. Most of the staff speak English and are always ready to help with luggage, calling taxis, and opening car doors. In summary, it's a high-end hotel service experience through and through! But I only paid just over 800 RMB for my stay – it far exceeded my expectations! Next time I come to Seoul, I will 100% rebook this hotel.
FromBRL 1,418
8.8/10Very Good582 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.39km from city center
Right next to Lotte Department Store, and you can reach Myeongdong's main street via an underground passage. Cheonggyecheon Stream is within walking distance, and Gyeongbokgung Palace is just a bit further. It's super convenient for getting around. Upon check-in, we received an exclusive OLIVE YOUNG coupon. We didn't bother with breakfast since there are so many food options nearby. We booked connecting rooms; they weren't huge, but having two bathrooms was a plus, and there was enough space to spread out our belongings.
FromBRL 694
9.1/10Great1030 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km from city center
Front desk is super friendly . I had a 2 year old and they kindly allow an early check in for me which helped out greatly and I really appreciate it. Rooms are big and spacious . Can open up my 2 giant luggage and put a crib in it . Bed was comfy and overall it was clean . Wish they change out the carpets to wood floors would be a lot cleaner . Location is wonderful right in myeongdong with lots of food in walking distance . I will for sure stay here again next time. !
FromBRL 599
8.8/10Very Good889 Reviews
Gimpo Airport/ Magok Seoul|9.04km from city center
A decent, no-frills hotel. The lobby isn't very big. It's conveniently located, within walking distance to public transport (buses and subway). There are also restaurants and duty-free shops along the way. My king-size room was on the top floor with a nice view, but the twin room on the back didn't have much to see. The room was clean, though smaller than what you'd find in China. Be careful in the bathroom as there's a step, which might be tricky for older guests or children. There were no power adapters, so bring your own. Slippers and toiletries were provided.
FromBRL 251
8.4/10Very Good3157 Reviews
Yeouido Seoul|8.19km from city center
The hotel's location is really good. The airport shuttle goes directly to it, and it's not a long walk from Yeongdeungpo subway station. There are plenty of food and drink options across from the hotel, and an Olive Young just around the corner. As previous reviews mentioned, the double room is indeed close to the train tracks, but there's some soundproofing. If you're a light sleeper, you might want to reconsider. I was out early and back late, so I was so tired at night that I slept right through it and didn't find it too disruptive. For sensitive sleepers, I'd recommend earplugs. The room isn't huge; there isn't enough space to lay out two suitcases on the floor, but it was cleaned very well every day. For a holiday period, the price offers excellent value for money.
FromBRL 364

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Swimming pool

9.2/10Great898 Reviews
Seoul|4.07km from city center
Location: The hotel is right next to Yongsan Station, making it super convenient for getting around by subway or bus. Service: The front desk staff were really friendly and helped us switch to a room with a view of the Han River, and the night view of the Han River was absolutely stunning. Amenities: The room was spacious, clean, and well-equipped with everything we needed. We had a very comfortable stay. We're planning to book this hotel again next time.
FromBRL 810
9.3/10Great668 Reviews
Seoul|12.73km from city center
The first morning I woke up to a strong smell of urine in the room, but it was fine on the second day. Breakfast was normal on the first day, but on the second day (the 9:30 slot), there was a huge queue. The local guests were really over the top; people were even queuing for fruit, and green bananas were being snatched up – it was quite a sight to behold! But it's still much better than staying at Lotte Tower. At least the front desk service was excellent, and the staff were proactive when I left the hotel. Plus, the surrounding area is great for walking around and exploring, a vast improvement over Lotte.
FromBRL 1,316
9.1/10Great260 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.75km from city center
JW is 5 star because of excellent assistance and service from the Conceirge to bellboy! Oliver recommended and assisted us to book a nice dinner venue for my family at Seokparang. He even initiated to assist me in booking a cab. Mason helped us with the luggage. He even took initiative to ask us for our airport transfer car plate number so he can keep a lookout for us. He even initiated to ask us to sit inside the hotel lobby while he kept a lookout for us. As he understood we are rushing to catch the flight, he even helped us to translate to the cab uncle to hurry for us. All of them speak fluent English, are very warm hearted and takes initiative in offering excellent service with genuine smiles. Our hearts are deeply grateful to them. 5 star 🌟 because of them. 4 star for the rooms don’t have Netflix. It would be great if the family can gather over Netflix entertainment. Small issue though as the service more than cover up for everything! :) We were offered a nice river view which was romantic! Very clean hotel. Location is excellent as train station and direct bus airport limousine is just by the hotel. Great connectivity. Will definitely revisit this hotel again.
FromBRL 1,519
8.6/10Very Good100 Reviews
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|2.72km from city center
We visited Banyan Tree to relax for a day after the ceremony! As soon as we entered the room, we were greeted with a delightful bouquet of flowers and a glass of wedding wine, which was incredibly satisfying! My husband's shoes were even cleaned and brought back the next day. As always, we were impressed by the exceptional service and convenience, and we had a wonderful rest! We were a little disappointed we couldn't make a spa reservation in advance, but we'll definitely make one next time! Overall, we were very satisfied! Oh, and there's no convenience store, so it's best to stock up on necessities beforehand! There were so many things to do at the hotel that it was a shame to leave! Have a wonderful day everyone!
FromBRL 2,296
8.9/10Very Good410 Reviews
Apgujeong/Cheongdam-Dong Seoul|6.4km from city center
This is a luxury, trendy brand under Hyatt. The hotel's location is excellent, right in the Apgujeong commercial area. It's just a few minutes' walk to the Hyundai Department Store Apgujeong Main Branch, and Cheongdam-dong isn't far either. You can access the subway station directly from the hotel's B1 level. On the ground floor, there's a Blue Bottle Coffee and a TWG Tea outlet, and there are plenty of restaurants and convenience stores nearby. The hotel's decor is very stylish. However, the room layout is a bit odd and slanted, and the space isn't very large, feeling a little cramped. This particular room type doesn't have a bathtub, and the vanity is quite small. Aside from a few labeled alcoholic beverages, all other soft drinks, beer, and snacks in the mini-bar are complimentary. There's a gym and a pool on B2, but no changing rooms or lockers. The service from all departments was warm and attentive!
FromBRL 2,093

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Breakfast

9.1/10Great1590 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city center
This hotel is near Dongdaemun subway station, about a 10-minute walk away. However, it's right by a subway entrance, which is great because rain or wind won't be an issue. The room was also very clean. Highly recommend! Plus, there's a ramen shop nearby and the 6001 airport bus stops right in front, making it super convenient to get to and from the airport.
FromBRL 514
8.7/10Very Good1060 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.02km from city center
The hotel is located in Myeongdong. The airport bus 6015 drops you off about 20 meters from the hotel, and it's right next to subway line 2. Myeongdong Walking Street is about a 15-minute walk away, making its location excellent and very convenient for getting around by subway. The hotel is very quiet. Even though my room was across from the elevator, I only occasionally heard the elevator going up and down at night; otherwise, there was no other noise. The room is relatively small, but the bed and pillows are quite comfortable. The twin beds are 1.1 meters wide, which is a bit small, but compared to other hotels in Seoul, a 1.1-meter twin room is actually considered spacious. The hotel provides towels, disposable slippers, shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel, but no toothpaste or toothbrushes. The front desk staff are all very polite. There's a wonderful lady with glasses who speaks Chinese; she was very helpful and patiently answered all our questions. Since the airport bus only operates until 7:45 PM and we had a late-night flight, she helped us call a taxi. If I come back to Korea, I would definitely consider staying at this hotel again.
FromBRL 862
8.6/10Very Good977 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city center
The hotel is conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from Exit 1 of Changhanpyeong Subway Station. If you have luggage, you can take the escalator up instead of climbing stairs. There's a CU convenience store right next to the hotel, and a 7-Eleven across the street, which is very handy. The downside is that the hot water for showering only lasts about 30 minutes. If a second person showers, it starts getting cold towards the end. Also, the hotel's cleaning staff leave after 4 PM, so when I checked in, I noticed one of the beds was a bit dirty, and I had to wait for the front desk staff to be available to help change it.
FromBRL 215
8.8/10Very Good576 Reviews
Samseong-dong Seoul|9.79km from city center
it's opposite coex mall and exhibition center. there is train station next to it, got GS25 convenience store at the corner. room is small, but clean. only 2 water bottles will be given each day. bathroom with smart toilet seats, but water out for water is kind of hot. room is hot n cannot be adjusted, because it's centralised heater. outside of the room got construction n busy road, so a bit noisy if you open window for fresh or cooler air. TV in the room is big n can watch YouTube.
FromBRL 755
8.6/10Very Good315 Reviews
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.04km from city center
The hotel is highly automated with self check-in/out. Amenities are requested via kiosks or robots and come quite fast. My kid loved the robot coming to the room and the moving dinosaur in the lobby. They don’t change the bed linen every day, an after housekeeping on my second day, the hotel slippers were taken away and not replaced, plus you need to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste. The location is very convenient, close to many restaurants and shopping streets, right opposite a 7-Eleven, and about a 10-minute walk to Shinsegae Duty Free, which is the meeting point for many guided tours booked online (GetYourGuide, Klook, KKDay, SeoulPass, Trip.com, etc.). The child-friendly/accessible room was a big plus. We could push the two small beds together with no side table in between, making it safer for our young child to sleep without worrying about falling.
FromBRL 541

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FAQs about South Korea Public Holidays 2026

  • When is the Lunar New Year (Seollal) in 2026?

    Seollal will be celebrated from February 17–19, 2026. It’s one of South Korea’s most important holidays, marked by family gatherings, traditional foods, and ceremonies honoring ancestors.
  • What is Chuseok and when does it occur?

    Chuseok, Korea’s Harvest Festival, will take place from September 26–28, 2026. It’s a time for families to reunite, honor ancestors, and celebrate the harvest with traditional foods like songpyeon (rice cakes).
  • Are businesses open during public holidays in Korea?

    Many businesses and government offices are closed during major holidays like Seollal and Chuseok. However, large shopping malls and tourist attractions in cities like Seoul may remain open, though they can be crowded.
  • What happens to public transportation during South Korea’s holidays?

    Public transportation can be very busy, especially during Seollal and Chuseok when many people travel to their hometowns. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance for trains, buses, and flights.
  • Is Christmas a public holiday in South Korea?

    Yes, December 25 is a public holiday in South Korea, though it is less widely celebrated than other holidays like Seollal or Chuseok. Some businesses may close, but many tourist attractions remain open.
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Lily

Lily

Travel Blogger

Hey, I'm Lily from Chengdu. I'll constantly post my travel blogs here. I focus on sharing insights from living tips, transfer tricks, to how to get the best price for your international flights & hotels. You'll get the quick & valuable hints for your journey in the future. Stay tuned! Love u all!

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