Where to Stay in Seoul in 2025: Know This Before Booking Your Airbnb
Last updated: October 2026
🪧 Introduction
What should you check before booking an Airbnb in Seoul?
Six things: whether it is near a major subway line, whether it is above ground or a banjiha (semi-basement), whether luggage storage is available, whether shops and cafés are nearby, whether the neighborhood is safe, and whether the host is reliable and professional. Starting October 2025, many Airbnb listings in studio apartments and officetels are being removed under new regulations in Korea, so also verify that the place you book is legal.
If you’re planning to visit Seoul in 2025, here’s something important you need to know:
Starting October 2025, many Airbnb listings in studio apartments and officetels will be removed due to new regulations in Korea.
As a local host with over 9 years of experience and a strong team behind me, I’ll help you understand what’s changing—and what to check before you book your stay in Seoul.
🏠 What’s Changing in 2025?
Due to updated laws, short-term rentals in officetels and studio apartments are no longer permitted unless they’re officially registered.
By October 2025, many Airbnb listings will be removed or become unavailable.
This makes it more important than ever to:
- Verify that the place you’re booking is legal
- Choose a host who’s professional, responsive, and trustworthy
✅ 6 Things to Check Before You Book a Place in Seoul
1. Location – Is it near a major subway line?
My listings are close to Line 3 (Apgujeong & Sinsa Station)—a perfect location to reach major places like Gangnam, Hongdae, or Myeongdong with ease.
2. Is it above ground—or a basement (banjiha)?
Banjiha units (semi-basements) are dark and humid. All my places are above ground, clean, and filled with natural light.
3. Is luggage storage available?
Yes! You can store bags in a secure basement room or at our check-in office 3 minutes away.
4. Are there shops or cafés nearby?
Definitely. There’s a convenience store 1 minute away and a trendy café just across the street.
5. Is the neighborhood safe?
Our homes are located in Gangnam’s residential area, surrounded by schools, cafes, and locals. Streets are well-lit with CCTV everywhere.
6. Is the host reliable and professional?
This is key. I’ve been an Airbnb Superhost for 9 years straight and have never lost my badge.
As a host in Seoul, I work together with my family, and we take hosting seriously:
- My dad is a real estate professional with 40+ years of experience
- My mom oversees hygiene and cleaning
-
I am a Korean teacher and licensed real estate agent who manages all communication and guest needs
We each have clear roles and run this as a highly professional, family-operated business.
🧳 Why Book Direct?
With Airbnb listings disappearing and more regulations ahead, direct booking is now the safest and most reliable option.
Booking directly with me means:
- No platform fees
- Legal, registered homes
- Local support, fast communication
- A host who genuinely cares
📌 Ready to Book Your Stay?
If you're looking for a warm, clean, and safe home in Seoul—with hosts you can trust—
👉 Book your stay here
We’re excited to welcome you like family. 😊
FAQ
What is a banjiha?
A semi-basement unit. Banjiha rooms are dark and humid, so check whether the place you are booking is above ground.
Why are Airbnb listings in Seoul disappearing in 2025?
Under updated laws, short-term rentals in officetels and studio apartments are no longer permitted unless they are officially registered. By October 2025 many such listings will be removed or become unavailable.
Is booking direct safer than Airbnb in Seoul?
The post argues yes: no platform fees, legal registered homes, local support and fast communication from a host who genuinely cares. You can book Ting House directly at tingssam.com.