Where to Stay in Seoul

Named after Hongik University, Hongdae is Seoul's creative and youthful heartbeat. The neighborhood pulses with indie music venues, street performers, unique cafes, and budget-friendly eateries. It's a mecca for artists, musicians, and young creatives. Nightlife here is legendary with clubs and bars open until dawn. Housing is more affordable than Gangnam, with options from goshiwons to shared apartments. The 24-hour culture means you'll always find food and entertainment, perfect for night-owl nomads.

The iconic district made famous worldwide by PSY's hit song. Gangnam is Seoul's financial and business powerhouse, home to tech startups, corporate headquarters, and luxury everything. The sleek skyscrapers house numerous coworking spaces like WeWork and FASTFIVE. While expensive, the area offers premium apartments, elite shopping at COEX Mall, and upscale dining. If you're in tech, finance, or seeking serious networking opportunities, Gangnam puts you at the center of Seoul's professional world.

Seoul's most internationally recognized district and the true expat hub. English is widely spoken, and you'll find cuisine from every corner of the world - from Middle Eastern to Mexican to African. The multicultural community includes diplomats, English teachers, and digital nomads who appreciate the foreigner-friendly services. Nightlife rivals Hongdae with diverse bars and clubs. The nearby Hannam-dong offers more upscale living. Itaewon Global Village Center provides practical resources for expats navigating Korean life.

The quieter, trendier cousin to neighboring Hongdae. Yeonnam-dong offers a perfect blend of hip Seoul lifestyle and peaceful residential atmosphere. The area exploded with indie cafes, boutique shops, and Instagram-worthy spots in recent years. The Gyeongui Line Forest Park runs through the neighborhood, providing a serene green escape for walks and cycling. Artists, designers, and creative professionals gravitate here for inspiration without Hongdae's chaos. Housing is more affordable than Gangnam while maintaining a stylish, community feel.