Airbnb vs. Hotels vs. Short-term Rentals: Where Should You Stay in Seoul?

So, you are planning a trip to Seoul. Maybe you are staying for two weeks, or perhaps you are attempting a "One Month in Seoul" adventure.

The first question is always: Where do I sleep?

While most tourists book a hotel or check Airbnb, smart travelers are looking for a third option: Short-term Rentals (Officetels). Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide.

1. Hotels: Good for Weekends, Bad for Weeks

Hotels are great for 2-3 night stays. You get daily cleaning and concierge service.

• The Problem: They are expensive. Plus, you don't have a kitchen or a washing machine. If you stay for 2 weeks, eating out every meal gets pricey, and laundry becomes a hassle.

2. Airbnb: The "Service Fee" Trap

Airbnb is the go-to for many. You get a whole apartment.

• The Problem: Have you noticed the "Cleaning Fee" and "Service Fee" added at checkout? For a month-long stay, these fees can add hundreds of dollars to your bill. Also, the quality varies wildly between hosts.

3. The Local Way: Short-term Rentals (Officetels)

In Korea, there is a housing type called "Officetel" (Office + Hotel). These are studio apartments used by locals.

• Fully Furnished: They come with a built-in washer, big fridge, and kitchen.

• Secure: Most have 24/7 security guards and CCTV.

• Cost-Effective: Because these are residential rentals, they are often 30-40% cheaper than Airbnbs when booked for 2 weeks or more.

Why LiveAnywhere?

If you want the comfort of a home without the inflated tourist prices, LiveAnywhere is your bridge to these local listings.

• No Hidden Fees: What you see is what you get.

• Verified Listings: We check the quality so you don't have to worry about "catfish" photos.

• Flexible Dates: Stay for 7 days, 20 days, or a month.

Travel smarter, not harder.

Skip the hotel laundry service and the Airbnb fees. Live like a local in your own private studio.