Star Hostel Insadong

Kevin and his parents are very kind, and you can cook at the hostel to help keep costs down. Breakfast is basic. Star Hostel Insadong is conveniently located about a meter walk from the palaces and traditional Korean food and crafts. I’d stay here again if I return to Korea.

The room and the rest of the accommodation were clean, the internet was strong, hot water was available, and we got fresh towels each day. The hosts were approachable and willing to help with anything. Laundry is available too, which is handy for backpackers. I give it five stars for my week here. Thanks to the staff, and good business! God bless. This feels like a place for tourists who need a comfortable day’s rest. Breakfast is free and self-serve, with eggs, cereal, milk, bread, and spreads. You make your own meal and wash your dishes. The cafeteria seats only about 4-5 people, so go early if it’s busy or take food to your room. Behind the hostel there’s a hanok village with coffee shops and restaurants. The streets also have food stalls where people order food and soju and spend the evening talking with friends. Three train lines meet nearby, convenience stores are easy to reach, the bus stop is about 3-5 minutes away on foot, and tourist sites and parks surround the area.

The owners were the best part: very friendly, helpful, and willing to accommodate requests. They might not always be at the front desk, but you can reach them. If you need to contact them from outside, their WiFi details are posted on the front door so you can message them through Kakao. It’s a small but thoughtful touch. The place is fairly cheap for a few nights. The rooms are simple but clean and well maintained. Keep the window shut, since smoke from nearby restaurants can drift in. Otherwise, the room is fairly quiet.

A decent hostel in a good location, though the room, pillow, and towel were all small. There are two cats on the premises. Breakfast is toast with jam, and it can get noisy at night since this is a popular place to hang out.