Swiss Motel

Clean and reasonably priced! Thumbs up.

I had a very disappointing stay in Seoul. A family emergency meant I had to leave early and go home. I let the hotel know promptly, gave them notice, and provided clear documentation, expecting them to handle it with basic professionalism and compassion. They ignored my messages and made no attempt to reply, help, or even acknowledge what was happening. I then raised the issue through Expedia, but the hotel still wouldn’t engage or cooperate. I understand that policies exist, but refusing to communicate or consider an exceptional situation felt unreasonable and unprofessional. That lack of care for guests was unacceptable. Based on my experience, I’d advise others to avoid this hotel. I wouldn’t count on a response, flexibility, or adequate customer care if a problem comes up.

I should’ve read the Google Maps comments before booking. Two nights cost 155,000 won, and for that price it wasn’t worth it. There were comments saying towels and soap might be missing. The atmosphere put me off using the things there, so I only used soap. There were no toothbrushes or razors. I brought an electric mosquito repellent, but still heard buzzing by my ear, which was really upsetting. The room had been cleaned, but the interior repairs looked worse than amateur work. I showed the older woman at reception the form from my travel agency; she didn’t understand it and just spoke rapidly in Korean, leaving me confused. My two-night booking had a non-refundable cancellation fee, but I’ll stay somewhere else. Korea is too expensive.

For guests with plans in Hyehwa-dong or Dongdaemun, this motel is well placed between Hyehwa Station and Dongdaemun Station. It’s a six- to seven-minute walk from Exit 2 at Hyehwa, six stops from Seoul Station and four from Myeongdong on Subway Line 4, and one stop from Dongdaemun. There are convenience stores and restaurants nearby. The male owner was very kind, and the room had what you’d need. It’s an old motel, but the TV, air conditioner, and shower head had been replaced with new ones. The layout also helped with noise: the toilet and bathroom are just inside the entrance, with another door leading into the room, so poor soundproofing didn’t make it hard to sleep. Other motels near Hyehwa Station weren’t soundproof at all. Maybe because there are many Chinese and Japanese tourists, even special 2nd class hotels in Myeongdong, Seoul, cost from the late 100,000 won to the late 200,000 won per night, though they’re not special 1st class. Against those prices, this motel seems like a reasonable option.