Seoul(Jongno-gu)
, Insadong・Jongnon
“The Place Seoul” is located in a small alley in Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul. It is a guesthouse made by remodeling an 80-year-old traditional Korean house. The ondol room furnished with traditional beddings is popular not only among foreigners but also among Koreans due to its special ambience. The ceiling of the room dates back to 80 years ago. The rafter put on the roof at the time of construction of the house shows the antiqueness of the house. The toenmaru (a narrow wooden porch running along the outside of a room) that comes alive with the frequent coming and going of people adds to the ambience of the traditional Korean house, with the Sansuyu (corni) tree and vegetable garden beside the Korean-style house creating a leisurely atmosphere. Beyond being a mere place to sleep in, “The Place Seoul” aims to be a composite cultural space whose motto is “the place to fill.” A simple wedding or a small-scale performance is held in the garden during the day. The rooms can be rented for small meetings. “The Place Seoul” sponsors “WWOOF KOREA,” an NGO promoting environment-friendly agriculture as well as the right dietary life, “Slow Food Korea,” and “Slow Box.” As such, the place serves a special healthy breakfast consisting of homemade bread, handmade yogurt, and organic fruits and vegetables. In addition, the toilet paper, detergent, shampoo, etc. provided are all environment-friendly products. “The Place Seoul” is located on Gyedong-gil Road, a famous tourist attraction in Seoul. It offers easy access to Bukchon Hanok Village, which is on the other side of the Gyedong-gil alley, as well as other major tourist attractions within walking distance including Changdeokgung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Samcheong-dong, and Insa-dong. The convenient location of “The Place Seoul” makes it easy to tour downtown Seoul.