Is Seoul Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea on your own, you’re probably asking yourself one key question. Is Seoul safe for solo female travellers? I’ve been there myself, and I get why this matters so much. Safety is always the first thing I check before booking a solo trip.

The quick answer is yes. Seoul is incredibly safe for solo female travellers. I felt comfortable walking around both during the day and late at night. From spotless subways to helpful locals and well-lit streets, the city makes it easy to feel secure while exploring.

But safety isn’t the only reason Seoul is such a great choice. The city is full of amazing skincare finds, stylish cafes, fun experiences, and breathtaking views that solo travellers can enjoy at their own pace.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly why Seoul is one of the best destinations for women travelling alone. You’ll get my personal safety tips, recommendations for where to stay, and ideas for things to do that are perfect for exploring on your own.

Before jumping in, I want to share that having your travel insurance covered is super important, even in safe countries! Why? Because medical expenses in foreign countries can be PRICEY! 👉 I personally use Safety Wing for years. It’s not expensive and it’s flexible!

Why Seoul is Safe for Women Travelling Alone

During my visit to Seoul, I felt totally safe, day and night! But I’m going to spell out why you should feel safe too:

👍 Low Crime Rates

South Korea, particularly Seoul, has low levels of violent crime. The city’s commitment to safety is evident in its well-lit streets, security cameras in public areas, and consistent police presence. This makes walking around, even at night, relatively safe.

🚌 Efficient Public Transport

Seoul’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world. The subway is clean, well-connected, and easy to navigate, with announcements and signs in English. Make sure you get a money card, such as T-money, which can be used across buses and subways. You can get one at the airport and top it up anytime!

😊 Helpful Local Culture

South Koreans are generally welcoming and helpful toward tourists. You’ll often find people willing to assist if you’re lost or need advice. In crowded areas like Myeongdong, locals and shopkeepers are used to helping visitors from abroad. However, I have to say overall people don’t really speak English in Seoul. I would recommend downloading the Google Translate App to facilitate communication and shopping! Check out other useful apps to download for female solo travellers here!

Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for Women

To help answer, “Is Seoul safe for solo female travellers?”, selecting the right area to stay is key. This is why in this blog post, I will tell you exactly where to book your accommodation so you will feel 100% safe and relaxed!

If that sounds good keep reading 😉

Insadong

I’m going to start with my favourite – Insadong! This is one of those spots in Seoul that feels full of life and history. It’s a place where traditional Korean houses sit next to cool art galleries and trendy little shops. If you’re travelling solo, it’s perfect for just walking around and exploring—there are plenty of cosy tea houses, cute cafés (I’m obsessed with Cafe Onion – you should check it out!), and interesting boutiques to stop by. You can try some tasty Korean dishes, pick up something special, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of the area.

How to get from the airport to Insadong

To get to Insadong from Incheon Airport, take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station, then transfer to Line 1 (the dark blue line) and ride for two stops to Jongno 3-ga Station. From there, it’s a short 10-minute walk to Insadong.

Alternatively, you can take an airport limousine bus directly to the Insadong area, but the journey may take around an hour depending on traffic. I would recommend the first option it’s a lot easier!

If you are arriving at night time or have heavy luggage 👉 reserve your private driver on Klook.com! That’s exactly what I did as I got to the airport very late at night.

🛏️ Recommended Hotels in Insadong for Female Solo Travellers

#1: Urbanstay Boutique Ikseon

Situated in the Ikseon-dong area, this boutique hotel is one of my favourite places in Seoul! It’s modern, simple and has everything you need! I got a room with a kitchen.

The apartment was cosy and super clean. You get access through a code they will give you and it’s incredibly safe! There is literally a code for everything. It’s an excellent option for solo female travellers who want to be close to unique cafés, shops, and historical spots.

👉 Check Out Updated Prices For Urbanstay Boutique Ikseon! I stayed here and loved the coded entry system that made me feel very safe. The cafés and little shops of Ikseon dong were just steps away.

#2: Sunbee Hotel Insadong Seoul

This hotel is a great alternative and provides comfortable rooms in a prime location near cultural landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village. The rooms are quite basic, nothing fancy but it’s a good hotel in this neighbourhood!

👉 See Latest Prices For Sunbee Hotel It is simple but right in the heart of Insadong. I could walk to the palaces in minutes and explore traditional tea houses nearby.

#3: The Prima Hotel Jongno

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 더프리마호텔 종로 (@theprimahotel_jongno)

Prima Hotel is a modern hotel with easy access to both Insadong and other popular attractions in the city. Offering comfortable accommodations and reliable service it’s a convenient option if you are visiting Seoul for the first time!

👉 Check Current Prices For Prima Hotel. I liked how easy it was to reach cultural attractions from here while still having a quiet and comfortable room to return to.

Things to Do in Insadong

• Walk through Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved area where you can see traditional Korean houses.

👉 Rent traditional Korean clothes and get amazing pictures!

• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most famous landmarks in Seoul.

👉 Book this guided tour of the palace in advance.

• Go on a foodie tour to try traditional food with a local expert. This is a really cool way to find out what food to try. It’s also the safest experience if you have food allergies as the guide would be very knowledgable.

👉 Reserve your tour before your trip to save your slot!

Hongdae

Hongdae is known for its cool/young energy, creative vibe, and thriving art and music scenes. The area is home to numerous cafes, shops, and live performances.

This is the perfect area if you like a bit of nightlife. It’s also well-connected by public transport, which is convenient for exploring the rest of the city.

How to get from the airport to Hongdae

From Incheon International Airport, take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Hongdae (Hongik University Station).

This direct route takes about 50 minutes and is a convenient way to reach the lively area of Hongdae. If you prefer a taxi, it will take about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic, but the AREX is typically faster and more affordable.

🛏️ Recommended Hotels in Hongdae for Female Solo Travellers

#1: RYSE, Autograph Collection

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by RYSE, Autograph Collection (@ryse_hotel)

This high-end hotel stands out from everything else!! It’s super cool! You might argue it looks too influencer-like, but do you mind? The rooms are spacious and with original design – I love the bathrooms too! Located in the heart of Hongdae, this place provides easy access to the area’s lively attractions. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, trendy bars, and a fitness centre! I mean what else do you need?

👉 See Latest Reviews And Prices For Ryse Hotel. The design is bold and creative, the bathrooms are beautiful and I loved having a spacious quiet room right in the centre of Hongdae’s energy.

#2: HiThere Guesthouse

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hithere Seoul(하이데어) (@hithereseoul)

HiThere Guesthouse cosy and budget-friendly option offering clean, comfortable rooms and a welcoming/warm environment. Perfect for solo travellers looking for a social yet private stay.

👉 Check Availability For HiThere Guesthouse. It felt cosy and welcoming, perfect for meeting other travellers but still having your own space to relax.

#3: Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 머큐어 앰배서더 서울 홍대 Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae (@mercure_hd)

The Mercure Hotel is a modern place with excellent amenities, located just a short walk from Hongdae’s main attractions. This is a bit high-end but perfect for when you just want to be taken care of.

👉 Find Latest Price For Mercure Hotel. I enjoyed how modern it was and being so close to the main streets made exploring Hongdae really easy.

Things to Do in Hongdae

• Explore the art markets and street performances. If you like K-pop, this is a good place to start!

• Try the famous personal colour, fashion and make-up analysis! This is quite a popular experience to do in Seoul (I’m sure you came for this!!)

👉 Reserve your colour analysis here!

Myeongdong

Myeongdong is a top choice for solo travellers. Here you can get all your Korean skincare shopping done, have delicious food, and easy access to public transport.

The area is amazing in the evening! Super bright, busy and vibrant – but still safe for you to walk around without a worry in the world!

How to get from the airport to Myeongdong

To get to Myeongdong from Incheon International Airport, you can take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station, which takes around 50 minutes.

From Seoul Station, transfer to Line 4 (the light blue line) and travel just two stops to Myeongdong Station.

Alternatively, you can 👉 get a private driver on Klook.com in advance or use an airport limousine bus, which offers a more direct but slower route to Myeongdong.

🛏️ Recommended Hotels in Myeongdong for Female Solo Travellers

#1: Hotel28 Myeongdong

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hotel28_Official (@hotel28_myeongdong)

Hotel28 is a boutique hotel with artistic decor and thoughtful amenities, it’s comfortable and mid-range (price-wise). The rooms are spacious and clean.

👉 Check Availability For Hotel28. The rooms were bigger than I expected for such a central location and I loved stepping straight into the neon streets at night.

#2: L’Escape Hotel

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by L’ESCAPE HOTEL 레스케이프 (@lescape_hotel)

L’Escape Hotel reminded me of the TV show “Gossip Girl”! It’s super fancy as it comes with elegant Parisian-inspired interiors, this hotel is a luxurious option in the heart of the district. If you want to treat yourself go for this!

👉 See Latest Prices For L’Escape Hotel. Staying here felt like being in Paris with its velvet chairs and dramatic interiors, such a special treat in the middle of Seoul.

#3: Lotte Hotel Seoul Executive Tower

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 롯데호텔 서울(LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL) (@lottehotel_seoul)

Speaking of treating yourself… Here is another option! The Lotte Hotel is known for its luxurious rooms and excellent service, this hotel is ideal if you love premium accommodations.

👉 Find Updated Prices For Lotte Hotel. The rooms were spacious, the service was excellent and I felt completely looked after throughout my stay.

Things to Do in Myeongdong

• Join a Korean cooking class to learn traditional recipes. 👉 Book your traditional cooking class here!
• Visit Lotte World, a short subway ride away, for shopping and entertainment.

South Korea Solo Travel Itinerary

If you want to explore South Korea for longer, I have a lovely 7 days itinerary to recommend. If you have more time, spend a few more days in Jeju Island. It’s a beautiful place, especially in the summer!

Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

• Arrive and settle into your hotel.

• Explore Myeongdong for shopping and Korean street food.

Day 2: Tradition and Culture in Seoul

• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village.

• Spend the afternoon in Insadong exploring traditional Korean houses and shops.

If you’re a K-Pop fan like me, 👉 book your Kpop Dance class! It’s a lot of fun and you get to learn the dance moves of your favourite songs!

Day 3: Modern Seoul

• Head to the luxurious Gangnam neighbourhood (remember the “Gangnam Style” song?) and Starfield Library.

• End your day with a view of the city from Namsan Tower – this place is stunning!

Day 4: Travel to Busan

• Book your train on 👉 12Go.com and head to Busan

• Check-in at your hotel (I would recommend 👉 Signiel Busan)

• Spend the afternoon at Haeundae Beach and explore nearby markets.

Day 5: Exploring Busan

• Visit the Gamcheon Culture Village and Yonggungsa Temple.

• Try local delicacies at Jagalchi Fish Market.

Day 6: Day Trip or Chill Out

• Take a day trip to Gyeongju for historical sites, or enjoy a relaxing day in Busan.

Day 7: Optional Jeju Island

• If you have extra time, fly to Jeju Island (I would use 👉 Skyscanner for this).

• Visit Hallasan National Park and Seongsan Ilchulbong if you like hiking!

• Otherwise, return to Seoul for last-minute shopping and departure.

Tips for Solo Female Travellers in Seoul

🙋‍♀️ Meet other girls with the free Nomad Her App!

Nomad Her App connects solo female travellers through events in Seoul, Busan and Jeju. I personally met many girls through the app and had really positive experiences. I also attended a Nomad Her event in Seoul and loved it. There was yoga, inspiring speakers and I met amazing women.

📖 Learn Basic Korean Phrases

Most locals do not speak English fluently. Phrases like annyeonghaseyo (hello) and kamsahamnida (thank you) are very useful.

🛒 Carry a Money Card and Use Wise

👉 Get a T money card for subways and buses. For everyday spending I always recommend 👉 Wise because it lets you pay in different currencies and avoid high fees.

🍢 Enjoy Street Food but Be Mindful

Seoul street food is famous, but check the ingredients carefully if you have allergies or dietary preferences.

⚕️ Get Travel Insurance

Even in a safe city, travel insurance is essential. I always try to get it sorted when planning my trips!

👉 I use SafetyWing because it covers me everywhere I go! It’s simple to use and affordable, I’ve been using it for years!

📱 Use Kakao Map Instead of Google Maps

Google Maps does not work properly in South Korea. Kakao Map and Naver Map are reliable and available in English.

FAQs About Safety in Seoul

What Next?