I stayed at the Hotel Itaewon which is supposed to be close to all the international action in Seoul. In reality, it's about a 10 minute walk from ANYTHING. The hotel is priced in the 4 star range, though it is MAYBE a two star hotel. Rooms are small. NOBODY in the hotel speaks english so unless you know Korean, you're in for a challenge. There is no internet connections in the rooms. They have a business center where you can connect for 5000 won for 30 mins (not very good). I had NO water pressure in the shower and the room (a non-smoking room) smelled like stale cigarettes and the heat was unbearable. This was in April. They crank the heat and you can't turn on the A/C. No thanks!
At first sight you won't rate this hotel more than 1-2 stars; situated on Itaewon-Street, 732-32 Hannam Dong Yongsan-Ku,it is not in the best neighborhood.Even the lobby area looks somewhat run-down, as well as the rooms, the always busy elevators and the not too friendly front desk staff. But soon one finds out, that the rather oldfashioned rooms (there is even a non-smoking floor) are comfortable and well protected against the street-noise, that there is a free of charge internet-facility and a generous buffet-style breakfast.
Centrally located,oldfashioned but rather comfortable rooms, excellent breakfast buffet with korean and western specialities. Self-service coffee and tea. Although the hotel overviews heavy traffic, it is well protected againd´st the street-noise
