Up to 5 million won ($3,240) in grants available per property, with safety and community coexistence weighted more heavily in this year's evaluation
Seoul is launching a search for standout accommodations to elevate the city's tourism profile.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Tourism Foundation are accepting applications for the "2026 Best Seoul Stay" contest through June 24, targeting properties registered under the Seoul Stay program. The initiative aims to identify accommodations with a distinct local character and competitive edge, strengthening the city's capacity to welcome international visitors.
Seoul Stay is a city-run lodging brand program launched in 2013, designed to encourage registration and improve operational standards among foreigner-oriented urban guesthouses and hanok, or traditional Korean house, experience businesses. Registered properties that complete a separate enrollment process have received support including multilingual translation, marketing and education programs.
The contest runs in two rounds: an initial document review followed by on-site evaluations. In the first round, applications and submitted materials are assessed. In the second round, a panel of expert evaluators visits the top 30 properties that pass the document stage, conducting comprehensive assessments of facility upkeep, cleanliness, safety, customer service and what sets each property apart. Final results will be announced Aug. 7.
This year, the evaluation criteria place greater weight on safety and community coexistence. Safety specialists will join the on-site assessment teams to examine fire safety and overall safety management, while efforts to reduce inconvenience for local residents — including noise control and waste management — will also factor into scoring.
Up to 20 properties will be selected, each receiving a grant of up to 5 million won ($3,240) that can be used for facility improvements, marketing and promotion, or the development of experiential programs. Last year, 18 properties were chosen.
Winners will receive a certificate of selection alongside the grant, and will be given promotional opportunities tied to major events organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Tourism Foundation.
Properties wishing to apply may submit their applications online before the deadline. Detailed information is available by contacting the Seoul Stay operations office.
"A complete K-tourism experience that captures the hearts of visitors from around the world starts with accommodations where tourists feel safe and at ease," said Kim Myeong-ju, director of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Tourism and Sports Bureau. "This year, we particularly hope that capable operators will participate actively so we can discover more competitive properties grounded in safety and community coexistence."
terry@heraldcorp.com
