Jin's Paradise — Hotel in Seoul

I had an incredible time during my stay here, Jin is an amazing host and would recommend this hostel to others. As the name suggests, its run by Jin who is a one man operation and absolutely excels at every aspect you would want from a host. I added him to whatsapp before my arrival as the welcome email suggested and he provided me with all the preliminary arrival information anyone would need. I told him my flight was delayed so it would be after hours automated check in, I was worried it would be too convoluted but he provided me with extended information including plenty of pictures and it was seamless. The common area is great but the highlight is definitely rooftop, we spent many hours using his Bluetooth speaker to blast our favorite songs late into the evening. Also, if you've ever stayed at a hostel that sells beer out of "mini convenience stores", Jin reigns supreme amongst all others I've experienced. Gigantic selection and pricing is even lower than convenience stores in area. The location is great, it is full of night life activities and a very short walk from the Hongik University station. I cant comment on the dorms but the private room was great, it had everything I wanted and did not disappoint. Tha ks for the good time Jin I hope to visit...

Service: Pretty defensive

I went to Jins paradise after travelling and didn't have access to my email since I was busy and often without wifi. When I got there the owner absolutely roasted me for not reading the check in email. He called me the equivalent of a dumb american because he told me to read the email and I did and then asked me "ok what do you think". I was confused and when I said I'm not sure, he basically said well looks like you didn't read the email.

For context the part of the email that he wanted me to give him an answer to said " Also, It will be much for convient if you can contact directly then we can give you full direction and invite our whatsapp group chat while you stay in."

Had no idea what that meant because of the broken english and he got mad because he thought it was clear that it meant I was supposed to tell him whether or not I wanted to be added to the group chat.

Rooms were pretty underwhelming for a hostel.

Sleepable but the matress was pretty flimsy and my pillow was sticky from past guests sweat. The room smelled like socks because it was a bunch of guys who were backpacking and a small area. I paid less in Japan for a hostel and had a better sleeping arrangement so I get it but also gotta give my...

Amazing place to stay in the heart of Hongdae. Hostel has a cozy vibe with a comfortable common space with couches to chill and meet other guests while watching/listening to K-pop. Big kitchen where you can make your own food and Jin sells drinks directly from his fridge which is convenient. And always offering coffee or tea which is nice.

I've stayed on multiple occasions and got to stay in the dorm rooms as well as the bigger private room that can sleep 4. Was nice to have the big room with private bathroom, if you are 3 or 4 I would recommend this room if it's available.

The real thing that makes this stay exceptional is the host himself Jin. He's a super fun, outgoing host who is always ready to help guests with any needs. He puts in a lot of effort to create a social and comfortable space for all guests, and even organizes plans with the guests like walks, dinners, and hangouts. If you are looking for a fun place to stay in Seoul where you will meet others and share experiences with other travellers this is definitely the place to stay.

Highly...