A Social Guesthouse

Located in the charming Seochon neighborhood, Vine blends the traditional, the modern and the artistic

In this time of presidential renewal, SEOUL invites you to discover Vine, a traditional guesthouse near the presidential mansion, Cheong Wa Dae.

Literally situated just one alleyway away from Cheong Wa Dae, Vine is located in the Seochon district, a historical neighborhood west of Gyeongbokgung Palace. With their many Hanok homes, Seochon and Bukchon may seem like siblings separated by Gyeongbokgung Palace. Bukchon, however, is almost overrun with tourists, while Seochon has managed to remain more authentic. The narrow alleys here are populated by a mix of new cafés, old restaurants with good reputations, Hanok homes and modern buildings. Vine is located in one of those picturesque alleys. In fact, that’s what makes a stay here so special.

Staying true to the Hanok

Kim Minha and her mother manage two Hanok houses in Seochon; they are both renovated to comfortably accommodate guests, but have meticulously preserved their Hanok identities. Both homes are over a hundred years old. The wood and stone are full of stories. Kim was born in Bukchon, but later moved to Seochon as tourism transformed her former home into something other than the haven of peace it used to be. Since she grew up in a Hanok herself, she knows what makes them special. She also knows how to make them be special for you.

If you come in the right season, she will even give you grapes from the eponymous vine she planted in the garden. You can also appreciate the art in the houses. With a degree in art and currently completing her masters in aesthetic philosophy, Kim can also answer any questions you may have on those subjects. She can also recommends exhibitions to further your experience of Korean art.

Hanok houses are social constructions, so your host has paid close attention to organizing her common areas so that you can share your discoveries during your stay in Seoul.

If you are looking for a convivial place with authentic local charm, check out Vine guesthouse and let yourself be carried away by the spirit of the space.