Located in the vibrant and youthful heart of Hongdae, Seoul, our accommodation distinguishes itself as a contemporary temple and guesthouse. Nestled within Seoul's most energetic district, this unique establishment provides the perfect blend of Buddhist tranquility and urban excitement. Guests enjoy immediate proximity to a variety of conveniences including convenience stores, markets, and department stores, as well as direct connections to the airport and various downtown areas through easily accessible public transportation.Here, you're not just finding a place to stay; you're given the chance to participate in a lifestyle deeply intertwined with community and spiritual exploration.
Living conditions are comfortable with air conditioning for the hotter months and heat for the cooler months. Volunteers can expect to share a dormitory-style room with up to five other volunteers. These bedrooms are separated by gender with shared hot water showers and western toilets (also separated by gender). There is a lounge area, as well as a dining area for volunteers to hang out and enjoy their meals together.
There is WiFi available at the volunteer accommodation.
Please note that the accommodation is within a temple and therefore volunteers are expected to be quiet after 22:00. It is important to note that volunteers are unable to consume alcohol or meat at the guesthouse.
Arrival
The accommodation is a 5 min walk from Hongik University station and can be reached on a direct train from the airport, it takes approximately 45mins.
Your airport train ride to the accommodation is included in your program fee. Please note that this meet and greet service is offered between 10:00 to 17:00.
When you arrive, you will be be met at the airport by a member of the local team. The airport is a 1-hour train ride from the accommodation. If there are volunteers arriving within a few hours of your flight, the local team will wait and transfer volunteers to the accommodation altogether.
If you are traveling to South Korea before your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up at a pre-arranged destination in Seoul, the day before your program orientation. You also have the option to make your own way to Seoul.
This accommodation is located near the subway station and is walking distance to shops, mini-mart, ATM, supermarket, local restaurants, and coffee shops.
Transportation to and from the project is not included, but is very simple and costs around 1-2 EUR each way. You'll travel together with the local team for all scheduled activities. Seoul’s subway and bus system is safe, clean, and affordable, and you'll get familiar with it quickly! Depending on the location, travel time can vary.
Breakfasts are prepared at the accommodation. We will provide you with 2 meals (breakfast and lunch) a day including during the weekend. Lunch is provided at the Soup Kitchen. Participants eat what they prepare and serve for the day.
Please inform us of any allergies you may have or any dietary requirements, so that the team leaders and coordinators are prepared and special arrangements can be made for you.
There are many options for dinner; the city has a fantastic food culture with plenty of markets and restaurants. You can budget the cost per meal at around 5-10 euros (at own cost).
What to Bring
Dress Code in South Korea
Respectful Attire: Dress modestly to align with local cultural norms, especially when visiting temples and palaces.
Appropriate Clothing: Avoid wearing anything too short, tight, or revealing. Ensure your shoulders and legs are covered.
Western Clothes: These are fine as long as they meet local standards and are respectful in terms of graphics, symbols, or text.
Closed-toe shoes, preferably non-slip, for safety and comfort while working in the kitchen.
Optional Items:
Hairnet or Hat: To prevent hair from falling into food and maintain kitchen hygiene.
Aprons: Aprons are often provided, but bringing your own for extra comfort is recommended
Local SIM Card
We highly recommend buying a cheap local SIM card for your whole time in South Korea for your own personal safety and for easier/cheaper communication with other participants, staff and family back home, and especially if travelling to us by yourself, this becomes especially useful.