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Be yourself but read the room!
Top gay friendly hotels in South Korea?
Despite being a conservative country, South Korea packs a punch when it comes to gay friendly hotels.
For Seoul, we recommend bookmarking our guide to the best gay hotels in Seoul. This vibrant city offers a variety of inclusive spaces and exciting happenings that cater to the diverse LGBTQ+ community.
Winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and cozying up in jjimjilbang spas.
This is one of my favorite places to hang out in the summer time. There’s no nationwide legal recognition of gay marriage or same sex civil unions, no couple discounts on matching skincare routines…
Discrimination protections? These representations not only contribute to the broader cultural conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ rights but also serve as a source of inspiration and validation for queer viewers who have historically been underrepresented or misrepresented.
Another example is “Personal Taste”, about a straight Korean man who pretends to be gay in order to move in with his female roommate.
Additionally, Hong Seok-Cheon, by far the most famous Korean actor and one of the earliest figure heads for the LGBTQ Korean community, was fired and dropped by his agency and producers after revealing his sexuality in 2000.
From cozy LGBTQ+-owned bookstores to vibrant drag shows that challenge societal norms, this neighborhood is a testament to the city’s progressive spirit. This spicy, fermented cabbage side dish is served with everything and packs a tangy punch that keeps you coming back for more.
If you go with the right people it can be a blast. Our tour also included visiting the Dora Observatory to get a glimpse of North Korea and the optional Suspension Bridge Tour add on.
Seoraksan National Park
For nature lovers, Seoraksan is everything.
Though not technically gay, it is a blast to check out any day of the week.
Outside of the Hill, there are also large, gay dance clubs (though you will need to pay for entrance), but they are well worth the price.
Recommended Spots:
Queen – Small club/Bar on the hill.
Despite societal and legal challenges, activists and individuals have been tirelessly working towards greater equality and recognition.
Here are key milestones in South Korea’s LGBTQ+ history:
- The early years: LGBTQ+ activism in South Korea dates back to the 1980s when a small group of individuals came together to form support networks in the face of social stigma.
- The emergence of organizations: Over the years, several LGBTQ+ organizations have emerged, advocating for legal protections, anti-discrimination policies, and providing support to the community.
- Legal breakthroughs: In 2003, the National Human Rights Commission of Korea recommended that sexual orientation be protected under the country’s anti-discrimination laws.
Sadly, the few instances where gays have popped-up haven’t been particularly positive either. That’s a nope. It’s not all doom and gloom, though: LGBTQ+ activism here is gaining traction, with Pride events like Seoul Queer Culture Festival growing bolder and brighter each year.
Culturally, the picture is equally mixed.
To make it easier for you to discover these incredible establishments, we’ve put together a curated list below:
- Proud Brew - A cozy café rooted in inclusivity, serving organic fair-trade coffee while providing a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Rainbow Reads – A bookstore that celebrates diverse literature and offers a wide range of LGBTQ+ authors, promoting visibility and acceptance through the power of narratives.
- Queer Fashion Forward – An avant-garde boutique that blends style with activism, featuring cutting-edge designs that shatter gender stereotypes and celebrate self-expression.
Remember, by supporting LGBTQ+-owned businesses and queer-friendly spaces, we contribute to a more inclusive and accepting society.