Where to Sleep Cheap (or Free) in Korea

Let’s be honest whether you're a student on a budget, missed the last train, or just need a quick nap spot while traveling, finding a place to rest in Korea without spending a fortune is a big win. The good news? There are several places where you can sleep overnight for free or super cheap, and most people don’t even know about them. First, let’s talk about the classic jjimjilbang (찜질방). These 24/7 Korean bathhouses are the ultimate budget stay option. For ₩10,000–15,000, you can get access to hot baths, saunas, a warm sleeping area (with mats or heated floors), and even snacks. Some popular ones like Siloam Sauna (Seoul Station) or Dragon Hill Spa feel like mini resorts. Next up, airport lounges and rest zones. Both Incheon and Gimpo Airports have cozy 24-hour nap zones with reclining chairs, charging stations, and some even offer free showers. Perfect for early flights or overnight layovers. If you're out late and stuck in a random area, many study cafés (스터디카페) or 24-hour PC bangs (gaming cafés) will let you stay for a few hours or overnight for less than ₩10,000. It’s not the comfiest sleep, but it’s warm, safe, and comes with Wi-Fi. Lastly, if you’re traveling far, some intercity bus terminals offer rest areas or “sleep boxes” where you can crash for a few hours, especially in touristy cities like Busan or Gyeongju. In Korea, you don’t always need a hotel to rest well you just need to know where to look. 😉