Not sure if you are also concerned with the question of “where do I find a toilet right now?” when you travel. It can add to feeling overwhelmed and out of place in a foreign country. In Seoul, it’s actually pretty easy. So, let me give you a guide real quick.
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Metro stations
Seoul has tons of metro stations. And most of them have toilets – some even multiple ones. On metro maps, it’s also indicated which ones do have toilets, so you can plan where to get off.
Big signs point you in the right direction, so you can’t miss the toilets.
Plus, they all are clean and maintained regularly. And they’re free.
The toilets here are usually the toilet bowl ones, but some also have squat toilets as an option.
Markets
If you go to food markets in Seoul, such as Gwangjang or Tongin Traditional Market, you will find free public toilets. They are usually placed centrally, and there are signs guiding you. There’s also a map at each entrance, indicating whereabout you can find the toilets.
Parks and Hiking Trails
When you visit a public park or even when you’re on a trail, such as the Seoul City Wall Walk, there are small public restrooms. Not all of them will have soap – so bring your own. I have soap sheets* in my bag for such cases.
Big Squares
Also, at big squares, such as Gwanghwamun (the big street towards Gyeongbokgung Palace), you can find public toilets.
Hotels
The classic go-to to find a decent toilet anywhere in the world, really, is at a hotel. So many people come and go in hotels, they will not know that you’re not a customer. And toilets are also typically near the reception area; and they’re clean.
Hidden Cameras
I want to make note that Seoul has been experiencing the problem of hidden toilets on public toilets for years. The police have been cracking down on it much more, and especially in metro stations, you can find stickers to show regular check-ups done by police.
This information isn’t to scare you. But knowledge and awareness are important. Before you use a toilet, do a quick visual check to see if there are any holes that shouldn’t be there.
You can even bring a red flashing gadget with you to reveal the camera reflections that the naked eye might not see. I use this one here*.
