Seoul plans to inspect hotels near Yeouido before the Seoul International Fireworks Festival to curb excessive room rates and last-minute cancellations. The city and three district offices will conduct joint inspections from Sept. 1-3, while monitoring online travel agency listings from Sept. 1-4. Officials said violations of room-rate display rules can trigger administrative action, including a five-day suspension for a first offense. The city also warned hotels not to cancel reservations unilaterally as more than 1 million visitors are expected.
Fireworks explode above the Han River during the Seoul International Fireworks Festival on Sept. 27, 2025, in Seoul. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul
Seoul plans to inspect hotels near Yeouido ahead of the Seoul International Fireworks Festival, targeting excessive room rates and cancellations that could leave visitors stranded as more than 1 million people are expected to attend.
The city government and the Yeongdeungpo, Mapo and Yongsan district offices will conduct joint inspections from Sept. 1-3, focusing on hotels with views of the Sept. 5 festival.
Officials will check whether hotels are complying with requirements to display room rates, including a rule that took effect July 14 requiring prices to be posted on online booking interfaces as well as at reception desks.
