Where to stay in Seoul

I'm going to South Korea for a few months from august to november, starting in seoul.

where is the best area in seoul to stay? i'm a 22yo female, looking for good nightlife, shopping and eating. a generally all around happening place haha. not looking to spend more than 20AUD/night - so i'm looking at hostels and things.

any advice? also looking for female travel buddies around my age! :)

Hey Bea,

there are a lot of great options near "Hongik University (Subway) Station", which is the green line.
Actually there are two guesthouses directly outside the station (you can even go upstairs from within the station!) in the skyscraper. I name this area, because there, in Hongik / Hongdae is the party action, so enough night-life for you! Also eating possibilities are plentyful, as everywhere in Korea.
Not upscale though mostly, because it's the party district. But there are several upscale "Noraebangs" (Singing Rooms) and maybe I missed some restaurants, so it'll be possible. For shopping go to a different area. And pick up the Lonely Planet guide!

When are you actually exactly coming to Korea? I'll fly there at the 17th (arrival) of August. If you need further information just e-mail me. Haven't chosen a place to stay myself yet, but I'll highly likely reside near "Seoul Station" due to my morning classes.

You'll spend around 22.000 KRW for a night in a hostel, no idea how that translates to AUD. It's like 22 USD though. For travel buddies you might need to check out couchsurfing.org or ask the guesthouse owner.