"Finding Home Away from Home" | The Story of Kage, Running a Women-Only Stay in Sinchon
1. Self-Introduction and Motivation
Q. Could you briefly introduce yourself and share how you started hosting?
A. My name is Kage, and I currently run a women-only stay in Sinchon. I originally started with a goshiwon (small dorm-style housing) in Bundang, but I expanded to Sinchon and Ewha, where there is strong demand from international tenants. Even while working full-time, I wanted to try something new, so I decided to enter the short-term rental market.
2. Before Getting Started
Q. What were your expectations and worries when you began hosting?
A. In the beginning, I was unsure how international guests would adapt and whether there would be unexpected risks. At first, the idea of not taking a deposit made me a little uneasy, but in reality most tenants lived responsibly, so my worries gradually disappeared.
3. Hosting Experiences
Q. Were there any unexpected incidents?
A. Yes, once the kitchen smoke triggered the fire alarm, and another time the circuit breaker went off. These situations made me realize the importance of being ready to respond quickly, even to small issues. Fortunately, nothing serious happened, and I learned what to pay more attention to in the future.
Q. What challenges have you faced while hosting?
A. Because the building is older, occasional repairs or maintenance are needed. Hosting is not only about welcoming tenants; it also requires consistent attention to schedules and facilities.
Q. What has been the most rewarding moment?
A. I feel most rewarded when guests say, “I had a great time here. I’d love to come back if I get the chance.” It feels good to know I provided not just a space, but also a place where they could create good memories.
