Controversy Over Hygiene Conditions at Gapyeong Pool Villa

Operator Apologizes, Promises Thorough Cleaning and Improved Staff Training

A pool villa in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, with a nightly rate exceeding 1 million won, has become the center of controversy. Shocking sanitary conditions were revealed, including a pool filled with green algae and moss, along with polluted facilities. As the controversy grew, the business eventually issued an apology and promised a thorough cleaning by a professional cleaning company.


Management condition of a pool villa with a nightly rate exceeding 1 million KRW. SNS capture

Management condition of a pool villa with a nightly rate exceeding 1 million KRW. SNS capture

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On August 4, a video exposing the sanitary conditions of a pool villa in Gapyeong spread rapidly on social networking services (SNS). This villa is famous as a premium accommodation facility able to accommodate up to about 40 people at once.


The person who posted the video, identified as Mr. A, shared that this was "the reality of a pool villa booked for over 1 million won." They uploaded photos of not only a swimming pool filled with algae and moss, but also a living room mat stained with black marks, a worn sofa, a broken refrigerator, and a malfunctioning microwave.


Mr. A stated, "We booked two detached buildings, each with two floors for four people, and with additional charges, paid over 1 million won." He went on to claim, "In one building, the entire first floor had no electricity, while in the other building, the first-floor TV did not work. The living room screen was torn, there was garbage piled up on the pool floor, and the window blinds were broken."


Controversy Over "Report It" Response... Similar Incidents Continue

He added, "When I called the manager, the response was basically to report it, and when I returned the room key, they ignored me without any greeting." Mr. A continued, "We had traveled for two hours from another region with both sets of parents, so we just let it go. I am sharing this not to demand a refund, but in the hopes that others will be aware before booking."


Management condition of a pool villa costing over 1 million won per night. SNS capture

Management condition of a pool villa costing over 1 million won per night. SNS capture

View original image

Another guest reported a similar experience. Mr. B, who stayed with family members for 350,000 won, stated, "They asked for an additional 280,000 won for pool heating, and even after paying it, there was no hot water. Despite accepting the likelihood of bugs since it was outdoors, the water itself was so dirty and full of green algae." He further claimed, "The interior was also extremely dusty, and the meat grill was not cleaned at all." Other critical reviews included, "None of the bathroom drains worked properly, so we couldn't shower," "There were cobwebs all over the house," and "They charge 100,000 won just for using cold water," highlighting multiple deficiencies in the facility management.



Business Issues Apology and Pledges Thorough Cleaning

As the controversy intensified, the pool villa's management posted an apology on SNS. The company stated, "We sincerely apologize to many customers for the shortcomings in how we operated," adding, "We plan to conduct a thorough cleaning of guest rooms and the pool by hiring a professional cleaning company, rather than relying on our previous cleaning methods. Additionally, we will strengthen staff training to significantly improve our customer service approach."


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