Freedom from the Digital World: Digital Detox Modern society has stepped into the digital and AI era. Electronic devices such as smartphones and laptops have already become a necessary part of daily life. Much of the new media targets Generation-Z consumers through provocative short form videos and advertisements. Although digital media can be productive and helpful, it can also cause fatigue, leading people to feel the need to get some rest. As a result, “digital detox,” the practice of temporarily disconnecting from electronic devices and the internet, has emerged as a global trend.

According to Hilton 2025 Trend Report, a survey based report published by the Hilton global hotel group, digital detox emerged as a major travel keyword in 2025. According to a survey of global travelers, 24% of 13,001 responded that while traveling, they were less likely to use social media or respond to task related messages. These results suggest that the number of people who want to be released from the digital world is increasing, at least among travelers.

In response, accommodation providers have taken notice of the digital detox trend. Many overseas resorts are developing and promoting accommodations with no Wi-Fi, TV or computers. For example, HOSINOYA Kyoto, a resort located in Kyoto, Japan, operates a digital detox program called “Digital Detox Stay.” This is a two day program in which, guests enjoy the nature and culture of Kyoto in the Arashiyama district. When visitors check in, the resort collects their electronic devices, which are returned at the end of their stay. This allows visitors to escape from everyday life and fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The resort explains, “This resort provides a space where guests can escape from busy daily life and reflect on themselves by putting down electronic devices.”



The Scene of Surak Hyu

In Korea, there is a similar accomodation called “Surak Hyu,” a natural recreation forest located on Suraksan Mountain in Nowon-gu. At Surak Hyu, there are no electronic devices, TV or computers in guest rooms similar to the program of HOSINOYA Kyoto. The SeoulTech contacted the Nowon-gu Office, which operates Surak Hyu, to learn more about it and digital detox.

Interview with Dongjin Jang, Chief of Staff, Blue City Department:

Q. What is the underlying theme and purpose of Surak Hyu?

A. Surak Hyu was developed to offer “complete rest” amid lush natural surrounding for busy urban residents. With growing demand for forest recreation spaces each year, Nowon-gu has developed a nature based retreat to provide residents with much needed green spaces.

Q. There are no electronic devices in the guest rooms in Surak Hyu. Is there any connection to the digital detox trend?

A. Although Surak Hyu was not specifically designed for digital detox, its operations align with its slogan, “Everything Comes from the Forest,” and are structured to provide visitors with complete rest, making digital detox a natural outcome. However, public Wi-Fi is available for urgent communications and basic convenience.

Q. Finally, what is the vision and operational plan of Surak Hyu?

A. By the end of 2025, improvements to the Suraksan Mountain Children’s Forest Experience Space located right next to Surak Hyu, will introduce family-oriented facilites such as experiential treehouses. In the long term, plans are underway to develop a Center for Forest Therapy, offering various therapeutic activities such as healing therapy, water therapy, and foot baths.

Digital detox provides people with renewed vigor, allowing people to engage more fully with themselves. It is expected to continue to grow as part of global culture, rather than just remaining as a passing trend.

Reporter

Jaeho Lim

limjaeho4119@seoultech.ac.kr

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