Purpose: This study was conducted to obtain the fundamental data on prevention and management of musculoskeletal symptoms, and to assess the prevalence, risk factors and job characteristics of musculoskeletal symptoms in hotel employees. Methods: The work sampling analysis was carried out by OWAS, and the prevalence was surveyed in term of NIOSH diagnostic criteria and work related risk factors on 263 hotel employees in Busan, Korea, using structured self-administered questionnaire from Jan. 20 to Feb. 26, 2010. The collected data were analysed by the SPSS 18.0. Results: 1) The prevailing rate of musculoskeletal symptoms by NIOSH diagnostic criteria was 43.80% for total subjects and 27.91% for shoulders, 12.79% for neck, and 11.24% for back/waist, respectively. 2) Factors affecting the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms were examined and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. As a result, women, having a burden of musculoskeletal work, increased work time in case of a higher risk of the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms (P<0.1). 3) The body parts and the department with the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms showed a significant difference (P<0.05) compared with symptoms on shoulders, arms/elbows, and ankles/feet. Conclusion: The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms by NIOSH diagnostic criteria in hotel employees was relatively high showing 43.80% for total subjects and higher in departments of laundry, reservations, cooking, food&beverage, dishwashing, and room cleaning than others.