Esophageal stents are used frequently to treat a wide variety of esophageal diseases. The indications for esophageal stent placement can be divided into malignant and benign conditions. Recent data support the utilization of esophageal stents for the treatment of malignant or benign strictures. They are also being used increasingly for the sealing and treatment of esophageal leaks, fistulas, and perforations. On the other hand, stent placement is also associated with complications, such as migration, chest pain, hemorrhage, and perforation. Therefore, it is essential to know the precise indications of stent insertion. This article reviews the recent guidelines for esophageal stent insertion. (Korean J Gastroenterol 2019;74:197-198)