A simple method was developed for the synthesis of 3-chalcogen indoles via iodine-promoted direct 3-selanyl- and 3-sulfenylation of indoles with dichalcogenides. The reaction was carried out smoothly in EtOH under air at room temperature, selectively giving a series of 3-chalcogen indoles bearing different functional groups in good to excellent yields. The procedure has the merits of environmental friendliness, easy operation, wide substrate scope and mild reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]