The best boutique hotels in Seoul, South Korea featuring show-stopping art, design, and architecture

From the best design hotels in Hua Hin to heritage hotels in Singapore and palace hotels in India, there’s no denying that we love to explore Asia. With its blend of rich history with modern pop culture, and the fact that the city has four very distinct seasons, Seoul is undoubtedly one of our favourite places to travel. So if you’re making your way to the South Korean capital, be sure to book in at one of the best boutique hotels in Seoul.

The best boutique hotels in Seoul, South Korea

1. Ryse | Hongdae (홍대)

Hotel: RYSE, Autograph Collection
Location: 130 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04038, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Hongdae, known for its independent music venues, street art, cafés and nightlife
Rooms: 272 rooms and suites, including Creator, Editor and Artist categories
Style: Contemporary, art-led interiors with bold furnishings and work by local and international creatives
Family-friendly: Larger suites may suit families; confirm occupancy and extra-bed arrangements
Wellness: 24-hour fitness centre
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: CHARR restaurant and Side Note Club rooftop bar
Best for: Creative travellers, design enthusiasts and visitors exploring Hongdae
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩200,000 per night, depending on room and season

Ryse (main image) embodies the vibrant, art-laden streets of the area where it is situated: Hongdae. Made for creatives, lovers of all things cultural, and global nomads, each of the room types offers carefully designed spaces filled with contemporary fittings and edgy art pieces.

Side Note Club on the 15th floor is a haven for hip hop fans and the Print Culture Lounge offers an extensive selection of unique books, magazines, and vinyl. There’s also a pop-up store and a curated lifestyle shop to busy yourself at while you’re not exploring the city.

Found out more about Ryse or Book through Booking.com

2. Hotel28 Myeong-dong | Myeong-dong (명동)

Hotel: Hotel28 Myeongdong
Location: 13 Myeongdong 7-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul 04534, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Myeongdong, close to shopping streets, restaurants and major city attractions
Rooms: 83 rooms and suites, including Deluxe and Director’s Suite categories
Style: Contemporary design inspired by Korean cinema, with industrial details and film-related artwork
Family-friendly: Larger suites may accommodate families; check the room’s maximum occupancy
Wellness: Fitness facilities
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Congdu Myeongdong serves contemporary Korean cuisine; rooftop and lounge spaces provide additional places to relax
Best for: Couples, film enthusiasts and travellers wanting a central shopping district base
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩180,000 per night, depending on room and season

Blending art with traditional Korean culture, Hotel28 Myeong-dong is the place to stay if you’re looking for a central base in Seoul. Located in the heart of a colourful shopping district that is steeped in history, you’ll be in the middle of all the action when you stay here.

Each guestroom is tastefully decorated in a modern minimalist style with added luxuries such as BAF certified premium goose down duvets. There’s a popular restaurant on-site, a rooftop garden to enjoy, plus The Library is filled with a diverse range of books to fuel the imagination.

Discover more about Hotel28 Myeong-dong or Book through Booking.com

3. L7 | Various locations

Hotel: L7 by LOTTE HOTELS (L7 Gangnam, L7 Hongdae and L7 Myeongdong)
Location: L7 Gangnam: 415 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu; L7 Hongdae: 141 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu; L7 Myeongdong: 137 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Gangnam’s business district, Hongdae’s creative quarter and central Myeongdong
Rooms: Contemporary guestrooms across three properties, with room types varying by branch
Style: Modern lifestyle hotels with individual design concepts, local art and social spaces
Family-friendly: Suitable for families, depending on room configuration and branch
Wellness: Fitness centres at selected branches; L7 Gangnam also has a foot spa
Pool: Outdoor rooftop swimming pool at L7 Hongdae; facilities vary across the group
Dining: Restaurants, cafés and bars vary by branch; L7 Gangnam has Floating and Floating Bar
Best for: Design-conscious travellers wanting a convenient base in one of Seoul’s main districts
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩150,000 per night, depending on room and season

The L7 brand has hotels in Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeong-dong, each of which is curated for lovers of travel and the arts. Trendy design is the order of the day at each property, with each hotel having its own distinct look and feel.

We love the Hongdae space, which includes a beautiful rooftop swimming pool and sun-filled lounge that acts as a communal space for travellers to share stories or relax with a book from the library.

Learn more about L7 Hotels

4. Rakkojae Hanok Hotel | Jongno (종로)

Hotel: Rakkojae Seoul Bukchon Hanok Hotel
Location: 49-23 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Bukchon Hanok Village, surrounded by traditional houses and historic landmarks
Rooms: Five traditional hanok guest rooms
Style: Restored Korean hanok architecture with tiled roofs, wooden verandas, courtyards, gardens and traditional furnishings
Family-friendly: A distinctive cultural stay, although traditional floor bedding and limited room capacity may not suit every family
Wellness: Wood-fired red-clay sauna and traditional ondol rooms
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Traditional Korean breakfast; Korean dining and tea experiences can be arranged
Best for: Cultural travellers, couples and guests seeking an authentic hanok experience
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩350,000 per night, depending on room and season

Arguably one of the most distinct boutique hotels in Seoul, Rakkojae is innovative in its concept yet traditionally embedded in Korean ethos. The hotel consists of classic Korean houses assembled as a village, renovated in 2003 by Master Carpenter Young Jin Chung. Thus, guests enjoy a natural living experience with bamboo and pine trees, ponds, rustic alleys, and old-world courtyards while staying in the country’s largest city.

The charm of Rakkojae lies in its authentic character. Guests sleep on mattresses on the floor, and the rooms feature bare minimum furniture. The bathrooms are current and have showers, aromatherapy, and even tubs in some cases. Other trendy additions comprise air conditioning, capsule coffee machines, minibars, and hanbok for guests to wear around the complex. During your stay, do indulge in the Korean breakfast, natural mud sauna, and Gayageum performance for total immersion into the local culture.

Find out more about Rakkojae Hanok Hotel

5. Hotel Crescendo | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: Hotel Crescendo Seoul
Location: 428 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06153, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Samseong-dong, near Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs and COEX
Rooms: 107 rooms, including Petit, Boutique and Signature Terrace categories
Style: Contemporary boutique interiors with monochrome palettes, brass details and vintage-inspired furnishings
Family-friendly: Limited room space makes it better suited to couples and solo travellers; check occupancy before booking
Wellness: Fitness facilities
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: 428 Restaurant and a rooftop bar
Best for: Business travellers, couples and visitors exploring Gangnam
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩120,000 per night, depending on room and season

Designed with urban nomads in mind, at Hotel Crescendo you can expect sophisticated aesthetics and modern comforts. Minimal black and white interiors are punctuated with pops of blue alongside gold and brass finishings for that perfect blend of vintage contemporary.

428 Restaurant serves traditional Korean dishes created with European techniques for a totally unique dining experience that will make your stay even more memorable, and don’t miss a drink at the rooftop bar. We recommend booking one of the Signature Terrace rooms as they come with a lush bathtub (perfect for post-Seoul explorations) and views of Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Park.

Learn more about Hotel Crescendo or Book through Booking.com

6. Bongeunsa Temple | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: Bongeunsa Temple Stay
Location: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Samseong-dong, opposite the COEX complex and surrounded by Gangnam’s commercial district
Rooms: Simple temple accommodation, with availability and room arrangements depending on the temple-stay programme
Style: Traditional Korean Buddhist temple architecture, with historic halls, courtyards and landscaped grounds
Family-friendly: Some programmes may accept families; age requirements and participation rules vary
Wellness: Seon meditation, Buddhist chanting and temple-based mindfulness activities
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Traditional Buddhist temple food, depending on the programme
Best for: Cultural immersion, meditation and travellers seeking a quiet break from city life
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩70,000 per person for a temple-stay programme, depending on programme and season

If you have a few days in Seoul, you won’t regret spending part of your stay at the absolutely gorgeous Bongeunsa Temple. Centrally located, the temple has been around for over 1200 years, and a stay here will give you insight into the history of the temple and its importance in the revitalisation of Korean Buddhism.

Guests can take part in Yaebul chanting sessions, and learn more about Seon meditation, specific to this lineage. The experience is unlike any other, and a wonderful way to dive into the culture of the country.

Find out more about staying at Bongeunsa Temple

7. Hotel Sunbee | Insa-dong (인사동)

Hotel: Hotel Sunbee
Location: 26 Insadong 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Insadong, near traditional teahouses, galleries, craft shops and historic palaces
Rooms: A selection of standard, deluxe and family room categories
Style: Understated contemporary interiors with Korean-inspired details and warm wood finishes
Family-friendly: Family room options are available
Wellness: No dedicated spa or fitness centre; selected rooms include bathtubs and heated flooring
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Sunbee Café Terrace serves coffee, drinks and light meals
Best for: Couples, families and culture-focused travellers wanting to explore central Seoul on foot
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩130,000 per night, depending on room and season

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Spartan and subtly boutique, Hotel Sunbee is an excellent spot to book if you wish to be in the cultural centre of Insadong. The bustling neighbourhood further guarantees plenty of restaurants and activities within walking distance. You’re also close to Gyeongbokgung, Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, and Myeong-dong shopping area.

The hotel exudes an uncluttered aura, not entirely minimalistic but calming with its soothing Korean-inspired interiors. The rooms include air-conditioning, heated flooring, en-suites with bathtubs, and TVs. Complimentary use of the laundry room, PC and printer in the business centre, and a shared kitchenette with coffee and an oven help make your stay that extra bit satisfying.

However, should you wish not to do any work, Sunbee Cafe Terrace is a lovely eatery with indoor and al-fresco seating where you can savour coffee, beverages, and sandwiches.

Find out more about Hotel Sunbee or Book through Booking.com

8. Metro Hotel | Myeong-dong (명동)

Hotel: Metro Hotel
Location: 14 Myeongdong 9ga-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul 04534, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Myeongdong, within walking distance of shopping streets, restaurants and Euljiro
Rooms: 78 rooms, including standard, deluxe, twin and family categories
Style: Scandinavian-inspired contemporary interiors with clean lines and practical furnishings
Family-friendly: Yes, with family rooms, a children’s play area and larger room configurations
Wellness: Fitness centre and relaxation area with massage chairs
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: On-site restaurant, with extensive dining options nearby
Best for: Families, shoppers and longer stays in central Seoul
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩140,000 per night, depending on room and season

In the heart of the action in Myeong-dong, Metro Hotel is a wonderful option for those looking for a stylish hotel in Seoul. Scandi minimalism is the order of the day when it comes to the interiors here plus you can expect uber comfy beds.

We think this is the ideal spot for long-term guests too as there’s an on-site coin-operated laundry, a PC corner with printers, a fitness room, and even a relax room equipped with free massage chairs. Enjoy a meal on the terrace or explore the copious amounts of dining hot spots just outside your door.

Discover more about Metro Hotel or Book through Booking.com

9. Douglas House | Gwangjin (광진)

Hotel: WALKERHILL Douglas House
Location: 177 Walkerhill-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 04963, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Achasan hillside, overlooking the Han River and surrounded by woodland
Rooms: 50 rooms and suites in a secluded adults-focused property
Style: Mid-century modern architecture by Kim Swoo Geun, with natural materials and understated interiors
Family-friendly: Primarily designed for adults; check the property’s age policy before booking
Wellness: Fitness facilities and access to selected wellness amenities at the wider Walkerhill complex
Pool: No dedicated Douglas House pool; access to other Walkerhill facilities may be subject to conditions
Dining: Douglas Lounge serves breakfast, while Douglas Hour offers evening drinks and snacks
Best for: Couples, quiet retreats and travellers seeking a nature-focused stay in Seoul
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩250,000 per night, depending on room and season

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Nestled amid a forest on the Hangang River, Douglas House is where you want to go to escape the hustle of the city. Designed by acclaimed architect Kim Swoo Geun in 1963, the property brings nature inside with woods and natural materials used throughout.

Enjoy breakfast at Douglas Lounge, which includes a fully kitted kitchen, or escape to the Library for quiet moments of contemplation. Don’t forget to pencil some time in to explore the garden and enjoy cocktails and snacks at Douglas Hour between 7-9 pm every day.

Learn more about Douglas House

10. Hotel Cappuccino | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: Hotel Cappuccino
Location: 155 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06122, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Nonhyeon-dong, near Eonju Station and Gangnam’s shopping and business districts
Rooms: 141 rooms, including king, twin, triple, quad and dog-friendly categories
Style: Contemporary urban design with industrial details, reclaimed materials and social spaces
Family-friendly: Yes, with triple and quad rooms suitable for groups and families
Wellness: Fitness centre
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Restaurant Hot Eatsue, Caffè Cappuccino, rooftop bar and wine shop
Best for: Social travellers, families and guests seeking a lifestyle hotel in Gangnam
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩120,000 per night, depending on room and season

This trendy lifestyle hotel in Gangnam is a great option for stylish travellers looking to explore all that Seoul has to offer. Room configurations include everything from King bed options to bunk beds that are perfect for friends or family travelling together.

Take in the views of the city from the terrace as you enjoy the seasonal dishes on the menu along with a long-list of wines from around the globe. Local Seoul-ites with pooches will love the dog-friendly offers available too.

Find out more about Hotel Cappuccino or Book through Booking.com

11. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel | Itaewon (이태원)

Hotel: Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
Location: 221 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04349, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Itaewon, known for international restaurants, nightlife and independent shops
Rooms: 128 rooms and suites
Style: Contemporary interiors with colourful pop-art murals and bold decorative details
Family-friendly: Larger room categories may accommodate families; confirm the maximum occupancy
Wellness: Fitness centre
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Habarin and other dining options within the hotel; numerous restaurants nearby
Best for: Nightlife, food-focused trips and travellers exploring Itaewon and Hannam-dong
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩120,000 per night, depending on room and season

If you’re looking to stay in buzzing Itaewon, then Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel is a great option. Decorated in a contemporary style with murals and art pieces by local artists, guests will enjoy the design-led interiors here.

Foodies will love the fact that there’s an Egg Slut on the first floor, perfect for after a big night out at the neighbouring bars. There’s also a fitness centre and a selection of meeting rooms onsite in case you need to do work things.

Learn more about Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel or Book through Booking.com

12. L’Escape Hotel | Jung-gu (중구)

Hotel: L’Escape, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Location: 67 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 04529, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Hoehyeon, beside Namdaemun Market and within easy reach of Myeongdong
Rooms: 204 rooms and suites, including pet-friendly accommodation
Style: Belle Époque-inspired interiors by Jacques Garcia, with rich fabrics, antique-style furnishings and dramatic decorative details
Family-friendly: Larger suites can accommodate families; confirm room capacity and child amenities
Wellness: Spa, fitness centre and tailored treatments
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Palais de Chine, Lamant Secret, Marque d’Amour and Starbucks
Best for: Couples, design enthusiasts and travellers seeking a Parisian-inspired luxury stay
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩220,000 per night, depending on room and season

Designed by Jacques Garcia, L’Escape is a Parisian getaway in the heart of Seoul unlike any other. The hotel channels the very best of the Belle Époque period, with rich colours, patterns, symmetry, and luxe finishes the order of the day. Antique-look furniture was inspired by eighteenth-century French châteaux, and world-renowned parfumier Alienor Massenet has created the romantic signature scent of the property.

What we love about this boutique hotel in Seoul is the attention to detail that permeates every space. Spectacular floral displays by London-based flower and art director Tony Marklew can be enjoyed throughout the year, making for the perfect Instagram moment. Sip on specialty cocktails at the bar (we love the peacocks!) or enjoy a meal at the French or Chinese restaurant during your stay.

Find out more about L’Escape or Book through Booking.com

13. Amanti Hotel Seoul | Hongdae (홍대)

Hotel: Amanti Hotel Seoul
Location: 31 World Cup buk-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04001, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Hongdae, near Hongik University, Gyeongui Line Forest Park and Dongjin Market
Rooms: A selection of standard and deluxe rooms, suites and family-friendly configurations
Style: Contemporary interiors with neutral colours, clean lines and modern furnishings
Family-friendly: Yes, with larger room options and family-oriented facilities
Wellness: Fitness centre and rooftop running track
Pool: Seasonal outdoor swimming pool
Dining: On-site dining options for breakfast and light meals
Best for: Families, leisure travellers and visitors exploring Hongdae
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩130,000 per night, depending on room and season

Contemporary convenience takes precedence at Amanti Hotel Seoul, idyllically located in vibrant Hongdae close to the Dongjin Flea Market, Trickeye Museum, and Gyeongui Line Forest Park. Boasting modern interiors with an elegant touch, the property offers an assortment of standard and deluxe rooms, as well as slightly more extravagant and spacious suites. The decor is clean, with shades of beige and brown, giving the rooms a sleek look. Features you can expect range from LED TVs and en-suites with bathtubs to coffee/tea makers, personalised voice messaging service, and luxury amenities.

Popular among business and family travellers, Amanti has a couple of dining options, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack anytime during the day. Moreover, the hotel’s swimming pool, open only during summer, is extremely popular. As are the rooftop running track and fitness centre.

Find out more about Amanti Hotel Seoul or Book through Booking.com

14. Josun Palace | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Location: 231 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06142, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Yeoksam-dong, in Gangnam’s business district and close to Seolleung Station
Rooms: 254 rooms and suites, including 44 suites
Style: Contemporary luxury with geometric forms, French-inspired interiors, statement artworks and marble finishes
Family-friendly: Larger rooms and suites can accommodate families; confirm child amenities and room occupancy
Wellness: Josun Wellness Club with fitness facilities, sauna and relaxation areas
Pool: Indoor heated swimming pool with city views
Dining: Five signature restaurants and bars, including Eatanic Garden and The Great Hong Yuan
Best for: Luxury travellers, food enthusiasts and design-conscious visitors to Gangnam
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩450,000 per night, depending on room and season

The award-winning Josun Palace is a century-old legacy that has not only stood the test of time but has maintained its splendour and appeal over decades. A truly magnificent accommodation, the hotel comprises 254 rooms across various categories, with many promising exclusive views of the city. Most notable about the interiors, conceptualised by Monaco-based firm Humbert & Poyet, is the use of geometric lines, in addition to splashes of colour that give the otherwise lighter-coloured abodes a vintage appearance with a new-age stylish disposition.

Walk around the Palace, and you’ll come across stunning design elements such as large sculptures, black marble walls, high glass ceilings, and a free-flowing mix of French interiors. Equally eye-catching are the five dining options at the hotel. While Constans serves a more international menu, you’ll discover the joys of Cantonese preparations at The Great Hong Yuan, and fascinating renditions of classic Korean recipes at Eatanic Garden. Not to miss is the hotel’s indoor heated pool, the perfect place for a swim, offering memorable panoramas of Seoul.

Learn more about Josun Palace or Book through Booking.com

15. Owall Hotel | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: Owall Hotel
Location: 27 Dosan-daero 25-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Sinsa-dong, near Garosu-gil and Gangnam’s fashion and dining districts
Rooms: 32 rooms, including options with private terraces
Style: Minimalist, nature-inspired interiors combining wood, granite and marble
Family-friendly: Limited room capacity makes it better suited to couples and solo travellers; confirm occupancy before booking
Wellness: No dedicated spa or fitness centre listed
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: No major restaurant offering confirmed; cafés and restaurants are nearby
Best for: Design enthusiasts, couples and travellers seeking a quiet stay in Gangnam
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩180,000 per night, depending on room and season

Zen-like and minimalist, the Owall Hotel in the Gangnam-Gu district is a beautiful nature-inspired respite and a bona fide hidden gem when it comes to the best boutique hotels in Seoul. The property, developed by Hyon-Sook Park but designed by friend and acclaimed designer Paik-Sun Kim, uses wood, granite, and marble to create a sanctuary that is both nirvanic and comfortable as per present-day requirements.

The 32 rooms feature an eye-catching array of creative fixtures, TVs with streaming channels, tea and coffee makers, sound systems, en-suite bathrooms with bathtubs, organic toiletries, and free WiFi. We recommend choosing one of the rooms with a private terrace for that extra bit of space. The gallery on the first floor of the building enhances the hotel’s artistic component by hosting various events throughout the year.

Find out more about Owall Hotel

16. Signiel Seoul | Jamsil (잠실)

Hotel: Signiel Seoul
Location: Lotte World Tower, 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05551, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Jamsil, close to Lotte World Mall, Seokchon Lake and major entertainment attractions
Rooms: 235 rooms and suites on the tower’s upper floors
Style: Contemporary high-rise luxury with Korean-inspired details, refined furnishings and panoramic city views
Family-friendly: Larger suites and family room arrangements are available; confirm child policies and occupancy
Wellness: Evian Spa, fitness centre and sauna facilities
Pool: Indoor swimming pool
Dining: STAY, Bicena and hotel lounges, including the Champagne Bar
Best for: Luxury travellers, couples and guests seeking spectacular views across Seoul
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩500,000 per night, depending on room and season

Boutique hotels in Seoul come in all shapes and sizes. While some embrace their petite character, creating cosy abodes, hotels like Signiel showcase the city’s futuristic architectural expression. Situated between the 87th and 101st floors of Lotte World Tower, the hotel enjoys a sky-high location inside Korea’s tallest landmark. As expected, all 235 rooms and suites guarantee exquisite vistas. A sight in particular that remains embedded in the mind is that of the city, twinkling under the night sky.

The rooms have a distinctly Korean outlook, with pastel shades and accent walls vying for attention against the panoramas that extend beyond the large windows. Amenities in your private space include couches, desks, marble en-suites with bathtubs, toiletries, TVs, and other standard creature comforts. Step outside your room, and two unmissable epicurean destinations await. Stay plates French cuisine under the tutelage of three-star Michelin chef Yannick Alleno. At the same time, you can relish fine-dining Korean preparations at Bicena, located on the 81st floor.

Learn more about Signiel Seoul or Book through Booking.com

17. Glad Gangnam COEX Center | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: GLAD Gangnam COEX Center
Location: 610 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06174, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Samseong-dong, directly beside Samseong Station and close to COEX
Rooms: 282 rooms
Style: Functional contemporary design with streamlined furnishings and practical layouts
Family-friendly: Suitable for families, although standard rooms are more compact than apartment-style accommodation
Wellness: 24-hour fitness centre
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Café G and other dining options around COEX
Best for: Business travellers, event attendees and visitors wanting easy access to COEX
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩120,000 per night, depending on room and season

Sleek vibes with lots of monotones are on show at Glad Gangnam COEX Center, with interior design by Hanseok Kim and Kukhyun Yoon. Lovers of art and design will enjoy the exhibitions that take place throughout the hotel, bringing an ever changing look to the property.

Choose from a range of stylish guestrooms where minimalism is the name of the game. Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants, sweat it out at the gym, or imbibe really good wine from the wine shop.

Learn more about Glad Gangnam COEX Center or Book through Booking.com

18. URI& Hotel | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: URI& Hotel
Location: 20 Samseong-ro 96-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Samseong-dong, near COEX, World Trade Center Seoul and major business offices
Rooms: A range of functional guestrooms with work desks, air purifiers and modern bathrooms
Style: Contemporary urban design with floor-to-ceiling windows and practical interiors
Family-friendly: Limited room space; check available room configurations and occupancy before booking
Wellness: Sauna and fitness facilities; sauna access is subject to separate operating rules
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: On-site dining and nearby restaurants around COEX
Best for: Business travellers and visitors attending events at COEX
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩130,000 per night, depending on room and season

An acronym for “yoU aRe I”, MEANING “you are me”, URI& is a five-star boutique hotel in Seoul that creates a home-away-from-home atmosphere by offering a welcoming and comfortable environment. Located in Gangnam-Gu, surrounded by skyscrapers and restaurants, and near commercial centres like Samsung-dong and COEX, its popularity among business travellers is evident. Additionally, the hotel is ideal for tourists seeking modern accommodations with top-notch facilities.

Displaying a contemporary exterior and a lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows, URI& Hotel offers practical travel solutions to its residents, be it a coin laundry, sauna, fitness area, or business centre.

The rooms here are functional in essence, and even if you plan to spend little time indoors, they offer all the creature comforts one desires. Wooden flooring, air purifiers, European-style bidets, work desks, and a choice between a shower or a bathtub in the en-suites help make your stay restful.

Find out more about URI& Hotel or Book through Booking.com

19. Fraser Place Central Seoul | Jung-gu (중구)

Hotel: Fraser Place Central Seoul
Location: 78 Tongil-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 04517, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Seosomun and Seoul’s Embassy Row, within reach of City Hall and Namdaemun Market
Rooms: 269 serviced residences, from studios to one- and two-bedroom apartments and penthouses
Style: Contemporary serviced apartments with wooden floors, kitchenettes and separate living and dining spaces
Family-friendly: Yes, with multi-bedroom apartments, a children’s playroom and family facilities
Wellness: Fitness centre, sauna and relaxation facilities
Pool: Indoor swimming pool and children’s wading pool
Dining: The Dining Room serves Italian, Japanese and Korean dishes
Best for: Families, longer stays and travellers who prefer apartment-style accommodation
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩160,000 per night, depending on room and season

A well-known brand in the global apartment-hotel scene, Fraser Place Central Seoul situates you in the heart of the tranquil Embassy Row. However, you are also close to the city’s premier shopping destinations, such as Insadong and Namdaemun. With 269 residences, the hotel accommodates singles, couples, and small families.

Accommodation options at Fraser Place include studios as well as one- to two-bedroom apartments for both short and long stays. Upon entering your private abode, expect wooden flooring, a kitchenette, living and dining spaces, sleek modern furniture, muted colour schemes, Dolce-Gusto coffee machines, LED TVs, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Moreover, daily housekeeping ensures your residence remains clean and always feels brand new.

Along with cosy, pet-friendly living, Fraser Place Central Seoul allows guests to enjoy home-like amenities on-site. The 22/6 hour gym, indoor swimming pool, residents’ lounge, snooker room, sauna, kids’ playroom, and sightseeing shuttle enhance the overall experience. Meanwhile, The Dining Room is a lovely place to relish Italian, Japanese, and Korean dishes all day.

Learn more about Fraser Place Central Seoul or Book through Booking.com

20. Ananti at Gangnam | Gangnam (강남)

Hotel: Ananti at Gangnam
Location: 734 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Nonhyeon-dong, close to Apgujeong, Sinsa and Gangnam’s dining and shopping districts
Rooms: Approximately 100 duplex-style Cabin rooms and suites
Style: Contemporary architectural design by SKM Architects, combining exposed brick, natural stone, aluminium and greenery
Family-friendly: Spacious duplex accommodation can suit families; confirm room capacity and child facilities
Wellness: Sauna, fitness centre, hyperbaric oxygen chamber and wellness facilities
Pool: Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
Dining: Poissons, Beckett and Salon de Moby Dick
Best for: Design enthusiasts, couples and luxury travellers seeking a distinctive Gangnam stay
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩400,000 per night, depending on room and season

Ananti at Gangnam is a 100-room boutique hotel packed full of designer details. Conceptualised by SKM Architects, the hotel showcases multiple elements in its construction, such as aluminium, natural stone, and exposed red bricks. Its six-layer exterior is a true marvel comprising a facade, an aluminium louvre, greenery, balconies, glazing, and a concrete framework.

The rooms at Ananti, called Cabins, are truly unique in their character. Built as duplexes, these open and expansive chambers have high-glass windows, futuristic-looking minimal bathrooms, bidets, coffee machines, tablets, and wine glasses and openers.

We discovered some real hidden gems while exploring the facilities at Ananti. In addition to the stunning indoor and outdoor pools, they also offer a juice bar, sauna, gym, and a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. Furthermore, there is the rather atmospheric Salon de Moby Dick, where one can enjoy a whiskey or cocktail after hours. For food and wine connoisseurs, be sure not to miss a meal at Poissons. The chic bistro, with its chandeliers and tiled ceiling, serves delectably fresh seafood paired with over 60 varieties of wine from around the world.

Find out more about Ananti at Gangnam or Book through Booking.com

21. G3 Hotel | Chungmuru, Jung-gu (충무로, 중구)

Hotel: G3 Hotel
Location: 15 Chungmu-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Neighbourhood: Chungmuro, near Myeongdong, Namsangol Hanok Village and Chungmuro Station
Rooms: Single, twin, double, family and quad room categories
Style: Contemporary urban design with a glass and stone façade and functional interiors
Family-friendly: Yes, with family and quad room options
Wellness: Fitness room
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Breakfast and nearby restaurants around Chungmuro and Myeongdong
Best for: Families, business travellers and visitors wanting convenient access to central Seoul
Prices starting from: Approximately ₩100,000 per night, depending on room and season

G3 is a conveniently located boutique hotel in Seoul, suitable for both business and leisure travellers. Founded in 2022 by the company responsible for the success of G2 and The Grand Hotel Myeongdong, it’s opposite the central Chungmuro Station and near Namsangol Hanok Village and Myeongdong Night Market.

G3 Hotel’s glass and stone facade gives it a stylish disposition. The same carries inside, with functional rooms featuring desks, carpets, air-conditioners, 49″ TVs, and en-suite showers. Accommodations are available in singles, twins, doubles, family rooms, and quads.

Facilities at the hotel range from coin-operated laundry and fitness room to a lounge in the lobby and a rooftop garden that offers stunning city views.

Learn more about G3 Hotel or Book through Booking.com

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