Ever thought of sleeping in a graffiti-themed room equipped with a karaoke machine? Or how about staying in a posh boutique hotel fitted with a bathtub that overlooks Seoul’s glitzy nightscape? Seoul is super trendy and these 12 hotels will really make you go Dae-bakkk (Korean slang for “super cool”).
1. Hotel The Designers Jongno
Image credit: Hotel The Designers Jongno
Image credit: Hotel The Designers Jongno
Image credit: Hotel The Designers JongnoYou’re in for a surprise in this bucket-list worthy hotel. To put it simply, no two rooms are alike here and each one is conceived by a different designer. In the “Alice in Wonderland” room, set your imagination free and be amused by the quirky red and black wall decals! The giant red tub in the middle of the room adds to the overall appeal of your fantasy suite. In the “Camp Ruka” room, don’t be alarmed when you see a tribal teepee tent, deck chairs and an acoustic guitar. My personal favourite room: Milky Way!
2. Hotel Karashy
Image credit: Hotel Karashy
Image credit: Hotel Karashy
Image credit: Hotel KarashyBeing in close proximity to Sadang station, this fancy boutique hotel is famous for their heavenly bathtubs. Disclaimer: You’ll find yourself going gaga over the stunning and intimate bathroom settings. Keeping it very minimal, the tubs really steal your attention for this one! Instead of being busy out on the streets, you might find yourself soaking in the bathtub a lot more often.
3. GLAD Yeouido
Image credit: GLAD Hotels
Image credit: GLAD HotelsYou can never miss this hotel in Yeouido, Seoul’s version of New York’s Manhattan district. The prominent grey brick facade stands out from several miles away. The brick concept is imbued within the hotel interiors, mimicking Seoul’s hip street vibes. In each room, you’ll also find creative posters that play on the hotel's 'glad' motif, using memorable quotes from renowned thinkers. This hotel is nothing but classy.
4. Graffiti & Hip-Hop Motel
Image credit: Graffiti & Hip-hop Love Motel
Image credit: SeoulisticEver fantasized about having your very own concert? Well, you can now belt out your tunes in the comfort of your own mini stage in your room. Here’s the surprise: the stage is accompanied by a karaoke machine. Dreams do come true in this kick-ass motel that has all your singing sessions covered in their neon “Party Room”. This motel also has other themed rooms worth checking out. Graffiti is no doubt the main theme throughout this quirky place.
5. Christy Hotel
Image credit: Jen Ackermann
Image credit: Sindang Christy HotelCalling all you female fashionistas, take those Lush bath bombs to greater “heights” in Christie Hotel. This trendy hotel near Sindang subway station offers giant high-heel shaped bathtubs in its Platinum High Heel Suite – fit for a queen indeed! The minimalistic art decor will leave you soaking for hours in a complete stress-free, zen mode. Rooms with the outdoor jacuzzi don’t disappoint too! Leave those stilettos aside and enjoy your luxurious bubble bath in premium comfort.
6. NagNe House
Image credit: NagNe House
Image credit: NagNe HouseNagNe House is a traditional 105-year-old hanok that was recreated with a modern twist. The rooms are immensely simple, yet still equipped with modern amenities, and revolve around the sacred concept of the Sun motions. What better way to experience the intrinsic Korean culture than by going back in history, right? Bonus Tip: NagNe House is a mere five-minute walk to Gyeongbokgung Palace, symbolic of Korea’s regal dynasty eras. Be sure to catch the special changing of guards ceremony there!
7. Hotel28 Myeongdong
Image credit: Hotel28 Myeongdong
Image credit: Hotel28 MyeongdongOne word: FILMS. This unique hotel celebrates Seoul’s cinematic past, as seen from the film-inspired artworks on every level. The Cinematheque & Gallery also feature a variety of artwork crafted by talented local artists. Best way to end a long, arduous shopping trip? Indulge in your own private movie screening – ooh la la!
8. Hotel Cappuccino
Image credit: Hotel Cappuccino
Image credit: Hotel CappuccinoBoasting a very inspiring and novel concept, Hotel Cappuccino is one of a kind. This chic lifestyle-hotel in Gangnam is all about social responsibility.
Every guest is given an “Earn & Giveaway Box” in their room. If they opt not to open and use the extra amenities provided inside, they will be awarded an “Angel Coupon”. This can either be redeemed for a free drink at Cafe Cappuccino or presented to the Front Desk for donations to water.org. The purpose of the Cappuccino Shared Value programme is to ultimately minimise unnecessary consumption and give back to society. All the choices that each guest make during their stay, even the elevator they choose to take, have a direct implication on the donation proceeds.
The canine-friendly accommodation also welcomes dogs to stay in kennel-like beds and enjoy superb doggy facilities. Guests that choose to stay in the “Bark Room” will also be pleased to know that a portion of the proceeds from the room stay will go to KARA, an organisation that provides shelter for abandoned dogs.
9. Hotel Loft
Image credit: Hotel Loft
Image credit: Hotel LoftThose trendy Soho lofts in downtown New York City may be out of reach for many of us, but here’s an alternative: Hotel Loft in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. The spacious and stylish rooms exude nothing but class. The sleek interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows create such a warm atmosphere, especially when the natural light seeps in.
10. Urban Art Guesthouse
Image credit: Urban Art Guesthouse
Image credit: Urban Art GuesthouseArt enthusiasts, rejoice! This cosy backpacker-style accommodation lets you delve deep into Korean history, contemporary arts and culture. Situated in Mullae Art Village, this guesthouse is in close proximity to numerous art-themed events. There will be an abundance of opportunities for you to interact with featured artists and marvel at their intriguing works. On top of that, guests will also receive complimentary access to the art displays and talks in the event space next door!
11. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
Image credit: Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
Image credit: Imperial Palace Boutique HotelSituated in bustling Itaewon, Imperial Palace is most popularly known for the pop art murals in each room, ranging from giant plump red lips to a multicoloured Rubik’s cube. The ultra-modern setting paired with the pure white walls really leaves an outstanding impression on the viewer’s mind.
12. Hotel April
Image credit: Hotel April
Image credit: Hotel April
Image credit: Hotel AprilDesigned with a modern French twist, the chandeliers, brickwork aesthetics and dark wood tones in Hotel April create a very warm setting. The trendiest room here? The six-metre, double storey “Gallery Room” which features the works of some of Seoul’s rising photographers amidst an unconventional room decor. Let the pieces inspire and intrigue you, as you unravel more of Seoul’s thriving local art scene.
Each of these 12 hotels will offer you a fascinating experience as you explore the depths of magical Seoul. There is something significant and special in all of these hotels that will leave you very contented during your stay.
