Marriott International has opened its first hotel under its Luxury Collection in South Korea, located in Seoul’s Gangnam neighbourhood.
Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam, was first built in 1914 as the Chosun Hotel, one of Korea’s first luxury hotels. It is situated close to the city’s COEX shopping mall and Samneung Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Josun Palace has been designed by Humbert and Poyet of Monaco and combines “sophisticated, modern aesthetics with timeless Korean design elements” including strong lines and bold geometric patterns. The hotel also features a signature fragrance called ‘Lasting Impression’ in its spaces.
The 254 rooms and suites offer views of Seoul, beds fitted with Frette linen, smart TVs, bath amenities by Byredo and a private bar for crafting cocktails. To keep guests safe during the Covid-19 pandemic, the hotel has installed UV-C sterilisation devices in all rooms, and guests can request services via their smart devices, TV and a round-the-clock robot butler.
The hotel has five dining destinations, which range from the authentic Cantonese fine dining venue The Great Hong Yuan to contemporary Korean cuisine at Eatanic Garden. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are also served at Constans, while the 1914 Lounge and Bar serves tea and light meals in the afternoon and cocktails and classic spirits in the evening. The latter once hosted “distinguished guests in the early 20th century”, and features nine-metre-high glass windows with views of the city.
Finally, Josun Deli the Boutique serves pastries, cakes, coffee and tea. Guests can also enjoy daily hors d’oeuvres at the Grand Reception.
Leisure facilities include the Josun Wellness Club, with a heated indoor pool and deck area with panoramic views of the Gangnam skyline. The club also features a fitness centre and sauna facility.
Meetings and events facilities include The Great Hall, which seats up to 300 guests and has a foyer for pre-function cocktails, the more intimate Royal Chamber, which seats up to 140 guests, and the Private Chamber which accommodates gatherings of up to 110 people.
Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International, commented:
“We are delighted to mark the milestone expansion of our Luxury Collection brand into South Korea with the opening of Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam.
”The opening of our newest gem further diversifies our exciting collection of hotels in South Korea, offering unique experiences to our discerning guests.”
Jennie Toh, Vice President, Brand Marketing and Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Marriott International, added:
“We are pleased to debut our first Luxury Collection hotel in South Korea. Each property is a beautiful and unique expression of its location. The Luxury Collection has always inspired authentic experiences and exploration, and the treasured memories that they create.
“Josun Palace will draw on its legacy, offering our guests an unforgettable sense of place through holistic experiences, distinctive design and unparalleled service as they discover Seoul and all its wonders.”
Marriott currently operates 120 hotels and resorts in over 35 countries and territories under its Luxury Collection. The brand recently opened its 120th hotel under its Luxury Collection brand in Budapest.
Earlier this year, Marriott announced that its three Collection brands – Autograph Collection, Tribute Portfolio and Luxury Collection – are expected to expand into nearly 70 new locations this year.
