Give Us the Skinny 

The Chosun Hotel, which opened in 1914, was one of Korea’s first luxury hotels. Occupying the same site is its modern reincarnation, Josun Palace, which opened quietly during the pandemic in 2021 and is now laying claim to be the best hotel in Seoul. Part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, the hotel is housed on the middle floors of a gleaming glass-and-steel high-rise development, Centerfield Mall.   

The Vibe 

A large sculpture of a decaying biblical figure, Moses, by star contemporary artist Daniel Arsham in the lobby area shows that the hotel isn’t just grand, it’s on-trend too. Interiors, by Monaco-based architectural practice Humbert & Poyet, are highly Instagrammable, with Art Deco, Modernist and Korean design elements creating an eye-catching whole. The Grand Reception room on the 25th floor is one of the smartest check-in areas of any city hotel.  

The Location  

Conveniently located in the swanky Gangnam district, home to many of Seoul’s best restaurants, bars and shops. Gangnam is a big district, however, and the hotel is in the business precinct, with most of those happening venues still a taxi ride away rather than walking distance. Note that the hotel entrance, via a basement carpark, can be tricky to find.   

The Crowd 

As a prestige address, the hotel draws a mix of predominantly Korean and some international business executives alongside well-heeled, well-dressed leisure travelers, including couples and families.   

The Rooms 

The 254 light and airy rooms and suites are located between floors 27 to 35 of the building, offering terrific views of the sprawling Korean capital through floor-to-ceiling windows. Each is dressed in soothing neutral hues and perked up with touches of sage green, mustard, or geometric-print upholstery. Curves and rounded edges on headboards, bedside tables, armchairs, and in the marble bathroom contribute to a relaxing mood.  

My open-plan Masters Suite had a corner sofa, separate dining table and work desk, and walk-in wardrobe. My favorite feature however, was the Samsung AirDresser, installed in all rooms. What looks like a fridge is actually a steam cleaner for your clothes. After a day out and about, or a night of Korean barbecue, just pop your clothes into the unit for a clean and refresh—genius!     

The Food and Drink 

Michelin-starred Eatanic Garden is a destination on its own. Located on the hotel’s top floor, the botanic-inspired interiors and stunning city views (couples should request window tables) are a feast for the eyes, as is chef Son Jong-won’s contemporary Korean cuisine. The tasting menu changes seasonally and each course is accompanied by an illustrated explanation card.  

Also on this level is Cantonese fine-diner The Great Hong Yuan, with equally striking interiors and views. A waiter recommended a soup with bamboo shoot and “delicacy of the sea”. I made the mistake of not checking what it was: a euphemism for shark’s fin. If in doubt, ask, though note that staff speak limited English. 

Breakfast in high-ceilinged Constans is a great way to start the day. The extensive buffet includes quality fruits, steaming baskets of dumplings (love the kimchi dumplings), noodles made to order and classics like eggs benedict. On weekends, breakfast is in two sittings and ends early, at 10 am (as it does every day). Meanwhile, 1914 Lounge & Bar, named in honor of the original hotel, is good for afternoon tea, cocktails and nightcaps under dramatic nine-meter-high ceilings. Be aware that a cover charge applies for window seats.    

The Gym  

Although I didn’t get to use the gym, I’m told that oxygen levels are regulated to help you get the most out of your workout while using state-of-the-art Technogym equipment. I wish I had more time to use the excellent steam and sauna facilities, which includes hot and cold plunge pools. The photogenic 25-meter-long swimming pool has a mirrored ceiling and more great city views.  

The Service 

Formal and attentive though I had difficulty ordering at The Great Hong Yuan because of the language barrier. Staff are immaculately groomed and unfailingly polite, delivering a high level of service befitting a hotel of its stature. 

Would We Visit Again? 

Most likely. The location is handy for restaurants and nightlife, the design is lovely, dine and drink options are strong, service is solid, and rooms are well appointed and comfortable. The in-room clothes cleaner is almost reason enough to return.  

www.marriott.com; rooms from KRW570,000 per night 

Images courtesy of Josun Palace. 

Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

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