6 Korean design hotels in Seoul and Jeju to visit for the perfect autumn holiday

Blue Jae is the only hanok that has the same blue tiles that are used for the Blue House of Korea and is well-maintained since its construction in the 1900s; here, the word “Jae” in the name means house in Korean. Found at the end of an alley, the mysterious Hidden Jae presents the pleasure of discovering an unexpected space. Located in one of the best of the Eight Scenic Views of Bukchon, Hillo Jae provides unforgettable memories with refined artworks by the named local contemporary artists creating a unique adaptation of the traditional living space.

A dedicated Welcome Centre is ready to receive all guests even though the three accommodations are situated in different spots. Upcoming plans include the opening of Slow Jae, which will offer a range of intentionally curated services, and Arc Jae, a large corner-unit hanok, which will be not only accommodation but also a venue for cultural events with talented Korean artists. These moves show well the direction Nostalgia wishes to go in the near future.  

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Situated in the heart of Seoul’s vibrant Gangnam, Josun Palace is the first-ever Luxury Collection Hotel launched by Marriott International in Korea. The renowned Monaco- and Paris-based practice Humbert & Poyet are the creative minds behind its beautiful design. The studio combined sophisticated modern aesthetics with timeless Korean design elements throughout the interior. As soon as you enter sumptuous Welcome Avenue, world-famous artist Daniel Arsham’s Blue Calcite Eroded Moses greets you and leaves a great first impression. The 254 rooms and suites boasting magnificent city views are furnished with premium Simmons beds, the exclusive Andrea line by Italian house Frette, and the bath amenities of Le Chemin by Swedish brand Byredo, providing the ultimate in luxurious and restful nights. 

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The gastronomic experience is also not to be missed. These include Eatanic Garden, a Michelin-starred restaurant introducing new Korean contemporary cuisines; Josun Deli the Boutique famous for its delicious desserts; and 1914 Lounge & Bar, an ideal venue for a quiet aperitif or nightcap. In celebration of the second anniversary of the opening, the hotel has prepared a signature service by providing the Palace Garden Tea, a special tea of hospitality that has been a staple in serving honoured guests since the Joseon Dynasty era. Another highlight is the Art Tour, which is themed around the concept of “The Golden Era of Contemporary Korea” and includes over 100 pieces of artworks carefully curated by the hotel. Among these notable works are Glory-working Title by Johan Creten, Mendrami by Kim Ji-won, Contemporary of Palace Chaekgado by Jung Hae-na. The hotel also provides docent programs and art books as well and guides you to an artistic world.

The Ambassador Seoul - A Pullman Hotel has been one of the country’s most notable properties since its opening in 1955; it was previously known as Geumsujang, the first private hotel in South Korea. This stately hotel is located in the heart of Seoul with easy access to major tourist attractions. After an extensive renovation in early 2022, this heritage hotel was reborn with a total of 264 modern Korean-style rooms and 40 residences inspired by Namsan’s four seasons. These include Instagrammable rooms overlooking panoramic views of the iconic landmark of Seoul, Namsan N Tower. In the lobby that marks the beginning of a storied experience, famed media artist Lee Lee-nam’s The Light of Geumgang presents a welcoming sight; it is a digital version of a landscape painting by Jeong Seon, a notable painter of the Joseon Dynasty period.

In fitting with the hotel’s long history, it also presents a great gastronomic experience for gourmets both locally and abroad. The King’s buffet—which originated from dishes presented at the first buffet in South Korea in 1977—is characterised by its exceptional taste and a wide range of delicacies. At Hao Bin, which is nominated for the Michelin Guide Seoul 2024, you can taste authentic Cantonese cuisine created by master chef Hou Deokjuk.

The hotel also recently launched Secret Dinner, a special menu comprising nine dishes made using fresh ingredients delivered from across the country every morning. The number of dishes takes inspiration from the sound of the Korean word, as represents a sense of completion. Another standout feature of the hotel is its wellness centre, which is equipped with various fitness facilities including swimming, and yoga. Other highlights include Urban Escape, a transformable indoor-outdoor pool with a movable roof, private cabanas and nest beds that undoubtedly contribute to creating the perfect venue for recharging.

The Ananti at Gangnam is a truly private nest for relaxation, coupled with the convenience of its central location; it is situated in the heart of Gangnam with easy access to either central business districts and upscale fashion boutiques. The unusual monastery-themed design concept creates a calming atmosphere through the use of materials like red bricks and wood. The hotel features a total of 118 cabins, each ranging from 703 sq ft to 1,230 sq ft, which is more spacious than most hotel suites. All rooms are feature a unique duplex structure and come with a private terrace overlooking the cityscape, and is reminiscent of a sailing yacht floating leisurely on the vast sea. The indoor-outdoor pool is a famous Insta-worthy spot. The heated indoor swimming pool is decorated with fabulous chandeliers, and you can enjoy swimming in it all year round.

The dedicated services here are as noteworthy as the architectural and interior design of the hotel. The Cart Service helps guests move around fashionable neighbourhoods in Gangnam including Apgujeong-dong, Cheongdam-dong, and Sinsa-dong within a radius of 3km from the hotel with its exclusive vehicles. Along with this, its Link Service allows you to boost local experiences such as one-day classes or spas and massages. The diverse array of dining options at the property include seafood restaurant Poissons, bakery-cafe Beckett, and the hotel lounge dubbed the Salon De Mobydick. The hotel is also in close proximity to the recently opened Eternal Journey Gangnam, a multi-cultural complex featuring fashion boutiques, groceries and stores for daily necessities. 

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, a luxury resort first introduced in Korea last March by JW Marriott, is nestled on a clifftop on a site measuring nearly 289,000 sq ft. It is situated in Jeju’s Seogwipo, near natural wonders such as Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone Natural Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage. With the motto “Be Mindful and Present, Be Nourished, Be Together” serving as the brand’s core values, the hotel becomes a comfortable haven where you can recharge your body and soul at every moment of your stay. WATG, a luxury hospitality design company, completed the resort by abstracting unique Korean housing architecture and Jeju island’s unusual topography that was formed by past volcanic eruptions. 

The hotel’s award-winning interior designer Bill Bensley took inspiration from Jeju’s rich nature and traditional Korean culture. He was especially fascinated by Haenyeo (women divers), hanoks (the traditional Korean house), and Korean quilting fabric patterns. In addition, he was captivated by the landscape of canola blossoms that dyed the entire island yellow on a spring day, so this warm yellow hue was selected as the key colour of the resort; he also selected traditional wooden furniture as well throughout the hotel to complete its cosy atmosphere. The special gastronomic experiences with all sorts of delicacies from Jeju, and various nature-themed recreational programs based on years of know-how are also indispensable for the sense of healing and wellness that the property promotes. A famous coastal promenade, Jeju Olle Trail, is just a stone’s throw away from the hotel; enjoying the breathtaking vistas of the ocean is part of the essential attraction of this place. 

Parnas Hotel Jeju, a luxury 5-star resort hotel run by Parnas Hotel with 40 years of know-how, put forward a motto “Born to Fascinate”, with the goal of providing “a new journey that will captivate you beyond the boundaries of everyday life”. The property is situated in the southern region of Jeju, within the Jungmun Tourist Complex in Seogwipo city, which is one of the island’s must-visit venues. It is within walking distance of Jungmun Saekdal Beach, which is well-known as the surfing capital of the island, and is also directly adjacent to Jeju Olle Trail with stunning panoramic views. One of the signature amenities of the hotel is the noted Estuary Pool, which boasts a length of 110m, and is the longest infinity pool in Korea. Swim and enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves and gentle sea breeze.

UK-based practice HETA was in charge of the architecture, while 1508 London took charge of the interior design, pursuing a harmonious mix of colours and patterns. For the lighting and furniture in the rooms, these are directed by Korean designer Teo Yang of Teoyang Studio, who pursued comfortable styling with his furniture brand, Eastern Edition. A total of 307 rooms across nine different types are perfect choices for all kinds of travellers, and the outstanding ocean views enjoyed from the expansive terrace are as remarkable. The all-day dining restaurant Confetti offers special menus that can only be tasted on Jeju, such as black pork and fresh octopus. Dolhareubang Cake, with the motif of Dolhareubang—a symbolic stone statue of Jeju—and the Jeju Batdam Cheesecake are Fondmer Lounge & Deli’s year-round signature desserts that will lead you to a sweet afternoon.

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