Sogong-dong Seoul, South Korea
Renovated
1970
Price
$$$
Rated for
Luxe Classic HeritageOutside the door
The house
MarriottStoried downtown landmark
Modern commerce meets imperial history in a grand downtown anchor built directly beside the octagonal nineteenth-century Hwanggungu altar.
“The chic contemporary design of the hotel is simple yet elegant and effortlessly stylish.”
What it’s good at
Notable
Top-floor executive lounge skyline views meet signature Heavenly beds and marble baths.
Listed
Overlooking the historic 1899 octagonal Hwanggungu altar from its rebuilt 1970 tower.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Forbes Recommended
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
Guest rooms are the city's largest, and though recently renovated, they have retained their idiosyncratic character — somewhere between all-out Far East set design and buttoned-up European elegance.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set in central Sogong-dong, the hotel sits within walking distance of Deoksugung Palace, Seoul City Hall, and vibrant Myeongdong shopping streets.
The rooms
Contemporary spaces in neutral tans feature plush Heavenly beds, marble bathrooms with soaking tubs, and views across the historic altar grounds.
The water
Bring a swimsuit.
The pool and baths
A 25-meter lap pool rests under a sweeping glass skylight, and granite bathhouses hold traditional Korean saunas and plunge pools.
At the table
Hong Yuan serves fine Cantonese dishes behind black lattice screens, and the lounge bar overlooks the illuminated Hwanggungu altar.
The Westin Josun Seoul promises easy access to Gyeongbokgung Palace and offers a touch of tradition while ticking all the boxes: heavenly beds, a large gym, a stellar pool and spa.
How it began
Opened in 1914 as the Chosun Hotel, Korea's first Western-style property introduced modern elevators and grand ballroom dances to Seoul.
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Good to know
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.