Le Meridien Seoul combines traditional Korean elements with French sophistication

Source: Le Meridien, Seoul website. Hub lobby.

Source: Le Meridien, Seoul website. Hub lobby.

The Le Meridien, Seoul, the first of its brand in Korea, introduces the renowned London-based David Collins Studio to the country. Conveniently located in the upscale Gangnam district, the hotel is a short walk from the Sinnonhyeon and Gangnam subway stations and easily accessible from both Gimpo (GMP) and Incheon (ICN) International Airports.

Tasked with designing the hotel’s public spaces and rooms, the studio has crafted a sophisticated blend of Parisian elegance with mid-century modern influences. Local Korean artistry is woven throughout, connecting the hotel to its vibrant surroundings. The hotel seamlessly merges old and new buildings through a connecting bridge on the 12th floor. The design incorporates a grand colonnade spanning the original building, adding a sense of grandeur and visual rhythm to the space.

Within the lobby, a striking large-scale artwork made from traditional Korean hanji paper takes center stage. The decor showcases local craftsmanship in a modern way: woven and knotted metal inspired by the ancient maedeup technique, hammered metal door handles echoing the artistry of bangjja tableware, and intricate patterns reminiscent of traditional Korean fabrics used in window treatments and drapery.

The 336 smoke-free rooms offer a tranquil retreat with a mid-century European aesthetic, featuring soothing tones of green, blue, and lavender enhanced by Erco lighting. Eucalyptus wood details and lavender-and-cream leather screens with a pojagi pattern—inspired by traditional Korean wrapping cloth—add subtle touches of Korean heritage. Each room is equipped with a custom clothes-hanging system and an exceptionally comfortable LM Bed featuring a Sealy mattress.

Source: Le Meridien Seoul website. The double-height lounge, Presidential Suite.

Source: Le Meridien Seoul website. The double-height lounge, Presidential Suite.

Suites at the Le Meridien Seoul offer a heightened sense of luxury, featuring spacious layouts, refined finishes, plush fabrics on window seats, velvet upholstery, and curated local artwork. Wall paneling, oak floors, and carefully placed lighting create an intimate, residential atmosphere. The Balcony Executive Suites, each spanning 919 square feet, provide panoramic views of the dynamic Gangnam district through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that open to private balconies—perfect for intimate gatherings.

The Presidential Suite stands as one of the most prestigious suites in Seoul, having hosted a constellation of global celebrities. Guests are greeted by a grand foyer, where a rotunda showcases a high-level screen inspired by the work of renowned French architect and designer Pierre Chareau. The suite itself is a symphony of design, featuring six distinct rooms, each with a unique character. The removal of the floor above the living room creates a dramatic double-height space, amplifying the sense of grandeur.

The suite’s show kitchen provides the opportunity for personalized culinary experiences, with meals served either in the indoor dining area or on the outdoor terrace, which boasts ample space for gatherings. A sweeping spiral staircase leads to the upper terrace, where guests can enjoy a relaxing dip in the jacuzzi or unwind in private cabanas.

Strategically located near the main lobby, Latitude 37 serves as both a coffee shop and a cocktail bar. Its timber cabinets, curated artworks, and custom opaque glass lighting seamlessly transition the space from a daytime coffee haven to an elegant evening cocktail lounge.

The hotel’s wellness area is a sanctuary for rejuvenation, featuring a refreshing pool, a relaxing jacuzzi, and a well-equipped fitness center. Teal-lacquered panels accented with leather trim, along with white stone and glazed green tile flooring and wall treatments create a serene and sophisticated ambiance.

The Le Meridien Seoul offers expansive event facilities, totaling 1,650 square meters. The hotel features four versatile function venues, each divisible into smaller spaces, and provides access to outdoor areas for a variety of event needs.

The Da Vinci Ballroom, the hotel’s largest event space at 736 square meters, accommodates up to 500 guests. Combining European modernity with East Asian mystique, the ballroom impresses with its ceiling insignia, striking chandeliers, and sophisticated color palette.

Each function room draws inspiration from Impressionist artists. The intimate Chagall Room is ideal for smaller gatherings, the Monet Room is bathed in natural light, and the Cezanne Room provides a neutral backdrop in shades of grey and white, making it perfect for a range of events.

The Maple Garden, spanning 525 square meters, is an excellent venue for private parties and product launches. Adjacent pre-function areas offer catering options and breakout spaces, adding to the venue’s flexibility.

As a bonus, all SPG Members enjoy complimentary internet access when booking through Starwood websites, mobile sites, and SPG apps, with benefits tailored to their membership level.

Details:

The Le Meridien, Seoul is at 120 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu Seoul 06124, South Korea

Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0