Arrival/Check-In: I actually had two stays at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. On my around-the-world trip I flew from Washington, D.C., to Dubai and then to Seoul, which left me with a weekend in Korea and an overnight in Seoul before continuing to Taiwan. I left a bag with half my clothing at the Four Seasons so I could travel lighter for the next legs of the journey, with plans to return to Seoul later. When I came back, the Four Seasons car service collected me at Incheon International Airport and drove me to the hotel, dropping a colleague at a nearby property along the way. Arriving at the Four Seasons, friendly staff greeted me and escorted me to a lovely suite where my luggage was already waiting — no ticket or reminder required. That effortless attention to detail made a strong impression and felt like the mark of excellent service.
Guest Quarters: A long hallway led to a spacious dressing room on the right, offering plenty of space for clothing, room for the stored bag, and a safe. On the opposite side, a pristine white marble bathroom provided a double vanity, a deep soaking tub and a rain shower, complemented by Lorenzo Villoresi Firenze toiletries. A convenient powder room just inside the entry was a thoughtful touch, allowing a companion to use the main bath while still offering privacy — especially useful when two people share the suite.
The main room featured corner floor-to-ceiling windows that delivered sweeping city views. A king-sized bed dressed in the Four Seasons’ signature bedding anchored the space. Opposite the bed, a large flat-screen TV was mounted in a swiveling frame so it could be angled toward the desk or the bed. The desk faced into the room with the windows behind it, providing a pleasant work view. Motorized blinds and drapes ensured the room could be darkened for comfortable sleep.
Services/Amenities: The hotel is popular with locals and hosts an impressive collection of restaurants. Kioku, led by Chef Sawada Kazumi formerly of Tokyo’s Michelin-starred Banreki Ryukodo, showcases refined Japanese cuisine. Boccalino offers Italian dishes, and Yu Yuan presents Cantonese specialties.
Don’t miss Charles H., a hidden speakeasy-style bar inspired by globetrotting bon vivant Charles H. Baker, who explored cocktails around the world between 1920 and 1940. The entrance is discreet enough that you may need a little help to find it, and the bar fills up on Thursday and Friday nights, so reservations are recommended. Boccalino also has an intimate bar area with skilled bartenders who craft signature cocktails, creating a quieter alternative for evening drinks.
The Experience: Overall, the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul delivers a terrific property and consistently high service. Staff make a genuine effort to ensure guests feel welcome and well cared for, from arrival through departure.
GT CHECKLIST
Doorman/valet
Less than 10 minutes for check-in
Separate tub and shower
Large vanity
High-quality towels
Powerful, unattached hair dryer
High-quality bed linens
Large, flat-screen television
Large desk with convenient outlets
Large, complimentary laptop safe
Complimentary in-room WiFi
Complimentary bottled water
Stocked minibar
Ample lighting
In-room coffeemaker
Iron and ironing board
On-site restaurant
24-hour room service
24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center
Turn-down service
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
97 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu
Seoul, 03183, South Korea
tel 82 2 6388 5000
fourseasons.com