Four Seasons Hotel Seoul review

1 July, 2025 Abel Kshlerin 0 Comments 1 category

Full Disclosure: Four Seasons rolled out the red carpet for TPG with a complimentary two-night stay, granting us unparalleled access to experience the hotel’s inner workings and luxurious amenities. Rest assured, this review reflects the unadulterated, firsthand impressions of our team, free from any external influence or pre-approval from the hotel. We call it as we see it.

Four Seasons hotels consistently deliver luxury, but their Asian outposts operate on another plane entirely. My history with the brand across the continent – from the frenetic energy of Hong Kong to the refined elegance of Osaka, the bustling streets of Vietnam to the historical grandeur of Beijing – is a tapestry of unforgettable experiences. So, imagine my anticipation, practically buzzing in the air, as I approached their colossal Seoul property, a shimmering beacon of Canadian luxury piercing the heart of South Korea’s dynamic capital.

Seoul’s electrifying pulse never faltered, yet above the urban thrum, a sanctuary reigned: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. Gyeongbokgung Palace unfolded beneath its gaze, a living tapestry woven from history. Cantonese flavors danced with Michelin-starred precision, a culinary ballet that left me breathless. And then, the Korean-style sauna – a whisper of ancient tradition melting away modern stress. Forget just a hotel; this was an immersion. A seduction. Allow Four Seasons Hotel Seoul to redefine your Seoul sojourn.

Related: The 16 best Four Seasons in the world, according to travel experts who have stayed at them

What is the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

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Step into the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, a gleaming skyscraper that pierces the Gwanghwamun skyline with its 29 stories of pure indulgence. More than just a hotel, it’s a vibrant ecosystem of luxury. Imagine unwinding in one of 285 exquisitely designed rooms or sprawling out in one of 32 lavish suites. Tempt your palate across a spectrum of bars and restaurants, each a culinary adventure. Beyond its opulent accommodations, the Four Seasons boasts an executive club, an in-house floral artist crafting breathtaking displays, a rejuvenating spa, an authentic Korean sauna, a state-of-the-art golf simulator, and an inviting indoor pool. It’s a coveted address for locals, too, with memberships granting access to its world-class gym and sauna. The hotel’s diverse restaurants and legendary buffet make it a celebrated hub within the community.

Forget generic hotel stays. At the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, experience a modern masterpiece that whispers Korean heritage. Nestled in the heart of the Central Business District, this luxury haven is your ideal base, whether closing deals or chasing unforgettable moments. It’s where sleek sophistication meets timeless tradition.

How to book the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

Four Seasons lacks a loyalty program a constant source of hopeful anticipation for travelers. While lucky deal hunters might snag rooms for a steal around $450, expect to usually pay upwards of $600 for a stay.

Unlock VIP treatment on your next getaway. Platinum Card® from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve® holders gain access to exclusive programs like American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Edit by Chase Travel℠, respectively, and with them, a world of elevated travel experiences. Imagine sinking into a plush room, potentially upgraded, after savoring complimentary breakfast for two. Picture yourself using property credits for a spa treatment or leisurely enjoying a late checkout. These aren’t just perks; they’re the key to unlocking a truly unforgettable vacation. (See rates and fees)

Related: The best ways to travel to South Korea with points and miles

Rooms at The Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

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My Corner Premier room, a sprawling 600-plus square feet, felt less like a hotel and more like a chic city apartment. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed a breathtaking panorama, drawing me in from the moment I crossed the threshold. Inside, a symphony of textures played out: rich wood tones danced with crisp white linens, anchored by a patterned blue carpet. Clever, modern accents punctuated the space, creating an atmosphere that was both sophisticated and utterly inviting.

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Across the room, a writer’s haven beckoned: a neat desk paired with a supportive office chair stood ready for work, while a plush lounge chair and accompanying table whispered invitations to lose oneself in the pages of a good book.

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Across from the inviting expanse of the bed, a cozy couch beckoned, strategically positioned before a massive television. Mounted on a swivel, the screen offered entertainment whether I was lounging in the living space or luxuriating amongst the bed’s plush embrace.

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Stepping inside, the bathroom unfolded in two exquisite acts. First, a discreet wash closet, harboring the essentials. Then, the main stage: a decadent soaking tub poised before a panoramic Seoul vista. A double vanity gleamed, its mirror concealing a small screen. Wrapping it all in luxury? Four Seasons’ cloud-soft towels and the intoxicating aroma of Diptyque amenities. This wasn’t just a bathroom; it was an experience.

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Beyond the comfortable bed, the room revealed delightful surprises: a closet spacious enough to house a small wardrobe, a minibar stocked with tempting refreshments from bubbly sodas to spirited cocktails, a coffee maker promising aromatic mornings, an electric kettle poised for soothing tea rituals, and a discreet safe safeguarding peace of mind.

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My urban soul soared; waking up to breathtaking skyscraper vistas right outside my window felt absolutely surreal.

What I ate at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

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Beyond the shimmering façade of the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul lies a culinary universe waiting to be explored. Forget simply dining; prepare for a gastronomic adventure. Hidden within its walls, you’ll discover a constellation of flavors: a sprawling international buffet that spans continents, authentic Italian and Japanese havens, the subtle spices of Cantonese cuisine, a clandestine speakeasy whispering secrets, a chic lounge for sophisticated sips, and a vibrant Korean snack and cocktail bar pulsating with energy. Arrive hungry, and leave utterly captivated.

Here’s a rundown of what I ate during my stay.

Oul

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Oul isn’t just a cocktail bar; it’s a vibrant love letter to Seoul’s restless nightlife. Forget predictable bar snacks – Oul elevates Korean comfort food to an art form, all set against a backdrop of pure, unadulterated fun. While à la carte is an option, plunge headfirst into the Oul set menu (around $107) for a curated culinary adventure. Imagine: the Seoul Mule, a rebellious twist on a classic, fueled by garlic butter vodka. Then, brace yourself for Korean fried chicken so addictive it should come with a warning, lobster tteokboki that redefines indulgence, and delicate beef tartare nestled in a cloud of quinoa popcorn – a symphony of textures and flavors you won’t soon forget. Oul is an experience, not just a night out.

Oul wasn’t just serving up noodles; they were dishing out a full-blown kimchi obsession, thanks to their limited-time Jongga collaboration. As a self-proclaimed kimchi fanatic, I immediately gravitated towards the Kimchi Mule. Imagine this: a fiery, fermented concoction crowned with a colossal, sun-kissed Jongga kimchi chip all for $22. It was love at first bite (and sip).

Yu Yuan

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Yu Yuan, cloaked in Michelin starlight, whispers Cantonese culinary secrets, from delicate lunchtime dim sum to the crispy allure of Beijing duck. Drawn in by weekend whispers, I surrendered to the “Brunch in the Rock Garden” set menu ($124) a portal to both beloved classics and uncharted flavors. Familiar friends like pork and shrimp siu mai greeted me warmly, alongside succulent roasted pork belly. Then, the adventure began: an exquisite abalone, a taste I’d never encountered before. For a Michelin-starred journey, the price felt less like a bill and more like a happy accident, a delightful discovery.

Charles H.

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Descend into the dimly lit glamour of Charles H., a basement speakeasy where world-class cocktails meet unapologetically good fried chicken. Forget hushed reverence; this is where indulgence reigns. Sidle up to the bar, where mixology masters await, and let the nightly “Golden Hour” (6-8 PM) tempt you: a signature cocktail paired with a delectable bite for $37. I surrendered to the Manhattan flight, a globetrotting adventure in a glass. Not ready to resurface? The Riviera Martini ($24), a Cannes-inspired creation, offers a final, blissful escape.

This space filled up during my Sunday night visit, so I’d highly recommend making a reservation in advance.

Maru

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Just steps from the lobby, Maru beckons with the promise of culinary comfort, from sunrise to nightcap. Imagine starting your day with a steaming bowl of Korean-inspired soup, accompanied by a symphony of banchan – those vibrant, flavorful Korean side dishes, like the tangy kick of kimchi. I did, and it was the perfect hearty fuel. Later, picture yourself unwinding after a day of urban adventures, sinking into a plush chair with a crisp glass of wine. Whether you’re seeking a quiet moment with the morning news and a perfectly brewed coffee or a relaxing end to your day, Maru offers a welcoming embrace.

The Market Kitchen

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Start your day with a culinary adventure at The Market Kitchen’s legendary international buffet. Imagine a world tour on a plate: steaming bowls of Asian noodles customized with your favorite toppings, delicate dim sum morsels, flaky pastries that melt in your mouth, and Western comfort food done right. But the feast doesn’t stop at breakfast. Weekday lunches and dinners are just as spectacular, with Friday nights exploding in a seafood extravaganza. Weekends and holidays? Brunch becomes an all-day affair. This edible odyssey begins at $57 for adults at breakfast, $124 at lunch and $136 at dinner.

Amenities and things to do

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Forget writing a postcard; Four Seasons Seoul deserves a novel. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a vertical city teeming with experiences. Consider this a highlight reel from an urban adventure that barely scratches the surface.

Imagine starting your day enveloped in the sleek, modern sanctuary of the Four Seasons Club Seoul. Forget your typical hotel gym; this rivals the best Equinox, a sprawling fitness haven. But the real magic? The Korean sauna. Picture this: a cascade of therapeutic pools, each a different temperature, melting away stress. Steam room whispers promise rejuvenation, and a specialty shower unleashes a torrent of invigorating jets. Embrace the Korean custom – shed your inhibitions (and your suit!) – and plunge into a world of pure bliss. My personal ritual? Conquer the gym, then surrender to the sauna’s soothing embrace. Relaxing? Absolutely. Energizing? Unbelievably. If I were a Seoul resident, The Club would be my daily escape, a non-negotiable luxury.

The hotel has three pools, including a dedicated plunge pool for kids. Escape the ordinary at Seoul Spa, where ancient traditions meet modern pampering. Indulge in a symphony of treatments – from rejuvenating massages and full body therapies to enchanting couples experiences and flawless nail services. My adventure took a vibrant turn with a K-style color analysis, a must-do Korean trend! Discovering my perfect palette wasn’t just informative, it was an absolute explosion of fun. Trust me, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and radiantly YOU. Highly, highly recommend!
A classic barbershop offers haircuts, wet shaves, and shoeshines and a glass of whiskey while you wait.
Celebrity florist Nicolai Bergmann has a floral boutique on the ground level of the hotel. Unleash your child’s inner chef at the Kids for All Seasons Lounge! Sign them up for deliciously fun, English-language cooking lessons where they’ll whip up unforgettable memories (and maybe even a tasty treat or two). Paid activities available.
Guests can enjoy more than 7,000 newspapers and magazines through the hotel’s press reader service. Four Seasons Seoul rolls out the red carpet for your furry companions! For $184, your pet will luxuriate in style with a plush bed and gourmet food and water bowls fit for a king (or queen).

Need a Lift? Our complimentary house car whisks international visitors around town (up to 1.24 miles) from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early!

Guests can use Google Chromecast to stream to the TV.

Insider tips for staying at the Four Seasons HOtel Seoul

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Ignite your romance with exclusive, unforgettable experiences. Picture this: a private, enchanting city tour unveiling hidden gems, followed by a sensual couples spa retreat to melt away stress. Conclude your evening with an intimate, curated dinner at one of our acclaimed restaurants, a culinary symphony designed for two. Book your romantic escape today.

“Unlock Seoul’s secrets with our concierge. Imagine strolling through ancient palace grounds, feeling the echoes of emperors past. Or, brace yourself for a powerful day trip to the DMZ, a stark reminder of divided Korea. Craving coastal energy? Busan’s vibrant beaches and bustling markets await, just a day trip away.”

Accessibility

While the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul keeps its accessibility features somewhat under wraps online, dig a little deeper and you’ll discover a hidden gem: a collection of accessible hotel rooms, including their sprawling Accessible Deluxe rooms – some of the most generously sized in Seoul.

Unlock your unforgettable stay! Dial +81 (2) 6388-5000 now to reserve your accessible room and discover all the ways we cater to your comfort.

Bottom line

FOUR SEASONS SEOUL

Seoul’s Four Seasons isn’t just a hotel; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. Behind every corner lies a delightful secret, from the clandestine allure of Charles H. speakeasy, where expertly crafted cocktails transport you to another era, to the breathtaking floral artistry of Nicolai Bergmann, a vibrant symphony of color and form. But the true revelation was embracing the Korean sauna culture – a deeply restorative ritual that melted away stress, leaving me utterly rejuvenated and yearning to recreate this blissful escape back home.

The grand hotel buzzed with activity, yet somehow, my experience felt uniquely tailored. Though the lobby pulsed with a restless energy, familiar faces consistently greeted me, transforming anonymity into a surprisingly personal welcome.

But the real story? The food. Forget passports, this hotel’s a culinary vortex. One minute, you’re twirling forkfuls of handmade pasta, the next, you’re mastering chopsticks over melt-in-your-mouth sushi. And then – BAM! – Michelin-starred Cantonese that redefines “delicious.” The ultimate perk? Post-feast bliss is just an elevator ride away, straight to dreamland.

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Category: Reviews