Over the years, South Korea has successfully become one of the world’s leading business and entertainment centers. Home to the famous K-pop, and tech giants like Samsung, it’s no wonder that business travelers flock to the nation’s capital, Seoul. With so many business prospects, we often find ourselves on a business trip to this bustling city. Lucky for us, Seoul offers a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity that’s truly captivating. And since most business hotels in Seoul are located in the heart of the city, like Gangnam and Yeouido, balancing work and leisure is a non-issue. Fortunately, the city’s efficient transportation system makes navigating between meetings a breeze, allowing us to maximize our productivity.
From our many experiences of traveling to this city, we’ve found plenty of the best hotels in Seoul catering to both working travelers and tourists. By strategically choosing hotels in ideal locations, we were even able to check out some guided local food experiences to immerse ourselves in the culture. Now, if you find yourself on an extended trip to Seoul, we recommend checking out Jeju Island, which offers a different experience than Seoul. The volcanic island will bring you closer to nature, and you’ll have a blast with its plenty of outdoor activities. While there, you can check out the best hotels near Jeju Airport or the best hotels in Jeju Island if you have time.
Table of contents
- Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong
- Westin Josun Seoul Hotel
- Best Western Premier Gangnam Hotel
- Kensington Hotel Yeouido
- Conrad Seoul
- Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong
- Orakai Insadong Suites
- The Ambassador Seoul – A Pullman Hotel
- Voco Seoul Gangnam
- Fairmont Ambassador Seoul
- Lotte Hotel Seoul
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Seoul
- What’s The Best Transportation To and From Seoul-Incheon Airport?
- What Is The Best Transportation To Get Around Seoul?
- What Is The Best Travel Pass To Get In Seoul?
Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong
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We begin our list with the truly exclusive business hotel, the Nine Tree Premier Insadong. Located right in the center of the historical Gwanghwamun district, this hotel provides us with both luxury and efficiency. The 14-story hotel has over 300 guestrooms and at least four function halls. All of the meeting rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including a projector, office supplies, and all sorts of audiovisual equipment. The natural lighting that each meeting room has is also a nice extra feature that gives us an airy ambiance and keeps us productive. Furthermore, the hotel also has a business center and plenty of common areas, including pristine lounges and high-end restaurants, for us to meet with clients.
As for the hospitality and facilities, we were thoroughly pleased with everything. The staff were very attentive to all of our needs. Whether it is business business-related or personal. On our next work trip to Seoul, we wouldn’t mind returning here since the hotel has all the necessary facilities to make a long stay comfortable. Some of them are the on-site laundromat and money changer machines. Not to mention the guestrooms here are also very well kept, comfortable and, the city view is just a feast for the eyes.
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Westin Josun Seoul Hotel
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The Westin Josun Seoul Hotel, located in bustling Myeongdong, is a luxury hotel in a vibrant neighborhood that caters to both working travelers and tourists. So having the opportunity to stay in this area, especially in such an affluent hotel as The Westin Josun Seoul, was a big deal to us.
In terms of business services, the hotel is renowned for hosting major political, economic, and cultural events, ensuring top-notch event management for business travelers like us. It offers 12 event spaces and five break-out rooms, including a grand function hall for up to 700 guests and spacious VIP meeting rooms accommodating 20-50 guests. All of which are equipped with high-quality audiovisual and office supplies. The hotel provides professional staff, including certified meeting planners, security guards, photographers, and electricians, to ensure seamless events.
Moreover, the hotel’s facilities are impressive. After a long day of work, we could relax at the spa center or unwind in the sauna. The guestrooms were a delight, with comfortable beds, spacious en-suite bathrooms, and well-stocked minibars, providing us with the perfect retreat.
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Best Western Premier Gangnam Hotel
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Located in the world-famous Gangnam district, Best Western Premier Gangnam Hotel is the best place to stay in the luxurious area for business travelers. Our experience of staying here was nothing short of delightful. Even if it was a business trip, the hotel’s excellent hospitality and note-worthy business services made the trip one to remember.
The well-trained staff was always hands-on in preparing our meetings and events. Each of the six meeting rooms was always pristine and well-prepared whenever we had to use them. The hotel’s techs were always available to help us set up audiovisuals and make sure our event ran smoothly. Furthermore, we also appreciate how well-equipped the business center was. Both computer and printing/faxing/photocopying machines were always available for us to use. If that isn’t convenient enough for us business travelers, the hotel also provides airport shuttle services, so everything is efficient.
To make everything better, the hotel’s guestroom was also designed specifically for us to have the best rest after a busy day. We had plushy beds and in-room amenities, including a coffee maker, a minibar, and a cable TV.
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Kensington Hotel Yeouido
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As its name implies, the Kensington Hotel Yeouido is conveniently situated in the lively financial hub of Yeouido. Like many fellow working travelers, we frequently choose this hotel when we’re in Seoul for work. What sets it apart is its prime location in one of Seoul’s most prominent business districts and its proximity to the Han River Park. This strategic location allowed us to conduct business efficiently while enjoying some leisure time along the renowned Han River.
Additionally, the hotel’s business services are just as prominent as its location. Whenever we stay here, we’re always welcomed warmly by the hotel’s staff. Moreover, the hotel’s business center and event facilities have proven to be exceptional workspace for us. With at least four outstanding venues at our disposal, we were able to seamlessly host meetings and seminars. The Central Park venue was particularly impressive, which serves as the hotel’s primary banquet hall. It comfortably accommodated up to 250 guests and featured floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a captivating view of Seoul.
Furthermore, when it comes to the accommodation, everything was picture perfect. We were lucky enough to get a room with the Han River view and an en-suite bathroom with a bath. So when we’re done with the day, we always have a hot bath and a marvelous view waiting for us.
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Conrad Seoul
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Best Location. The Conrad Seoul is yet another luxury business hotel located in the heart of the Yeouido Business District, with a stunning view of the Han River and a direct connection to the IFC Mall. Given its global reputation, we anticipated nothing short of excellence from this renowned hotel. To our great satisfaction, every aspect of the hotel exceeded our expectations.
For starters, the hotel’s business services exceeded our expectations. They provided a generous 2,572 square meters of event space spread across 18 venues. All of which are equipped with top-tier audiovisual equipment and tasteful decor, ensuring seamless events. Moreover, their professional staff were readily available for assistance. The hotel’s stylish lounges and restaurants also served as excellent venues for meetings and networking with our clients. Thanks to the hotel’s overall exquisite interior, we could conduct business effortlessly.
Now, as a 5-star hotel, work-based services aren’t the only thing Conrad Seoul had in store for us. To accompany our business trip, we have numerous facilities to indulge in. Our favorite ones are the spa center, and sometimes, we’d also head to the gym or the indoor pool to let out some steam. However, coming back to rest at our guestroom is also just as relaxing, especially when the room has that amazing view of the Han River.
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Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong
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The Four Points by Sheraton Josun in Myeongdong caters wonderfully to both tourists and business travelers. The location enables us to be in the middle of Seoul’s entertainment and cultural attractions, which naturally attract tourists, too. It’s three minutes away from the famous culinary spot, Myeongdong Market. Plus, the hotel is directly connected to the subway station, so traveling becomes less of a hassle. But of course, that doesn’t deter us from having a productive trip; if anything, it gives us a balanced experience.
Business services-wise, the hotel proves to be exemplary. Having at least four meeting rooms, the hotel gave us ample space to do our work. Each meeting room was professionally prepared, with all sorts of audiovisual equipment provided. One of our favorite features is the rooms’ natural lighting, which helped us stay engaged in our meetings. Furthermore, our trip was hassle-free thanks to the hotel’s excellent business center. Whether to print or fax documents at the last minute, the staff always come through for us.
Beyond business, the hotel’s facilities were a delight. The fitness center, lounges, and the sumptuous breakfast spread at the Evolution ensured we could unwind and network effortlessly. As for its guestroom, we especially love the city view that comes with it.
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Orakai Insadong Suites
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Best Guestroom. The Orakai Insadong Suites is one of our top choices among working hotels in Seoul. Its standout feature is the spacious all-suite guestrooms, each with a separate seating area and a fully equipped kitchen (plus a city view!). This extra space adds comfort to our stay and helps us save on meals during long business trips. Additionally, the hotel offers a range of facilities, including an indoor pool, sauna room, and fitness center. We particularly enjoy unwinding in the sauna after a day of work, especially following a swim.
As for its business services, it’s just as impeccable as its guestrooms. The hotel provides various sizes of meeting rooms to accommodate smaller and bigger corporate gatherings. Each meeting room has all the necessary audiovisual equipment and a nice touch of natural lighting. Plus, the hotel’s business center was also very helpful whenever we had extra work to do or needed to print/fax some documents. We often opt for the hotel’s lounge for less formal meetings to meet up with clients. And since the hotel’s location in Insadong is where most business travelers converge, meeting with business partners is very hassle-free.
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The Ambassador Seoul – A Pullman Hotel
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Best Facilities. The Ambassador Seoul – A Pullman Hotel is a luxurious and working-friendly destination. The moment we entered, the hotel’s modern, high-ceiling lobby with elegant furnishings set the tone for opulence, assuring us of exclusive services.
The hotel’s business services are equally extravagant, offering 11 beautifully designed event spaces for various purposes, including board meetings, seminars, and galas. The grand ballroom, the hotel’s largest venue accommodating up to 700 guests, stands out with its stylish lighting and sophisticated decor. Our successful company gala was held there thanks to the expertise of the hotel’s event managers and staff. For smaller meetings, we often use the boardrooms. Another feature that stood us was the indoor golf simulator, an especially popular place to network or entertain our higher-ups.
“Going to meetings and planning events became less taxing especially when we got to enjoy some golf sessions without having to get out of the hotel after work.”
WOW Travel
Furthermore, as a 5-star hotel located in central Seoul, The Ambassador offers more than competent work-based amenities and services. The accommodations and on-site facilities are just as impressive. The guest room that we stayed in was perfectly comfortable and well-equipped. However, our favorite feature was the floor-to-ceiling window paired with a chaise lounge. During our leisure moments, we found relaxation in our rooms, enjoyed spa sessions, and savored cocktails by the rooftop pool. On days with more free time, a visit to Namsan Tower, just a 15-minute drive from the hotel, became a must-do activity.
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Voco Seoul Gangnam
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Best Value for Money. Whenever our business trip to Seoul brings us to Gangnam, we often find ourselves staying at Voco Seoul Gangnam. It’s located right in the heart of this lively district with commendable business services and efficient facilities.
There are at least three event spaces in the hotel designed for hosting successful meetings and conferences, all featuring modern audiovisual technology. When we’re not using the meeting rooms, we often conduct work at the hotel’s lounge or business center, both fully stocked with essential office supplies. Some of these are printing and photocopying machines, as well as a computer station. Additionally, the capable hotel staff is consistently available to assist with all our business requirements, even offering courier services for document deliveries when needed.
Accommodation-wise, the hotel passed with flying colors. The guestrooms are simply exquisite. One of our favorite features of the hotel is the fully equipped shared kitchen on every floor. It made our long stay so much more efficient, and not to mention, we could cut costs on our meals (which, when staying at Gangnam, it’s a benefit we wouldn’t want to miss.)
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Fairmont Ambassador Seoul
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The Fairmont Ambassador Seoul, situated in Yeouido, places us in the heart of Seoul’s business hub. It lives up to Fairmont’s world-class reputation for hospitality and business services, making it a reliable choice for business travelers.
In terms of business amenities, the hotel offers a selection of ten meeting rooms and function halls of varying sizes, with the largest accommodating up to 500 guests and medium-sized rooms for 10-40 people. True to the Fairmont standard, each event space is elegantly decorated and equipped with ample office supplies and top-notch audiovisual equipment. Our experience hosting a company conference here was flawless, thanks to the hotel staff’s assistance in event organization and catering. The hotel’s lounge also serves as a comfortable space for casual meetings and client interactions.
Furthermore, when our schedule allows, we take advantage of the hotel’s diverse facilities. Dining at the rooftop restaurant, M29, became a favorite activity, alongside enjoying the pool or spa center. Occasionally, we venture to the nearby Han River Park for a proper relaxation session. And when we want to go all out, a Han River Night Cruise is our go-to activity.
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Lotte Hotel Seoul
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Located in Myeongdong, the Lotte Hotel Seoul is undoubtedly one of the most iconic hotels for working travelers in Seoul, with its own Hotel Museum. It regularly hosts prestigious international conferences, company galas, and celebrity weddings, including the G20 summit. The hotel’s 5-star status is evident in its opulent ambiance, from the regal lobby to the grand chandeliered ballroom.
Furthermore, the hotel is home to one of Seoul’s biggest function halls, with space big enough for over 1,000 guests. That said, the hotel has over 15 function halls, all fantastically designed to host important company galas, seminars, and conferences. With the hotel’s expert staff always ready to assist us, all our events and meetings are done flawlessly. Plus, for us business travelers, the hotel’s business center provides an efficient place to work and be productive.
We consistently pick this hotel when accommodating VIP clients, CEOs, shareholders, and dignitaries because of its renowned hospitality and top-tier services. It offers an array of high-end amenities, including fine dining restaurants, an onsite shopping center, a luxury spa, and even a golf range. The guestrooms match the hotel’s splendor, offering spaciousness and luxurious amenities to top it off.
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Our Verdict!
As a thriving city filled with work-based prospects, Seoul boasts numerous outstanding business hotels. Among them, Lotte Hotel Seoul stands out as our top choice due to its opulence and excellent services. However, we’d like to highlight additional hotels with standout features that could suit your preferences.
- Best value for money: Voco Seoul Gangnam
- Best location: Conrad Seoul
- Best facilities: The Ambassador Seoul – A Pullman Hotel
- Best guestroom: Orakai Insadong Suites
Where to Stay in Seoul
When planning an efficient and enjoyable business trip to Seoul, we’ve explored several areas that strike the right balance between work and leisure. Firstly, the vibrant Gangnam district stands out for its modernity and luxury. Here, we discover a multitude of business centers, upscale hotels, and trendy restaurants, creating a dynamic backdrop for meetings and networking.
Next, the historic Gwanghwamun district offers us a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Surrounded by iconic landmarks and government buildings, it provides a culturally enriching experience amidst our business trip. This district is also home to the historic Gwanghwamun Square and multiple business facilities.
For those desiring a riverside retreat, Yeouido is the top choice. This island district features a captivating skyline, numerous financial institutions, and easy access to Yeouido Hangang Park, offering a serene escape for leisurely walks after demanding meetings. The coexistence of a bustling business scene and the park’s natural beauty ensures a productive yet soothing stay.
All in all, since most of Seoul’s business districts are within the city center, we seamlessly combined our work trip with some sightseeing. In fact, when our schedule permits, we always make sure to check out the top things to do in Seoul. Lucky for you, our best picks of working hotels in Seoul are located throughout these three districts, so you can also have a balanced trip despite having to work.
What’s The Best Transportation To and From Seoul-Incheon Airport?
The best and fastest transportation to and from Seoul-Incheon Airport is by the Airport Railway Express Train (AREX). The fair is approximately 8 USD, and the travel takes about 50 minutes to reach both the airport and Seoul Station. Other modes of transportation include airport buses, chartered limousines, and taxis, but they’re all relatively more expensive and would take longer traveling time.
What Is The Best Transportation To Get Around Seoul?
Most native business workers opt for the Seoul Metropolitan Subway as they’re really reliable in getting you to your destination without delay. The Subway is also very clean, safe, and integrated, so you’re guaranteed to be comfortable during your travels.
What Is The Best Travel Pass To Get In Seoul?
There are a lot of Travel Passes in Seoul. Some of them include the M-Pass, T-Money Card, and Discover Seoul Pass. If you’re planning to go around town a lot and mainly use the subway or bus, then we recommend getting the M-Pass since it gives you a set rate for up to 20 rides a day. The M-Pass can also function as T-Money Card (an e-money card to be used at shopping centers, convenience stores, transportation, etc.), so it’s a lot more efficient. As for the Discover Seoul Pass, it’s best for doing tourist activities as the card gives lots of discounts on tourist sites’ passes.