Review / We review The Shilla hotel in Seoul, where Korean celebrities like the Song-Song couple go to get married
Seoul’s first luxury hotel has been the go-to destination for movie stars, titans of industry and statesmen for over 40 years
Named after one of Korea’s three ancient kingdoms, The Shilla became Seoul’s first luxury hotel when it opened in 1973, and it has maintained its premier position.
Named after one of Korea’s three ancient kingdoms, The Shilla became Seoul’s first luxury hotel when it opened in 1973, and it has maintained its premier position
Situated next to Jangchungdan Park behind the old city walls, the hotel has hosted weddings for some of Korea’s biggest stars: Moon Hee-Jun, Jun Ji-hyun, Jeon Do-yeon, Jang Dong-gun and Ko So-young.
While The Shilla has been the go-to destination for movie stars, titans of industry and statesmen for over 40 years, renowned hospitality designer Peter Remedios of Remedios Studio spearheaded a seven-month redesign in 2013 that resulted in a refreshed icon that towers over the other hotels in Seoul.
On arrival in the hotel’s main lobby, I was greeted by an eye-popping crystal chandelier that runs the length of the sleek lobby’s vaulted ceiling. From there, Remedios has blended Korean tradition with contemporary internationalism for interiors that balance function with luxury, and modern amenities and technology with comfort.
Blond woods, creamy taupes, sliding rice paper screens and understated neutral wall coverings bring a coherent look to the 464 Western and Korean rooms and suites. The exceptions are the two-bedroom classical (plush carpeting, crystal chandeliers, Rococo furnishings) or contemporary French-style presidential suites.
Rich dark woods, oversized leather seating and a central fireplace bring warmth to The Library, which offers guests everything from a range of fine whiskies and traditional high tea, and the Michelin-starred fine dining includes Chinese (Palsun), Japanese (Ariakee), French (Continental) and Korean (La Yeon).