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Hotel Korea (South) Marketing

Discover Soulful Hotels in Seoul: Top 5 Tranquil Retreats for Your Incentive Groups

Seoul, the dynamic capital of South Korea, is an exciting destination for incentive groups seeking memorable and unique experiences. To fully immerse in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and rich culture, consider these soulful hotels that cater perfectly to the needs of your incentive groups. Each will provide you with a seamless combination of luxury, comfort, and captivating charm.

1. The Shilla Seoul: A Sanctuary in the Heart of the City

Nestled amidst tranquil gardens and boasting stunning views of the city skyline, The Shilla Seoul merges tradition and contemporary design to create an oasis of calm in Seoul’s fast-paced heart. This five-star property, a member of Leading Hotels of the World and winner of the Forbes Travel Guide Awards, offers world-class facilities and personalized service to ensure that every group’s stay is nothing short of spectacular.

From the moment you step into its impressive lobby adorned with elegant Korean artwork, you’ll know you’ve found something salient at The Shilla Seoul. With 464 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, this hotel offers plenty of space for your group to unwind, especially after exploring the city.

Are you seeking a local experience? Check out the Korean suite. The only ‘ondol-style’ room at the hotel where a traveler can experience the traditional beauty of Korea. Reasonably popular among international visitors, it is one great way to treat your delegates to something unique.

The Shilla Seoul is renowned for its culinary offerings – from exquisite French fare at La Yeon, awarded three Michelin stars, to the finest Korean cuisine at Ariake. Your group can also enjoy international flavours at The Parkview buffet-style restaurant or indulge in afternoon tea at The Library.

Let’s talk relaxation and rejuvenation. The Shilla Seoul’s exclusive Guerlain Spa promises sublime treatments that will leave every attendee feeling refreshed and ready for their next adventure, be it in Korea or back in the office. For those who desire to maintain their fitness routine while travelling, the hotel features state-of-the-art fitness facilities & indoor and outdoor pools where guests can enjoy a serene workout amidst beautiful surroundings.

Aside from its luxurious accommodations and amenities, the hotel’s expert team can help create bespoke experiences that cater to your group’s interests. From traditional tea ceremonies to cultural tours or even a private cooking class with a renowned chef – The Shilla Seoul is dedicated to making every stay memorable.

Seamlessly blending traditional Korean charm with contemporary luxury, The Shilla Seoul provides an outstanding setting that will delight participants and elevate your incentive program. Make sure to explore their special offers when planning your visit to deliver exceptional value and choose from a range of well-organized experiences on-site.

And don’t just take our word for it – with over 1,900 TripAdvisor reviews and a reputation for excellence; The Shilla Seoul stands as a leading choice among top-tier hotels for corporate gatherings. Unlock new possibilities for your incentive programs at The Shilla Seoul.

To plan your visit or learn more about their services and amenities, contact them at

+82-2-2233-3131 or visit their website for further details.

2. Lotte Hotel Seoul: The Epitome of Luxury and Elegance

Located in the heart of the central business district, this opulent five-star hotel offers a prime location for business and leisure travellers, making it perfect for your incentive group. Its proximity to popular tourist attractions, shopping districts, and a wide range of culinary delights makes it a convenient choice for guests seeking to explore the vibrant city. From the moment you step into the grand lobby, you’ll be greeted with an ambiance of sophistication and refinement. The hotel’s striking design seamlessly blends contemporary elements with traditional Korean aesthetics, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. Every detail has been carefully curated to ensure a memorable stay for guests.

The rooms and suites at Lotte Hotel Seoul are designed with the utmost comfort and luxury in mind. Each room is elegantly furnished, featuring modern amenities and breathtaking city skyline views. Whether you choose a standard room or opt for a more lavish suite, you can expect nothing short of excellence in terms of comfort and style.

Dining option? Well, Lotte Hotel Seoul offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. From fine dining restaurants serving international cuisine to traditional Korean eateries offering authentic flavours, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in gourmet delights prepared by talented chefs who take pride in creating culinary masterpieces using the finest ingredients.

The hotel boasts of an indulgent spa, one which is designed to pamper your delegates on their incentive trip or work-action. Built in 1979 in the heart of Seoul, its floor plan is similar to Lotte Hotel Seoul rooms, and you can feel the symbolic beauty of traditional Korean beauty in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Choose from a variety of treatments and therapies. From a body recharge treatment to an ultimate restorative journey, unwind in the tranquil ambiance as skilled therapists work their magic to melt away stress and tension.

The hotel also features a modern indoor pool where guests can take a refreshing dip or simply lounge by the water. In addition to its luxurious accommodations and amenities, Lotte Hotel Seoul is well-equipped with top-notch and versatile meeting facilities that cater to corporate and leisure events. State-of-the-art audiovisual technology, professional event planning services, and attentive staff ensure that every event succeeds.

Overall, Lotte Hotel Seoul is a haven of luxury and elegance in the heart of Seoul. Its impeccable service, stunning views, and wide range of amenities promise an unforgettable experience for every guest. Your incentive program participants will stay comfortably and make special memories at Lotte Hotel Seoul.

Make sure to check out their enticing offers on their website before sending out your RFP. The Sulwhasoo Spa brochure is also available online.

3. Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul: A Sanctuary for Relaxation

Nestled amidst the bustling metropolis, Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul offers a serene sanctuary to a traveller. Situated at the base of Namsan Mountain, this luxurious hotel boasts breathtaking panoramic vistas, creating a tranquil atmosphere perfect for incentive groups seeking a soulful experience.

Offering elegant comfort and modern amenities, nearly 90% of the rooms feature a serene relaxation pool that your delegates can unwind in after a work-action day. They will either revel in breathtaking views of the city skyline, majestic mountains, or panoramic landscapes based on the room types selected and allocated at check-in. Every room at the hotel is designed to provide a tranquil oasis amid the bustling city – tailored to satisfy varying individual preferences.

Offering some of Seoul’s best dining experiences, the Banyan Tree Club & Spa, Seoul, offers its guests Korean delicacies and European creations. The Granum dining lounge is an all-day restaurant offering seasonal menus that keep freshness all year round. Of all the dining options, their moon bar is something to shine a light on. Ideal for full moon nights, guests get to enjoy beautiful views of Seoul and Namsan spread out in panorama.

Talking about highlights, one of Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul is its sumptuous spa. Your incentive group will be able to indulge in a range of rejuvenating spa treatments designed to pamper and revitalize the body and mind. From soothing massages to invigorating facials, the skilled therapists at the spa will ensure that each guest experiences pure bliss and tranquillity. The hotel offers on-site yoga classes for those seeking inner peace and balance. Guests can participate in these classes led by experienced instructors, allowing them to unwind and reconnect with themselves in a serene environment. The practice of yoga not only promotes physical well-being but also helps to calm the mind and reduce stress.

In addition to its wellness offerings, Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul features an outdoor pool where guests can take a revitalizing swim while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The pool area provides a peaceful oasis where guests can relax and soak up the sun or take in the beauty of nature.

The hotel’s gallery (or its gift shop) is unique because it immerses guests in Korean culture and art. Displayed is a collection of masterpieces by local artists. This cultural immersion adds depth and meaning to one’s stay, providing an enriching experience for incentive group guests.

Are you planning something for the hockey league? The Banyan Tree Club & Spa should be your first choice. With an Ice Rink on-site (only during winter), practice is just a puck throw away.

Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul is an ideal choice regardless of the reason for travel. For incentive groups, the hotel adds a soulful experience. Beyond this, the hotel offers a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation with its serene location, luxurious spa, on-site yoga classes, revitalizing outdoor pool, and cultural immersion through its art gallery. Your incentive group will undoubtedly appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to unwind amidst the bustling metropolis.

Peruse their website for more insights, special offers and the image gallery.

4. Park Hyatt Seoul: Contemporary Luxury

Located in the heart of Gangnam, it is a contemporary luxury hotel that offers a perfect blend of modern design and warm hospitality. The Park Hyatt, a 5-star hotel, is an ideal choice for incentive group guests seeking extraordinary experiences and lavish comforts. The hotel’s 185 contemporary rooms and suites are designed to provide a sense of serenity amid the bustling urban landscape. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking city views, guests can enjoy the stunning scenery from the comfort of their rooms. Thoughtfully furnished with luxurious amenities to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay, Park Hyatt Seoul goes beyond just luxurious accommodations. The hotel features a range of amenities designed to enhance the overall experience for incentive groups.

Guests can indulge in relaxation at the luxurious spa, where they can enjoy a variety of rejuvenating treatments and therapies. The state-of-the-art fitness center allows guests to maintain their fitness routine while travelling. Additionally, the indoor infinity pool provides a serene environment for guests to unwind and take in panoramic views of the city.

When it comes to dining, Park Hyatt Seoul offers three remarkable on-site restaurants that cater to diverse culinary preferences. The Lounge provides a sophisticated setting for afternoon tea or evening cocktails, while Cornerstone offers a contemporary dining experience with its selection of premium meats and seafood. For those looking to explore Korean cuisine, The Timber House serves traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere, accompanied by an extensive selection of premium spirits.

In a World of Hyatt, what sets Park Hyatt Seoul apart as a soulful hotel for incentive groups is its commitment to providing exceptional experiences. The hotel’s attentive staff ensures that every guest receives personalized service and attention to detail. Whether arranging special activities or organizing unique experiences, the hotel goes above and beyond to create unforgettable moments for incentive group guests.

With its modern design, luxurious accommodations, exceptional amenities, and commitment to personalized service, the hotel provides an ideal setting for guests to relax, rejuvenate, and create lasting memories.

Take a sneak peek at their website, and make sure to check out their photo gallery.

5. Rakkojae Seoul: Traditional Korean Charm

A visit to Korea is incomplete without a Hanok Village stay!

This exquisite boutique hotel is located in the historical Bukchon Hanok Village, which offers an authentic Korean experience. A traditional Hanok-style property, with its beautifully restored architecture and just seven guest rooms, the Rakkojae is ideal for small incentives and groups offering an exclusive and intimate setting.

Stepping into Rakkojae Seoul is like stepping back in time, as the hotel embraces the charm and elegance of traditional Korean culture. The meticulously preserved architecture showcases the beauty of Hanok design, with its wooden beams, tiled roofs, and tranquil courtyard garden. This attention to detail creates a serene ambiance that transports guests to a bygone era.

At Rakkojae Seoul, guests can immerse themselves in Korean traditions through culturally immersive activities. Engage in a traditional tea ceremony, where you can learn about the art of tea preparation and experience the tranquillity it brings. Participate in calligraphy lessons and discover the beauty of Korean characters as you create your masterpiece. These activities provide a deeper understanding of Korean culture and allow guests to connect with their surroundings meaningfully.

To complete the cultural experience, Rakkojae Seoul offers traditional Korean meals served in-room. Delight in authentic flavours and dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of Korea. Each meal is prepared with care and attention to detail, ensuring a memorable dining experience for your incentive group.

The exceptional service at Rakkojae Seoul is delivered with genuine warmth and hospitality. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcome and well cared for. From personalized recommendations for exploring the surrounding cultural hotspots to arranging transportation or assisting with any special requests, the team at Rakkojae Seoul ensures that every aspect of your stay is seamless.

After a day of exploring the nearby cultural attractions, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong Street, the tranquil courtyard garden at Rakkojae Seoul serves as a peaceful oasis. Take a moment to unwind and relax in this serene setting, surrounded by the beauty of nature. In conclusion, Rakkojae Seoul is a soulful hotel offering an authentic Korean incentive group experience.

What’s truly unique about the Rakkojae?

Their sustainable mindset! For 30 years, they have been pursuing sustainable development methods while focusing on the next 30 years of growth. They practice what they call a new ‘village hotel’ concept. In their own words, hotels in large cities have space limitations and must connect their guestrooms vertically with an elevator. By converting an entire village into an inn, the alleyways become the horizontal elevators, and the individual Hanoks operated by Rakkojae become the guestrooms.

Rather deep and soulful in Seoul!

No matter where you send your RFP in Seoul, each hotel will surprise you and your delegates. Bringing the local Korean flare and combining it with service levels often higher than those in North America, your guests could not be in better hands.

Have a Seoul-ful experience in Korea!

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Korea (South) Marketing

South Korea: A Hidden Gem For Cyclists Thinking ‘Asia’

South Korea is renowned for its pop culture, technological advancements, and mouth-watering cuisine. But did you know it’s also a haven for cycling enthusiasts? Its stunning landscapes, impressive infrastructure, and growing emphasis on eco-friendly living make it the perfect place for two-wheeled exploration. Read on to uncover five compelling reasons why South Korea should be your next cycling destination.

1. An Extensive Cycling Network – Yes, you read that right! Boasting over 5,000 kilometers of interconnected cycling paths, South Korea features major links like the gorgeous Four Rivers Trail stretching from Incheon to Busan. With comprehensive physical and digital signage, cyclists of all abilities can confidently navigate their way through this paradise.

2. Breathtaking Landscapes and Scenery – South Korea presents a diverse array of scenic beauty for every cyclist. From Seoul’s vibrant streets to the calm countryside and captivating coastlines of Jeju Island, each turn unveils something new to captivate your senses. Additionally, the ever-changing terrain ensures that every ride suits your desired challenge level.

3. Immersive Cultural Experiences – Cycling through South Korea is an all-encompassing cultural journey. As you pedal past quaint villages, ancient temples, and bustling traditional markets, you’ll dive deep into Korean customs and traditions. Along the way, indulge in delicious local flavors to make your two-wheeled adventure even more unforgettable.

4. Cyclist-Friendly Cities in South Korea – In recent years, the growing passion for cycling in South Korea has led to a shift in driver attitudes, the development of cyclist-only tunnels, and exclusive biking lanes, making the roads safer and more enjoyable for cyclists. The well-maintained urban and rural routes empower cyclists to confidently embark on thrilling adventures. What’s more? South Korea’s trains come equipped with bike racks, allowing cyclists to effortlessly combine rail travel with biking to explore greater distances.

Ready to experience the ride of your life? Dive into the world of South Korean cycling now!

5. Budget-Friendly Adventures – Cycling in South Korea is surprisingly affordable—from accommodations and food to transportation costs. Reasonably priced bike rentals and equipment ensure that travelers of any budget can experience the thrills of discovering South Korea on two wheels. The icing on the cake is that South Korea has many bike-friendly hotels and accommodations, so you can rest and recharge after a long day of pedaling.

Some of the must-ride routes include the coastal trail from Busan to Seoul, the UNESCO World Heritage course along the Seoul City Wall, and the scenic path skirting the Seoul Mountains. So, which adventure will you embark on first?

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Food & Dining Korea (South) Marketing

4 Must-Do Healthy Activities in Korea

  1. Jimjilbang literally means ‘heated rooms’, a place where locals come to unwind, engage and hang out while enjoying a host of health and beauty rituals that go beyond a quick soak. The cost to enter a jimjilbang is between ₩7000 and ₩20,000 (CAD 7 – CAD 20) and it varies based on the day of the week, the time of the day, and its location. Koreans have long believed that perspiring in these hot rooms has a medicinal effect and could help improve blood circulation, reduce stress, clear out the pores and possibly help with weight loss. They certainly make for a great place to meditate, relax, and unwind especially for tourists who may have spent a long day exploring the city.
    Suggested article for a first-timer at a Jimjilbang
  2. Korean Ginseng is a bitter-tasting root with a strong flavor whose shape resembles that of a human body. It is said to contain plenty of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, including saponins or ‘ginsenosides’. Ginsenosides are known to boost immunity and help fight cancer as well as provide a quick recovery from fatigue. Korean Ginseng is a high-quality souvenir and can be purchased in department stores, supermarkets, road shops, and ginseng specialty shops when in Korea.
  3. Makgeolli has the longest history among all of Korea’s traditional alcohols. Made by mixing steamed glutinous rice or wheat with nuruk, a fermentation starter culture, and water, the mixture is left to ferment. Extremely nutritious and low in calories, Makgeolli is 80% water and 6–8% alcohol. An unfiltered beverage, it contains lactic acid and lactobacillus bacteria, at the level found in yogurt. It also contains dietary fiber. All in all, it aids digestion, improves immune function, and slows the aging process
  4. Temple Stay is a unique opportunity to experience Korean Buddhism, its daily lifestyle, rituals, and spirituality. It entails staying at a Buddhist temple and engaging in daily monastic activities, a wonderful way to rediscover oneself. Imagine waking up to the sound of temple bells that sweep through the mountains, rendering peace in the hearts of temple visitors. A temple stay provides sanctuary from city life and offers space for meditation and holistic healing. A typical temple stay program includes a Buddhist service, seon meditation, the 108 prostrations, and communal work. Some programs also educate participants on monastic meal offerings and tea ceremony rituals.

 

We recommend seeking medical consultation from your doctor before engaging in any of the suggested activities while in Korea. A doctor knows what is best for you!

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Destination Hotel Korea (South) Marketing

Feel At Home With Fairmont Ambassador

Why is it that you feel right at home when you’re in South Korea? Because even though it’s more than 8,000 Kms away from Canada, Seoul is one of the most modern cities in Asia that mixes class, culture, and technology in its main cities. Get ready to check into The Fairmont Ambassador Seoul experience!

Located at walking distance from parks and metro stations, this modern venue can easily accommodate people from all over the world in over 300 spacious rooms. With ballrooms and meeting rooms ready to welcome large parties, there are various possibilities for events of all sorts. Whether you’re planning a corporate event or a wedding celebration The Fairmont Ambassador Seoul offers elegant options that are both modern and classically influenced.

Download the hotel brochure

No lasting experience would be complete without having a taste of superb meals at one of their four restaurants. Guests can enjoy an all-day culinary experience, either when having lunch at Spectrum or The Atrium Lounge and when gazing at the city skyline from Mariposa or M29 for dinner.

Since The Fairmont is part of Accor Hotels, you also get to accumulate your meeting planner points as a bonus. That is certainly a reason to break out your Gangnam Style dance moves.

* Fun Fact for impressing people – Did you know that Gangnam Style literally means “South of the River Style” which is a region that is one of the richest and most glamorous places in Seoul. This classy district of Seoul is notorious for people displaying their trendy and hip lifestyles.

If you want to find out more about how you can plan your next meetings and events close to a Convention Center and create a lasting experience with super delighted clients, visit Fairmont.com/seoul

View the meeting specs

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Destination Food & Dining Korea (South) Marketing

MishMash – Restaurant With A Hanok Vibe!

Enter a world of taste in a place that fuses gourmet dishes with the delicious flavors of Korean Cuisine. MishMash offers its visitors a distinct experience, both in architecture and its characteristic menu. If you’re looking for a unique venue that offers a mix of culture, taste, and convenience, book your next big meeting at MishMash, a restaurant with a Hanok vibe.

Hanok is a traditional Korean house made up of a wooden framework that varies in shape depending on the region. The term was used to refer to houses built in the Korean architectural style in comparison with Western-style buildings.” The word is a combination of two Chinese characters, han (韓, meaning “the Korean people”) and ok (屋, meaning “house”). Hanoks can be divided into several types according to their layout, like U-shaped hanoks, as well as L-shaped, square, and straight-lined.

Much like in business, you should plan and book your spot on this popular venue because it’s frequented by all types of business people.

→ Read the entire article curated by European Chamber of Commerce in Korea by clicking here

Whether you choose lunch or dinner, you will always have an option to the Chef’s Choice. And who is the Chef? None other than Ecole Ferrandi alumni Minzi Kim Wind, whose worked at several Michelin restaurants in Denmark, France, and Spain. What makes her style unique is the delicate balance of maintaining a traditional Korean taste when introducing new flavors and dishes. Perfect for all occasions.

This means that guests can travel through the rich taste of traditional Korean cuisine that meets modern techniques and plates for a delicious journey without leaving the Hanok, all while enjoying views of the Palace which is located nearby.

MishMash offers groups reservations open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, which gives you a lot of room to plan the best meeting and pair it with the perfect restaurant.

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Food & Dining Korea (South) Marketing

7 Good Things To Know About Kimchi

Kimchi is Korea’s unique ethnic food, and historical records showed that kimchi was invented around 4,000 years ago (ref. Science Direct). Fermented food, Kimchi is packed with vitamins and minerals with several health benefits including better gut health. Lactobacilli bacteria is found in Kimchi, which is what makes it an excellent probiotic. Here are some fun facts to impress your colleagues, friends, and family with when it comes to Kimchi:  

  1. An average Korean consumes about 40-57 pounds of Kimchi a year. It is an essential side dish served with almost every meal.
  2. Kimchi has been taken to space by Yi So Yeon, South Korea’s first astronaut. South Korea spent millions of dollars to create Kimchi that would be suitable for consume-in space.
  3. There are over 200 types of Kimchi and with that many variants, not every Korean has tried them all.
  4. Kimchi may aid weight loss and also help reduce body weight, body fat, and blood sugar levels.
  5. Most Koreans have a special kimchi fridge with a more humid environment and less moving air to help maintain the freshness.
  6. Taking photos in Korea? Don’t say cheese, say Kimchi! Many South Koreans go with Smile, Whiskey, or LG.
  7. A kimchi museum was named one of the world’s best food museums by CNN

Curious about more fun facts? Check out K-Pop Foods or Hey Explorer.

Related: 4 Must Do Healthy Activities in Korea

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Destination Korea (South) Marketing

5 Questions Planners Ask About The DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (Known as the DMZ) is widely considered a must in the bucket list of anyone visiting South Korea. As more people arrive each year, planners are usually faced with several questions. Here are the Top Five Answers to the most commonly asked questions:

  1. Is it safe to visit the DMZ? Absolutely, yes. While the DMZ in Korea is considered by some “the world’s most dangerous border,” there is no threat to any civilians or visitors. Tourists entering the DMZ go through a routine briefing that covers the do’s and don’ts of the visit. Although a safety waiver is required to visit the JSA (joint security area), where the North Korean and South Korean forces stand facing each other, the briefing will cover everything you need to know to better enjoy the experience.
  2. Are there any steps that I need to take before the visit? All you have to do is book your visit! It’s that simple. You can even do it from your couch. After you book, a DMZ travel operator will get in touch with you to cover all the details of your visit.
  3. What should my delegates be aware of before the visit? You cannot be part of this experience if you don’t bring your passport. Also, out of respect for the local culture, the dress code should be at least smart business casual. What does this mean? Absolutely no torn jeans, no shorts, and no open-toe footwear. Dress as if you were attending a business networking event. There will be several checkpoints along the way where military people board the bus; this is normal protocol.
  4. What’s the ideal budget for this experience? The Price points start around CAD 175.00 per person. The costs may vary on each day of the week, time of the year, exclusive bus/coach requirement, pick-up points, meal(s) needed kind of meal required, and so on. For an incentive group, we recommend budgeting CAD 500.00 per person in order to offer a more elaborate meal. Prices change and we recommend connecting with the tour organizers before submitting the final budget for approval.
  5. Are there any other unique experiences in the DMZ? Visiting the DMZ is a unique experience by itself. And yes, there’s a chance you get to capture everything that’s unique about this area, including an interview with the North Korean Defector. This interview is conducted in Korean with a translator and a guide. Delegates and attendees can come up-close and hear first-hand for as little as CAD 150 per person for this tour.

You might wish to check out a sample waiver form as you plan the visit to the DMZ.

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Destination Korea (South) Marketing

Make Korea Your Event Destination