Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

We recently stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul booked through the American Express Platinum Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program. At the time of our booking, this was the most expensive hotel in Seoul. During our trip, we also stayed at other top-tier properties, including Signiel Seoul and the Fairmont. Unfortunately, the Four Seasons delivered the lowest satisfaction and poorest value for money by a wide margin. * Check-in & Ignored Requests Unlike our stays at other luxury properties in Seoul, there was no Amex FHR room upgrade available, nor was a room with a bathtub available. While we accepted this due to high occupancy, our special occasion (noted online in advance as an anniversary) was completely missing from their system or simply ignored—not even a verbal acknowledgment was offered. They granted us complimentary sauna access in lieu of a bathtub, but as we are not fond of Korean-style saunas, this added no value to our stay. * Room Switch & The "ADA Room" Denial Upon entering our initially assigned room, the air conditioning was barely functioning, and there was a distinct, musty odor. We had to go back down to the front desk to request a room change. We were reassigned to Room 1620. Because we were exhausted, we decided to settle in even though it was immediately obvious this was an accessible (ADA) room: it had grab bars in the bathroom and shower, no door separating the toilet stall, and a noticeably wide layout missing standard furniture. The real shock came at check-out. When the front desk agent apologized for the initial room switch, I politely noted that our replacement room was an ADA room and that we hadn't been informed of this prior to taking the keys. A Concierge Manager standing nearby interjected and insisted that Room 1620 was *not* an ADA room, effectively gaslighting us and brushing off our feedback. Having seen the standard layout of our first room just hours prior, the difference was unmistakable (grab bars and missing doors speak for themselves). I chose not to argue on the spot, but the manager's defensive attitude and lack of professionalism were astounding for a brand of this caliber. Overall, the air conditioning system felt dated, and the room interiors did not justify the steep price tag. * Disappointing Dining & Chaotic Service - **In-Room Dining (Dinner):** We ordered the Kimchi Jjigae, LA Galbi, and a Hanwoo Burger. The meal was entirely underwhelming. The stew was far too salty, and the LA Galbi was mediocre at best—certainly not what you expect at Five-Star room service prices. - **Breakfast (Market Kitchen):** We were seated in a high-traffic aisle where staff and guests constantly brushed past our table, creating a chaotic and dizzying environment. The food itself was unremarkable compared to the breakfast buffets at other luxury Seoul hotels. Worse, the coffee service was abysmal: our first order took over 25 minutes to arrive, and a second order was completely forgotten. We eventually gave up and used the self-serve automated machine. * Final Verdict The Four Seasons Seoul heavily rides on the location premium of Gwanghwamun. However, when you evaluate the outdated room conditions, lackluster F&B, and substandard front desk hospitality, the value proposition falls completely apart. If you are looking for true luxury, attentive service, and genuine recognition of Amex FHR benefits in Seoul, look elsewhere—Signiel and Fairmont are significantly superior choices. We will not be returning.

We were two adults and a teenage son and we stayed in a Grand Family Room with a roll away bed. We were on the 16th floor and we liked our room and stay. The staff was incredibly helpful with everything and so friendly. The room was very quiet and we had a view of the skyline. The shower in the room was awesome and the beds were so comfortable. The spa was amazing and I highly recommend using it—three different pools with warm, hot and cold water as well as steam and dry saunas. Great coffee and breakfast items in the coffee bar on the first floor. Excellent location—close to the subway and easy walking to many great neighborhoods. Highly recommend this hotel.

Fantastic stay! Great service. We’ll definitely return!

My stay at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul was nothing short of outstanding. From the moment I arrived, I was surrounded by an atmosphere of elegance, tranquility, and refined luxury. What impressed me most was the hotel's sophisticated interior design. Every detail feels carefully curated, from the premium materials to the timeless décor. The subtle scent of natural wood throughout the property creates a warm and calming ambiance that instantly makes you feel relaxed and welcome. The rooms are beautifully appointed, exceptionally comfortable, and maintained to the highest standards. Despite being located in the center of Seoul, the hotel offers a remarkable sense of peace and privacy. However, the true highlight of Four Seasons Seoul is its people. If there is one thing I can always trust about Four Seasons, it is their exceptionally well-trained staff. They demonstrate genuine professionalism, attentiveness, and grace in every interaction. Their ability to anticipate guests' needs and handle even the most demanding situations with efficiency and courtesy is truly impressive. This level of consistency and excellence is what sets Four Seasons apart from many other luxury hotels. Whether traveling for business or leisure, I would highly recommend Four Seasons Seoul to anyone seeking world-class hospitality, sophisticated comfort, and an unforgettable stay in South Korea.

The Four Seasons Seoul set the bar impossibly high from the moment we arrived. The front desk, bell, and concierge teams were exceptional warm, professional, and genuinely attentive to every detail. You immediately feel like a valued guest. The breakfast buffet at The Market restaurant is an absolute must. The spread is incredible, but what truly made it special was Allen. He went above and beyond in every sense, anticipating needs, making us feel at home, and bringing a level of care that is rare to find anywhere. On our last day, we couldn’t find our favorite pickled radish dish. When we asked about it, he talked to chef and kitchen staff to find some for us. The way you went out of your way to find us the radish showed us how you really care for your guests. Allen, you are a rock star! We will always remember you and we look forward to seeing you and team again soon. - Your friends from San Francisco