Fodor's Expert Review JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul
279, Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03198, South Korea See on Map
With 170 rooms and 15 suites, the JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul is a modern luxury hotel intended to meet your every amenity need, even the ones you didn't know you need (like Bose speakers). With whimsical luxuries like a food truck and an indoor swimming pool adorned with chandeliers, you'll find your every request met by the attentive and accommodating staff and hotel conveniences.
Directly across the street from the hotel is one of the Eight Gates of Seoul and Korean National Treasure, Dongdaemun, the East Gate, originally built in 1398. The Dongdaemun Design Plaza, also called the DDP, is a block away and features a gorgeous rooftop park, large global exhibition spaces, shopping galore and even cultural points.
There's a hotel floor restricted to adults only if that suits your needs.
room
Spacious and modern, the rooms feel exemplary when it comes to an east-meets-west fusion of exceptional taste. Perfect for the suggestion of work but romantic enough for a getaway, with a super soft fluffy bed and duvet under a 46-inch LED TV with premium channels.
The East Gate Views showcase the East Gate Dongdamun National Treasure. Worth it!
bathroom
The toilet is not separate from the vanity or the rainfall shower and bathtub, if that's a location you like to get territorial about. Western toilets come with heated seats and a variety of bidet options. L'OCCTAINE toiletries as well as a hairdryer are provided.
lobby
The hotel offers ease of everything: there's free parking, free wi-fi, even subway station access via the escalators down from the lobby.
pool
This incredible indoor pool shines under chandeliers and giant mirrors, making for an extravagant, elegant swim experience. Lounge chairs await warmed by a glass fireplace, and there's even a separate kid's pool so the grown-ups can adequately relax.
spa
Standard spa fare: treatments, services, massages and even fitness classes. All products provided by L'OCCITANE (also served as samples in-room). Appointments required.
gym
The gym is a basic fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights.
dining
There are two restaurants in the JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul, Tavolo 24 (international fusion and Korean buffet) and BLT Steak (American steakhouse with local, seasonal twists). Both restaurants are recommended "smart casual" dress codes, and the vibe is fun-fancy.
For breakfast, you've got options, a buffet, continental, or full American ranging from 32,000 KRW - 49,000 KRW.
Member of the Executive Club? You'll find continental breakfast in the morning and snacks and drinks available all day long.
LOCATION
Getting Around
Parking is complimentary for registered guests, but the hotel sits conveniently located at the intersection of subway lines 1 and 4, the JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square is extremely accessible by public transit.
Restaurants
Tosokchon Samgyetang (10-minute walk) is the spot for samgyetang (Korean chicken soup). Congadu, (15-minute walk) is a fancier take on Korean classics. Everywhere around the hotel you'll find fried chicken and beer, and Shake Shack is (1-minute walk) is perplexingly popular.
WHY WE LIKE IT
The JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul is perfect for business, but its worth it for the time you're spending on yourself. It's got an upbeat vibe and cool, modern facilities that remind you what vacation is all about -- splendor, fun, whimsy, and satisfaction.
