Seoul's most upmarket district, Gangnam sits on the southern side of the mighty Han River. Famed for its glittering skyscrapers, fabulous shopping and exclusive late-night clubs, it has become a hugely popular base for travellers as well as the city’s well-heeled crowd. Shop ’til you drop on Cheongdam Fashion Street, lined with designer boutiques tucked within imposing edifices. Trendy cafés and gourmet restaurants abound, perfect for a long lunch or restorative coffee. The COEX Mall is a shopping destination in itself, but its biggest standout is the Starfield Library, which is home to over 40,000 books. Delve a little deeper into the area’s heritage with a visit to the Bongeunsa Temple, a sacred Buddhist site for centuries.
Come evening, already bustling Gangnam kicks things up a notch with atmospheric speakeasies, lively rooftop bars and hip restaurants scattered across the neighbourhood. The best places to stay in Gangnam boasts culinary highlights and cracking cocktail bars of their own — and their teams can point you towards the district’s biggest late-night clubs. Seriously cool, these spots reflect the neighbourhood itself: a fascinating, forward-looking community with a youthful, party-loving spirit.
For Luxury
- Josun Palace, a gorgeous contemporary hotel with sleek interiors, is a Gangnam favourite. Sophisticated guest rooms are done in white, red and golden tones, with floor-to-ceiling windows and an elegant art deco feel. The serene spa has its own big indoor pool, and there are three hip restaurants with velvet-upholstered seating, a cracking cocktail bar and deli for freshly baked bites. Fabulous.
- Park Hyatt Seoul, designed by acclaimed Japanese firm Super Potato, has a slick, grown-up sense of style. Expect rich polished oak and smooth stone in spacious guest rooms, plus big soaking tubs. The spa, gym and indoor infinity pool invite guests to unwind after fun-filled days and nights in Gangnam. An iconic urban retreat.
For Business Travellers
- voco Seoul Gangnam offers surprisingly good value for its fantastic location. Interiors are simple and modern, with warm yellow or green accent walls, crisp white linens on cosy beds and compact bathrooms with traditional tubs. Event spaces are wonderful for business travellers looking to host meetings and events. Guests share a communal kitchen as well as a casual all-day restaurant.
- Andaz Seoul Gangnam has slick white-on-white guest rooms with indulgent bathrooms. Five flexible event rooms and a big ballroom are well-suited to meetings or conferences, whilst the Ocelas Spa and gym invite post-work rejuvenation. The indoor pool with LED screen is a very cool touch. A hip hotel choice.
- Aloft Seoul Gangnam overlooks the Han River at the edge of the Gangnam district. Expect light wood furnishings, dark blue accents and colourful artwork in compact guest rooms with desks and city or river views. Hearty breakfasts are served in the modern restaurant, there's a relaxed deli, and four meeting rooms. Hit the gym first thing or before heading out for the evening.