A legend in hospitality

Named after Korea’s most illustrious dynasty, The Shilla has entered into the modern age with new offerings that are unique and decadent

The South Korean capital of Seoul is one of the most dynamic cities in the world, known for its vibrancy and high-tech facilities. The Shilla is a legendary hotel that is both steeped in tradition and modern in its offerings.

Opened in 1979, The Shilla Seoul is the flagship of The Shilla Hotels & Resorts, which takes its name from the eponymous ancient dynasty and is regarded as the “Golden Age” of Korea’s history. The 23-acre property is stunningly located in private wooded parkland overlooking the famous city.

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, The Shilla Seoul has recently experienced a makeover led by global designer Peter Remedios. Most of the 464 rooms, including 38 suites, have been fitted with modern amenities while retaining authentic details. Bespoke amenities including marble bathrooms, super-plush goosedown comforters and high-speed wireless internet access complete the one-of-a-kind experience.

The Shilla’s Executive Lounge on the 23rd floor caters to the every need of business travellers, featuring a private lounge-cum-dining area with a dedicated manager and staff, a reception area with concierge service and three meeting rooms furnished with the latest audio-visual equipment. Executive room guests can also enjoy express check-in and check-out, plus four daily dining services including a healthy breakfast, light snack afternoon tea and happy hour.

Such a five-star property must be matched with world-class dining, and The Shilla Seoul offers six restaurants, including its flagship European restaurant Continental, where many gourmet parties have been held. Divided into various themed areas for different occasions, the Library Bar & Lounge, hosts live performances, while all-day-dining outlet The Parkview offers authentic Cantonese and Mandarin-style dim sum, and also features international dishes. Palsun serves up sumptuous Chinese cuisine while Ariake is famous for its authentic sushi plates. Finally, La Yeon is the high-end traditional Korean outlet.

For meetings and events The Shilla Seoul combines first-class dining with state-of-the-art event facilities, including the grand ballroom Dynasty. Another highlight is the Banquet Annex, Yeong Bin Gwan. The twostorey structure, inspired by the splendour of the Shilla Kingdom, was built in 1967 to welcome dignitaries, and in 1973, it was taken over by The Shilla Hotel and opened to the public as a banquet and event venue. The space comprises three separate banquet halls – Ruby, Emerald and Topaz.

Other facilities at The Shilla Seoul include the country's most extensive fitness club with different aerobic and weight machines, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a children’s pool, outdoor jogging track, sculpture garden and walking path and the first Guerlain Spa in Asia.

Then there’s The Shilla Jeju, which has 429 rooms and 38 suites and is located on the country’s famous holiday island. Not only is the hotel the perfect base for island explorations, it also offers entertainment on site in the form of a luxury Glamping and Camping Village, Private Beach House, outdoor pool and spa.

The Shilla portfolio continues to expand with the latest property Shilla Stay Dongtan, which is approximately one hour’s drive south of Seoul and is the first property under its Shilla Stay brand. It provides you with everything you need when on the road in a comfortable, contemporary environment.

For more about the legend of Shilla, visit www.shilla.net.