FIRST MGALLERY HOTEL OPENS IN SEOUL
Debuting as the brand’s first property in South Korea, Hotel Naru Seoul – MGallery Ambassador has opened its doors. Throughout its 196 guestrooms and 5 dining venues, the hotel tells an endless array of stories that celebrate the spirit of this contemporary city.
Set on the banks of the iconic Han River in the heart of the Mapo-gu district, Hotel Naru Seoul – MGallery Ambassador pays homage to the beauty of this natural wonder while spotlighting modern Korean architecture.
Located near Incheon International Airport and the central business district, plus just a stone’s throw from a string of universities, government buildings, office towers, cultural sites, green spaces, and local restaurants, the hotel offers a wonderful blend of character and easy access to a host of activities.
The property, titled after the area’s original name, Maponaru, is home to 196 guestrooms that reflect the vibrant spirit of the locale through its unique aesthetic. For hundreds of years, creatives — from artists to poets, and painters — have been drawn to Maponaru’s charming personality, and this is also referenced in the hotel’s design style. Inspired by the natural beauty and artful roots of Korean culture, the modern façade features large shadow glass panels that caress endless views of Seoul’s skyline and beckon guests to soak up the sweeping river and city vistas while being bathed in daylight. Biophilic-inspired interiors foster an intimate connection between guests and nature, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Further supporting this respect for the environment’s splendour, the hotel has been certified as a Green Building, meaning it was specifically engineered to leave a minimal carbon footprint.
Prior to walking through the hotel’s doors, guests can spend a moment admiring The Present of the Century, a giant sculpture created by local artist Jeonghwa Choi, which tells the inspiring stories of hope and love. Upon entering the natural-hued lobby on the 20th floor, guests will be embraced in a feeling of calmness before being beguiled by another large cascading aluminium art installation by artist Haegyu Yang. Titled Airy Navigation, this mesmerising piece is reminiscent of Mapo’s history as a historic port location.
“Each MGallery hotel has a strong identity with a singular design that is steeped in the stories of each location. Hotel Naru Seoul – MGallery Ambassador has been authored by its surroundings and history, so it will become more than just a place to stay but an outstanding story to be lived. We are excited to offer an inspiring hotel journey that will leave passionate explorers with memorable moments at our first MGallery hotel in South Korea,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea.
A sense of serenity is omnipresent throughout the 196 guestrooms. Outfitted with natural materials, soft walnut and white tones and comfortable rounded-edge furnishings, these spaces invite guests to sit back and relax in a peaceful ambience.
The ignite the senses, the hotel is home to five unique dining venues. Set high above the Han River, chic French bistro Restaurant Voisin offers spellbinding views complemented by speciality dry-aged grills. Those looking for a distinctive beverage experience will take great delight in Bar Voisin — a one-of-a-kind bar inspired by a traditional Asian pharmacy, where mixologists are at the ready to prescribe the perfect herb-laced concoction. The Lounge & Deck is a serene spot overlooking the river that offers the ideal respite from the bustling city below with a selection of locally harvested tea, handcrafted coffee and wine on the menu. Alongside the hotel’s striking infinity pool is The Pool Bar, which presents an array of refreshing drinks and flavourful light bites that can be enjoyed while relaxing on one of the waterside loungers. Don’t miss a trip to the ground-floor café, Mapo Eight, for a pastry fix accompanied by freshly brewed coffee and fresh juices.
Hotel Naru Seoul – MGallery Ambassador is all about finding harmony, and with its leisure facilities, guests will feel empowered to focus on having a more balanced lifestyle. The two pools — an infinity pool with dramatic views and a 25-meter indoor swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling windows — are ideal for moments of reflection. To nourish the soul, head to the fitness centre and sauna, where the natural feeling of meditation and healing is present through and through. For unforgettable outdoor experiences, the Mapo Hangang-Gil trail road is suitable for running or bicycling along the Han River, while the Mapo Food Culture Streets and Subway Station are also just a short stroll from the hotel.
Those looking to host meetings or events will be spoilt for choice, too, with the hotel’s second floor jam-packed with an array of facilities and flexible spaces to gather or celebrate. A large-sized media wall in the ballroom ensures that these occasions will be remembered for years to come.
“We are proud to introduce the new boutique hotel concept to South Korea. Hotel Naru Seoul – MGallery Ambassador strives to deliver a memorable experience that is as unique as the neighbourhood itself. Maponaru and the Han River have inspired many artists in the past. Today, I believe the hotel will also inspire our guests, as they will be surrounded by the iconic views, compelling design, and art pieces from local artists,” said Simon Kim, General Manager of Hotel Naru Seoul – MGallery Ambassador.
To welcome guests to the new address, Hotel Naru Seoul – MGallery Ambassador is offering two special opening offers. The Good Mood Package includes a stay in a Deluxe River Room with daily breakfast for two, cocktails at the Lounge & Deck, signature coffee beans, and late checkout until 2 pm. Rates start from KRW 349,000+. The Good Food Package includes a stay in a Deluxe River Room with daily breakfast for two, a five-course dinner with two glasses of sparkling wine at Restaurant Voisin, signature coffee beans, and late checkout until 2pm. Rates start from KRW 478,000+.
MGallery also recently opened a new hotel in Bulgaria – The Emporium Plovdiv – MGallery – as part of its global expansion. Take a look at this stunning new hotel located in Plovdiv, Europe’s cultural capital of 2019, here.
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