New Mercure hotel to open in trendy Hongdae area

Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae / Courtesy of Accor Ambassador Korea

By Jun Ji-hye

Accor Ambassador Korea will open a new Mercure hotel in the Hongdae area, western Seoul in August, in partnership with Seohan Tourism Development.

The area near Hongik University is one of the most popular tourist destinations visited by tourists as well as Seoul residents.

The company said Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae will showcase its design through a series of trendy art pieces and murals, noting that guests can look forward to an array of immersive experiences including discovering street art and fashion.

“Mercure is a trusted brand that allows travelers to really immerse themselves in the destination,” said Patrick Basset, chief operating officer of Accor at upper Southeast and Northeast Asia and the Maldives. “Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae is located in close proximity to the four universities, where the district is renowned for its bustling nightlife and underground culture.”

Featuring 270 guestrooms, the hotel boasts an all-day-dining restaurant, a lobby bar and fitness center.

Offering convenient access to Hongik University Station with three subway line connections, guests can explore the neighborhood's unique cafes, cozy galleries, fashion shops, art markets, clubs, bars and gourmet eateries.

“This is the first hotel opened in the northwestern part of Seoul,” said Steve Choi, president of Seohan Tourism Development, an affiliated company of Ambassador Group. “Hongdae is renowned for its vibrant urban arts and amazing music scene. The hotel is located in close proximity to both Incheon and Gimpo International Airport, offering visitors an opportunity to explore some of the great attractions nearby.”

Fully equipped with internet of things, all guestrooms can be easily controlled by guests' own smart devices, while Chromecast and Bluetooth speakers enhance the digital experience.

A business corner and meeting facilities are available for corporate meetings and events, while the outdoor courtyard garden offers the perfect venue for private parties and cocktails.

“Hongdae has become one of the top three tourist spots followed by Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun when the Airport Railroad Express opened in 2010,” said Vincent Lelay, vice president of operations for South Korea. “One of the hippest areas in Seoul, Hongdae is the hotspot for all the cool and trendy places in South Korea. The opening of Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae reflects the distinct character and culture of the precinct. We are confident that this new addition to our current 15 hotels in Seoul will provide for even more memorable experiences.”

Accor Ambassador Korea Hotel Management is currently operating 24 hotels across seven cities.

Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae is the third Mercure-branded hotel to arrive in South Korea, joining a collection of more than 800 addresses globally across 62 countries.