Seoul to open world's first hotel built atop river bridge

The photo shows the interior of a hotel to be built on a Han River bridge, scheduled to open July 16. Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) is set to open a unique lodging facility on a Han River bridge to offer guests panoramic views of the river and the capital's skyline.

SMG said that the scenic hotel, which will lie on the Hangang Bridge and officially open on July 16, will have the title of the world's first lodging facility built atop a river bridge.

The existing structure on the bridge, which was used as a cafe, has been refurbished to become a 144 square-meter suite that includes a bedroom, living room and bathroom, and can host up to four guests.

The hotel boasts multiple panoramic windows — from the bedroom, the living room and the bathroom — offering breathtaking views of the Han River and the city from every room.

The photo shows the interior of a hotel to be built on a Han River bridge, scheduled to open July 16. Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government

The SMG has selected the global house-sharing platform Airbnb to carry out the interior design of the facility, and San-ha HM, an experienced hotel operator known for managing properties such as Ramada Hotel and Militopia Hotel, will operate it.

The hotel fee is expected to be set at around 340,000 won ($250) to 500,000 won per night. Bookings will be available through Airbnb.

For the hotel's opening day on July 16, the city will select a person for a free one-night stay. Interested parties can apply through the SMG’s website by Wednesday, submitting a story about touching family love or a moving friendship.

The first guest will be announced on May 28 during a pre-opening promotional event attended by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and Seoul city council members as well as Airbnb Chief Business Officer Dave Stephenson.

"The new hotel is a novel approach to utilizing the Han River's scenic value," an SMG official said.

"We are creating the world's first hotel on the Han River, which boasts an unparalleled view that can be showcased anywhere in the world. The first lodging opportunity is provided to Seoul citizens, so we hope for much interest and participation."