Lotte Hotel Seoul has officially reopened as The Grand Lotte Seoul, a classic luxury brand that carries forward nearly half a century of heritage.
Lotte Hotel & Resort announced on August 14 that a new sign unveiling ceremony was held, attended by CEO Jeong Ho-seok, Shin In-hyeop, head of domestic sales, Kim Ji-tae, head of development, Kim Song-ki, head of culinary R&D, and General Manager Du Kyung-tae of The Grand Lotte Seoul.
Hotel Lotte opened Lotte Hotel Seoul in 1979, following its acquisition of the country's first commercial hotel, the Bando Hotel. This brand transformation marks a new chapter in the history of Lotte Hotel Seoul, which has been a landmark in downtown Seoul for nearly 50 years.
The new service focus is on 'quiet and elegant hospitality.' Drawing on years of experience welcoming domestic and international guests, including dignitaries, the hotel aims to provide refined and sophisticated service.
To enhance the guest experience, The Grand Lotte Seoul has undergone a significant room renovation. Rather than simply increasing the number of rooms, the hotel prioritized spacious and efficient layouts. From May of last year, a comprehensive renovation of floors 7 to 21 in the main tower was carried out over approximately 15 months, reducing the total number of rooms from 737 to 590.
As a result, the total number of rooms, including those in the main tower and executive tower, has decreased from 1,015 to 868. This reduction has improved space efficiency. Multi-purpose tables have replaced traditional desks, and bathroom spaces have been expanded to maximize practicality and comfort.
The room design was created by renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, known for his work on the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris and the St. Regis in Rome. He harmonized the intricate sensibilities of French luxury with Korean aesthetics, ensuring a consistent design language from the elevator lobby to the corridors and guest rooms. The hotel features high-quality artworks, including the 'Myo-beop' series by the late Korean monochrome painter Park Seo-bo and glass works by artist Yoo Chung-mok.
Elements that enhance the brand's identity are also notable. A signature scent inspired by 'Ghana Chocolate,' a symbol of the Lotte Group, has been uniquely applied in the lobby and club lounge. The uniforms, inspired by the collars and cuffs of traditional Korean attire, are navy blue, visually representing the brand's identity. The lobby's floral arrangements utilize navy, light blue, and gold colors to enhance the meaning of hospitality and create a classic atmosphere.
A representative from Lotte Hotel & Resort stated, 'The Grand Lotte Seoul embodies the heritage and service capabilities that Lotte Hotel has accumulated over nearly half a century, incorporating the brand's philosophy and identity into every touchpoint, including rooms, art, scent, uniforms, and flowers. We aim to provide a differentiated experience by adding the essence of classic luxury and Korean aesthetics to Lotte Hotel's attentive hospitality.'
Meanwhile, The Grand Lotte Seoul will operate a pop-up store from August 16 to 27 in collaboration with renowned Japanese patissier Toshihiko Yoroizuka. This event marks the fifth anniversary of their partnership, which began in 2022, and will take place in the food hall on the basement level of Lotte Department Store's main branch and at The Grand Lotte Seoul's Delicahans.
Yoroizuka is a dessert artisan with accolades including a win at the Paris Bakery Fair and experience as a patissier at a Michelin three-star restaurant in Belgium. The pop-up will feature over ten types of desserts and baked goods inspired by his unique style.
Signature items include the 'Peach Tart,' making a return to celebrate the fifth anniversary, and the 'Cherry Pistachio Mont Blanc,' which features a dacquoise with fresh cherries. Additionally, bakery items such as 'Yakisoba Bread,' which incorporates ginger to replicate the flavors of his local shop, and 'Sausage Danish' will be available. The Delicahans at The Grand Lotte Seoul will also offer a variety of items, including sweet red bean bread, soboro, and peach parfaits.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.