The Plaza, a landmark in front of Seoul Plaza for half a century, is set to undergo a significant transformation. The hotel will close its doors at the end of September for a comprehensive renovation expected to last about three years. The existing configuration, which focuses on deluxe rooms, will be revamped to prioritize high-end suites, and the club lounge and business spaces will be expanded. Plans also include attracting a world-class fine dining restaurant and joining a global luxury hotel alliance.
Hanwha Hotels & Resorts announced on August 19 that it will begin large-scale renovation work in early 2027 to mark the 50th anniversary of The Plaza. The hotel will cease operations on September 30, marking its first renovation in 16 years since 2010, with a target completion date set for 2029.
The core of this renovation is the enhancement of guest rooms and business facilities. The current focus on deluxe rooms will shift to high-end suites, with workspaces integrated into the rooms. The plan aims to strengthen spaces and services targeting VIP clients, including senior government officials and global business leaders.
Considering the high demand for meeting spaces, the club lounge will be significantly expanded, and service levels will be elevated.
The food and beverage sector will also see improvements. The hotel plans to attract a world-class fine dining restaurant to complement the existing 'The Plaza Dining,' thereby enhancing its gourmet offerings.
The Plaza will also broaden its connections with the global luxury hotel market. The hotel is pursuing membership in 'The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW),' an independent luxury hotel alliance that includes the Ritz Paris.
The exterior of the hotel will maintain its original design from its establishment, preserving the symbolic significance of the hotel that has stood in downtown Seoul for fifty years while completely refurbishing the interior rooms and facilities.
After the renovation, the hotel rooftop will be opened to the public.
Hanwha Hotels & Resorts plans to install a dedicated elevator for direct access to the rooftop and create a rooftop garden. Visitors will be able to enjoy views of major areas in downtown Seoul, including City Hall, Gwanghwamun, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and the Blue House.
The Plaza's renovation will coincide with the integrated development project of the Sogong 1, 2, and 3 districts. The project includes renovations of The Plaza in Sogong 1, the Hanwha Building in Sogong 2, and the Hanwha Financial Plaza in Sogong 3.
All three buildings will retain their existing structures while being developed into urban complexes that incorporate hotel, business, cultural, and commercial functions.
Currently, the project has received building permits, and subsequent procedures, including the review of building demolition, are underway. Hanwha Hotels & Resorts plans to complete the construction by 2029 in consultation with local governments.
The Plaza's renovation aligns with Hanwha Group's high-end business strategy in its Life Solutions division.
The premium resort ANTO, located at the foot of Bukhansan Mountain, has recently expanded its luxury offerings, including the introduction of poolside dining at 'Bueno Beach Club.'
The Galleria luxury department store is also undergoing reconstruction with the involvement of renowned architect Thomas Heatherwick, enhancing both its interior and exterior, as well as VIP-related content. Once The Plaza's renovation is completed, Hanwha Group's high-end business centered around ANTO, The Plaza, and the Galleria luxury department store is expected to expand further.
As The Plaza approaches its September closure, it will hold a customer appreciation event titled 'Memories of THE PLAZA.' Guests can submit photos and stories related to their experiences at the hotel through official social media channels or directly at the hotel until August 31, with a chance to win accommodation vouchers and branded products.
A representative from Hanwha Hotels & Resorts stated, 'With the 50th anniversary, The Plaza will transform into a completely different high-end hotel. We thank our customers for their support and look forward to welcoming them back with a new level of space and service.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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