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RYSE, Autograph Collection is a thoughtfully curated boutique lifestyle hotel that caters to those seeking a detail-rich aesthetic experience combined with easy access to Seoul’s metro and bus network.

Lodging here puts you right at the doorstep of several city attractions, including Hongik University, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Hongdae Shopping Street, and Sinchon (a nightlife destination).

Choose your vibe, from a Creator or Editor Room to Artist, Curator, or Executive Producer Suite (complete with whirlpool). The suites are a collaboration between the hotel and a hand-picked selection of global creatives.

Rooms

After a busy day of exploring Seoul’s sights, sounds, eats, and shops, retreat to luxury bedding in a modern, eye-catching space filled with art prints, unique furnishings, and cozy seating, plus a marbled bathroom with separate rain shower and toilet (each with their own door entry).

The tile work, mirrors, and bath fixtures come together to enhance and complement one another, while the sleeping area and closet space contain dark oak wood, shiny green accents, deep blue drawers, and cool cream coloured walls.

I’m equally in awe of the Editor King room that I have the luck to call home for two nights, that boasts a top-floor sweeping view of the city, Hangang River, and natural light streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows.

The adjustable airco runs quietly through the room. Copper reading lights are set against a steel blue padded headboard, with all the tech outlets that you could wish for near both bed and table. Nearby is the filtered water dispenser/mini fridge area.

A pair of plush black robes and two sizes of slippers add a homely touch, while the bottom drawer of the illuminated clothing rack stows an electronic safe.

A pole-mounted flatscreen TV and retro radio are placed opposite the bed, giving a more sleek finish to the space. Even the radio’s bronze name plate matches the top of the small table it sits on. I got a few great sleeps on that king-sized bed and cozy comforter too.

Got questions? Each room includes an in-house tablet with all the hotel info you could need. Service is friendly and prompt, with staff keen to help with directions, ensure you’re settled into your room, and any additional customary requests.

Korean amenity touches include a pair of RYSE-designed facial masks. If you’re not familiar with Korean beauty products, facial masks are a must-have shopping item to be found at shops across the city, including Olive Young, a Korean beauty empire similar to Sephora.

Dining

CHARR offers three meals a day, with a combination of Korean and Western dishes and drinks.

The buffet is stocked with a wide variety of foods catering to all tastes, with the focus on chef-carved steaks, crispy pork belly, and roast chicken. There’s even a separate Jamon station for fans of the thin Spanish ham.

For stunning views to pair with curated tunes and classic cocktails, check out Side Note Club on the 15th floor. The drinks menu also includes Hongdae-inspired signature creations for a truly local vibe after a day of shopping and sightseeing.

I was pleasantly surprised to find a Blue Bottle Coffee outlet on the ground floor. The Oakland pour-over coffee brand has found its way into the hearts (and cups) of Seoul, so when you’re here, enjoy some of the finest java without needing to leave the hotel.

Bring that cuppa to the third floor Print Culture Lounge, where you’ll discover an extensive selection of niche magazines, books, and vinyl records, for relaxing with a good read in between work or play.

Shopping // Workout

RYSE’s gym (19+) is open 24/7 to get your fitness in no matter what time zone you’re on. The fully-equipped space contains lots of great natural lighting to get your adrenaline going.

While Seoul is known as a shop-till-you-drop destination, guests can peruse the hotel’s first three floors of retail goodness at Worksout. The space, with a suspended mezzanine linking the levels with dramatic stair portals, is the brainchild of designer Andrea Caputo. This is home to global brands such as Carhartt WIP, Reigning Champ, OBEY, Brixton, Vans by Worksout and other unique clothing and accessories labels.

Neighborhood Project

RYSE has curated a collection of local cafés, restaurants, boutiques, spas, hair salons, and hidden gems for its guests via a QR code. You can even get your moves in with a K-POP class at Rawgraphy K-POP Dance Studio! The VIP pass offers both discounts and insider tips provided by locals. Even better, the online page shows a live pinned map of all the spots. Just show your room card to take advantage of the offers.

[Third floor hotel lobby]

Green Key Certification

Since 2024, RYSE has been Green Key certified, with a commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint by conserving energy and water while keeping waste management and overall operations in line with the program’s rigorous sustainability standards.

RYSE, Autograph Collection is located at 130 Yanghwa-Ro, Mapo-Gu in Seoul.

My stay was hosted by RYSE, Autograph Collection for the purpose of this feature. Opinions, as always, remain my own.