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Standing on the Hangang Bridge in South Korea, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of traffic, I couldn’t help but question the design choice behind a hotel suite positioned right there.
Sky Suite Hangang Bridge, which opened its doors in July, holds the distinction of being the world’s first hotel suite located atop a bridge. This unique accommodation offers guests the chance to rest above the famed Han River, which divides the sprawling metropolis of Seoul.
The Han River, or Hangang in Korean, is not just a geographical landmark but also a crucial part of the urban narrative. It symbolizes South Korea’s rapid economic and industrial development, often referred to as the “Miracle on the Han River.” In modern times, this river area has transformed into a vibrant recreational zone, where locals can be seen cycling, picnicking, and seeking respite from the demands of city life.
Transformation from Café to Hotel Suite
This ambitious project is a collaboration between the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Airbnb, aimed at reinvigorating tourism. While the city manages the property, Airbnb is responsible for bookings. I was invited to experience a complimentary overnight stay prior to the official opening.
The Sky Suite has taken over a former café space on the Hangang Bridge, one of the 32 bridges that cross the river. The transformation is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the riverside area.
Before the pandemic, the café had garnered popularity among both residents and visitors but closed without much fanfare. Its shutdown was largely forgotten until the announcement of the suite, which rekindled nostalgia for some who had frequented it.
Yun Ji Yong, who oversees the Future Hangang Project at the city government, noted that the concept was inspired by Amsterdam’s Faralda Crane Hotel, a redevelopment of a decommissioned crane tower into a distinctive lodging experience.
“Our goal was to create a landmark that highlights the beauty of Seoul and the Han River for both tourists and locals,” Yun explained.
Architect Kim Jong Seok, associated with COOM Partners, elaborated on how the structure’s design reflects the essence of the river.
“We incorporated metal horizontal louvers in the exterior to symbolize the river’s flow, while ensuring that the suite appears as a cohesive sanctuary amidst Seoul’s complicated skyline,” Kim stated.
Pricing Concerns and Comparisons
The announcement of the café’s transformation into a suite generated significant buzz, but it has also faced criticism over pricing, space limitations, and noise levels.
At a rate of 500,000 KRW (approximately $365) per night, the suite is more expensive than several 4 and 5-star accommodations nearby. For instance, the Novotel Ambassador Seoul Yongsan, located conveniently close, may be reserved for about $170 for two in mid-August, as noted on Skyscanner. However, a Seoul city representative indicated that the price could drop to 345,000 KRW ($250) during off-peak seasons.
Reservations opened on July 1, and in a remarkable turn of events, the Sky Suite was fully booked until September within just four days, as per the Seoul Metropolitan Government.
Targeting couples looking for a romantic getaway and families of up to four, the suite aims to cater to those seeking a unique experience.
Navigating Check-in Amidst City Life
As a freelance journalist based in Seoul, I took up the offer for a preview night just before public reservations opened. The journey to the suite involved a 20-minute walk from Yongsan subway station. For visitors arriving from Incheon International Airport, the direct 6001 bus offers an efficient option, taking just over an hour with a stop near the north end of the Hangang Bridge.
Upon arrival, the suite is situated amid the din of traffic, which was not my definition of luxury.
The accommodation itself sits atop a tower-like structure on the bridge, accessible via an elevator that connects to both the room and the riverside.
Exploring the Suite: Design and Comfort
Upon entering the 144-square-meter suite, I was welcomed by a spacious living area with an abundance of natural light pouring in through floor-to-ceiling windows.
The suite featured two vinyl players along with a varied selection of records, including a surprising number of Engelbert Humperdinck’s albums.
With a compact kitchenette and several steps leading to the bedroom area, the layout achieved a loft-like ambiance without a door separating the two areas.
The bathroom, conveniently located near the bed, included a bathtub with a city view through what appeared to be one-way glass, a fact I was reminded to consider when using the facility.
Additionally, an electric bidet-equipped toilet occupied a corner of the bathroom.
Limited Dining Options Nearby
Nearby, two walking options emerged: Nodeul Island, a hotspot for locals and tourists to enjoy Korean fried chicken and beverages, and a tranquil riverside path located directly beneath the suite.
Feeling hungry and a bit hot from the day, I returned to my suite, only to realize the area lacked local dining establishments. The novelty hit when I placed a pizza order while puzzling the delivery driver with the location details.
“Yes, on the bridge, I’m serious, at the former café!” I reassured him over the phone.
A Captivating Nighttime Experience
As the day transitioned into night, the city outside my window transformed. The steady flow of vehicles became enchanting trails of light. With a glass of wine in hand and jazz playing in the background, I absorbed the view of the twinkling urban landscape.
The seemingly chaotic scene below morphed into a graceful urban choreography, granting me a sense of tranquility within the intimate confines of the suite.
Yet, the setup also led to feelings of vulnerability; sitting in a bathrobe as I observed the exterior world created an odd tension. Eventually, the rhythmic sound of traffic lulled me into sleep.
A Unique Stay Comes at a Cost
The view from the suite was undeniably stunning, and I surprisingly found value in the city’s energetic soundtrack below me. While it may not fit traditional notions of luxury, the experience was distinctly different from any previous accommodations I’ve experienced.
The novelty of resting above one of Seoul’s busiest thoroughfares provided a unique perspective of the city’s vibrancy. However, guests should be aware that traditional hotel luxuries, like room service and close-by amenities, are absent. Instead, the focus is more on creating a memorable experience with unparalleled views.
Local residents might view it as merely an extravagant oddity against their everyday routines, yet tourists willing to spend may find it to be a truly unique offering. For those sensitive to noise, earplugs are highly recommended.
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