Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s distinctive collection of independent hotels, has opened RYSE in Hongdae, a neighbourhood known to be for creative trendsetters in Seoul.

RYSE Hongdae is the second Autograph Collection hotel in Seoul and joins the brand’s portfolio of more than 135 hotels around the world.

Hongdae showcases self-expression and individuality at every turn, and RYSE cleverly celebrates the neighbourhood’s neon candy box aesthetic in a sophisticated way. Conceived and designed by globally renowned Michaelis Boyd, the hotel’s interiors collide energetically: bare concrete and industrial brass metal meet glossy pink flooring and modern art installations reign. The hotel’s art concept starts from an artistic outdoor mural and continues through the lobby where pop-up exhibitions feature unexpected hanging sculptures.

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The new RYSE hotel features 272 inspiring guest rooms including 14 suites; each designed to highlight a prominent art piece from an exclusive collection for the hotel. Some suites have been specially customized by creative masterminds including fine art photographer Laurent Segretier and collage artist Charles Munka; Seoul based sculptor who defines space with light and polychromatic films Yeojoo Park, and multimedia storyteller Maekan. These Artist Suites are curated with strong aesthetics and individuality to embrace the youth culture of Hongdae. The 217-square meter Executive Producer Suite, located on the twentieth floor, features handpicked art works and a graphic wall by renowned Korean graphic designer Na Kim.

“Autograph Collection Hotels is growing in lockstep with global demand from travellers for independent hotels and individual experiences when travelling: from dining to design,” says Mike Fulkerson, vice president, Brand & Marketing Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “With every touchpoint thoughtfully-crafted and guest experience personally-curated, RYSE is the perfect addition to the collection; and we are thrilled to introduce it as the brand’s second hotel in the ever-evolving city of Seoul.”

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The casual gourmet restaurant Long Chim takes Thai street food and turns it into a culinary journey, delivering authentic, spicy, and fresh tastes straight from Bangkok. Made for sharing and socializing, it is a concept by Chef David Thompson of Michelin-starred Nahm. Tartine [Coffee Bar] and [Toast Bar] from San Francisco brings refreshing and natural flavors to homemade treats. In addition, three bartenders from Seoul’s hottest and most recognized bar, Le Chamber, are teaming up to bring their world championship skills to the rooftop bar & lounge, the Side Note Club.

With a stunning view, guests can also experience world-class creative cocktails and stylish music carefully curated by famed Korean DJ, DJ Soulscape, and the ever-trendy RYSE crew. Not only a must-visit place for hotel guests, but also for cocktail connoisseurs of Hongdae and Seoul.

RYSE also features an exclusive fitness centre and almost 500 square meters of flagship retail that features boutique streetwear linking high fashion to street culture and art. The hotel’s meeting and event spaces encourage creativity in their 1,400 square meters of relaxed atmosphere. Lounge spaces allow guests to exchange ideas and work at their own pace, before coming together to meet and party in the RYSE Space large enough for up to 300 guests.

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“We are delighted to present RYSE Hongdae; more than just a hotel, it is a creative space for inspiration and indulgence,” says Jaisun Ihm, general manager. “Our team is focused on showcasing the energetic culture of Hongdae to global travellers and fostering a creative community for people to gather and connect. By partnering with some of the world’s most creative visionaries, we are offering an exactly like nothing else hotel and cultural experience that could only happen in Seoul.”

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