Westin Chosun Hotel

In 1913, a groundbreaking piece of technology arrived in Seoul. It was an Otis elevator, destined for a magnificent new hotel. This hotel, the Westin Chosun Hotel, would soon become a symbol of luxury and innovation. The Westin Chosun Hotel officially opened its doors in September 1914. It was originally named the Chosen Hotel, after the Japanese word for Korea. The hotel quickly established itself as a landmark in the city. It showcased a blend of Eastern and Western hospitality. It was a place where history was made. In 1935, Serge Rubinstein, a controversial millionaire known as “The Cobra,” became the first non-royal guest to occupy the hotel’s Imperial Suite, room 201. During World War II, General Hodge of the U.S. Army commandeered the hotel. He initiated a name change from “Chosen” to “Chosun,” subtly reflecting the shifting political landscape. The Westin Chosun Hotel continued to play a significant role in Korean history. In the 1950s, it was advertised as the “no. 1 hotel in Seoul.” It was operated by the Government Railways of the Republic. The original building was demolished in 1967, making way for a modern structure that opened in 1970. This new hotel served as an unofficial government guesthouse. Westin Hotels acquired the property in November 1979. The Westin Chosun Hotel introduced many “firsts” to Korea. It was the first hotel with an elevator, a French restaurant, a buffet, and even ice cream. It also hosted the country’s first dance party. Today, the Westin Chosun Hotel remains a prominent luxury hotel in Seoul. It boasts the largest guest rooms in the city. It offers a blend of Far East design and European elegance. It continues to host dignitaries and celebrities from around the world.