We recently stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul booked through the American Express Platinum Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program. At the time of our booking, this was the most expensive hotel in Seoul. During our trip, we also stayed at other top-tier properties, including Signiel Seoul and the Fairmont. Unfortunately, the Four Seasons delivered the lowest satisfaction and poorest value for money by a wide margin.
* Check-in & Ignored Requests
Unlike our stays at other luxury properties in Seoul, there was no Amex FHR room upgrade available, nor was a room with a bathtub available. While we accepted this due to high occupancy, our special occasion (noted online in advance as an anniversary) was completely missing from their system or simply ignored—not even a verbal acknowledgment was offered. They granted us complimentary sauna access in lieu of a bathtub, but as we are not fond of Korean-style saunas, this added no value to our stay.
* Room Switch & The "ADA Room" Denial
Upon entering our initially assigned room, the air conditioning was barely functioning, and there was a distinct, musty odor. We had to go back down to the front desk to request a room change.
We were reassigned to Room 1620. Because we were exhausted, we decided to settle in even though it was immediately obvious this was an accessible (ADA) room: it had grab bars in the bathroom and shower, no door separating the toilet stall, and a noticeably wide layout missing standard furniture.
The real shock came at check-out. When the front desk agent apologized for the initial room switch, I politely noted that our replacement room was an ADA room and that we hadn't been informed of this prior to taking the keys. A Concierge Manager standing nearby interjected and insisted that Room 1620 was *not* an ADA room, effectively gaslighting us and brushing off our feedback. Having seen the standard layout of our first room just hours prior, the difference was unmistakable (grab bars and missing doors speak for themselves). I chose not to argue on the spot, but the manager's defensive attitude and lack of professionalism were astounding for a brand of this caliber. Overall, the air conditioning system felt dated, and the room interiors did not justify the steep price tag.
* Disappointing Dining & Chaotic Service
- **In-Room Dining (Dinner):** We ordered the Kimchi Jjigae, LA Galbi, and a Hanwoo Burger. The meal was entirely underwhelming. The stew was far too salty, and the LA Galbi was mediocre at best—certainly not what you expect at Five-Star room service prices.
- **Breakfast (Market Kitchen):** We were seated in a high-traffic aisle where staff and guests constantly brushed past our table, creating a chaotic and dizzying environment. The food itself was unremarkable compared to the breakfast buffets at other luxury Seoul hotels. Worse, the coffee service was abysmal: our first order took over 25 minutes to arrive, and a second order was completely forgotten. We eventually gave up and used the self-serve automated machine.
* Final Verdict
The Four Seasons Seoul heavily rides on the location premium of Gwanghwamun. However, when you evaluate the outdated room conditions, lackluster F&B, and substandard front desk hospitality, the value proposition falls completely apart. If you are looking for true luxury, attentive service, and genuine recognition of Amex FHR benefits in Seoul, look elsewhere—Signiel and Fairmont are significantly superior choices. We will not be returning.
