I recently stayed at Le Meridien Seoul (Myeongdong) and, unfortunately, my experience left much to be desired. While the hotel’s breakfast is truly excellent, offering a wide variety of delicious options that cater to international palates, other aspects of my stay were significantly lacking.
The most concerning issue was the limited English proficiency among the staff. For a hotel that presents itself as an international destination, it was surprising and disappointing to find that communication was such a challenge. Many members of the team seemed unprepared to assist non-Korean speaking guests, which created a sense of isolation and frustration during my stay. Basic requests often turned into lengthy and confusing exchanges, and this was particularly noticeable in the hotel’s bars and cafés, where clear communication is vital for a pleasant experience.
Additionally, the overall attitude and approach of the staff lacked a sense of solidarity and warmth. Instead of feeling welcome and accommodated, I often sensed a reluctance to address guest needs adequately. Simple interactions that should have been seamless and hospitable instead felt awkward and uninviting.
Le Meridien Seoul (Myeongdong) clearly caters more to local guests, which in itself is not an issue, but the lack of effort to embrace and accommodate international visitors is disheartening. This could be a wonderful hotel for those who speak Korean and are familiar with local customs, but for an international traveler seeking a comfortable and welcoming stay, it falls short.
In summary, while the breakfast at Le Meridien Seoul is undoubtedly a highlight, the language barrier and lack of guest-focused service significantly detract from the overall experience. I hope the management takes steps to increase the cultural awareness and language capabilities of their staff to better serve a diverse clientele.
