Seoul is one of the best value luxury cities in Asia for points, especially if you can use Hyatt. Here's how we pick a base and a hotel.
First, pick the neighborhood
| Area | Feel | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Gangnam and Samseong | Polished, glassy, big hotels | Shopping, COEX, quick airport bus |
| Cheongdam and Apgujeong | Luxury boutiques, K-beauty, chic cafes | Style, nightlife, fine dining |
| Hannam and Itaewon | Hilly, design-forward, global food | Bars, galleries, the cool crowd |
| Jongno and Gwanghwamun | Palaces, old Seoul | Culture, walking, first-timers |
| Seongsu | Converted factories, pop-ups, cafes | Daytime wandering, brand drops |
The points picks
Point prices below were reported in late October 2026 and change often, so always check the live rate.
| Hotel | Program | Points per night | Our take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andaz Seoul Gangnam | World of Hyatt | From about 15,000 to 25,000 | The best value luxury points stay in the city |
| Grand Hyatt Seoul | World of Hyatt | From about 17,000 | Hilltop Hannam, huge outdoor pool, skyline views |
| Park Hyatt Seoul | World of Hyatt | Category 8, standard rooms from about 40,000; recent quotes have run much higher | Serene Samseong high-rise. The splurge, but only when it prices near standard |
| Josun Palace, Luxury Collection | Marriott Bonvoy | From about 65,000 | Glamorous Gangnam lobby and a stunning pool |
| JW Marriott Hotel Seoul | Marriott Bonvoy | About 65,000 to 76,000 | Big gym, great club lounge |
| JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square | Marriott Bonvoy | From about 57,000 | Rooftop jazz bar, old city location |
| Conrad Seoul | Hilton Honors | From about 70,000 | Yeouido, river views |
Our verdict: if you have Chase or Bilt points, Hyatt is the smartest play in Seoul. Andaz Gangnam is the value pick, Grand Hyatt is the resort feel, and Park Hyatt is the splurge only on a good night.
Which points reach which hotel
| If you hold | Hotel partners that matter in Seoul |
|---|---|
| Chase Ultimate Rewards | Hyatt (the big one), Marriott |
| Bilt | Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton |
| Amex Membership Rewards | Hilton, Marriott |
Find the room first and transfer second. Points transfers cannot be undone. Hyatt award stays are generally refundable, so you can book and keep watching for a better price.
Two 2026 changes to know before you go
- Entry rules. As of October 2026, US passport holders are on Korea's temporary K-ETA exemption list through December 31, 2026 (Korea time). You still submit the free e-Arrival Card online within three days before arrival. Check the official K-ETA site for 2027 rules.
- Asiana is leaving Star Alliance in December 2026 as it folds into Korean Air. If you planned to fly Asiana with Aeroplan or United miles, plan on Korean Air (SkyTeam) or United instead after that.
Getting there
Our favorite move is the two-city trip: Virgin Atlantic prices ANA business class to Tokyo at 60,000 points one-way from the East Coast and 52,500 from the West Coast, and a short Tokyo to Seoul hop costs little. Read how to book ANA business class with Virgin points, then see the best Tokyo hotels on points.
Want the full plan?
Our Seoul Luxury on Points guide has the 4-day itinerary, tasting-menu and cocktail picks, shopping, apps, and a booking timeline. Or let Lie Flat Club find the award seats and build the trip book for you.
Prices and rules checked late October 2026. Always confirm live before booking. Travel information only, not financial advice.
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