As more travelers pursue efficiency, new hotels opening in Korea have become smaller and more functional.

Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Pangyo is the latest example of such functional hotels that aim to meet modern travelers’ expectations. Its target customers are young business travelers and tourists wishing to stay close to landmarks and attractions.

It is scheduled to open on April 29 in the newly developed residential city of Pangyo, which is home to Korea’s major IT companies. NCsoft, AhnLab and Nexon are based in Pangyo Techno Valley in Gyeonggi Province.

The hotel has converged all functional and entertainment areas on one floor to promote business and provide convenience for leisure guests.

“We have combined the lobby, function rooms, private dining rooms and MoMo Cafe and Bar on one floor to make the areas as flexible and interactive as possible,” Paul Cannings, general manager of Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Pangyo, said in an interview with The Korea Herald on Monday. Prior to joining the hotel, Cannings served as general manager at Courtyard by Marriott North Ryde in Australia. 

“The space is multifunctional. It is for any sort of event -― business meetings, first-birthday celebrations and anniversaries,” Cannings said. The rooms can accommodate dozens of guests or up to 100. “The world is downsizing to a certain degree. We think we are well positioned to accommodate small events.”

The hotel also targets local residents looking for venues for family events and social gatherings.

“The hotel is no longer an accommodation for business guests and travelers. It offers space for families and friends having leisure time with great food and beverage. We plan to introduce various kinds of attractive room packages, and food and beverage promotions targeting local residents,” he said.

In celebration of its opening, the hotel is offering a 111,000 won ($107) room package that includes a breakfast buffet for two, a late checkout and complimentary use of the fitness center.

“We received more than 500 calls just in three days after we announced the promotional package,” Cannings added.

The hotel is five to 10 minutes’ walk from Pangyo Station, which connects to Gangnam in southern Seoul in 15 minutes. In its surrounding area, new developments such as Hyundai shopping complex and 27 office buildings are to open in the next couple of years.

“It’s a significant area. It will facilitate travel to the Pangyo area,” he said. 

By Lee Woo-young (wylee@heraldcorp.com)