In the heart of the picturesque island of Jeju, at times referred to as the Hawaii of South Korea, GoldOne Hotel & Suites is the embodiment of luxury. Overseeing the operations of the four-star hotel is CEO Kim Jee-Young, who spared no expense and approved every detail in the building of the 51-room property.
Famous for its exotic landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders, Jeju has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a tranquil escape. Named a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2010 and included in the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2011, Jeju attracts around 13 million domestic tourists and 1.7 million foreign visitors per year, according to Research Gate, or 53% of all international visitors to Korea in 2022.
Under her leadership, Kim has elevated the hospitality experience in Jeju.
“Our goal was to create a small hotel with character. We put a lot of effort into the design: all rooms are equipped with jacuzzis, hardwood floors, and 100% wool carpets. We built GoldOne as if we were going to host our closest friends and family,” Kim told GMI POST.
Kim was committed to blending modern luxury with Jeju’s rich culture by using locally sourced materials and artworks in the interiors.
“From GoldOne Hotel's perspective, we aren’t going to be like those big hotels with 400-plus rooms. Alternatively, we strive to maintain our position as a hotel that serves a niche market. Quality service is very important for us, not quantity. Our growth strategy is about prioritizing high-standard service and understanding the needs of our guests,” she added.
Although GoldOne Hotel & Suites aspires to expand and “go international,” the CEO stressed that she is determined to maintain the hotel’s “personable and approachable” brand of service.
To enhance the experience of its guests, the hotel offers curated excursions, dining outlets that showcase local flavors, and an infinity pool inspired by Jeju's natural resources.
"We want our guests to not only see Jeju but to feel it, taste it, and recharge in its unique energy,” Kim said.
Under her leadership, GoldOne Hotel has earned praise from prestigious publications, including Luxury Retreats Quarterly, which cited its commitment to sustainable practices and community engagement.
