Aktis Capital Group

Aktis Korea comprises a team of seasoned professionals, who actively seek private equity investments in Korea. We are particularly focused on identifying high quality projects. It was clear to Aktis that Island Castle, with its exceptional construction quality, close proximity to Seoul, and natural hot-springs and waterpark, had the potential to be one of the largest and most unique urban water resorts.

We are exceptionally proud to have developed the largest indoor waterpark in Korea, comprising 4 luxurious jimjibangs, natural hot springs, bade pool, VR zone and an indoor waterpark. Island Castle also boasts an exciting outdoor waterpark to guarantee family fun throughout the year.

What were the major influencing factors in the investment decision process?

Aktis Group invests in hospitality projects that are closely aligned with government initiatives and benefit from local domestic consumption. We are extremely grateful to have received support from Mayor Ahn and the Uijeongbu Government, which helped to develop Highway Road 3 and subway lines 1 & 7 that connect to Island Castle.

Island Castle's location is second to none, and will be a convenient entertainment destination for families from Uijeongbu City, and even from Seoul, which is less than 30 minutes away.

In addition, Aktis believes that there is high demand from tourists to enjoy a high quality spa facility. Aktis plans to leverage its China hospitality businesses and promote Island Castle as a destination for Chinese tourists.

What was the reason in choosing Best Western Plus as the hotel brand?

Aktis Korea is extremely proud to have secured the services of Best Western, which operates the largest number of hotels in the world. As a globally recognized brand, we believe that the Best Western Plus accreditation will guarantee that we maintains international standards of hospitality at an affordable price for families.

Best Western already operates 14 hotels in Korea and we are confident that its team of resort professionals will provide the best customer service, highest levels of safety, and warmest welcome to our guests.

What is the market positioning of Island Castle in the Korean market?

Island Castle aims to be an "Ideal Destination for Multi-Generational Vacation", which means that we aim to provide a safe, entertaining, and joyful water/spa resort experience to children, teenagers, parents and grandparents.

We aim to promote health and wellness and bring both families and the local community together. Given that we are less than 30 minutes travel time from Seoul, we are an ideal day-trip destination for families who wish to relax and pamper themselves.

Can you briefly tell us about the Aktis Group?

Aktis Group is a HK-based global investment and financial advisory firm, and we are actively involved in various business areas, such as finance and real estate investment. Aktis Korea Partners, our newest office, was established in 2015 to focus on Korea-based projects, with Island Castle resort being our initial principal foray. Island Castle is a prime project amongst Aktis Group's real estate investment portfolio, which includes a global hotel brand.

Mr. Danny Yee, Chairman of Aktis Group

Can you elaborate on Aktis Group's hospitality investment portfolio? How do you predict the hospitality industry in the Asia-Pacific region?

Aktis Group operates its own hotel management company, Glenview International Hotel Group, which manages and advises on hotel projects in China. It also operates our flagship Glenview ITC Plaza Chongqing Hotel, which has been the recipient of TripAdvisor's Excellence Awards and C-Trip's Top Hotel Award. In the Asia-Pacific region, with increased prosperity, families are seeking greater wellness and a more fulfilling lifestyle, where they can share memorable experiences with their friends and family. We believe that Island Castle, with its unrivalled jimjibangs, hot-springs and waterpark facilities, will contribute tremendously to the wellbeing of our guests. We are extremely honored to contribute to the local community, and we look forward to welcoming and serving our guests at Island Castle waterpark resort!

Source: Hotel Avia Global Hotel Resort Network Magazine, July 2018, vol. 45