The decision framework is ARRIVAL-HOUR VALUE DECAY. LOTTE City's paid rooftop spa pool only creates value while enough of the operating window remains. Shilla Stay's Yeondong location, room layout and 12:00 checkout lose much less value when you arrive late.
30-second decision
- Arrive 15:00–17:30, April–October, adults will actually swim: LOTTE City gains weight.
- Arrive after 19:30 with children: LOTTE's shared pool value can fall sharply, especially during the 19+ summer evening segment.
- Three adult friends want three separate beds: Shilla Stay's Standard Triple with three Singles is a cleaner product.
- Last night but not an ultra-early flight: Shilla Stay's 12:00 checkout provides one more usable hour than LOTTE City's 11:00.
- November–March: remove LOTTE's pool value under the current seasonal operation, then compare rooms, breakfast, cancellation and location.
Why late arrival hurts LOTTE more
The source records LOTTE City's current outdoor spa pool as a separately charged amenity, with seasonal operation and time restrictions. If you arrive late enough that the pool window is short or unusable for part of your party, the pool premium should be discounted heavily. Shilla Stay does not have the same pool-based value proposition; its city-night value survives later arrival more easily.
Shilla Stay is stronger when the night itself matters
Yeondong dining, shopping and the Nuwemaru area are part of the practical value. If your first or last night is mainly dinner, errands, packing and sleep, that value remains useful even at 21:00. LOTTE can still win on room size or view, but the comparison should no longer be driven by the rooftop pool.
Three travelers need a bed-layout comparison, not a hotel-star comparison
For three adult friends, the source gives Shilla Stay a clear Standard Triple option with three Single beds. LOTTE City room products should only be compared after the legal occupancy and full bed layout are matched. Do not compare the cheapest two-person room against a true three-bed product.
Breakfast and checkout matter on flight days
Shilla Stay currently lists breakfast from 06:30 on weekdays and 07:00 on weekends/public holidays. Opening hours matter only if your selected rate actually includes breakfast and your departure schedule can use it. The same applies to LOTTE. A breakfast that cannot fit your morning has zero practical value.
LOTTE City Hotel Jeju
Booking.com — exact property via Stay22
Agoda — exact property via Stay22
Shilla Stay Jeju
Booking.com — exact property via Stay22
Agoda — exact property via Stay22
Verdict
Choose LOTTE City when you arrive early enough to use the seasonal outdoor spa pool and its room/view premium matters. Choose Shilla Stay when you arrive late, want a stronger Yeondong night, need a true three-Single Triple, or value the 12:00 checkout. If you only need a bed near the airport, compare the normalized room contracts and stop paying for amenities you will not use.