When did you start business?
Seven Korean investors in Huston, Texas decided to take over Ritz Carlton in Dearborn in June of 2010. I am the president of the Dearborn Investment LLC and we changed the name to The Henry Hotel, Autograph Collection by Marriott.

How did you come to Detroit area?
I knew Detroit was struggling since 2009 but believed that the auto industry would come back. Also it’s like coming back home because I graduated from University of Michigan in 1975 majoring in architecture. Many people go west for their retirement but Michigan is my place to retire. 

What kind of hotel are you dreaming about?
I would like it to be luxury but friendly hotel. We have finished remodeling lobby and restaurant called Tria, an American Brasserie. After series of remodeling all the rooms, I hope it would be the most attractive hotel in metro Detroit.

What are some of the advantages to doing business here?
Our hotel is very closely located to Metro Detroit international Airport and Ford Motor Company headquarter. It is a great location. The direct flight between Detroit and Seoul, Korea is a good plus here. Also, because of the slow economy in Detroit, the price of the hotel was attractive to investors. I believe there are many opportunities out there.

If you could change one thing about this region, what would it be?
Hotel business is tough nowadays especially a few more new hotels opened in downtown Detroit. It means more competition. Michigan Business tax was more than we expected.

The Henry Hotel, Autograph Collection
300 Town Center Drive
Dearborn, MI 48126, United States
Tel: (313) 441-2000
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/DTWAK-The-Henry-Autograph-Collection

The Henry is an Autograph Collection hotel in Dearborn. As the #1 hotel in Dearborn, MI by Tripadvisor, this AAA Four Diamond hotel features well-appointed guest rooms and suites with 37-inch flat-screen TVs, DirecTV with 24 HD channels, complimentary HSIA, exclusive bedding and RUSK bath amenities. Indulge the palate at TRIA, our Dearborn, MI hotel restaurant serving inspiring American cuisine, or rejuvenate the body and mind in our whirlpool and fully equipped fitness center with onsite dry sauna. It has 13 elegant meeting rooms that span 26,000 square feet to accommodate any size or style function.

Author: MI Asian Staff