Controversial Spa Castle to reopen after extensive renovations

New Yorkers love a comeback story, and in the case of SpaCastle, the city's best-known Korean spa, it's been a long road back to redemption. After a dead body was found in a tub at the Queens castle in 2014 and health inspectors shut down the Manhattan location in 2015 for operating without a license, it seemed like the end of an era for fans of saunas, jacuzzis and sometimes tawdry late night affairs. 

But it looks like the Korean chain is back in business: the Queens location has been going strong for years, and the 57th St location is reopening next week. The newly-licensed, newly-renovated and way-more-regulated Premier 57 opens with its own Sauna Valley, including hydrotherapy pools on the roof, relaxation lounges, a bar and a restaurant. You can also schedule spa treatments, including facials and massages. 

SpaCastle's somewhat seedy reputation will always endure. But who knows? Maybe this fancy revamp will keep things kosher after all.