Groove Korea 2020 May

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MAY 2020

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COVER STORY THE EVER CHANGING SCENE OF ITAEWON AND HANNAM A look at 30 independent businesses in the area - their story and their people

From the Editor-in-Chief COMMUNITY: a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. A feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.

Community is so important right now.

We were at the edge of the woods in terms of COVID-19 and now those of us in Itaewon are back to worrying. It’s frustrating.

We were so close. Life was starting to return to normal, but now it feels like we’re back to square one.

So, I think now is a good time to remember that one stick is easily broken, but three sticks are not. It’s a time to come together, even if it’s not physically possible (seriously, I know it sucks, but we have to be careful). We're all angry, scared, and frustrated with the latest cluster in our area, but that doesn't mean we have to lose our empathy nor compassion.

While we know that anyone and everyone can contract this virus, the latest cluster is bringing out some of the worst in humanity. There are members of the Itaewon community who are

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currently being vilified in Korean media, especially the LGBTQA+ community.

We need to stand together. Support those in our community who are facing the worst of it. While we are looking at going back into social distancing mode, there are ways to help. Whether it’s saying something to that co-worker who makes a homophobic comment or donating to an LGBTQA+ shelter in the city.

Community means standing together and now is as good a time as any to do that.

More than that, we have to remember that we will get through this, but only if we stick together. Support your community.

This issue is all about various businesses in the Itaewon area that we, at Groove, wanted to highlight. We understand that with all the uncertainty it might not be the best time to go out, but keep these folks in mind when the time does come.

From us here at Groove Korea, stay safe and we will get through this.

SEOUL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL SINCE 1973

Korea’s Premier K-12 International School

Accredited by western association of schools & colleges

Our mission

We develop curious minds, creative spirits, and compassionate hearts...

388-14 Bokjeong-dong, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea 031.750.1327 • admissions@siskorea.org

www.siskorea.org

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MAY 2020

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COVER STORY

AREA 1

HANNAMDONG

AREA 2

KYUNGRIDAN

AREA 3

NOKSAPYEONG

AREA 4

ITAEWON STATION / BOGWANGDONG

COMMUNITY

THE SHOW MUST GO ON Despite COVID-19, Kiwi Wine Fest will go on

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FOOD & DRINK

CAFE HUNTER: SIKMULHAK CAFE Shikmulhak cafe; a coffee oasis among a sea of books

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FOOD & DRINK

NEKKID 2.0 Nekkid wings? A classic!

Sign up for our original WELLNESS program and make sure your pets stay healthy WELLNESS program offers free day-stay during business hours, basic care including nail clip and paw trim, priority reservations, WELLNESS pendants, and discounts on medical expenses including neutralization surgery

VACCINATIONS

PREVENTIVE MEDICINE (rabies vaccine)

SITE PARA OL R CONT

WELLNESS PROGRAM

P E R MA IDENTIF NENT ICA (MICRO TION CHIP)

hon angc Haeb

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1967

n ida ngr Kyu

Post office

Itaewon Animal Hospital LEXUS

Tel. 02. 797. 6677 Operation Hours: 9am – 6pm (Lunch 1pm – 2pm) Monday - Sunday Appointments required for grooming

Noksapyong Stn Line # 6

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KOREA EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief

EMMA KALKA emma@groovekorea.com

Copy Editor

GIL COOMBE gil@groovekorea.com

Food & Drink

ROWENA SHEK row@groovekorea.com

Fashion

DIANNE PINEDA-KIM dianne@groovekorea.com

Travel

WENDY PALOMO wendy@groovekorea.com

Beauty

LORENA JIMÉNEZ lorena@groovekorea.com

PHOTOGRAPHY SOPHIE GEE miss.sophie.grange@gmail.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Design

CESS RODRIGUEZ rodriguez.cess@gmail.com

MEDIA CONTENTS CREATION Director

BECKY WHITE JOB FUENTES

PUBLISHER Publisher

SEAN CHOI sean@groovekorea.com

STAFF WRITERS / COLUMNISTS Amy Benham, Katie Martin, Jill Robbins, Jiaying Lim, Marley Herckner

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SPECIAL THANKS TO Han Hye-sun, William Choi, Yang Min-woo, Hong Jin-young, Choi Byung-wan, Ahn Kyung-seok, Lee Sun-ah, Ian, Park Jong-hwan, Kim Ji-won, Han Sung-phil, Song Young-sup, Yoon Yong-sik, Yoon Hee-sook, Park Min-hyeok, Choi Min-hye, Park Hyun-seung, Ryu Jin, Cho Shin-young, Kim A-ram, Kim Ho-sung, Ravi, Kim Hong-joon, Oh Sae-young, Kim Minjong, Park Hyo-jin, Jung Hyun-kyeong, Chae Yong-hee, Moon Sung-hwan, Ahn Woo-ram, and all the 사장님들, 화이팅!

To contribute to Groove Korea, email submissions@groovekorea.com or the appropriate editors.

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The articles are the sole property of GROOVE KOREA. No reproduction is permitted without the express written consent of GROOVE KOREA. The opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. © All rights reserved Groove Korea 2006

DISCOVER DWIGHT DISCOVER discover your spark of genius The Dwight School Seoul www.dwight.or.kr Phone: +82 2 6920 8600 Contact: admissions@dwight.or.kr

DWIGHT SCHOOL SEOUL 21 World Cup Buk-ro 62-gil Mapo-gu, Seoul

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Busan Citizen’s Hall

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COVER STORY

In and outside Korea, it has undeniably been a tough few months. From the economical to the psychological factors, it’s easy to gradually feel more frustrated and down. However, it’s important to not dwell on the negatives, and to look at the future with bright eyes and a positive mind.

ou r

home here

With this in mind, our May issue wants to focus on the local businesses within the Hannam and Itaewon areas. From understanding their beginnings to sharing their unique stories, Groove has handpicked the latest 30 must-visit places – from cafes to antiques – for our readers to visit, the next time you head out.

Behind each business exists a face and a story: from beloved favorites to hidden gems, each holds a fascinating tale of the inspiration behind the store – be it a second generation family business, the encouragement from a good friend or just a pure leap of faith. Regardless, Groove hopes that each article can bring our readers something to look forward to, during these times.

From Gyeongridangil to Hannam-dong to the more hidden backstreets, each holds surprising finds and old favorites. So when the time comes, call your friends and take a wander; browse, eat, drink and stroll the areas with hungry eyes and a fresh mind. Supporting local businesses is key to keeping the ever-changing Itaewon alive. However until then, stay home, stay healthy and stay strong.

Story ROWENA SHEK • Photos SOPHIE GEE

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COVER STORY

Hannamdong 1 Cheese Flo 2 Ideal Wellness 3 Jacques Puller 4 Happy Food 5 Collectivo 6 Monthly Kitchen 7 Obladi 8 Tailorable & Co. 9 524 CafĂŠ and Bar

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HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

Cheese Flo 치즈플로 chflo_seoul

Hannam-dong 744-2

After opening a French restaurant and a gastro pub, Han Hyesung and her husband decided to open their fourth venture in 2016: focusing on only handmade cheeses and artisan meats, Cheese Flo (or Chflo, as it says on their logo) offers anything from creamy bries to sharp cheddar, all handcrafted to the highest quality.

Situated behind the main strip, Chflo is nestled snugly near the famous salad bar Root, and opposite Liam’s Cakery. Rustic tables and modern glassware screams classy modernity, while their impressive menu shouts artisanal variety. “Our brata cheese salad is one of the most popular dishes here, while our handmade cheddar curds go perfectly with a white wine” shares Hyesung.

She explains why their cheese is so popular and unique, mentioning, “All our cheeses are made either in our cheese factory in Paju, or in-store”. With freshness guaranteed, everything is overseen to perfection by her husband, the cheese maker and main chef. It is clear that they take pride in their business, as, every single ingredient is carefully examined, and every single menu dish is carefully curated.

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02-794-7010

From the ingredients to the finished product, quality and freshness is top priority here.

Inspired by the famous Café de Florian in Paris, the name itself suggests a vibe for tranquility: with the soft jazz and the classy interior, you may actually forget you’re not in Europe. By far one of the most authentic wine and cheese bars you will see in Seoul; order an artisanal cheese board, scroll the numerous wines, bite into a creamy brie on rye, and this place is one for those beautiful Sunday evenings.

HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

Ideal wellness Chiropractic Center 아이디얼웰니스

Itaewon-ro 239 02-790-7246 www.idealwellness.kr

Everyone knows that spinal health is crucially important - with 31 pairs peripheral nerves, a healthy spine makes for a healthy body. Graduated 2003 from the famous Logan University, a college that focuses purely on chiropractic education, Doctor William Choi returned to Korea and opened Ideal Wellness in 2011.

Hidden underground, the large spacious room is impressively equipped – from massage beds to foam rollers, Ideal Wellness is guaranteed to provide the best treatment, no matter the issue.

“Health equals spinal alignment, good mental health and a strong structure” Choi explains. With a PHD at prestigious Seoul National University in ‘Sports Medicine’,

Choi says that he’s both a chiropractor and a sports chiropractor: “My ultimate goal is to combine medicine with chiropractic practices” he exclaims, “performing medical treatment care using body alignment”.

Chiropractic practices are sadly underrated.

Sometimes a spinal examination is all you need to regain balance or stop the shooting pain down the legs, rather than popping into a hospital or pharmacy. If you are looking for an alternative to hospital treatments, take a step towards chiropractic practices here at Ideal Wellness- taking into account that your spine affects everything from your mental health to body balance – you might just be surprised.

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HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

Jacques Puller 쟈크풀러 jacquespuller

Hannam-dong 683-126

A quirky twist on the Korean pronunciation of ‘jacket puller’, this burger shop continues its theme of quirky the moment you step inside: from the colorful skateboards lined up on the wall to the spread of vintage collectibles at the back, Yang Min Woo certainly has a flair for personalization.

Opened in the fall of 2017, Yang decided on Jacques Puller after studying in America and later graduating from Cordon Bleu in Tokyo. Yang wanted to show the Korean crowd that good quality burgers exist: “We use really good quality ingredients. My Father is a butcher, so we always use his prime meats for the burgers. People here don’t really think of the burgers are ‘junk food’ which say something”.

Interior aside, his unique taste even leaks into the menu – the best-selling Hangover Burger includes no meat, instead an omelet, bacon, avocado and cheese.

Why? “Well from my personal experience, eggs are better at curing a hangover than meat” he explains with a grin. Other popular items include the O.G. Burger (a play on the Korean pronunciation of ‘Aussie’) which has absolutely no vegetables, just double patties and double cheese, and the

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070-4146-3869

Chicano Burger: Yang’s twist on Tex-Mex, this is filled with chili, tortilla chips, avocado and the usual suspects.

His menu doesn’t just stop there – the choice of sides are just as unique: from the American-Chinese inspired Shrimp Toast to Crab Ranggoon (delicious deep fried crabmeat raviolis) regardless of your choice, you are guaranteed finger-lickin’ deliciousness. Just don’t let his adorably friendly Labrador steal your bite!

HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

Happy Food

벽돌해피푸드 bycdol_happy_food Hannam-dong 683-134 02-797-8586

Happy Food already made their stamp with their Apgujeong branch back in 2017.

Finally also opening in Hannam in 2019, Happy Food opened with the hope that their delicious food would bring a smile to their customer faces, that they would leave happy.

Manager Hong Jin Young explains that their menu was originally inspired by American-Chinese cuisine, and their vibe was inspired by American Chinatowns – somewhere where you can casually meet friends for some delicious stir fry, soup noodles and deep fried pork, over chatter and tsingdao beer. Their fun flair is expressed through their colorful bowls, and their bright red napkins and chopsticks is a salute to the cutlery you would typically find in Chinatowns abroad.

On board with the late Sichuan Mala trend, their best sellers are, unsurprisingly, their Mala Xiang Guo, Mala Tang and Sichuan Deep Fried Pork. “While all Mala base sauces contain the same base ingredients, we at Happy Food definitely make our Mala dishes milder, yet more fragrant and balanced, than some other restaurants” says Hong.

Their Sichuan Pork is just as scrumptious, with juicy boneless pork pieces, deep fried in a thin, crispy batter – perfect for that subtle crunch – and pan fried with peanuts, and deep fried pieces of red chilies (surprisingly not spicy, just crunchy and fragrant).

With their own twist on AmericanChinese, Happy Food stands out thanks to their take on authentic flavors. If your mouth is already watering, pop into Happy Food for your next meal, and be prepared to leave with a smile – for as their aprons preach “Today I shall be happy”.

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HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

Colectivo 콜렉티보 colectivo.coffee Hannam-dong 684-17 02-795-5255

Colectivo is one of those hidden backstreet hidden gems that once found, you can’t stop sharing with your friends.

Situated in a red brick building, it is Spanish for ‘community’: a space made for relaxed meet ups and social gatherings. You may have noticed their other branches in Annam or Yeongdeungpo, however you’ll also notice that each branch holds their own unique vibe: “Each branch has different customer bases, and here in Hannam, we find the customers to be more local and young” Manager Choi Byung Wan explains.

While the others may feel more modern or clean, this Hannam branch centers on nature and calm, with leafy plants dotted around the floors and large glass panels to deliberately bring in sunlight. Partnered with famous bake company 사층빵집 (‘Fourth Floor Bakery’), anyone will be delighted at the selection of cakes when they tip toe in.

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Aside from their best-seller Earl Grey Cake, their ever popular canels come in numerous flavors – from classic green tea to quirky churros (cinnamon and sugar dusted) – miniature and dense, these classic French bites are best paired with their smooth Americano or a herbal tea.

Using only Japanese Ueshima Coffee Company (UCC) coffee beans, they take their coffee here seriously. Producing a more solid and deeper flavor, Colectivo was sure that UCC beans were their first choice. Order your drink, select a canele and meander up to the rooftop garden to sip your worries away. “We have future goals of producing better quality teas and widening coffee culture in the area” mentions Choi.

With bigger collaborations with Fourth Floor Bakery and exciting plans to expand, Colectivo is perfect for those cravings of coffee and calm.

HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

Monthly kitchen 월간식당 monthly.kitchen Hannam-dong 683-69 02-6261-8293

Opened by singing legend Yoon Jong Shin, Monthly Kitchen does exactly as the title says: with a new menu every month, you will always be surprised by their new innovative dishes.

“Taste is definitely the most important aspect” top Chef Ahn Kyung Suk says. Using only the freshest ingredients, from board to plate, he always ensures the finest results.

Taking inspiration from Japanese-Korean cuisine, the concept here is ‘modern Asian fusion’: past dishes have included Potato Chips (with a truffle egg dip), Spicy Chicken Feet (hand deboned by the chefs themselves, no less) and Battered Eel (in a light tempura batter and an oriental ginger seasoning).

As you can now see, none of the dishes are as simple as they read; their quality always lies in the details.

Of course they have the regulars, dishes so popular they appear consistently on the menu: the Cream Ragu, a creamy

twist on the typical ragu sauce (“popular with females” Ahn pipes) to Gambas, modernized using Japanese-style abalone and French-style shrimps.

Looking at the menu, and the rich oriental interior, you might assume Monthly Kitchen is one for those payday nights – “we make our menu prices here reasonable, so that more people can come and try our food” Ahn adds with a smile. He explains that most course menus in Korea are burdensome, namely over-priced, so he wanted to drop the prices to what one would deem reasonable for the quality found.

Ahn continued to talk about the location, and added “Hannam is great, and the area is nice to walk around in”. With more and more hidden gems in the area, one could not agree more. Ever changing and always welcoming, you will always be surprised here at Monthly Kitchen.

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HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

OB-LA-DI 오블라디 luv_obladi

Hannam-dong 684-35

Cereal cafes. You are either for them or against them. Some don’t understand the concept behind a cereal catch up. Some are all for the childhood snack being used as a coffee alternative. Whichever the case, Obladi is the only cereal café in Hannamdong to date, and if you like this breakfast food, you should be sure to pay a visit.

The moment you tread down the stairs, you are surrounded by pink walls, fairy lights and 90s collectibles. Wishing to create a dream-like feel, Obladi certainly screams nostalgia – from the Pokemon plushies to the Disney mugs to the pink record player – every detail is basically a 90s kid childhood in a room.

Their cereal collection is also impressive: Reece’s Puffs to Quaker Oatmeal Squares to Kellogs Smores, there’s something for everyone’s nostalgic journey. “Lucky Charms is the most popular choice for our foreigner customers” Employee Lee Sun Ah adds, “because they say it’s the most nostalgic cereal for them”. Lee also adds that more and more non-Koreans are starting to visit Obladi.

Sandwiched by hipster cafes and pretty boutiques, the shop itself, adds a speck

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010-7174-3687

of quirkiness to the street. For a moment back in time, step in Obladi for a visit. Now that the weather is warming up, a cold refreshing bowl of cereal might be just the thing, for those who miss home.

HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

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Tailorable & Co tailorable

Hannam-dong 684-90

Tailorable is Seoul’s best kept secret for the finest handmade suit. A wellfitted suit is much like art. It’s complex, and embodies signs of precision and class. Though they had a popup store in a department store in Gwanggyo, Tailorable has always been based in Hannam.

They have mainly two labels – the Wine label and the Blue label. The former can take up to 6 week to finish a suit, but delivers higher quality. The latter takes around 4 weeks to make, but is still a popular choice. Always custom made using their wide variety of top quality materials, shirts are actually one of their most popular requests. “Clothes need to be well made and have a good fit” Manager Lee Ahn Hyeong exclaims seriously, his passion for tailoring clear

070-7651-7801

www.tailorable.co.kr

as he speaks, “We, at Tailorable, believe that good quality suits are an essential piece in every man’s wardrobe”.

Dawning on business in the recent weeks, Lee adds “Thankfully we haven’t been affected by COV19 much”. In fact, since their opening in 2007, their customer base and popularity has only grown. “I think one reason why we stand out, is because here at Tailorable, our suits are more British-style, whereas other tailors in Korea usually get their inspiration from Italy” Lee explains.

Regardless, no matter what style you prefer, you can expect nothing but class and perfect precision from here.

Be it a business meeting or a wedding, Tailorable will always give you exactly what you need.

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HANNAMDONG

COVER STORY

524 CAFE AND BAR 524_official

Hannam-dong 737-2

Their original branch in Sinsa was named after the area’s postcode. Carrying the same name to their Hannam branch, Owner Park Jong Hwan moved with the hope of enticing a new audience. “The customers in Hannam are more relaxed in some way, there’s different feels here than in Sinsa” Park shares.

Only serving food after 2pm, 524 serve coffees, alcohol and small bites, just like their name suggests. However don’t be fooled – serving Einspanners by day and Highballs at night, 524 plays as café, as comfortably as it does bar. With their open shop front and movie projector playing at the back, this place is surprisingly comfortable to laze around in with a good read – day or night.

Their snack menu stands out too. “To go with our beers and Highballs, our Truffle fries and Tofu Cream Cheese are the most popular, when people eat here” Park mulls, “The Tofu Cream Cheese is all tofu. Our tofu is so creamy and delicate, that it really looks and tastes like cream cheese. It’s a really popular dish because it’s so unique”.

Their wine and cocktail selection is also impressively vast, if that is more your pick.

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Park explains that they even have plans to open a third branch in Apgujeong later this year, with the new branch focusing more on dessert and holding a wider food menu, but still serving casual coffees and alcohol. Located on the main strip and next to Maywell Bakery, 524 is easy to stop by for a drink, because ultimately, as Park concludes, “it is the perfect atmosphere where you can have both a drink and a casual bite”.

COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

Kyungridan

1 Locos BBQ 2 Bistecca 3 BARI

4 Yoon’s Oriental Medicine 5 Epigram 6 Bakehouse

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KYUNGRIDAN

COVER STORY

LOCOS BBQ locos_bbq_official Itaewon-dong 2-5 02-794-3234

Hailing high success in its numerous branches at Panggyo, Starfield Mall, Samseong and even Busan, Locos BBQ still stands strong in its main branch in Itaewon, a stone’s throw from the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Spanish for ‘crazy’, Locos BBQ wants to emphasize an atmosphere of passion, working determinedly to create top quality food. Neither fully Texas nor Korean, Locos BBQ has its own unique twist on this Southern American cuisine.

“The ingredients are vital” explains Director Kim Ji Young. They only use the best cuts of meat, before smoking, roasting and grilling everything in-house, to guarantee freshness and tenderness. “The people in Hannam know their quality. They know the difference between good BBQ and excellent BBQ” Kim expresses. So near to the Grand Hyatt Hotel, they even have a good reputation with the Fedex pilots, who are manned there when they fly in to Korea: “They regularly pop in here, and they always recommend us to their

colleagues and the hotel customers” Kim pipes, “not to mention the nearby company employees, some of whom come here weekly for lunch”. From their tender brisket to their juicy grilled pork belly, it’s no wonder they have a loyal customer base.

However BBQ is usually always something for dinner, a meal where you can head home after to digest the heaviness. When brainstorming how to make BBQ lighter and more accessible, they came out with their new lunch menu: pair their non-alcoholi Mojito with a delicious Avocado BBQ Rice Bowl and a crispy Brisket Sandwich, their new lunch gamble was worth it. More casual and cheaper, the number of people who come in just for lunch is rising.

Craving top class BBQ on the go? Then look no further than Locos for some Pulled Pork Burgers or Reuben Sandwiches (made with fragrant 38-hour smoked pastrami nonetheless) though their main BBQ Platters are still on offer at lunch, if you dare.

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KYUNGRIDAN

COVER STORY

BISTECCA bistecca_kr / bistecca_tiramisu

Itaewon-dong 211-33

02-792-7746 Bistecca is one of the most famous Italian restaurants in Seoul, and its success as a top Italian restaurant is seen through its yearly Blue Ribbon Awards since 2015. While outside the restaurant, it’s more known for its nation-wide famous Tiramisu, inside is just as spectacular.

With fine cutlery and lush chairs, the upstairs dining area is perfect for a memorable romantic date. If you’re lucky, they might just open up the balcony glass doors, and instantly you’ll see the most spectacular view of Namsan Tower, framed by a mass of hydrangea flowers – in every color possible, Bistecca takes pride in their beautiful collection.

The menu is intimate – most come for their renowned course menu. Their dinner course menu is a beautiful 7 course, from fresh appetizers to personalized mains, ending with their famous dessert. However their mains can be ordered separately – their most popular picks have to be their Tenderloin Steak (not only charcoal grilled to your liking, their meats are also wet-aged for depth) and, of course, their Tiramisu. In fact, both dishes are so popular that the famous TV show 수요미식회 (‘Wednesday Food Talk’)

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came twice to film – once for each dish.

Impressive.

If you want to try their tiramisu, fear not.

Bistecca is so confident that it is the best tiramisu in Korea, that they have really expanded their selling strategy; now selling nation-wide at numerous department stores and online at Market Kurly and SSG, anyone in the country can now buy it and fall in love with it. From first date to a romantic treat, as Manager Han Seong Pil says, “from ingredients to the food to dessert, Bistecca is the definition of fine dining”.

KYUNGRIDAN

COVER STORY

BARI bari_superfood Itaewon-dong 226-6 02-797-7090 Once located higher up on the hill, Bari is run by Manager Song Young Sub – a chef who has worked in Itaewon for an impressive 12 years now. Taking inspiration from the ‘bari’ bowls female monks use to eat out of, Bari combines nourishment with taste, selling acai bowls, rice bowls and salads.

Popular outside Korea, it’s refreshing to see more acai bowl cafes popping up here – rich in antioxidants, acai is an undermined super food that we should all consume more of. If you do stop by (delivery and take out also available!) their Acai Bowl with Seeds is sure to give you your daily dose of vitamins, while at the same time tasting sumptious: generous on the acai, it is topped with granola, raspberries, banana, seeds, nuts and honey.

As for their more savory options, their Wasabi Double Avocado Bowl is a daily hit: topped with a generous helping of avocado, a fried egg, roasted hemp seeds, almonds, cheese and a wasabi sauce, this rice bowl is as filling as it sounds, and chock full of healthy omega-3 and minerals. “It’s our healthy twist on a Korean Bibimbap” Song says with a smile. There’s plenty of options for meat-eaters and vegans alike; there is no judgment here, just the aim of bringing everyone together through delicious nourishment.

What people may find curious is the unique artwork around the room. When prompted, Song explains that his wife works in Art Therapy, while he previously did interior design. Combining the two, the doodled murals and the hand painted lamp shades are the combined results of his wife and the children she works with.

The personalized touches Song tries to bring to the café, alongside his constant efforts to encourage healthy eating, resonates with Song’s three beliefs – to be healthy, to be creative, to be passionate – and one can see why he lives by such important rules.

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KYUNGRIDAN

COVER STORY

Yoon’s Clinic Itaewon-dong 225-94

02-790-9577

Yoon’s Clinic has been a family business since 1970. Specializing in Oriental Medicine, they offer an alternative to traditional medicines and treatments.

Holding the belief that health depends on the energy balance in the body, Yoon’s Clinic has everything from Acupuncture to Cupping to Diet plans. “We get both Korean and non-Korean customers” says Doctor Yoon Yong Shik, “but our nonKorean customers usually come in more for muscular problems or back and shoulder pain, while Korean customers come in more for aches and illnesses”.

Has the concept of Oriental Medicine changed much over the years? “Olympics swimmer Phelps certainly helped to popularize Cupping” Yoon mentions. Using heat to facilitate suction, glass ‘cups’ are placed in certain points around the body to encourage and increase blood flow.

Though Cupping has existed as early as 300B.C. it helps with faster healing and muscle recovery. Thanks to Olympian Michael Phelps, since the 2016 Olympics Yoon has noticed an increase in Cupping, as more and more non-Koreans become familiarized with the treatment.

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www.dryoonskin.com

While the clinic itself is small at first glance, their back massage rooms are surprisingly spacious. If you have any muscle or body pain, why not give Oriental Medicine a try? “We’re a friendly clinic, and we have worked with non-Koreans from all backgrounds long enough, to build close relationships with many of our non-Korean clients” Yoon states. Using herbal medicines instead of chemical drugs, massages and your body’s energy instead of hospital treatments, Oriental Medicine is much less daunting than you might think!

KYUNGRIDAN

Epigram

Itaewon-dong 225-111

COVER STORY

02-749-3274

It’s incredibly hard to put Epigram into words: the first floor consists of a shop selling products that promote a natural lifestyle – think homemade jams, organic soy candles, 100% cotton tees and wooden utensils. The back hides a stairwell, which leads to the spacious and bright Almost Home Share. Almost Home Share is Epigram’s work/lifestyle space – be it birthday gathering or work meeting – they designed this room using select furniture and neutral colors, encouraging calm and interaction to whoever rents it out. Go back down and their tiny Almost Home Café will catch your eye: providing outdoor seating, they sell simple coffees and small bites, while beneath lies their underground art gallery.

The whole shop-work space-cafégallery ensemble shares one very clear message – a lifestyle of calm amongst the chaos. While they have several other branches in Korea, each holds their own local projects. This Itaewon branch holds two collaborations a year, with the current project with the Southern Cheongsong region – promoting Cheongsong’s local

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pottery and other local specialties, Epigram wants to educate visitors about the region through the use of products.

Previous collaborations include projects with Hadong and Gochang – both regions in the Southern Jeollam province.

“Many customers who visit our shop usually end up buying the jams, diffusers or candles” says Curator Yoon Hee Suk, “all our products are organic and natural, and are the perfect gift for friends or family”. Wandering around, one would certainly feel a certain sense of peace the moment they enter Epigram. Yoon explains that between each Epigram shop is a ‘bridge’, a channel connecting local communities to a traditional and local lifestyle – connected yet distinct.

If you’re looking for some peace, why not make Epigram a stop next time you head out: a handmade necklace, some organic jam, a wooden spoon – all will be well chosen. As Yoon puts it delicately, “this space is a lifestyle experience. We just want people to come comfortably. To feel relaxed here and experience something you won’t be able to forget afterwards”.

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KYUNGRIDAN

COVER STORY

BAKEHOUSE bakehouse.official

Itaewon-dong 251-63

Hidden near the backstreets off Gyeongridan-gil, Bakehouse might seem out the way for some, however if you take the time to walk here, you’ll be greeted with fresh pastries, fragrant coffee and numerous copies of Groove Magazine!

Park Min Hyuk, the café’s manager, explained why Bakehouse was slowly growing in popularity: “If you look outside, you’ll see that beneath the café is the bakery itself. All our bakers come in before sunrise to ensure that all the pastries and bakes are fresh out the oven, ready to sell”.

Certainly before you walk in the café, if you look underground you’ll notice the large bakery. Made onsite to bring you freshly baked bread and pastries each morning, Bakehouse guarantees some of the freshest bakes in the area While their bakes change according to season, their croissant and pastries are usually the best-selling. However fear not if you’re more of a cake lover – they have a wonderful selection of cakes and square bakes too, such as Orange Pound and Carrot Cake.

Their drinks menu have anything from your basic Latte to Cream Matcha, however

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Park shares that one of their most popular drink is the Sunrise – just like the cocktail, minus the tequila, this drink is refreshing and perfect for the coming Summer. With a Sunrise paired with a fresh croissant or a cheeky scone, what other reason do you have to not visit Bakehouse?

COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

Noksapyeong 1 Flower by MIN

2 Buddha’s Belly 3 Curious Curious 4 ROMIS Bakery 5 Cookie Monster 6 One Day Studio 7 The Baker’s Table 8 Uncle Booth Barbershop 9 Richmond Dimsum

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NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

Flower By Min flower_by_min

Itaewon-dong 57-29

While Itaewon has had a number of flower shops before, they have noticeably decreased over the years. It is for this exact reason that Chief Designer Choi Min Hye decided to open, what was her lifelong dream, a flower shop in the area.

Ever since watching Secret Garden as a child, Choi has been fascinated by flowers.

Their beauty, their colors and their ability to bring happiness, were just some of the reasons why she started making a life plan – listing out what she wanted to achieve

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by what age. Choi proves to be not just an incredibly sweet person, but inspiringly motivated: “I did what I promised myself, and really did manage to open this shop at the age I had planned, and I’m proud of that” Choi sweetly explains, “but I think luck played a part in choosing this particular area” she says shyly. Her birthday is May the 2nd, and after realizing both the shop address and phone number had her birthday digits, she knew this place was ‘the one’. With her customer

base blooming, it seems like luck really is on her side.

With 10+ years in the flowering industry, Choi takes great pride in her flowers, heading to the flower wholesalers every couple days to handpick flowers to sell.

She also mentions that she wants each bouquet to bring joy to the customer.

Handpicking and hand making each bouquet with precision and care, she customizes them according to purpose – be it a first date or a birthday bouquet – because all she desires is for the flowers to put a smile on people’s faces.

“Each flower is unique – some are seasonal, some only bloom for 3 days, some for a year. Each has its own charm. That’s why I like them so much” Choi shares. Her favorite? The Persian Buttercup – available in a number of colors, it is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, and looks similar to a rose in appearance, but rounder.

“The Persian Buttercup is a wildflower, which means they’re natural and adaptable to any environment, kind of like me” she giggles.

With her strong passion, Choi, of course, doesn’t stop here; she has further life goals of starting a gardening and landscaping business, to really widen her work in nature and the floral industry.

For now though, she wants to just focus on Flower By Min, “I want Flower By Min to be a hidden gem. Somewhere where you would walk past and be taken aback by something you wouldn’t expect. A true secret garden.”.

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NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

Buddha’s Belly buddhasbelly_official

Itaewon-dong 457-1

Buddha’s Belly is an all-time favorite among Koreans and expats alike. With a cast of all-Thai chefs, Buddha’s Belly is the epitome of authenticity. Opened since 2005, they named themselves after the main religion in Thailand, and the fact they want their customers to walk out with full bellies – satiated and happy.

Park Hyun Seung, the captain, tells us that while most customers usually choose the Pad Thai (fried rice noodles), Poo Nim Pad Pong Garee (fried soft shell crab with curry) or Tua Huu Kata Ronn (spicy stir fried sizzling tofu), Buddha’s Belly wants to recommends the Khao Soi to everyone – egg noodles in a currybased coconut milk broth, topped with some vegetables and your choice of tofu or chicken. A dish reigning traditionally from Northern Thailand, this is one of their most authentic dishes. Don’t worry if you have requirements – they also have vegan options, since many of their dishes are vegetable based. Just ask, and they will be happy to cater to your dietary needs.

With three floors, the restaurant is surprisingly large, though with queues at peak times, three floors sometimes still

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isn’t enough. Their interior also adds to the authenticity – stone statues, weaved lampshades and Thai murals – from the moment you walk in to the last bite of your Khao Soi, you might just forget you’re not really in Thailand. With Thai chefs and the best genuine ingredients, Buddha’s Belly is proud of their authenticity in both quality and taste. Park concludes “Buddha’s Belly is not just authentic, but also classic.

In other words, it’s legit”.

NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

Curious Curious

Itaewon-dong 455-36 070-7502-5869

“I’ve always been a curious person” Designer Ryu Jin says. She also mentions Alice in Wonderland– a movie that not only fascinated her as a child, but the phrase ‘curiouser and curiouser’ always stuck in her head. Thus it felt only natural to name her first shop Curious Curious, when she opened in late 2008.

Originally focusing on costume jewelry, her collections have evolved over the years: “I’ve been in the jewelry industry for over 20 years now. I started selling daily jewelry – something girls can wear with their outfits everyday – but these days, ‘layered jewelry’ is a big trend, so we now sell a lot of pieces that you can easily mix and match with” says Ryu. The Itaewon area was somewhere Ryu use to wander around during her high school days, saying there was items sold here that weren’t sold elsewhere in Seoul. She explains, “I found the area exotic and fascinating. It just didn’t seem like Korea whenever I stepped foot here”.

“A lot of our customers know what they want, so they come here to buy for themselves, rather than as a gift for someone else” Ryu explains. She mentions that most of her customers are female, who stop by to purchases unique pieces of jewelry for themselves. With a variety of jewelry and accessories, Curious Curious is a popular stop for females who know what they want.

If you also like Alice in Wonderland, the concept of mystery and fun, then Curious Curious might be the perfect hidden gem for you. From quirky collars to simple rings to colorful pins, they have something fun for everyone.

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NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

Romi's Bakery romis_bakery

Itaewon-dong 455-27

Situated on a back alley opposite Richmond, the flash of baby blue of Romis Bakery will instantly catch your eye. Run by Cho Shin Young, this incredibly cute café is one of the area’s only cupcake shop.

“There used to be numerous cupcake shops in this area, but one by one they all disappeared, so I decided to open one here” Cho reasons.

Cho decided to open her own place after working in cafes for a number of years. “Romis is my nickname” she says bashfully, “my boyfriend calls me that, so I named my shop after it”. Her sweet character is expressed through the interior – cute collectibles, blue and white interior, vintage plates – it certainly has a very cozy, but cute, vibe here.

Carrot Cake, Red Velvet and Valrhona Chocolate are Romis Bakery’s three signature flavors. Alongside these are other flavors that change daily, according to what Cho feels like baking that day – from Oreo to Peanut Butter and Jelly, there’s something new each day. “I find that cakes in general, are not as popular here in Korea, compared to America or

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Europe, because Koreans find cupcakes too sweet. So here I deliberately make the cupcakes more moist and less sweet” Cho says. According to her, more and more customers come here, even exclaiming that Romis Bakery cupcakes are tastier than some famous cupcake shops abroad!

Aside from cupcakes, their ‘lettering cakes’ have also bloomed in popularity (thanks to Instagram!). Larger cakes ordered for birthdays or events, customers can request what they want piped on the cake, and Cho will colorfully hand pipe and decorate it to your liking. The end product is so personalized and colorfully made, that it’s sure to put a smile on anyone’s face!

“I use the best ingredients, and everything is baked by me here each morning. Less sweet and handmade with love, you might be surprised to find them more delicious than some other more famous bakeries” Cho summarizes.

Somewhere to hide from the crowd, Romis Bakery certainly offers a place of cozy calm, and after the closing of the other cupcake shops, it does add a refreshing touch to the area again.

NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

Cookie Monster cookiemonster.official

Itaewon-dong 451-13

Cookie Monster remains a strong favorite in Itaewon – selling hand baked cookies in nostalgic flavors, their large and soft cookies will sure brighten up anyone’s day.

Located on the same alley as Richmond and Romis Bakery, you’ll soon spot this cookie shop with its white walls and pink edges.

Their three signatures are the 악마쿠키 (‘Devil’s Cookie’), S’more and Peanut Butter. The ‘Devil Cookie’ is exactly what it says: a rich chocolate cookie devilishly topped with M&Ms, Oreos and caramel bars, the center even holds a secret Nutella filling. The Peanut Butter cookie is similarly generous – topped with Reece’s cups and Reece’s chips, the center has a hidden peanut butter center – perfect for peanut butter fiends. Of course they have plenty of other flavors on offer – mint chocolate, butterscotch and more! One is sure to take your fancy.

With more and more non-Korean customers popping by, their popularity is down to their ‘American style’ cookies – large, chewy and delicious! They also change according to season – with character cookies coming out for holidays

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such as Halloween and Christmas , and limited flavors for each month – so you’ll always find a yummy surprise at Cookie Monster.

As you look around, you’ll see that the pink interior, vintage stickers and figurines scream 1950s diner vibes, while the waft of fresh cookies takes you back. Buy one – or even better, buy a box! – and pour yourself a cold glass of milk, and you’ll have yourself a perfect, indulgent evening that brings back childhood memories, of the days you would wake up to cookies out of the oven.

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NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

One Day Studio 오늘도 사진관 1daystudio

Itaewon-dong 402-2

A photo studio is somewhat a trend these days – people seeking a place of tradition and true culture, rather than using one’s phone. “Everyone is so used to taking selfies. What was special, is now seen as ordinary. A photo studio, like this one, turns that something ordinary back into something special” Photographer and Owner Kim Ho Sun exclaims.

Starting out as a fine art and street art photographer, Kim was tired of working in his underground gallery. Not only did the inconvenient location defer people from viewing his work, but he needed a more permanent location to display his collection. That’s how he decided to come to Itaewon. With his studio on the first floor, more and more people walk by and pause, browsing the collection of photos he has displayed on the glass window. Slowly, his art gallery evolved to workshop to photo studio – which is what it is now.

“I take mainly portrait or black and white shots” Kim says. His aim is to create memories in every shoot. From family shoots to animal portrait shoots, his previous displayed shots show flair

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and emotion in each photo. “I want my customers to be satisfied. If they aren’t satisfied with the photos or the actual photo shoot, then I won’t take their payment” he says determinedly.

As he mentioned before, he wants to renew the concept of photography

again, bringing a fresh take and creating something special, out of something that’s now so ordinary. “This photo studio is like a bar, and I’m the photographer. Anyone can walk in and ask for what they want” Kim says with a smile. Next time you want to try a new ‘drink’, Kim is here for all your photo needs.

NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

The Baker's Table thebakerstable_seoul

Itaewon-dong 691

This bakery-slash-café has been a staple go-to in the area since 2011. Serving homemade bread and delicious lunches, The Baker’s Table solid reputation for selling some of the best bread you can find in the city.

Sam, the owner and the baker, comes in every morning to bake the bread, so that it’s ready to sell the moment they open.

When you walk in you’ll see a vast selection of baked goodies, sitting beautifully on the long rustic table: from the classic baguettes, ciabattas and ryes, to Olive Bread, Lamb Pies and Apple Tarts, you’ll find something to satisfy your belly. The

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breads are strongly European-inspired – think rye and pretzels – and just as authentic as you would expect. Ravi, the manager, explains that their best sellers are the Vollkom (a vegan sourdough of 60% rye and 40% wheat) and the Yoga Bread (a vegan whole wheat loaf with pumpkin seed and millet), with customers coming in every day for them.

If you fancy sitting in, their homemade daily soups are a big hit. Pair that with some sliced fresh ciabatta just out of the oven, and you have yourself a hearty lunch to prepare you for the day. While every item on their menu is popular, Ravi confesses that their

Snitzel (with four variations of the German pork cutlet, no less), Bratwurst (German sausage served with potatoes) and their brunches are some of the biggest stars.

“Itaewon is great” says Ravi, “you have such a mix of people from all backgrounds.

It’s a great crowd”. With almost every table full and queues to buy their loaves, their good reputation is clear to see. “We even have customers who come up from Suwon and further, coming here just to buy our bread” Ravi exclaims. Selling genuine European bread, loaves and rolls, if you’re missing a slice of home, let The Baker’s Table take you there.

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NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

Uncle Booth Barbershop unclebooth

Itaewon-dong 656

Barbershops. A good, classic barbershop is a rare find in Korea. However, since around 2017, you might notice more and more creeping up in the city, thanks to their comeback. While their Yeongdeungpo branch is the original, the Uncle Booth Itaewon branch opened in 2018. A one-man run operation, Barber Kim Hong Jun offers the highest quality cuts and fades to men in the city.

“The Yeongdeungpo branch and the Itaewon branch have different vibes” Kim mentions, “here it definitely feels more relaxed and more casual”. Kim wanted the barbershop to feel really casual, yet with flair of fun. With vintage American stickers dotted around, and a rustic color theme, Uncle Booth’s definitely gives a somewhat sense of nostalgia. “It’s like a ‘Sarang-bang (사랑방)’” Kim describes; a men’s lounge in a hanok during the Joseon Dynasty, it’s typically used by men only to study and work in. This concept of traditional hangouts, is what Kim wanted to recreate in his vintage barbershop.

With a free drink (yes – alcoholic!), each customer can truly enjoy their time here,

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be it a basic trim or a trendier cut. “Ivy League cuts are big. A lot of our non-Korean customers would just walk in and ask for an Ivy League cut. It’s so common abroad, but it’s not a trend in Korea yet” Kim reveals. For our unknowing readers, an Ivy League cut cuts the crown of the head short, but the front maintained longer to allow styling.

Accustomed to both Korean and European/American cuts, and with a free drink included, Uncle Booth Barbershop will guarantee to keep your hair on trend. Using only the finest tools and high expertise, let Kim, and his many years of experience, work his magic on your hair.

NOKSAPYEONG

COVER STORY

Richmond richmond_dimsum

Itaewon-dong 449-5

Born in Korea, raised in Canada, studied in China before undertaking culinary training in Yangzhou city, China, Oh Sae Young eventually returned to Korea to introduce fusion Chinese food to locals. With the recent Sichuan ‘Mala’ food trend currently taking over Korea, Dim Sum might just be the next big thing.

“There are already a lot of Sichuan and Korean-Chinese restaurants in Korea. I wanted to open up something different” reveals Oh. When nudged to describe Richmond’s cuisine, Oh bashfully confesses, “a mix between Southern Chinese (Cantonese) food and dim sum and fusion food… just my own unique cuisine I guess” he laughs. Here at Richmond you won’t find the typical Jjajamyun or Jjamppong. Instead you’ll be enticed with fragrant dim sums, Chinese pancakes and garlic pork stir fries.

Their best sellers include their Xiaolongbao – a dumpling filled with pork broth, originally from the eastern Chinese province of Jiangsu –Siumai (a traditional dim sum of pork and shrimp) and their Hargao (another traditional shrimp dim sum). Oh would also recommend the

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Cream Shrimp to everyone: “it is battered shrimps topped with a cream sauce, it’s a really delicious and modern Chinese dish”.

Delicious!

With all their dim sums handmade to the highest quality, Oh believes that quality and taste are equally important. “I really do hope Dim Sum can grow more in Korea.

Here at Richmond our food is unique and authentic, but different. I would prefer to be different, than to be the same as everyone else” he concludes. If ‘different’ is what you are looking for, Richmond’s flavors will bring you just that.

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COVER STORY

Itaewon Station & Bogwangdong

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1 Blink 2 Zucca’s Gelato 3 Unico 4 Royal Antique 5 Itaewon Stairways 6 Pizza After Luv

ITAEWON / BOGWANGDONG

COVER STORY

Blink

blinkeyewear

Itaewon-dong 72-27 02-792-7424 A good stylish pair of glasses can transform your entire face. However a good quality pair of glasses is just as important – UV protection, a good fit and the correct lens, are just some of the reasons why you need to think twice before buying. Blink in Itaewon has helped thousands of customers do just that: from style to eye care to repairs, Blink holds some of the best glasses and sunglasses collection in the city.

Kim Min Jong, the director of this branch, explains that the building is split into three floors: “the basement holds our vintage glasses, the first floor holds our Korean brands and the second floor is our European brands”. Let’s start from the top shall we?

The second floor is their high-end brands, the more well-known global brands that we all see. Head down, and you’ll find famous Korean brands such as Gentle Monster or Public Beacon: perfect if you want to add some flair and keep up with Korean celebrities. Head down again and you’re taken to a room full of rustic vibes and an impressive collection of vintage glasses – from the pearl-encrusted Chanel to 1940s French, Blink takes pride in their collection.

“Our Korean glasses and our vintage ones sell the best” says Kim, “especially since with the vintage glasses, we focus on collecting real vintage glasses from the 40s or 50s. Everything is imported from abroad too, namely France and other European countries”. He likes the Itaewon area, mentioning that while Gangnam is known for designer glasses, ultimately there are too many glasses boutiques there. While here at Blink, not only do they have an impressively large store, but they sell more specialized glasses with a wider selection of brands.

“The trend for glasses is always changing, but French vintage is definitely making a comeback” Kim adds. More bold and avant-garde, their vintage French glasses help make a statement – perfect for those who are seeking an eye-catching

pair. From local to global, Blink holds every brand you can (and can’t) think of. With an open-designed showcase, it is really comfortable to casually browse around.

As the name suggests, they hope that the glasses at Blink can “steal your heart within a blink of an eye”.

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COVER STORY

Zucca's Gelato

zuccas_artisan_gelato

Itaewon-dong 129-2 070-7012-0615

Samuel Zucca ia a renowned chef in Korea. Having worked in prestigious hotels such as Shilla and The Plaza, Zucca and his wife opened up a gelato shop in 2014, after many visiting Italians complained why there was no gelato shop in Seoul.

Wife and manager, Park Hyo Jin, explains that though she had wanted to open up near the Hongdae area, eventually Itaewon attracted her to come here.

Unlike many other gelato shops, where it’s made in ice-cream factories, everything is hand made by Park in store at Zucca’s Gelato. “Miso is our best-selling” Park mentions. Certainly not a common flavor, Park says that she likes to experiment with new flavors and customers’ requests: “if we have customers asking for a specific flavor, then I’ll try to make it, and then evaluate later how well it sells”.

Even featured on national TV, on KBS’s famous program “My Neighbour Charles”, Zucca’s Gelato is a hit to locals and tourists alike. Their menu isn’t just limited to gelato though – their Bubble Egg Waffles are a hit. Made popular in Hong Kong, these are the latest street snack. Made with an eggbased batter, it is grilled until golden and crispy in a special machine that gives it the famous ‘bubble wrap’ appearance, before finally rolled and filled with your choice of gelato and toppings. Delicious and very Instagram worthy, it’s obvious why they’re popular too!

Made with absolutely no egg and no milk, a scoop (or two!) of gelato is the perfect healthy dessert for the oncoming Summer. Pair it with an iced coffee, and you’re definitely good to go.

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ITAEWON / BOGWANGDONG

ITAEWON / BOGWANGDONG

COVER STORY

UNICO unico102

Itaewon-dong 96-26 070-8628-3369 www.unicoshop.co.kr Spanish for ‘unique’, Unico wants to bring unique, vintage clothing to the streets of Seoul. Jung Hyun Kyung is the owner of the place, who use to work part-time in a clothing shop nearby. She liked the ambience of Itaewon so much, that when an empty space opened up in 2014, Jung knew she had to open up her own shop.

With a degree in fashion, Jung has had a love for vintage since her high school days.

Impressively she curates everything herself – flying out to mainly Japan or France every couple months to seek out more unique pieces to bring back. “Sadly I can’t go these months, because of the current situation” she mulls, “but yes, every single piece of clothing here, I collected myself”. The moment you enter the shop, you’ll see an array of denim, jackets, dresses, jumpsuits.

Not to mention a vast collection of vintage tees and badges, all perched on a wooden stand, even stretching to leather belts, rings and vintage necklaces.

Why mainly French or Japanese though?

“They both have their own taste. Japanese vintage is more branded – reinventions of famous brands. French vintage is more rustic, more aged” explains Jung. Their best selling items are usually the 1990s Levi jeans and denim jackets: “People always come in for Levi’s. They’re a classic”. Her vintage t-shirts are also popular – from the McDonald’s logo to slogans, there’s a tee hidden for everyone.

If you want to renew your wardrobe, give the mall a miss and step into Unico. There’s plenty of hidden gems lurking around –the beautiful, black, lacey Comme des Garçons top at the back of the store, is just one example. “I want people to think of vintage clothing as layered clothing, something comfortable and customizable. I just want people to find Unico’s clothing as their own” concludes Jung. For a wardrobe update, be it a new vintage leather belt or a worn denim jumpsuit, don’t be scared to put your own twist on their pieces, to try on vintage clothing as your own.

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ITAEWON / BOGWANGDONG

COVER STORY

Royal Antique Itaewon-dong 180-15

02-749-1546

Not everyone knows the famous ‘Antiques Street’ is in Itaewon. With a long strip of shops selling vintage teacups, antique furniture and figurines, the street is a haven of beautiful and rare finds. Royal Antique has been selling antiques since 1996. Originally opened by his Father, his son, Chae Yong Hee, now takes over the business, with his Father popping in now and then.

“Collecting antiques was my Father’s hobby” mentions Chae “but gradually it turned from hobby to business”. While the number of antique shops has decreased throughout the decades, a small number stand strong to this day, including Royal Antique, and it’s clear to see why: open the door and it feels like you’re in Wonderland.

Surrounded by glass cabinets, hand painted floral teacups and delicate figurines; the whole shop is a remarkable collection of exquisite antiques.

“Antique furniture was pretty popular in the past, but nowadays more and more young adults come in for ornaments –

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teacups, figurines and tableware notably” Chae declares – it defintely seems like vintage ornaments are making a comeback, amongst the modernity of the world. He also proudly states that the oldest products they hold are some exquisite teacups and saucers from 1770!

Second to that are some tableware from the 1800s!

Anything that is old and aged can be named ‘antique’. However the ‘beautiful’ antiques are the ones that are more valued. “I just want people to appreciate somewhat damaged or aged objects. Too many people, these days, throw ornaments away so easily” Chae mulls, “even objects that are old can be appreciated. I mean, in the end, you can never compare antiques to anything modern”. With a large and diverse collection, Royal Antique carries top quality furnishings and décor. With the finest quality pieces, anything you choose will immediately beautify your home – be it a painted teacup saucer or a handcrafted light hanging.

ITAEWON / BOGWANGDONG

COVER STORY

Itaewon Stairway 이태원 계단집 Itaewon-dong 129-4 02-790-1294

Named after the stairway that leads to the restaurant, Itaewon Stairway is run

by Chef and Owner Moon Sung Hwan.

Experienced in Japanese cuisine and more, Moon opened up the underground restaurant in 2017.

Initially easy to miss, if you turn your head to the right after spotting the sign, you’ll notice a stairwell that takes you into a dark room that conjures up winecellar vibes. Aimed at providing a laid back setting, Moon used wooden tables, Japanese condiments and edgy colors to portray an environment perfect for Friday night drinks and chat.

Moon comes from the Southern city of Busan. Regularly travelling up to Seoul when he was younger, Itaewon was where he frequented the most. Familiar with the area, he knew this was the perfect place for his first business. “Itaewon Stairway is a mix between a Korean ‘po cha’ and a restaurant” Moon describes. Their best selling items includes their Salmon Sashimi – prepared delicately with salt and Japanese sake, they source their salmon from Norway, ensuring freshness and a smooth bite – and their Beef Ddeokbokki – chewy rice cakes simmering in a spicy sauce, topped with thin slices of beef, that are stir-fried and seasoned.

According to Moon, the Itaewon scene has changed a lot in the past few years.

While he thinks Itaewon use to be more ‘exotic’, he still agrees that the area holds some of the city’s more unique restaurants and shops. “I just want my restaurant to be somewhere everyone can feel comfortable in” says Moon. Hidden in a back street off the main track, Itaewon Stairway is the perfect example of a hidden find.

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ITAEWON / BOGWANGDONG

COVER STORY

Pizza After Luv pizzaafterluv

Itaewon-dong 127-22

A play on “a smoke after sex”, Ahn Woo Rang wanted to make the signature food enjoyable for everyone, day or night.

Ahn use to work in a food truck in the Dongdaemun area, selling late night slices to hungry shoppers, and even appearing at music festivals, a treat for the ravenous festival goers. After some successful popup stores in Seoul, Ahn eventually decided it was time to open his own place.

Taking cooking lessons from a fellow pizza-maker friend, Ahn then recreated the recipes slightly for Pizza After Luv. “Pizza is such a simple food. It is so convenient to make and eat it” recalls Ahn, “since there’s no need for a lot of water when making it or washing up, our food waste is kept to a minimum here. It’s great!”. He describes his pizza as authentic New York. Large and fresh out the oven, Ahn is keen to focus only on the base and the quality of the cheese, rather than over complicating it with too many toppings, like some other pizza places in the city.

The quirkiness of the store is Ahn’s personal touch to the place – hanging New York Giant t-shirts, dangling Michael Jordan sneakers off the pipes and a mish mash

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of old concert posters, Pizza After Luv is Moon’s remake of a perfect New York diner.

Located near the clubs, it’s already the perfect go-to for starving 1am clubbers.

While their pepperoni and cheese pizzas are the most popular, they have several other flavors on offer too. Be it a cheeky slice or a whole, Pizza After Luv doesn’t skimp on the cheese, while their base is crispy, thin and chewy – the perfect rendition of an authentic NY pizza. As Moon quotes, “the moment you step in, I want people to feel ‘at home’. From interior to taste, I want people to be reminded of a casual New York diner – nostalgic and original”.

COVER STORY North London Collegiate School Jeju

"My seven years of valuable experience as a boarder have allowed me to discover new dimensions of myself as an independent, creative and active individual. I learned that not setting a limit is the first simple step."

Helen Joung Year 12 Head Girl

START HERE GO ANYWHERE NLCS Jeju is a British International boarding school for girls and boys aged 4-18.

We welcome Korean passport holders and all foreign passport holders.

For more Information : www.nlcsjeju.co.kr : 064-793-8004 49 admissions@nlcsjeju.kr

COMMUNITY

T H E S H OW N O O G T S MU me changes

ine fests—with so

host famous w r still planning to

The Kiwi Chambe

AMBER OF of THE KIWI CH sy te ur co os ot LKA • Ph Story EMMA KA

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KOREA COMMERCE IN

COMMUNITY

T

he COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on a lot of events and plans for the spring and summer. Concerts and tours have been cancelled, events put on hold. Many planners have been rushing to make changes and adapt to a new event culture that will take the virus into account so that guests and attendees remain safe while still having a good time.

The Kiwi Chamber of Commerce’s annual New Zealand Wine Festival, held in Seoul and Busan in May and June, is one such event taking new regulations and the uncertainty that the outbreak has brought into stride.

Despite having to postpone, both Chair Tony Garrett and project manager Sunny Myung assure that the events will go on in 2020, though with some changes such as dates and potentially locations.

“This has been a most unusual year.

I am certain none could have anticipated anything like this,” Garrett said. He continued that it would be inappropriate to think of scheduling any kind of event at this time - typically the Seoul event is held at The Grand Hyatt the last weekend in May - not until it’s safe for guests, staff and hosts.

The outbreak has caused the chamber to rethink their plans in a big way.

But Myung added that they are fully committed to following local regulations that put people’s safety first. She said that over the last 10 years with the festival, they’ve had to deal with different kinds of challenges, but in the end proceeded with their events in a safe manner. Though as

the wine festivals are certainly popular and anticipated year-round, it was a difficult decision to postpone until later in the year.

The Kiwi Chamber is planning to proceed with the two festivals - the Seoul event will take place in late September, with the Busan event following in early October. Garrett said that they do not want to do anything but what has made them successful in the past, which is a “relaxed outside garden festival event in Seoul and an indoor, yet seaside, event in Busan.”

Thankfully, the weather in Korea around that time is still nice to enjoy with wine,

are excited about this - though we are still working on the details.”

The festivals offer an experience each year that is beyond just the wine, Myung said. Last year, they launched “Hidden Cellar Door,” which introduced wines that are not yet available in the Korean market.

This year is different with the focus on the arts.

“We want to pave the way and create an experience where you can fully immerse yourself in the arts with wine,” Myung said. “To be specific, the New Zealand film industry is growing significantly.”

The idea this year is to celebrate ‘Kiwi’ artistry. New Zealand has some extraordinary talent in the arts, whether in media, painting, etc.

Tony Garrett, chairman of The Kiwi Chamber Myung continued. They are still working on the venues and other details, though she said the Seoul event could be moved indoors because of the weather.

This year’s event is special, as it is the 19th (Busan) and 20th (Seoul) events.

“The 20th birthday in New Zealand is a significant event in someone’s life, the celebration of someone becoming an adult. Our wine festival is reaching adulthood!” Garrett said. “The idea this year is to celebrate ‘Kiwi’ artistry. New Zealand has some extraordinary talent in the arts, whether in media, painting, etc. We

While they do have to make changes other than the dates, Garrett says that they hope there will be no major differences in the experience that guests will have. There will still be a large selection of wines on offer, good food and a relaxed vibe.

Myung said that she feels this year’s events being moved to the fall will allow for the opportunity to introduce new wines to guests. Typically white wines do better in the Korean market in the early summer months. But the new dates would allow for guests to appreciate red wines more.

“New Zealand red wines are exceptional and world renowned. Through the wine festival we want our guests to discover a wider range of remarkable reds ranging across the North and South islands of New Zealand,” she said.

And while there is always the worry that the outbreak could affect numbers, both Garrett and Myung are confident that this year’s festivals will be just as, if not more, successful as past events.

Details on both events will be disclosed in about a month on the Chamber’s website (www.kiwichamber.com) or on their Facebook and Instagram accounts.

“We are still finalizing the details to ensure all have a safe and exciting experience at this year’s wine festivals. Stay tuned and secure your tickets,” Myung said. “A glass of wine a day keeps the doctor away. Stay healthy - drink more New Zealand wine.”

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FOOD & DRINK

NEKKID WINGS? A CLASSIC!

NEK KID Story ROWENA SHEK • Photos SOPHIE GEE

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FOOD & DRINK

‘It’s actually our three year anniversary,”

'N

ekkid Wings?’ I ask.

‘A classic!’ my friends reply.

Who doesn’t know about the infamous brand that popped up in the backstreets of Itaewon 3 years ago? It was exactly April 2017 when founder Lee Sae Ahm (Sam) brought “Buffalo Wild Wings”inspired wings to Seoul, to the delight of numerous expats around the city. However I’m not here about their juicy wings. I’m not here about their 14 finger-lickin’ sauces. No, I’m here for Nekkid 2.0.

‘It’s actually our three year anniversary,” Sam chimes in, with his red tee and stickercovered MacBook. Despite his casual mien, after a quick glance at the menu and a firm nod to the waiter, it’s certainly clear he carries an air of business. This might explain how he managed to impressively expand the Nekkid brand into (and counting) three businesses since our last interview.

His original intention to grow should come as no surprise. Selling Hand and Malt Slow IPA alongside Classic Buffalos, word about the hidden gem got round.

Soon they were even featured on famous TV food shows, such as ‘수요미식회’ and ‘VJ 특공대’.

My nostrils suddenly prickled as their glorious Double Platter (32,000₩) silently slipped in front of me: twenty wings in four sauces, two dips, shoestring fries, an onion ring and a salad. Don’t fret if that isn’t enough – their level-up Party Platter (62,000₩) of forty wings and four sides might just suffice. Slipping on their unique 3-finger gloves, I held up a glistening ‘Korean Glaze’: the saltiness of the Korean ssamjang and dwaenjang, cut through by the sugar, followed by that delicate crunch of batter and the dripping juices, was just regal.

“Authentically wings are not breaded, but we found out that when you bread wings and then (deep) fry them. It’s juicier inside and crispier outside, so that’s what we do here at Nekkid Wings,” Sam explained, as I greedily reached for the next flavor: Amazinger. One of their best sellers, this is Nekkid’s signature sauce that they created, and the result? A vinegar-base sauce with a whisper of garlic, kick of spice and a clear salute to Tabasco-undertones.

Sumptuous.

Usually soy-based glazes in Korea are distinguishable as being ever-so-slightly saltier than their yangyum counterpart.

However, with a separate dip of wasabi glaze (pungent and spicy – only for the brave!), the distinct overtones of soy sauce in the Wasabi Soy immediately forced me into a moment of proud silence. The truest soy glaze I have ever tussled with, by far. ▶

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FOOD & DRINK

“Authentically wings are not breaded, but we found out that when you bread wings and then (deep) fry them.

It’s juicier inside and crispier outside, so that’s what we do here at Nekkid Wings”

Always the best for last, Classic Buffalo was Nekkid’s take on America’s true love: sour, slightly spicy and tangy, it hits sharp against the tongue. Paired with a cheeky Itaewon Pale Ale (and their delicious 6-inch, handmade onion ring), this one is for those beautiful late Friday nights.

With now 14 sauces to choose from, ranging from Korea-inspired Honey Butter, to unique South-East Asian Chili and Sichuan Mala, to classics such as Jerk and Buffalo, they certainly have something for everyone, and it is their love for sauces that actually inspired their second venture in 2019 – Jindotgae Hot Sauce(진도개 핫소스).

Made with local Korean peppers and originally Tabasco-Sriracha inspired, Sam wanted to invent something the masses could take home and enjoy. “People come to our restaurant to just buy sauces… so I was like, ‘maybe if we make our own sauce, to go with any type of food, that might do (better).’”

Handing me a bottle of said sauce, the first thing that stood out was the cute Jindo Dog logo. “We, as Nekkid Crew….. wanted to make this sauce as one of the representative sauces of Korea, and one of the things that came to mind was using a Korean breed of dog. The way it (dog) looks, with the tongue out, it kinda

54

expresses how spicy and how tangy it is.

It’s actually not sweet at all, it’s pretty sour and a little bit spicy.”

With a hush of excitement, Sam tells me they’re already selling it on Market Kurly and Emart, and are in the works of exporting the sauce to the states.

Of course, the determined Nekkid Crew did not just stop there, when they launched their third venture that same year. ▶

FOOD & DRINK

Trained at TONI & GUY and VIDAL SASSOON Academy in UK Color, Perm, Magic Straight, Treatment and more English Spoken For more info, call Johnny Tel 02.363.4253 Mobile 010.5586.0243 3rd fl. 168-3 Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu Qunohair Gangnam / Apgujeong Branch Tel 02.549.0335 10-6, Dosan-daero 45-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul www.qunohair.com

www.hairnandjoy.com 55

FOOD & DRINK “Anything you can eat, we wanna put it on clothing.”

Their DONOTEAT clothing line clothing sounds simple enough. Continuing with their love of food – fried chicken on baby pink caps, ketchup-red “pepperoni” on cheese-yellow sweaters – Nekkid wanted to create fun apparel that anyone could wear.

Their 2019 F/W ‘Pizza’ collection may slowly be selling out, but keep your eyes peeled for their upcoming 2020 S/S ‘Horror Juice’ collection – think dripping tomato juice and dissected vegetables…..

So with their new hot sauce going global, and their clothing line expanding; what next,

then, for 2020? “That’s a good question,” Sam said, “we wanna open another Nekkid Wings in Jamsil and Gangnam… hopefully sometime this year.”

For someone who never thought he would open a wings place, let alone see it grow thrice-fold, his ambition is clear. Looking around you will see character: urban neon signs, industrial brick interior. Looking closer you will see potential: bustling chefs breading, hungry customers queuing, Jindotgae Hot Sauce stickers flashing, DONOTEAT hoodies dangling; and it is this exact potential that explains perfectly why, Nekkid will return with more fire, for Nekkid 3.0.

“Anything you can eat, we wanna put it on clothing.”

Nekkid Wings

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Itaewon 1-dong 34-8

070 4078 7411

@nekkidwings

www.nekkidwings.com | www.donoteat.kr | www.jindotgaehotsauce.com

FOOD & DRINK

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FOOD & DRINK

YOU ARE WHAT YOU READ Story + Photos BECKY WHITE

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FOOD & DRINK

B

ooks and cafes. The eternally favored companions among the thinkers, the lost, the introverted, the curious and the world-changers. A type of warm quiet is found only in a good bookshop; the older the better. In such places, books in weathered covers stand on shelves like sentinels of knowledge, keeping eye over those who wander through. Most people who do visit bookshops are wanderers; that’s the best type of visitor. Come to a bookshop without a set title in mind and you’ll discover a whole host of new titles you’re suddenly anxious to read.

Beware not to confuse a proper bookshop with just a place to house books.

The greatest writers who have ever put pen to paper leave their words, philosophies, heartbreaks, triumphs and cynicism to live forever in bookshops. Among these books, the weakest person can defeat dragons, the smallest child can reach great heights, the loneliest man can find good friends and the nicest of women can solve a wicked crime.

“A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end,” quipped American novelist William Styron, “You live several lives while reading.”

A proper bookshop is the secret keyhole to worlds unimaginable - and the reader holds the key.

“Readers are leaders,” my linguistics professor once told me. She looked me dead in the eye as though she knew that one day I would stop being as avid a reader as I had been all through high school.

Post-university were the dark ages of my bibliophilism and my professor seemed to have been attempting to inform me through telekinesis to not waste time. Only just a year back when I put down my phone and let my fingers trace the cover of a book I had bought on a whim at the airport did that love of reading flicker hopefully inside of me. I finished the 400 page novel on a single flight and when the final page turned, I mourned all the books I hadn’t read and could have been reading since I graduated from university. I’ve been trying to make up for it. ▶

I am no mathematician by even the greatest stretch of the word but there is one equation that appears inevitably straightforward in my mind. Books + coffee = happiness. So simple and elegant is this calculation!

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FOOD & DRINK

I am no mathematician by even the greatest stretch of the word but there is one equation that appears inevitably straightforward in my mind. Books + coffee = happiness. So simple and elegant is this calculation! I exult in my excellent reasoning. But finding a cafe in Seoul where you can spend all day reading isn’t really so easy as it ought to be. Bookstores made for purchasing have a very different atmosphere than books made for lingering.

The tampered-down panic that books were being replaced by electronic devices and movies has been partially swept away it was with some unreasonable smugness that I read this article and share it here.

But I believe that print will never die and I’m happy to see the spread of a new bookstore called Arc n Book is popping up around Seoul and doing well for itself. Add a cafe to it and you’ve made magic.

Sikmulhak Cafe began at their Sinsa location and has done so well for themselves that they’ve opened up not only a second location of Sikmulhak but another cafe under a different name; I’ll reveal that some other time. Their second Sikmulhak cafe located at the Euljiro Arc n Book is a special treat to a day of book browsing. They’re placed well at the center of the book shop, with plenty of tables to

Some tables are set aside just for reading, so while you may bring your coffee cup with you, keep the conversation to a minimum. I was violently shushed by an employee whom I can only describe as channeling the spirit of Professor McGonagall and the strict librarian spinster from your childhood fears.

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accommodate the casual coffee drinker as well as the reader. Some tables are set aside just for reading, so while you may bring your coffee cup with you, keep the conversation to a minimum. I was violently shushed by an employee whom I can only describe as channeling the spirit of Professor McGonagall and the strict librarian spinster from your childhood fears.

Their menu isn’t as creative as the one at the Sinsa location but they’ve got good espresso. They make nice latte art and the greenery they keep dotted around the open cafe suits the environment quite well.

From what I recall, they did have their usual baked goods - nothing to write home about but still decent enough to go with the good coffee they make. I came before noontime before the lunch rush came. Just a handful of people were reading here and there, but overall the place was mine. Come twelve and it’s overrun with office workers ready for a good chat and break. it gets noisy and remains pretty much full until evening. Still, they set aside a section just for reading and it stays relatively quiet, thanks to the vigilance of a certain worker. I ended up being very appreciative of him.

It’s located rather close to City Hall (시청역) so the surrounding area is fairly busy. If you want a good place to read and hang out for a while and you don’t mind people coming and going the whole time, you’ll find Sikmulhak suits you just well.

FOOD & DRINK

If you want a good place to read and hang out for a while and you don’t mind people coming and going the whole time, you’ll find Sikmulhak suits you just well.

Arc n Book / Sikmulhak Cafe 서울 중구 을지로 29 Arc n Book 점 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM @arc.n.book_official / @sikmulhak Plastic Free? They do a good job on that :) I didn’t order an iced drink so I don’t recall if they offer plastic straws.

They use silverware with their cakes.

If you like Cafe Hunter and want to read more, see her official blog at sincerelybecky.com . Tag the Cafe Hunter on her instagram @cafehunter.official to be featured

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LISTINGS

FAMILY AND KIDS Eton House Prep (02) 749-8011 • 68-3 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul A unique British-style Prep School for children of all nationalities from 2-13 years of age. A broad, challenging and innovative curriculum preparing pupils for senior school and life beyond. www.etonhouseprep.com AMUSEMENT PARKS Everland Resort (031) 320-5000 • 310 Jeondae-ri, Pogokeup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do Lotte World (02) 411-2000 0 • 240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul Pororo Park (D-Cube city) 1661-6340 • 360-51 Sindorim-dong, Guro-gu, Seoul Children’s Grand Park (zoo) (02) 450-9311 • 216 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul Seoul Zoo (02) 500-7338 • 159-1 Makgyedong, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do BOOKSTORES What the Book?

(02) 797-2342 • 176-2, Itaewon 1-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul • whatthebook.com Located in Itaewon, this English bookstore has new books, used books and children’s books.

Kim & Johnson 1566-0549 • B2 fl-1317-20 Seochodong, Seocho-gu, Seoul

HEALTH ORIENTAL MEDICINE Lee Moon Won Korean Medicine Clinic 02) 511-1079 • 3rd fl., Lee&You bldg. 69-5 Chungdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul Specializes in hair loss and scalp problems and offers comprehensive treatments and services including aesthetic and hair care products.

COSMETIC SURGERY MIZAIN plastic surgery Seoul National University College of Medicine graduate doctors offer the best quality medical services • (02) 515 6199 • Dosan-daero 423 (Cheongdam-dong 91-11), Gangnam-gu, Seoul www.mizainps.com MVP plastic surgery Welcoming environment for foreigners and friendly staff guarantees a pleasant visit for cosmetic surgery related consultations. (02) 3442 6669 •Nonhyeon-ro 819, Gangnam-gu, Seoul JK plastic surgery center Experience the best medical system in Korea. Its superb system allows the minimum efforts for your medical experiences.

(02) 777 0337 • 584-2 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul FITNESS Exxl Fitness Gangnam Finance Center, 737 Yeoksamdong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul www.exxl.co.kr

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UROLOGY & OB Sewum Urology (02) 3482-8575 • 10th fl., Dongil bldg., 429 Gangnam-daero, Seochogu, Seoul Tower Urology (02) 2277-6699 • 5th fl. 119 Jongno 3-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul DENTAL CLINIC Boston Dental Clinic General dentistry / Periodontics / Orthodontics (02) 3482-0028 • 92-12 5F, Banpo 4-dong (Seorae French Village), Seocho-gu, Seoul OPHTHALMOLOGY Dream Eye Center The best eye clinic for LASIK and LASEK. 3,000+ foreign patients over 20+ years of experience with 0 complaints. If you’re considering getting this, make sure to choose the best.

• 1588 9881 • 14 fl., Mijin Plaza, 825 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul ANIMAL HOSPITALS Itaewon Animal Hospital (02) 797-6677 • 210 Noksapyeong-daero, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

MUSEUM AND GALLERIES National Museum of Korea (02) 2077-9000 • 168-6 Yongsandong 6-ga, Yongsan-gu, Seoul The NMK offers educational programs on Korean history and culture in English and Korean.

National Palace Museum of Korea (02) 3701-7500 • 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongnogu, Seou This museum has a program called Experiencing Royal Culture designed for English teachers to help learn about Joseon royal culture.

Seodaemun Museum of Natural History (02) 330-8899 • 141-52 Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul Don’t know where to take your kids on weekends? This museum exhibits a snapshot of the world and animals.

National Museum of Contemporary Art, Korea (02) 2188-6000 • 313 Gwangmyeongro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do Leeum Samsung Museum of Art (02) 2014-6901• 747-18 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul • 10:30 am-6 pm Closed on Mondays, New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year and Chuseok holidays.

Gallery Hyundai (02) 734-6111~3 • 22 Sagan-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul The first specialized art gallery in Korea and accommodates contemporary art. • 10 am-6 pm Closed on Mondays, New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year and Chuseok holidays.

Plateau (02) 1577-7595 • 50 Taepyung-ro 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul • 10 am-6 p. m.

Closed on Mondays.

National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul (MMCA SEOUL) (02) 3701-9500 • 30 Samcheong-ro, Sogyeok-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul Daegu Art Museum (053) 790-3000 • 374 Samdeok-dong, Suseong-gu, Daegu Art space for local culture presenting Daegu’s contemporary fine arts and internationally renowned artists.

LISTINGS EMBASSIES American Embassy (02) 397-4114 • 188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul Canadian Embassy (02) 3783-6000 • (613) 996-8885 (Emergency Operations Center) Jeongdong-gil (Jeong-dong) 21, Jung-gu, Seoul British Embassy (02) 3210-5500 • Sejong-daero 19-gil 24, Jung-gu, Seoul Australian Embassy (02) 2003-0100 • 19th fl, Kyobo bldg., 1 Jongno 1-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul Philippine Embassy (02) 796-7387~9 • 5-1 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Spanish Embassy (02) 794-3581 • 726-52 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul French Embassy (02) 3149-4300 • 30 Hap-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

HOTELS & RESORTS Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul (02) 2250-8080 • San 5-5, Jangchung-dong 2-ga Jung gu,Seoul

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Novotel Ambassador Gangnam (02) 567-1101 • 603 Yeoksam 1-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul Grand Hilton Seoul (02) 3216-5656 • 353 Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul Somerset Palace Seoul (02) 6730-8888 • 85 Susongdong, Jongno-gu, Seoul Park Hyatt Seoul (02) 2016-1244 • 606 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul Lotte Hotel Busan (051) 810-1000 • 772 Gayadaero, Busanjin-gu, Busan Park Hyatt Busan (051) 990-1244 • 51, Marine City 1-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan 612824, Korea

EMERGENCY MEDICAL CENTERS

Seoul National University Hospital 1339 • 28-2 Yeongeon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul Seoul Samsung Hospital 1599-3114 • 50 Irwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul Asan Medical Center 1688-7575 • 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpagu, Seoul Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center (053) 250-7167 (7177 / 7187) • 56 Dalseong-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu

AIRLINES Korean Air 1588-2001

FAMILY AND KIDS Yongsan Intl. School (02) 797-5104 • San 10-213 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Seoul Intl. School (031) 750-1200 • 388-14 Bokjeongdong, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do Branksome Hall Asia (02) 6456-8405 • Daejung-eup, Seogipo-si, Jeju Island Daegu Intl. School (053) 980-2100 • 1555 Bongmudong, Dong-gu, Daegu

Dulwich College Seoul

Asiana Airlines 1588-8000 Lufthansa (02) 2019-0180 Garuda Indonesia (02) 773-2092 • garuda-indonesia.co.kr

University Dongsan Medical Center (053) 250-7167 (7177 / 7187) 56 Dalseong-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu

Jeju Air 1599-1500

Gangnam St-Mary’s Hospital 1588-1511 • 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul

British Airways (02) 774-5511

Yonsei Severance Hospital (Sinchon) (02) 2227-7777 • 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

Delta Airlines (02) 754-1921

T’way Air 1688-8686 Jin Air 1600-6200 Cathay Pacific Airways (02) 311-2700v Emirates Airlines (02) 2022-8400

Dulwich College Seoul offers an exemplary British-style international education (including IGCSE and IBDP) for over 600 expatriate students aged 3 to 18 from over 40 different countries.

6 Sinbanpo-ro 15-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Korea http://seoul.dulwich.org/ admissions@dulwich-seoul.kr 02-3015-8500