Ever since the K-wave swept through, Seoul, Korea, has become a top travel destination. However, Donson Chan, a stylist and co-founder of the creative collective Fakedcandid, has been ahead of the hallyu curve for years. His first visit to Seoul was over two decades ago during a family vacation, and after returning during a graduation trip in 2014, he has made it a point to visit every year.
South Korea’s retail stores are known for their creative installation spaces. For instance, eyewear label Gentle Monster has various concept stores all over Seoul to showcase its products. This particular outlet is housed inside a remodelled bathhouse.
Instead of visiting the typical tourist hotspots, the art lover keeps an eye out for the coolest underground spots in the city and creative concept stores hidden along Seoul’s back lanes. Ahead, Chan shares a colourful and Instagram-worthy guide to the South Korean capital.
“Seongsu-dong is a cool neighbourhood popular among locals. The former industrial district is an up-and-coming spot if you want to experience life like a local. In May 2022, Dior opened a new pop-up complex (pictured) in the area, which is set to stay for three years. It is the first international luxury brand to enter this district.”
“(Gourmet egg sandwich joint) Eggdrop (pictured) is my go-to place, for sure. I’m not a morning person. Sometimes, I grab some Korean dumplings at Chang Hwa Dang for brunch before starting my day. They offer numerous options, but my favourite is the pork ribs dumpling – they also serve pork dumplings, but the pork ribs dumpling is a must-try.”
“I tend to revisit Coffee Nap Roasters in Yeonman-dong for its decor, featuring seats that resemble tiled roofs, and its pet-friendly environment. If you want to experience the traditional Korean Hanok house vibe, you can give Lake Coffee More (pictured) in Samcheong-dong a try.”
“I stumbled upon D8NE by Peaches, which features a half-destroyed vehicle stuck in the garden and supercars parked within the facility; it felt almost like a set design for an Ambush campaign, and I was instantly sold. The space is a multi-concept diner located in Seongsu-dong where you can enjoy doughnuts and coffee from Knotted, burgers from Downtowner, ice cream from Fun Peaches, and alcohol from Smoking Tigers. Each space has a unique concept and interior. There is also a skate park on the rooftop and a pink garage for car customisation – being here is like visiting a theme park.”
“Kusikohc is not entirely new; it’s the fashion label that photographer Cho Gi-Seok started in 2016. After a hiatus of a few seasons, he has returned stronger and tougher than before. Honestly, I only discovered his label with its relaunch this year. The multi-dimensional and experimental design has redefined the concept of streetwear, reminding me of Virgil Abloh’s Louis Vuitton but with a distinct Korean grunge and street style. Some of the other Korean labels that I appreciate include Ader Error, Andersson Bell, Welldone, Ajobyajo (pictured), Iise, and Kimhekim.”
“Tamburins is a concept store I came across in Garosu-gil back in 2017. Its two-storey flagship store features multiple photo-worthy installations, but it only sells two products. I purchased the hand cream because the packaging with the chained cap design is truly aesthetic. As it turns out, the brand is owned by Gentle Monster’s parent company, which explains the branding (and financial backing). When I revisited the store in April, the product range had expanded to include hand wash, sanitiser, and scented candles. Trust me when I say that the five or six Airbnbs I stayed in during this trip used Tamburins hand wash or sanitiser. That got me hooked on the brand’s distinctive scent; it’s almost like South Korea’s answer to Aesop.”
“I prefer visiting small galleries, especially those that you unexpectedly come across while roaming the city. During a trip in 2022, I visited Dongjin Market in Yeonnam-dong, which used to be the flea market equivalent of Singapore’s Public Garden. Businesses there were wiped out by Covid-19, and some of the vacant units were taken over by small art exhibitions that were truly intriguing.
Studio Concrete is founded by Korean actor Yoo Ah-in and his creative collective. It’s a creative space that houses an art gallery, cafe, and merchandise store. Punto Blu is a residency for emerging Korean artists to connect with the global art community. It offers a very diverse curation – check out its Instagram, and you’ll be captivated. If you love plants, you must visit this unique greenhouse cafe and gallery, Sikmulgwan PH.
Some of the most exciting exhibitions and pop-ups are temporary. There is an Instagram account called @enjoyexhibition that provides the latest details and updates – be sure to check it out if you are planning a trip to Seoul.”
“This hidden cafe is one of my more recent discoveries in Seoul. It’s wedged between a very narrow alley that can barely fit a bike. Named Coffee Hanyakbang, it takes its name from a traditional Korean medicine room, while the interior features a blend of Korean and Chinese influences with a hint of Wong Kar Wai’s vibe. Every corner of the cafe is exquisitely curated with furniture imported from China. It’s truly a hidden gem.”