Seoul. Standing in the city centre, it’s hard to believe that up until 1950 the South Korean capital’s fate was still uncertain. From a five-century dynastic kingdom to Japanese occupation and war, this is a city that’s worked hard to get to where it is.
Which isn’t to say that all tradition has been lost. The streets of Seoul boast some of the world’s most exciting eating, while its temples and cultural spaces are a haven for contemplation and mindful consumption. While the almighty Michelin Guide has begun to infiltrate Korean food culture, the mavericks behind the city’s most creative kitchens and artistic studios, blending local customs with global sensibilities, have already been acting as de facto ambassadors.
Seoul is home to a fascinating set of restless spirits, grappling with all this recent growth and bringing their own tradition into a globalised 21st century. We spoke to an acclaimed artist who blurs the line between art and object and a fashion designer redefining the notion of “classic,” a food critic in love with his country’s cuisine and a DJ who grew up along with the local underground scene. The city is rife with niche boutiques, music bars and artisan showrooms breathing new life into former industrial spaces. The buzz is palpable—and there’s never been a better time to get lost in Seoul.
