Seoul Obsessed : We Interview our Apparel Visual Merchandiser

When it comes time for a holiday, most of us jump at the chance of visiting an unfamiliar terrain. An up-and-coming beach destination, a city that's generating interesting buzz or an exotic land now made so accessible via crazy flight promos.

On the other hand, we all know a handful of people who are drawn back to the same city, every chance they get, time and time again. It's like they've fallen under a spell they can't get out of. We know exactly a person like that in Rockstar who's gotten herself very tightly wrapped around Seoul's finger... Having visited the capital of South Korea only 2 years ago, and paying her 5th visit this May, she lives, breathes and eats All Things Seoul.

Today, we sit down and have a chat with our Apparel Visual Merchandiser, Zhiwei, to find out exactly what it is about Seoul that has gotten her head over heels in love.

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♫ In the Mood for Seoul - Bandwagon has again put together a 10-track playlist (Sounds like Grimes, Phoenix & The Magnetic Fields) to get you in the mood for Seoul.


Hello Zhiwei!

Hi!




So Zhiwei, we couldn't help but notice your obsession with Seoul. During dinner breaks, it's common sight to see you plugged into a Korean drama, bursting into 'Big Bang' debates, all that while eating takeaway Bibimbap. How did this happen?

(Laughs) I first starting paying attention to this city when a cousin of mine was there for awhile to pick up the Korean language. And then my sister followed suit, flying to Seoul a little too often, and it made me curious. Almost exactly 2 years ago, I finally booked my tickets to Seoul to find out for myself what the obsession was all about.


Well little did you know. Now having been there, what is it that draws you back time and time again?

I love that Seoul is a modern metropolis, yet the traces of the past are still perfectly intact everywhere. One good example is the grand royal palaces sitting amidst skyscrapers. I also appreciate how Koreans are very supportive of their local art scene. And the food...


Ginseng Chicken on a chilly night


When is the best time to visit?

April for Spring, that's the season I always try to make it for. This is the perfect time to catch the cherry blossoms, and the weather is just lovely.




Where would you recommend lodging at?

The ample guesthouses & hostels all around. Not only can you find guesthouses in prime location for a good rate, they are extremely clean. I'm a no-frills kind of traveller, which is great because it means I don't care too much for housekeeping. Besides, these places are homely, and the laid-back atmosphere in the shared spaces makes it my favourite way to connect with other like-minded travellers.


Feels just like home


What is your #1 favourite thing to do when in Seoul?

Exploring the many quaint neighbourhoods that are filled with cool shops and independent cafes tucked within alleys. There are many cafes popping up all over Seoul, each with their very own distinctive character and flavor, and people-watching in these cafes is really my idea of a perfect afternoon. As an Apparel Visual Merchandiser, this is the most fun way to spot street trends, on top of visiting new retail spaces for inspiration.




If I'm just there for a weekend, what should I not miss?

Hands down, the Free Market in Hongdae. This is an artist flea market held every Saturday, but only from March to around November. The vibe is chill, accompanied with sounds drifting in from the local bands playing nearby, lovely for spending an afternoon looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs for loved ones back home. Hongdae is also a neighbourhood known for its urban arts and indie music culture, partly due to the influence of the nearby Hongik University, well known for its Fine Arts school. You should really take your time to explore this area!




At this very moment, tell us one thing you are craving from your last trip there -

The waffles from Beans Bins! Beans Bins is a popular cafe chain, and their waffles are simply the best. You have to have it with a cup of piping hot coffee.


The best waffles with a generous serving of fresh strawberries


If I'm tired of shopping and eating, what else is there to do in Seoul?

Well then you have to set a weekend for the scenic Jeju Island. You can get there via a plane ride, just an hour and a half away. It's an idyllic getaway from the bustle of Seoul known for it’s natural wonders. When I was there last November, I spent my days visiting waterfalls, natural geological formations, and having long coastal walks. These are sights that can't be seen back home.




You mentioned that you will be visiting Seoul again this May. What are your plans?

I will be making my trip with two other friends, and exploring Busan as well this time round. One of the girls has lived there during a school exchange before, so she will be my tour guide, and in return I will be hers in Seoul. I'm also looking forward to meet the friends she made there.




Thank you for having us, Zhiwei!