Hyojin Lee
@hyoxxi23, Fashion blogger & Model, Seoul - South Korea
Fashion blogger and fashion model, the talented Hyojin Lee regularly finds herself on both sides of the mirror. Her love of all things retro – and bags in particular – makes her the ideal companion on a journey through the “other side” of her home town, Seoul.
Shop the Seoul look: Backpack / Shoulder bag / Mini bag / Luggage
Guesthouse: Vinehouse
If you want to see and experience old Korean life style this is the best way. Vinehouse is a 100-year-old traditional house located in central Seoul. This picturesque and cozy guesthouse has preserved all its charm. I recommend it every time.
Breakfast: Hadongkwan
Everything in Seoul is in constant flux: the buildings, the streets, even the way people think. So it’s nice to know that some things never change. Like my favorite “Gomtang” house, Hadongkwan. Made according to a recipe that has remained the same for almost 70 years, this popular beef soup served with sliced meat and rice is simply to die for!
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday 7.00am-4.30pm
- Closed 1st and 3rd Sundays
Market: Gwangjang market
Of the many outdoor markets in Seoul, Gwang-jang would have to be one of the oldest and biggest. I just love wandering through the endless rows of food stalls in the middle of the marketplace. Followed by a trip upstairs to satisfy my other appetite for vintage fashion. Whether you’re looking for something classical or just plain hip and trendy, this is definitely one of Seoul’s best-kept secrets!
Lunch: Home I used to live
'Want to catch a glimpse of the Korean countryside without leaving the city? The traditional wood and brick interior takes your thoughts far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. And the menu is just as authentic with many of my favorite traditional dishes and drinks.
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday 11.30am-11.30pm
Home I used to live Playlist
(click track for video)
- Ne-Yo – So Sick $i++;?>
- Blue – One Love $i++;?>
- Boyz II Men – I'll Make Love To You $i++;?>
- Kelly Clarkson – Because Of You $i++;?>
Department store: Shinsegae
Shinsegae stands on the site of Korea’s first department store, the former Japanese Misreukkosi that dates back to the 1930s. Major renovation works in 2007 have transformed it into a luxury hall, featuring a diverse range of brands from top international names to new designer labels. Head straight to the 5th floor for the latest Eastpak collections, including a few you might not find everywhere else.
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday 10.3am-8.00pm
Desserts: Sulbing
If you’re like me, then your 3-course meal of choice would consist entirely out of desserts. Which is why I love the globalized take on traditional Korean sweets made here from home-grown ingredients. It’s hard to pick just one favorite, but if I had to choose, it is probably the sherbet on toast with traditional Korean rice cake.
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday 10.30am-10.30pm
Park: Cheonggyecheon
Cheonggyecheon is a 7-mile-long creek that flows from West to East through downtown Seoul. The makeshift houses that used to line the banks after the Korean war have recently made way for a city park where you can enjoy a peaceful walk by the water and in the picturesque gardens. Cheonggyecheon road connects Myung dong, Jong no and Dongdaemun, some of the most popular places in Seoul.
Opening Hours
- Monday-Friday 9.00am-6.00pm
Restaurant: The Glamping
There might not be a lot of space in the city for camping. But you can still “glamp” at one of Seoul’s newest and hippest restaurants. Enjoy a truly glamorous barbecue that is more than tasty enough to evoke the “great outdoors” from an urban point of view.
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday 5.00pm-2.00am
Pub: Pocha blues
The word ‘Pocha’ used to refer to outdoor stalls. But these days, the best translation is “pub”. Pocha Blues is full of prints and other authentic memorabilia from the 1960s, giving visitors the distinct impression that time stands still in this lively downtown address. Best of all the food is both cheap and deliciously good! One of my personal favorites.
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday 6.00pm-3.00am
Pocha blues Playlist
Featured
Playlist
(click track for video)
Full photo gallery
Photography by Se Hyung Kim