Teo Yang’s Guide To Seoul
Teo Yang is one of the most respected interior designers in South Korea and an avid art collector. Trained by the legendary Marcel Wanders, Yang has worked all over the world, but keeps returning to his hometown of Seoul. He loves going on walks through the Han River Park, which runs through the city, and is keen for visitors to get to know South Korea away from the kimchi and K-pop stereotypes. “From mornings spent sipping bubble tea to late-night soju drinking, Seoul has got something for everyone,” he says.
WHERE TO SLEEP
“Seoul is a city that celebrates innovation and change, but we all need to slow down and take a deep breath sometimes. If you want an escape from the busy streets of downtown Seoul then Rakkojae Seoul is your dream hotel—a traditional house hotel located in Samcheongdong, it’s wonderfully relaxing. You will also get a glimpse of a traditional way of living and can even experience a mud sauna.”
WHERE TO BE A TOURIST
“Gwangjang Market is filled with Korean street food and has retained its cultural heritage and local charm. This is a place where you’ll find both tourists and Koreans, all enjoying the same delicious food in a lively setting.”
WHERE TO GET A CAFFEINE HIT
“I love the Onion Cafe Anguk. There are plenty of places with great coffee in Seoul, but this hanok-themed cafe is definitely worth a visit. And it will keep the Instagram beast happy.”
WHERE TO GO FOR DINNER
“You’ll find La Yeon on the top floor at The Shilla Seoul. Famous for its brilliant service, high-quality ingredients and perfect culinary expertise, it’s where I go for really memorable Korean cuisine.”
WHERE TO RELAX
“The Four Seasons Hotel Seoul has the best spa. Overlooking the Gyeongbokgung Palace, it is filled with hot tubs in which you can sit back and marvel at the view.”
WHERE TO PARTY
“The Side Note Club Bar at The Ryse Hotel serves Korean-inspired cocktails accompanied by excellent retro vinyl music. The friendly bartenders always make great recommendations, too.”
WHERE TO SNACK
“Korea is famous for its fried chicken—and luckily good fried chicken can be found almost anywhere. But Hyodo Chicken is the real deal— the soy sauce chicken with dried anchovy is ridiculously good.”
WHERE TO SHOP
“Korean skincare products have turned Seoul into a beauty mecca. Eath Library is a hidden gem with a cult following. If you buy just one product, make it the Smooth Operator Cleanser Gel infused with White Truffle extract—it’s life-changing.”
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Seoul Mediacity Biennale: September 8 to November 22 Gwangju Biennale: September 4 to November 29 Busan Biennale: September 28 to October 27
WHERE TO GET CULTURED
“The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is a must-see. Equipped with a library and theatre, it’s a place where locals and tourists mingle and experience Korean and international contemporary art together. Kukje Gallery is another brilliant art platform in Seoul, presenting the work of the most significant Korean artists.”