If you needed any evidence that Seoul and Korea is one of the hottest destinations on the planet right now, then one only needs to review the last month to understand why!
The cast of the new Avengers sequel had barely taken off from Incheon International Airport, when the world of fashion arrived into Korea's capital during the first weekend in May. The Times newspaper wrote “Lagerfeld's Seoul divas mix ancient and modern” – the article highlighted the country's fascination nearing obsession with clothing 'labels' making it the ideal place to cause a stir amongst global fashion aficionados. The 'Lagerfeld's Chanel fashion show' took place in the ultra modern 'Dongdaemun Design Plaza' building created by Zaha Hadid in the presence of a host of Asian celebrities, creating (in the words of the Times journalist put it) 'so much buzz it was waspish'.
Korea is a shopper's paradise on both sides of the river from Gangnam's high end boutiques to the Hongdae district of Seoul. This area kind of typifies the young dynamic vibe of the city, much loved by the student population and the new generation of travellers coming to the city from all over the world.Hongdae (the area in front of Hongik University) is a neighborhood known for its youthful and romantic ambience, underground cultures, and freedom of self-expression. Unique cafes, cozy galleries, accessory stores, fashion shops, live cafés and clubs, art markets, and gourmet eateries make this a popular hang-out for locals in their 20s and 30s and a fascinating place to walk around.