Sue Ahn – SEOUL Magazine

Winter at the ParK

Sue Ahn — Wed, 17 Feb 2016 04:29:30 +0000

Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the Park in Seoul’s so delightful.

Cozy up to a sauna, dig into the comfort cuisine of the elite, and soak in the most spectacular of Gangnam cityscape views. With the last of the romantic winter days among us, warm up with best that Seoul has to offer because after all, ‘tis the season for loving. So, go ahead, enjoy yourselves and stay a while.

Your winter wonderland awaits.

Dining: “Gangnam Comfort Cuisine”

Romance is the name of the game.

At “The Lounge” on the 24^th floor, bask in the most breathtaking scenery at the heart of the Southside, and indulge in this exquisitely authentic, yet approachable, 5-course meal on meat munchies from bossam (thinly-sliced boiled pork belly) and Korean beef to oceanic overtures of fish and sashimi – just to name a few. The bibimbap also gets a foreigner-friendly makeover in a paella form, as Park Hyatt has ingeniously figured out how to maintain the indigenous notes, all the while allowing the presentation and flavors to be welcoming and approachable for all audiences. Toast the supper with a glass of Duval Leroy, which boasts a rich 156-year-old history, and get ready to be pampered with a the most excellent of services by the symphony of staff members, always willing to accommodate.

Another dining option lies at the basement of the building in a hidden live-entertainment bar & restaurant called “The Timber House”, which has been tastefully decorated to mimic multiple themes of contemporary, yet elegantly classic, Asiatic lounges and bars. From your sushi/sake bar to the cocktail and whiskey bars, the place is adorned with traditional Korean works of art, even down to the furniture and frames, to take you back to the glory days of yesteryears in a reminiscent speakeasy setting. You can’t go wrong with anything off the world-class drink specials, so pair them with tuna tartare, wagyu beef, or the entire surf and turf gang prepared by masters of the art. If this isn’t enough to melt away your winter blues, try the live performances every Monday through Saturday from 8PM to 1AM, featuring leading vocalists who transport you to another time, another place.

But you didn’t think that was it, did you? Its signature restaurant “Cornerstone” is scheduled to reopen after renovation on the 24^th and promises to live up to the talk of the town. You know what that means: Reservations, s‘il vous plaît.

Spa: Pamper Paradise

Nothing says “I care” like a relaxing spa. Park Hyatt prides itself on the signature massage ritual, “Namu”, with exclusive deep-tissue rubs down your tense muscles of the body to help you relax after hard days’ work and stress. This revitalizing “butterfly technique” uses the figure-8 motions to tranquilize any remnants of fatigue and inject vitality back into your steps. Finish with a wrap, and well, that’s a wrap.

For those wanting increased intensity, the Korean series of balance or reflexology offers essential stimulation and restoration of body balance using high-pressure traditional palm and elbow techniques. Specific body-area treatments are available, as well, so prepare for some serious personalization time.

If you’re looking to just sweat off the stress, work up a storm in the fully-equipped fitness facility or the open-pool, overlooking the heart of the district. Afterwards, cool down by the fresh juice bar before dipping yourself into the sauna for some much-needed relaxation time.

You know you deserve it.

Room Accommodations: Winter Wonderland

With the control of the automated curtains that slide up and down at the command of your fingertips, reveal a wall completely covered in glass that allows the natural sunlight to kiss you a very good morning. An oasis in the stunning Gangnam business and shopping mecca across the COEX facilities, Park Hyatt transports you to stunning, new dimensions of the Land of the Morning Calm. The attention to detail in all of its arrangements, down to the furniture, toiletry sets, and placement of art pieces throughout the room will remind you once again what it means to be Gangnam chic.

And there you have it: the only park you’d want to go to all winter. It’s really no wonder Tom Cruise stayed here during his time in Korea to promote his films, so check out what it takes to get his stamp of approval.

For additional information, please visit:

Address: 606 Gangnam-gu, Teheran-ro, Seoul

Phone: + 82 2 2016 1234

Website: seoul.park.hyatt.kr

Sam Hammington: The secrets of a guy-next-door gone global

Sue Ahn — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 13:49:23 +0000

By now I’m sure you’ve heard of Sam Hammington, most recently for his impressive weight loss on a national Korean television show. More intriguing than this healthy twist, however, is how he has become so well-embraced by both the Korean community and his fellow expats. In fact, he’s made a name for himself by starting off in the Korean entertainment industry, and behind this humble figure lies an uncanny talent — one that ultimately pioneered the way for other hopeful foreigners to live out the infinite possibilities of the Korean dream.

So how did it all begin?

To delve deeper into this question, we must first travel back to Hammington’s college years, as he studied Korean in Australia. At the time when most of his peers learning East Asian languages opted for Japanese or Chinese, this was an extremely rare case. Ultimately, though, it paved the way for him to spend three years studying as an exchange student at Korea University, after which he eventually returned to Korea upon graduation. His initial two-year stint spent immersing himself in local culture unintentionally turned into 13, and he shows no signs of termination anytime soon.

“It was different from what everyone else was doing, and I wanted to stand out from the crowd. Not to mention, it was a pit on a resume.”

Touché, Sam. Touché.

Seeing possibility

This, if nothing else, was the secret to his claim to fame: seeing opportunities where others saw emptiness. Pair this with his impeccable sense of direction and perseverance, and you have a foolproof formula for success.

From the get-go, he thrust himself straight into the heart of the culture by surrounding himself with only Koreans and not teaching English.

“I didn’t start with the expat circle, and when a lot of the expats started out teaching English, I knew it wasn’t for me.”

He added that he’d be better off teaching Korean to Australians than English to Koreans. His advice to other expats is to stay true to the voice within. As cliché as it sounds, hear him out — Hammington wholly embodies this philosophy and exudes it in his everyday life.

“There’s always going to be something that works against you, but suck it up. You have to be the person who steps up and changes things. You have the choice.”

His personal beliefs revolve around the vital urge to enjoy life to the fullest, which brings us to his new baby. Figuratively, that is — Hammington is pleased to announce the launch of his new restaurant/bar, Brick Yard. Modeled after rooftop bars in his hometown of Auburn, Australia, Brick Yard exemplifies defiance and liberty where nothing dictates how things should be. As evidenced by the seating arrangements — or the lack thereof, rather — people are encouraged to move within the space, with guests being invited to play around with the tables, chairs, wooden container stacks, and – of course – the people.

Natural evolution

It started out with Hammington’s friend Andy Ahn, who was itching to start something revolutionary. The pair turned to the hottest bartender in town — Ray Oh — resulting in a collaboration that could only be described as fate. “I took a leap of faith and rented out the entire building to make this place happen.”

Being the modest man that he is, Hammington is quick to point out that any success of Brick Yard is not of his own doing.

“It’s a think tank of ideas by many people to do something different and change things from what they were. It’s not about me.”

Isn’t it refreshing to see such an established figure sharing his successes with those who helped him get there? Right on, Sam.

Without even major marketing or PR tactics, the place has already been the talk of the town among those in-the-know. How? Hammington’s principle of organic business resonates with customers with whom he’s already established fundamental relationships, and their honest, balanced opinions mixed with word-of-mouth shares helped leverage his success. “I don’t go out of my way to highlight things. I’d rather have things evolve naturally.”

This community-oriented mindset is at the core of Brick Yard’s philosophy, which is to create the ultimate gathering place that is more than just a bar.

“It’s almost a culture of people getting together, having parties, events, creative concepts and sitting down to just relax. It’s like being at home with creative people together.”

Such down-to-earth approach resonates with those whom he encounters, earning him both affection and respect. Though this food and beverage endeavor is inevitably a part of his being, he wants to make it clear that it does not define him. He chooses not to rely solely on this singular, albeit fundamental, side of his identity. So, then, what’s next for this mega empire in-the-making? For that, he keeps us on the edge of our seats.

Keep trailing us along your Hammington drive, Sam, as you always do. You know we’ll be happily strolling along.

Until next time, g’day, mates.

Goings On Around Town: Aug. 3-10

Sue Ahn — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 00:42:32 +0000

Music

2015 Pentaport

Pentaport is the conglomeration of “Airport, Seaport, Teleport, Business-port, and Leisure-port” to bring you the best of the 80’s and 90’s music and culture of Korea. Largest concert of its kind, don’t miss this chance to travel back in time.

VENUE: Incheon Songdo Pentaport Park
PERIOD: Aug 7-9, 10:00AM~11:00PM
ADMISSION: KRW 130,000-220,000 (refer to websiite for details)
MORE INFO: http://pentaportrock.com/

The Techno Temple with Takaaki Itoh

Gowl presents “The Techno Temple with Takaaki Itoh” at Club Vurt, so get your Saturday Night Fever on with live music and good times.

VENUE: Club Vurt
DATE: Aug 8, 10:00PM
ADMISSION: KRW 20,000
MORE INFO: http://vurtkr.flavors.me

Festivals

Fire Festival Korea

Seoul is holding a fire festival, so get in on all the fiery action. This 1st-annual Fire Festival Korea will feature Fire Gala Shows, Flow Arts, and Circus workshops with talents artists from all around.

VENUE: Somesevit, Banpo Hangang Park
PERIOD: Aug 7-9, Time TBD
ADMISSION: Free
MORE INFO: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FireFestivalKorea/

Expositions/Exhibits

Halal Expo Korea 2015

After placing emphasis on developing Halal markets initiated by President Park on the 2015 State of Union Message, the Korean government has established the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UAE on the cooperation of agriculture and Halal Food.

VENUE: COEX 3rd floor, Hall C
PERIOD: Aug 7-9, 10:00AM~05:00PM
ADMISSION: Free for pre-registration, KRW 5,000 at door
MORE INFO: http://www.halalexpokorea.co.kr/eng/visit/info.php

Travel/Exploration

Organic Farm Experience

This is part of a series of Korean farm and countryside experience. You’ll be taken around unique places where you’ll be able to experience farm life, first-hand. Learn to cultivate various kinds of fruits and veggies while you’re there!

VENUE: Gochang countryside
DATE: Aug 8, 7:00AM
COST: KRW 56,000
MORE INFO: http://gohtravelkorea.net

Deserted Island Beach Camping

The hot days of summer are here and what better way to spend it than on a beach enjoying the sun and water? Not only that, the beach happens to be on a deserted island that is all yours for the weekend! Are you ready?

VENUE: Incheon Ferry Terminal
DATE: Aug 8, 8:00AM
COST: KRW 82,000
MORE INFO: https://www.facebook.com/WinKTravels/events

The Elegant Wisdom of the Joseon Tradition

Changdeokgung Palace was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997 and is a definitive historical landmark in Korean Palace architecture. It is a symbol of national pride and global acknowledgement, and this event aims to create more awareness of its uniqueness and relevance pertaining to the overall Joseon palace.

VENUE: WCO Seoul Office, Anguk Building
DATE: Aug 8, 7:00-9:00PM
COST: TBD
MORE INFO: https://www.facebook.com/events/1594069060854394/

ERIC MCLEE: Redefining the Korean Late-Night-Scape

Sue Ahn — Mon, 13 Jul 2015 02:22:37 +0000

Throw away all your preconceptions of the “Korean dream”, whatever that may be. And if you hadn’t thought of it before, allow this young man to paint you a picture and illuminate the possibilities in this land of the morning calm.

Eric McLee was adopted at 4 yrs old, flying on a plane to the unknown of Uncle Sam, and having been raised in the suburbs of Kansas City, Missouri as one of only three Koreans, Eric knew he was different from the others… but wasn’t exactly sure as to how.

It was only when he entered college that he met his first Korean friends, inspiring him to further search for his identity and connect with his roots. So in 2008 after getting what he could out of his time working for a financial company, he decided to take a leap of faith and make the ultimate big move to Korea.

Teaching English to make a living, he wasted no time in also becoming a sponge, soaking in all his surroundings. Through this he was able to better relate to his culture and meet his biological family. “I was a social butterfly and connected to as many Koreans as I could possibly could.” Anyone who’s ever met him can attest to his magical, mystical people skills, and his knack eventually led him to spearhead changes first-hand in Seoul’s entertainment field as a promoter for Nexcite Korea. This entertainment company specialized in managing others’ brand identity and pioneered below-the-line advertising and PR for clubs, parties, and corporations.

Eric unsurprisingly excelled at promoting, budgeting, and initiating parties, so he decided to head his own hip-hop club and venue in due time, but Nexcite Korea’s founder Heath Bennett at the time urged him to expand his vision to bigger realms, eventually asking him to take over the group four years ago. This is a testament to how one man’s struggle in juggling teaching English to make ends meet and discovering self-identity through a social journey paid off in amplitude.

As if being the CEO of Korea’s premier Western-style party company wasn’t enough, Eric went on six months ago to co-own House Ming, a speakeasy restaurant, bar, and lounge with a Euro-Chinese décor of a dining area that leads to a hidden posh lounge and bar (which turns into a club on Thursday through Saturday nights). As for the restaurant, don’t be fooled by its commonplace appearance of modest southern Chinese roots. “The emerald green tiles on the walls have been imported straight from Chiang Mai – the only place on earth to get them – and the two [guardian lion] statues trace directly back to the Ming dynasty.”

The biggest differentiating factor, though, from all the other eateries in Korea resides within the chef himself who has been flown all the way from Thailand to recreate authentic boat noodle dishes. “There’s nothing else like this special VIP speakeasy place. We’ve been operating for six months and it keeps getting better.”

This kind of an impeccable attention to detail makes everything at Ming out of the ordinary. “We provide premium DJ’s, premium music, and cocktails.” All this was all made possible by Eric’s unparalleled experience running clubs, concerts, and corporate events.

He kept true to his fundamentals at the core, vowing to always provide quality content and smoothly operate his events because after all, this hospitality industry is to make everyone happy. “My main drive was and always will be putting people first and my brand second.” However, this by no means translates to his treating his staff with any less respect than that which he would show his clients. Far from it, in fact. “What makes us the best in Korea is our management. We have the best, hands down.” The team vibe rings deep and true among the staff, which operates like a family unit.

Though his path has been anything but linear – encountering a fair share of conflicts with cultural, generational, and business-related differences – Eric has remained true to his vision and continues to mold the Korean landscape in all realms of food, culture, and nightlife. He attributes his success today to parties that he attended as a simple way to learn more about being Korean, but it seems his native motherland has had bigger plans for him all along.

Work hard to play hard, people. Now, THAT is the Korean dream.