Half Local magazine brings fresh perspective on Seoul through 1st print issue
It can often feel overwhelming to look up social media recommendations for things to do in Seoul. There are aesthetic cafes tucked away in Seongsu-dong, where visitors might wait 40 minutes for a seat, or the latest “must-visit” Korean beauty store that has taken over Instagram. But for those who live in Seoul, those sites aren't necessarily part of the city they know and love. Enter Half Local,…
The inaugural print issue of Half Local magazine offers a fresh perspective on Seoul, moving beyond the trends and aesthetics often found on social media. This project, launched by British foreign resident Ella Kaill and Korean photographer Harry Heo, aims to showcase the city’s communities, neighborhoods and creative stories.
Kaill, who studied Korean in university before moving to the country in 2019, has immersed herself in the culture and nuances of life in Seoul. The first issue of Half Local brings together a collection of stories that are grounded in a simple idea – being close enough to understand Korea, but far enough away to see it with fresh eyes. This approach provides a glimpse into the city’s daily life that goes beyond the aesthetically pleasing images and recommendations frequently encountered on social media platforms.
Living in Seoul, one may encounter aesthetic cafes tucked away in Seongsu-dong, where visitors might have to wait 40 minutes for a seat, or the latest "must-visit" Korean beauty store that has gained a significant online following. However, these highly-touted locations may not represent the city as lived by its residents. Half Local seeks to capture the essence of Seoul through the eyes of those who call it home, offering a unique and authentic look at this vibrant metropolis.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
