What brings us back to old Seoul

A scarf seller in Namdaemun Market became an internet sensation this autumn by inquiring with customers about their motivations for purchasing scarves they would never wear. His approach to sales was unconventional, often drawing laughter at his comments that customers were squandering their money. What made him stand out was the quality of interaction he fostered, which he attributes to the charm of conversation.

However, his newfound fame inadvertently became a hindrance. The throngs of visitors made it challenging for him to engage in meaningful dialogue and disrupted merchants operating nearby. In response, he invited people to visit the market at their own pace, rather than rushing solely to witness him. This predicament highlights an important inquiry about Seoul's revitalized neighborhoods: what transforms a first-time visit into a lasting connection?

Growing up, I had the opportunity to accompany my parents and grandparents to Jongno and Euljiro. I fondly recall wandering through Pimatgol's narrow alleys behind Jongno's main road and browsing through the electronics shops of Sewoon Sangga. A bowl of naengmyeon, or Korean cold noodles, enjoyed in Euljiro is one of those cherished memories.