This story originally appeared on i-D Korea.
Last week saw Seoul Fashion Week return to the city’s neo-futuristic Zaha Hadid-created Dongdaemun Design Plaza for the first time in three years. There to showcase their SS23 collections, South Korean designers — including Sungju and Ajobyajo — were all-too eager to embrace in-person presentations after several Covid-induced seasons going digital or off-schedule.
The venue was alive with people showing off their best fits, while artists and celebrities stole the show amongst the busy crowds. We sent Seoul-based photographer Nikolai along to capture the most stylish people in attendance — from buyers and stylists, to models and musicians.
Renata
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
This is my fourth visit to Korea for work. I came to support my friends who are working with Seoul Fashion Week.
It’s the city’s first IRL Fashion Week in three years. Does it feel like things have changed?
I missed it! In-person fashion week is definitely different, and the architectural beauty of DDP is really good.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
A necklace that a friend gave me — I customised it myself.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is not only about finding your identity, but also about having fun.
Zena & Chaewon
It’s the city’s first IRL fashion week in three years. How does it feel?
Jenna: I’m looking forward to seeing new fashion designers come through.
Chaewon: There’s such a variety of style in Korea — I really think there’s something for everyone, regardless of age.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
Jenna: Adidas jacket.
Chaewon: bbsimon belt.
What does fashion mean to you?
Jenna: It’s a way to show off your charm.
Park Min-geun
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
It’s my first time, so it’s fun because there are a lot of things to enjoy and there are people who like fashion.
What are you most looking forward to at fashion week?
Seeing models and people I don’t normally meet.
What does fashion mean to you?
Everything.
Song Yong-ho
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
The calibre of the designers.
It’s the city’s first IRL fashion week in three years. How does it feel?
It’s nice to have a new experience.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
My Rick Owens Bolan Banana Pants.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is a means of expressing yourself.
JAYKEN
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
I came to Seoul three months ago from Japan. I came here to enjoy fashion.
It’s the city’s first IRL fashion week in three years. Does it feel like things have changed?
With the onset of Covid-19 and the rise of digital shows, the perspective of fashion has shifted and there’s a new focus on digital.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
The Dior top I’m wearing. I’ve been looking for it for a long time and I’m finally wearing it now.
What does fashion mean to you?
Philosophy. I express myself through fashion.
Anna Mazzhyk
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
I came here because I wanted to discover Seoul’s fashion.
It’s the city’s first IRL fashion week in three years. How does it feel?
I really like it. I love meeting people in person and experiencing new things.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
By Far Bag.
What does fashion mean to you?
I see it as an opportunity to express myself to others.
Kim Seung-hoo
It’s Seoul’s first IRL Fashion Week in three years. How does it feel?
It’s actually my first time attending, so it’s fun.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
The trousers — the fit varies depending on the zipper.
What does fashion mean to you?
I love it.
Bong Kim
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
My shoes. I bought them in the Netherlands ages ago and I like how they’ve aged.
What does fashion mean to you?
Equal opportunity given to all.
Kim Seong-ju
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
I’m here to open the show.
It’s the city’s first IRL fashion week in three years. How does it feel?
It’s good, a lot of people have shown up.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
My shoes.
What does fashion mean to you?
Joy.
Jungle
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
I want to enjoy fashion.
What are you most looking forward to at fashion week?
The fun people.
Which element of your look do you like the most?
The necklace.
What does fashion mean to you?
Expression.
Jacob
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
I came to check it out.
It’s Seoul’s first IRL fashion week in three years. How does it feel?
It’s my first fashion week. I’m here because my girlfriend is a stylist.
Which element of your look are you most proud of today?
My trousers.
What does fashion mean to you?
New experiences.
Jaewon Jeong
What brings you to Seoul Fashion Week?
I came to watch shows three years ago, now I’m excited to be modelling.
What are you most looking forward to?
Fashion week overlaps with Halloween season, so I’m curious to see if that influences people’s fashion at all.
Which element of your look do you like the most?
My earrings.
What does fashion mean to you?
Money.
Jang Woo-hyung
It’s Seoul’s first IRL Fashion Week in three years. How does it feel?
It’s new for the first time.
What are you most looking forward to at fashion week?
It’s essentially a showcase of people’s individuality.
Which element of your look do you like the most?
The layers.
Credits
Photography Nikolai Ahn