Seoul Searching in Korea: A Film Photo Diary
A recap of my recent trip to Seoul, Korea through the lens of my Yashica T4 film camera.
Film used - Portra400.
It was my first time in Korea and to be honest, Seoul never really intrigued me and I never once had an urge to visit this city. However, after this week long trip, I fell head over heels in love with Seoul and am itching to go back as soon as possible. From the culture to the people, to the food and the technological advances, I am now recommending everyone make a visit to Seoul any chance they get.
AmorePacific’s Beauty Campus at Osan
It was about a 13-hour flight, direct, on Korean Air (via business class - thanks to AmorePacific!!) We landed from LA in the evening and spent the first night at a welcome dinner. I had no problem knocking out right after the food and slept so well.
Our first official day (aka the next morning) was spent at the Beauty Campus of AmorePacific. We learned all about the history behind the brand, from how it started to seeing all the products (and packaging) they ever created.
We were also introduced to Primera, their newest plant based brand. After a day full of presentations and information, we ended it at the Sulwhasoo Flagship (store) & spa. This is where I got the best facial in my life! It was so relaxing that I fell asleep and woke up with baby smooth skin. If you’re in Seoul, go get a facial at Sulwhasoo! You will not regret it.
Inside AmorePacific’s Beauty Campus
Kunku & I
View from my Signiel hotel room
Signiel Hotel
Our first two nights were spent at the Signiel hotel, which is owned by Lotte and located in the tallest tower in Seoul. The room I stayed in was spacious, well decorated, and featured stunning views from the room and bath tub.
Everyone’s room was slightly different so it’s nice to know there are variations of layouts to choose from when you stay at Signiel.
Each morning was spent indulging at the STAY Restaurant, located on the 81st floor. I had an array of foods but I loved their seaweed soup and had that every day. Also their service is great and super attentive.
By the way, if you happen to go to the gym, you’ll find the best views of the bridge and river. I snuck in a quick workout session on one of the mornings of our stay and loved the view so much that I ended up staying much longer on the treadmill than needed.
AmorePacific’s HQ
Linh & I at lunch inside one of the many restaurants inside AmorePacific’s HQ
Crew love: Stevie, Me, Linh, Maria, Kunku
We toured AmorePacific’s HQ on our second day and were blown away at how massive this building is. I believe there’s 9 floors total, including a park (pictured above), and honestly, it reminds me more of a mall than an office building. So many cafes, restaurants, book store, wellness options, daycare, and more! Totally beats any Google office.
Just an hour flight from Seoul is Jeju Island. We spent time poolside, at the breakfast buffet, on the beach, and even had a glamping dinner situation at The Shilla Resort. FYI, there’s A LOT of steps to the beach but well worth it!
The Shilla Resort on Jeju Island
During our stay on Jeju Island, we made a visit to the Dolsongi Tea Garden, which is secluded at the foot of Mt. Halla. AmorePacific owns this tea garden and sources all their green tea from here for their products.
After visiting the tea garden, we had the opportunity to learn how to properly brew and pour tea at Osulloc Tea Stone. We experienced a private tea ceremony and had the chance to shop at the store afterwards. I ended up buying a few tea boxes to take home because it’s just so good!
We flew back from Jeju to Seoul and spent our last night at a Lotte hotel in Myeongdong before returning back to LA.
I had so much on this influencer trip and loved how well organized AmorePacific was. From the selection of bloggers to the itinerary, this is hands down one of my favorite work trips ever! Thank you AmorePacific for this experience!
