Yeomri-dong: A hip hangout for real locals

Who are you?
Although I’m part of a band called “Peter Ajussi,” my real name is actually Chun Hee-jae. The other band members and I live in what we like to call an “Ahyeondong three room” apartment. We often host concerts at home, calling them “Homemade Concerts” and in light of that sentiment, we recently opened a store called “Unddet Gagae.” 

What exactly do you do?
“Ahyeon-dong three room,” “Homemade Concerts” and Unddet Gagae are all neighborhood-inspired creations. Our idea is to eventually contribute something that can enrich this place artistically while making a profit at the same time. As for now, there is hardly any profit but we hope to establish some kind of sustainable business here by the end of the year. 

Do you think Yeomri-dong lives up to the hype?
Yeomri-dong, a neighborhood that belongs to the locals, is a rare find for this town. The neighborhood is indeed “hip”—there’s no doubt about that. But if you wander the streets with expectations, you’ll be disappointed. Sure, there isn’t much to see, but that misses the point. Yeomri-dong is a neighborhood built on the accumulated grains of history. Take the time to walk the Sogeum-gil (Salt Road), and you’ll see why.

Any other places worth a visit?
Weaving in and out of street corners, you’ll eventually run into an old stationery store called “Taeyang Mungu.” It reminds me of the corner stores from my childhood, munching on junk foods and flipping coins for vending machine toys after school. I go from time to time to relive those moments.

When’s the best time to visit?
Every year, the swallows stop by Yeomridong. When the breeze becomes warm in April, the birds mend their nests to raise their hatchlings. It’s a treat.