Remodeling Korean Heritage: Exploration of Transformation in Dance and Cafes Culture

In the vibrant city of Seoul, innovation and tradition intertwine in unique ways, as exemplified by the ventures of Yu Zu-hyung.

In 2016, Cafe Onion opened its doors in Seongsu-dong, marking the beginning of a journey that would see the café expand to other neighbourhoods, including Anguk and Gwangjang Market. The Anguk branch, housed in a traditional Korean building, or hanok, offers a glimpse into the past while embracing the modern.

Cafe Onion's signature dish, the "pastry pizza pie," was born at the Gwangjang Market branch. This fusion creation is just one example of how Yu Zu-hyung aims to attract foreign visitors by drawing inspiration from Korea's rich tradition.

Meanwhile, in the world of contemporary dance, Jung Ku-ho's "One Dance" or "Ilmu" is making waves. Premiering in 2022, the performance returned to Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in Seoul in late August, once again to sold-out audiences. Jung, a renowned creative director and fashion designer, reinterprets the ceremonial dance from Jongmyo jeryeak, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. His work is based on tradition, but he reinterprets and expresses it in a contemporary language for today's generation.

Jung's goal is to push tradition to the very limit of how modern it can appear. This approach aligns with Yu Zu-hyung's philosophy, who stated that what matters most is having a fundamental root. The stronger the foundation, the more new trends will continue to grow.

Yu Zu-hyung is also currently working on a hotel project in Hannam-dong. The project involves converting an old motel into an atmospheric hotel that will incorporate works by leading Korean artists. The specific names of these artists have not been revealed, but the project promises to be a testament to the rich artistic culture of Korea.

Throughout his career, Jung has worked with questions of identity, questions that were sparked by questions he was asked when studying and living abroad. Similarly, Yu Zu-hyung's ventures, from Cafe Onion to the hotel project in Hannam-dong, can be seen as a quest to find and revitalize forgotten or marginalized spaces in Seoul.

"One Dance" and Cafe Onion are just two examples of how innovation and tradition can coexist, each serving as a source of inspiration for the other. As they continue to evolve, they are sure to captivate audiences and visitors alike, offering a unique glimpse into Korea's cultural landscape.

Remodeling Korean Heritage: Exploration of Transformation in Dance and Cafes Culture