#4 - L.A. Connection with KORE Ltd.

One of the unusual aspects of my experience shooting fashion in Korea is that the majority of the brands I work with want an international look. At concept meetings with clients, my suggestions of utilizing Korean architecture, scenery and models are often met with kind but firm dismissal.

Perhaps it makes sense, then, that it took an L.A.-based streetwear brand to contact me about producing an editorial with a thoroughly Korean look and feel. KORE Limited has its roots in Korean culture, and their designs typically feature traditional Korean art, history and typography. Whilst KORE maintains their L.A. street style, their clothing is steeped in a Korean essence.

I met up with Don and Su, the models for the shoot, at Bongwonsa (봉원사) temple at the foot of Bukhansan mountain on a really balmy day. It being monsoon season in Seoul, we only had a small window of dry weather to work with, and made the most of it. We had to work quietly to avoid bothering the monks or the faithful, who’d come to pray or just enjoy the atmosphere, and the majority of the shoot was done in a whisper.

Despite the mugginess, especially under and canopy of trees, Don and Su did a great job bringing the streetwear look to a traditional location. I’ve got my fingers crossed that I’ll get to shoot more overtly Korean material in the near future. A big 감사합니다 to KORE for such a fun project, and to Don and Su for braving the humidity and the hills.