The first time I came to Curriculum was when it had just opened. The owner, Oh Seung-hee, was originally a magazine editor, and we worked together on a shoot when I was just starting out as an actor. I had been following her ever since she went independent and started publishing books and working on apparel, so when the place opened, I immediately wanted to come here.
I've always loved reading books, watching movies, and listening to music, and the things on display here really suit my tastes. For example, Jane Birkin and Virginia Woolf are some of my favorite artists. They have books by them here, as well as other things I like. Even books I already own look fresh when I see them here, and they make me want to read them again - that's the charm of the space.
There are some stores that force their products and concepts on you, but this one has a free and relaxed atmosphere, like peering into the owner's studio. Samcheong-dong, where the store is located, is a quiet area of Seoul with few people and many old buildings remaining. Seoul is a fast-paced and energetic city. But it's a place I cherish, where I want to linger and spend time with myself.
