Haeso Studio in Seoul

I had the opportunity to travel to Seoul, South Korea in June 2023. During my 7-8 weeks stay, I wanted to experience the house dance scene and culture. Coming from New York City, house culture has impacted my way of life and I was curious how it grew so largely in other countries. I had heard about the growing popularity of the dance in Seoul, so I wanted to learn about the differences and the subtle changes between both scenes. As I didn’t know anyone, nor did I speak the language, I chose to attend Yonsei University’s International Summer School (YISS) to learn more about South Korea’s culture and language. Through the Gilman Scholarship, I was able to complete the program and further learn about the history and the people of Seoul.

I somehow stumbled upon a dance studio called Haeso. I heard from a teacher back at home about a dancer called Holy. I quickly researched about possible events or sessions that may take place during my stay. Every Thursday there was a House4Life session from 6 pm to 10 pm. Having been in Seoul for one week, I was desperate to be part of the dance community. I never imagined ever feeling so impatient to be there. The walk to Haeso, located near the Yeongdeungpo station, was filled with happiness and nervousness. I was an outsider coming into their space. Not only that but I was much younger and inexperienced with the dance form. Once I was outside, I hesitated to go through the gates. The lights near the staircase were slightly dim. I even thought of turning back, but I kept going searching for Haeso.

Walking inside I see a man with glasses looking slightly confused. There was no one dancing, but I saw someone else looking through CDs. In a room filled with plants and warm colors was a welcoming feeling. I didn’t want to admit but living in a foreign country with no relatives or friends can be lonely. Being in this room was the first time I felt like I was home. Maybe it was the coziness of the room or the gentleness of the cat sitting across from me or Holy’s bright energy.

Slowly more people started coming in. I was so interested in everyone and how they moved and how they interacted with the music. It was different from New York for sure, but that difference was unique. I wanted to learn from them. I wanted to get to know their story with house or UK Jazz or tap dance. I learned that even though it was a house session, people had different styles. I remember I had scheduled a house dance class at 8 pm, but I wanted to stay. I felt so happy that I internally battled myself whether I should leave or not. I stayed and that decision changed my life in Seoul forever.

Haeso became Home.