Nostalgia in Facades
This project is a series of drawings of old storefront facades in the capital city of South Korea, Seoul. Each piece serves as a path into past, highlighting its architectural charm and the unique artistry of store signage and the variation of Korean typography. The artworks evoke a sense of familiarity and longing for a rapidly disappearing urban landscape.
In an age where modernisation often erases traditional small businesses and their distinctive aesthetics, this series intends to serve as a nostalgic homage. The details in each storefront - from weathered brick walls to handwritten fonts - celebrate the individuality and character of these establishments, many of which have disappeared or are on the brink of vanishing.
Medium: Watercolor pencil, acrylic, pigment pen on 360gm heavy paper

'Hyundae Mungu’ (Hyundae Stationary) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Uri Sikdang’ (Uri Restaurant) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Ilheung Eibal’ (Ilheung Barborshop) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Mecca Jeonpasa’ (Mecca Electrics) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Sundae Ilbunji’ (Korean Sausage Street) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Jaeil Cleaning’ (Jaeil Laundry) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Yeonsae Yakkook’ (Yeonsae Pharmacy) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Guksoo’ (Noodle) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Dongrae Chulgongso’ (Dongrae Ironworks) / 50 x 35 cm / 2025

‘Lucky Jeonpasa ’ (Lucky Electrics) / 50 x 35 cm / 2024

‘Mulnara Muhribang’ (Water World Hair Place) / 50 x 35 cm / 2024

‘Mib-eum Miyongsil’ (Faith Beauty Parlor) / 500 x 350 mm, 360gm white paper / 2024

‘Daegu Chamgireumjip’ (Daegu Sesame Oil Store) / 500 x 350 mm, 360gm white paper / 2024

‘Wangjjanggu Sikdang’ (Wangjjanggu Diner) / 500 x 350 mm. 360gm white paper / 2024

‘Halme Supuh’ (Granny Supermarket) / 257 x 357 mm, white paper / 2020