Welcome Party

Bank of Korea (Wedding Reception Hall)

Wedding (Ceremony + Lunch)

Saeseoul (Bar in Jongno)

Club Mirene (After Party!)

Notes on Attire We’ve included this additional guidance as we’ve received a few questions on dress code. We found the following criteria to be well aligned with local norms in Seoul, where style tends to be polished and intentional. Recommend:* Korean guests tend to prefer polished, put-together attire in neutral or understated colors* Outfits that are not overly revealing (e.g., no shorts for men; avoid overly low-cut tops) Please avoid:* Overly casual outfits (e.g., flip-flops, athletic wear, t-shirts, jeans)

Please refer to <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p-91zroX7ICdIxviI34rotLY-pDU906Q/view?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">this guide</a> for additional event details and directions.

Our Wedding

Directions  

Irene and Michael met for the first time at their apartment gym in Denver, which sat right in the middle of the building they both lived in. Their building had a community social Slack where neighbors shared updates and the occasional photo, and Michael happened to be a familiar face there. One day at the gym, Michael was doing box jumps in front of the drinking fountain when Irene walked over for water. Recognizing him, Irene introduced herself and said, “Hi, I’m Irene. I recognize you from our community Slack.” Michael replied, “Hi, I’m Michael, and I moved here after recently getting my MBA,” which was unexpected and immediately memorable. What was meant to be a quick hello turned into a 30 minute conversation, until Irene had to rush off to Taco Tuesday.That night, Michael went home and excitedly told his roommate, who is also his younger brother Charlie, that he had just met a really special and awesome girl at the gym and that the conversation felt electric. Irene followed up with a message later, and from there, the talking never really stopped.Dates followed, and a few in, pizza night became a favorite story. A glass broke, Michael cut his hand, and while Michael searched for superglue, Irene finished making the pizza anyway. Pizza was eaten. Fun was still had. It became clear early on that Irene finishes what she starts. And Michael said, "I respect that."From there, life together took off. They traveled often, moved cities, survived COVID cooking experiments, tackled home projects, and spent time bouncing between places that matter to them, including Seattle and Seoul. Along the way, they shared many great years with Tucker and later welcomed Oakley into the pack, adding even more joy, laughs, and everyday moments to their life together.Looking ahead, Irene and Michael are excited to keep growing together, making memories with friends and family, and continuing to enjoy life side by side, wherever it takes them next!

Neighbors by Chance, Forever by Choice 

Our Story

Winston

Oakley

Wedding Party

Dress Code

Closest to Wedding Venue / Top Recommendation The Westin Josun Seoul is one of our favorite hotels in the area and is ideally located near our wedding venue. It is walkable to the Bank of Korea and sits right in the heart of Seoul, making it easy to explore the city! We love this neighborhood for spontaneous strolls to nearby palaces and historic sites, checking out exhibitions at the many museums close by, wandering through the shops of Myeongdong, and enjoying casual, delicious meals at the food courts tucked into the basements of the large department stores. It is also just a short ride away from Namsan Tower, which we highly recommend for the views, and offers excellent access to public transportation if you plan to explore beyond the area. Right next door is a special Starbucks where you sit on traditional Korean maru (raised wooden floors) instead of chairs. It is a fun Korean twist on our local Seattle coffee shop!

The Westin Josun Seoul

THE PLAZA Seoul is another favorite of ours and is centrally located, right next to Seoul City Hall. Being in this area can be especially exciting, as City Hall is often a gathering place for major events and demonstrations. Korean protests are usually very organized and peaceful, and sometimes even feel more like a lively festival or party, making them a fascinating cultural experience to witness. This hotel also holds a special place for us. It is one of the oldest hotels in Korea, and it was the very first hotel Michael ever stayed in when he came to Korea, so it comes with plenty of memories. Another great perk is that the hotel connects directly to Seoul’s underground walkways, making it easy to explore shops, move between subway stations, and walk through much of the city indoors.

THE PLAZA Seoul, Autograph Collection

If you are looking for a more traditional and unique way to experience Korea, staying in a hanok is a wonderful option. These historic homes offer beautiful wooden architecture, quiet courtyards, and a chance to experience a more local, immersive side of Seoul that feels very different from a typical hotel stay. Transportation to the wedding venue may require a bit more planning compared to the central hotels, so this option is best for guests who feel adventurous and enjoy exploring historic neighborhoods. Though hanoks are likely not as conveniently located, you should have no problem getting around the city if you're (1) ready to walk a lot or (2) comfortable taking Ubers! As an example, this host I've linked here seems to offer several thoughtfully restored hanok stays across the city. There are also many other hanok options available throughout Seoul if you would like to explore alternatives. If you are excited by traditional settings and a truly memorable stay, this is a fun opportunity to experience Korea in a special way.

Hanok Stays in Seoul

If you are looking for a more luxurious experience while staying in the city center, the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is an excellent choice. While it is not as close to the wedding venue as some of the other hotels listed, it is still nearby and easy to reach by taxi, public transportation, or walking (if you don't mind walking some extra city blocks). A major perk of staying here is its location near Gwanghwamun, placing you just steps from Gyeongbokgung Palace and some of Seoul’s most iconic historical sites. With exceptional service, elegant rooms, and a prime location for sightseeing, it is ideal for guests who want a refined, five-star stay in the heart of Seoul!

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

Aloft Seoul Myeongdong is a practical, no-fuss option if you would like to stay very close to the wedding venue. It is walkable to the Bank of Korea and located right next to Myeongdong. Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s most lively areas (and incredibly popular with tourists), known for its shopping, street food, cafés, and energy. With a modern, comfortable setup and a very central location, this hotel is a great choice for guests who want convenience, easy access to transportation, and a fun neighborhood right outside the door!

Aloft Seoul Myeongdong

Hotel Recommendations

Introducing our Seoul-ful Guide ! Seoul is our favorite city, and we are so excited you’re coming with us to celebrate! Growing up here and still spending months here at a time, we keep discovering new corners of the city, which makes us feel like we've barely scratched the surface! Ultimately, what we have realized is that Seoul is a city best experienced slowly, letting the days unfold as you go. That said, what follows are just a few examples of how we tend to spend our days in Seoul. It’s not an itinerary. It’s more like a loose suggestion...powered by walking, hunger, and an inability to ignore interesting side streets. P.S. Please wear good walking shoes. You’ll be walking. A lot. Unless you take a taxi (or ride public transit), which is also perfectly acceptable.

Quick local tips ! Walk everywhere. Seoul reveals itself block by block. The best finds are almost always down side streets and alleys. Read the historic plaques. They’re everywhere, subtle, and add a lot of context to what you’re seeing. Department store basements = food heaven. This is where a lot of Koreans actually eat and sample lots of dishes. Myeongdong street markets are newer and more tourist-oriented. Gwangjang Market is famous but often overpriced &amp; for tourists. Definitely fun to check it out though! Museums are everywhere and often free. Spending multiple days across museums isn’t overkill, it’s normal. Cafés and shops will derail plans. Accept it. Some of the best days start with a museum plan and end with 3 cafés. Style wise...neutrals dominate. People dress conservatively but intentionally. A little fashion moment is very welcome. Explains our slight glow up with every Seoul visit. Don’t try to do everything. Seoul rewards curiosity more than checklists ! Have so much fun! We can't wait to hear about your Seoul experience!

(You think it’ll be quick. It won’t be.) 1) Start the morning near the palace but not at the palace. Grab coffee and a bakery item at one of the many cafés around the area. There are plenty. Pick the one that feels right (or most convenient). 2) Head into Gyeongbokgung Palace and take your time walking through the grounds. It’s big, it’s beautiful, and it deserves more than a quick loop.***If you want to rent a hanbok, this is the time. You get free palace entry, great photo moments, and honestly…why not?!?! 3) When you’re done, wander into Bukchon Hanok Village. Walk slowly, explore the alleys, and enjoy the traditional Korean architecture in the city. ***Within one of the alleys, there is an amazing sock shop. I buy a lot of socks here. A lot. 4) If time allows, definitely check out the Modern Art Museum, Craft Art Museum, or History Museum. Just know that by the afternoon, cute cafés and shops become a very real threat to museum plans. We’ve spent entire days in these museums alone, so coming back on multiple days is not overkill...it’s realistic.

Palace Day 

(Earn your dinner.) 1) Head toward Namsan Tower. We like to hike up, but the cable car or bus are equally valid choices. This is a judgment-free zone. Choose your own adventure! 2) Coming from Myeongdong? Detour through Namsangol Hanok Village. It’s a calm, beautiful contrast to the city, and if you’re lucky, you’ll stumble into a festival or cultural event. 3) At the top of N Seoul Park, decide how committed you’re feeling. You can pay to go all the way up the tower, or do what we often do, head partway up for free and settle in for lunch with a view. Both count. 4) Instead of beelining, wander the quieter paths toward the southern slope. It makes the transition into the neighborhood feel earned, not abrupt. There are so many different paths. 5) Walk back down into Haebangchon. Historically home to many residents after the war, it’s now full of laid-back bars and excellent restaurants, perfect for the dinner you’ve just earned. 6) If you’re not quite ready for bed, short stroll through Myeongdong at night is an easy add before calling it a day.

Mountain Day

(One long walk. Many versions of downtown Seoul.) Disclaimer: this day works because it’s essentially one long stretch through downtown Seoul. You can start anywhere along it and walk as much or as little as you want. 1) Start around Ikseondong for a late morning or early lunch. Small hanok cafés, relaxed energy, and lots of good food options packed into a few walkable blocks. This is an easy place to ease into the day.***It is very possible that you will be distracted by the shops here...like Blue Elephant....or the giant arcade. 2) Wander over to Insadong. Fun fact, on the way, you’ll pass Nakwon Sanga, a multi-floor building filled with musical instrument shops. Rumor is that there is a secret jazz bar in the basement of this building. Also, I personally need to go here soon to replace the strings on my viola, but I digress. 3) Once in Insadong, browse the shops (and possibly acquire an unreasonable number of hair accessories...as this is a known risk), stop into a tea house if the mood strikes, and enjoy how traditional and just-touristy-enough it feels during the day. Btw, Mike's favorite place here is a kinetic art gallery! 4) In the afternoon, head toward Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Walk the grounds, explore the underground shopping areas, and feel the sharp shift from traditional to ultra-modern. There are tons of wholesale shops here both above and under ground. We’ve come here for everything from 10 identical buttons for a sweater... to a replacement toilet faucet part ...to other unexpected items that made perfect sense at the time. 5) As evening approaches, walk west along Euljiro. This is a long stretch and a great one for wandering. If you find Hip-Jiro (aka what locals call the hip, retro part of Euljiro), Neon signs come on (like in the photo above), alleys open up, and small bars and shops start to feel alive. Detours are encouraged.

City Day

If you’re here longer or feel like exploring beyond the days above, there’s no shortage of great areas. Honestly, we could keep adding to this list forever, and it still wouldn’t feel complete. Seoul is like that. Seochon: Right next to the main palaces but with a completely different feel. More local, great restaurants, small shops, and one of our favorite areas to wander without a plan. Find Suseongdonggyegok Valley! Other palaces: If you loved Gyeongbokgung, places like Changdeokgung (especially the Secret Garden) or Deoksugung are well worth visiting on another day. Cheonggyecheon: An easy, calming walk that cuts straight through downtown. It’s one of those places you don’t need to plan around. You just end up on it, walk for a bit, reset, and pop back into the city when you’re ready. Especially nice between bigger sightseeing blocks. Museums: Seoul has an incredible number of free and well-curated museums. It’s very easy to spend an entire day hopping between just a few, and coming back on multiple days is not overkill. Statue of King Sejong: Right in the middle of Gwanghwamun Square, and very hard to miss. Even if you don’t stop long, it’s worth pausing to take it in. It anchors the area between the palaces and downtown and gives helpful historical context to everything around you. This is also right by the history museum. Seongsu-dong: Often described as Seoul’s “Brooklyn.” Former warehouses turned into cafés, shops, and restaurants. You do have to look for the alleys. Hannam-dong and Itaewon: Great for food, shopping, and a slightly more international energy. Easy to pair with an evening out. Hangang River : Walking paths, open space, bike rides, and sitting by the water with snacks (that you can buy there as well). Simple, very Seoul, and always a good idea. Gangnam: South of the Han river! Different vibes from Gangbuk (which is where most of the historical landmarks are). Very modern, polished, and westernized (which is why we wouldn't prioritize this area if visiting for a short period of time). While there, COEX Mall and the COEX Aquarium are easy, fun stops, especially if you want something indoors.

Other Days we also love

As with everything else, this list could easily be longer. If you want recommendations based on your kids’ ages, energy levels, or whether you’re aiming for “big day” or “easy day,” just let us know. We’re happy to help! Korean Folk Village (Minsokchon): A favorite for kids and adults. Traditional houses, cultural demonstrations, performances, and lots of space to walk around. Educational without feeling like school. Everland: Outside the city, but worth it if you’re up for a full day. Huge theme park with rides for all ages (including the world's tallest wooden rollercoaster that Mike definitely did not get scared riding), and a safari built into the park with animals you don’t expect to see. We’ve pet capybaras here. Still thinking about it. Lotte World: Much easier to get to and mostly indoors, which is great if the weather isn’t ideal. A solid choice if you want theme park energy without committing to a long commute. P.S. COEX Aquarium as mentioned in "Other Days We Also Love" is also another great option!

Days kids want

Our Seoul Guide 

Your presence at our wedding is truly the greatest gift we could ask for. We are so grateful to celebrate this special moment with you. In keeping with Korean wedding traditions, monetary gifts are customary and deeply appreciated. It is also traditional to present gifts in cash envelopes at the reception, which will be graciously accepted. If you would like to contribute digitally, you can do so here:PayPal: <a href="https://paypal.me/mikeandirene" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://paypal.me/mikeandirene</a>Venmo: https://venmo.com/circus (@circus) As we will be heading straight on our honeymoon after the wedding, we kindly ask that physical gifts be kept to a minimum. Thank you for your love and support. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Irene + Michael

Irene + Michael

I&M

Welcome Party

Wedding (Ceremony + Lunch)

Club Mirene (After Party!)