If you are familiar with Kim Namjoon or Rm from BTS as he is known, you may recognise this as a line from one of his self-penned tracks.
The term "Hannam Ghetto" typically refers to the Hannam-dong neighbourhood in Seoul, South Korea. Not a ghetto at all when you look at what the word describes in the USA for example. This is an area been given the nicknamed due to its reputation as an upscale and exclusive area where many wealthy and influential individuals reside, completely the opposite from ghettos we think of. It is a hot spot hangout for the locals looking for intricately well designed restaurants and cafes. The area is filled with museums and galleries, surrounded by chic cafes and local design and lifestyle shops. A classy hip place to hang out a bit different from the younger boozy streets of Itaewon just up the road and a bit more low key than the flashy Cheongdam District across the river.
Hannam-dong is known for its luxurious real estate, including high-rise apartments, townhouses, and spacious villas. The area is characterized by modern architecture and well-maintained streets lined with trees. Due to its proximity to diplomatic missions and international schools, Hannam-dong has a significant expatriate community. Many diplomats, expatriate families, and executives of multinational corporations choose to reside in this neighbourhood.
Residents of Hannam-dong have access to a wide range of amenities and facilities, including upscale shopping malls, gourmet restaurants, cafes, and fitness centres. The neighbourhood offers a high standard of living with convenient access to numerous services and is home to many cultural attractions such as art galleries, museums, and performance venues. Residents can explore contemporary art exhibitions, attend cultural events, and enjoy performances by local and international artists.
Despite being in the heart of Seoul, Hannam-dong boasts several parks and green spaces where residents can relax and enjoy outdoor activities. The neighbourhood offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. It is a safe and secure neighbourhood with low crime rates, well-patrolled by security personnel, so residents can feel comfortable walking around the area, even late at night.
The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art, commonly referred to as the Leeum, is a renowned art museum located in Hannam. It was established by the Samsung Foundation of Culture in 2004 with the aim of promoting and showcasing Korean and international art, and is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, offering a captivating journey through the rich and diverse world of Korean and international art. There is also the PACE gallery, which focuses on contemporary artists both local and international. Since its founding by Arne Glimcher in 1960, Pace has developed a distinguished legacy as an artist-first gallery that mounts seminal historical and contemporary exhibitions. There are some smaller galleries too, such as Ganaart, Foundry Seoul, Gallery Berlae, Mo J Gallery and Fill, with a plethora or works by young Korean and international arts.
Overall, living in the Hannam-dong neighbourhood offers a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle with access to top-notch amenities, a vibrant expatriate community, and an elevated level of security. However, it is also known for its exclusivity and high cost of living, making it accessible primarily to affluent individuals and families.
