Annyeong haseo! My name is Mimsie. I am from America and am currently a writer based in Seoul, South Korea. I live in Itaewon, a diverse neighborhood located a stone’s throw from the famous Namsan Tower. I spend a lot of time wandering this neighborhood so have included images in my collage featuring my home away from home. “S”: Although relatively unknown to most tourists, Itaewon boasts an antique street, dotted with shops that are chock-full of interesting items from old baby strollers to watering cans to garden gnomes. The “S” is part of a weather vane I spotted on my latest stroll down the street. “E”: Itaewon is most famous for its restaurants and cafes that sell a number of international dishes. In addition, there are a few “foreign marts” which cater to Seoul’s expat residents. When I need a change from kimchi (which is rare), or just a taste of home, I stop by these shops to load up on staples like pasta, hummus and cheese. “O”: Multicultural is one of the best words to describe Itaewon and its possible to meet people from all corners of the globe while there. It’s easy to spot influences of other nations, from the food to the decor, like this O-shaped clock labeled “Istanbul.” “U”: The streets of Seoul’s neighborhoods are often adorned with murals and street art, like this one I captured in Itaewon. In it, a man calls a loved one on a phone with a cord that resembles the letter U. “L”: In addition to the food, there are various places of worship in Itaewon, including the Seoul Central Mosque. It’s minaret was the first thing that popped into my mind to represent L. It’s especially beautiful at night.