A unique designer vintage shop run by a creative couple, East Oklm deconstructs and reassembles vintage clothes into original remake designs, blending sustainability with art in a hidden basement space.
East Oklm is unlike any other vintage shop you will find in Seongsu, or anywhere else in Seoul for that matter. Run by designer couple Son Hyun-deok and Kim Ji-hye, this hidden basement-level space blurs the line between vintage shop, design studio, and art gallery. While most vintage stores simply curate and resell secondhand clothing, East Oklm takes it several steps further by deconstructing vintage garments and reassembling them into entirely new, original designs. This concept of remake fashion transforms discarded clothing into wearable art, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind.
The shop occupies a basement level space on Gwangnaru-ro 4-ga-gil, a quiet side street that perfectly suits its hidden gem character. Descending the stairs, you enter what feels like a creative workshop as much as a retail space. The atmosphere is intimate and artistic, with exposed concrete walls, thoughtful lighting, and carefully displayed pieces that reflect the owners' design philosophy. This is not a place for casual rack-browsing. Instead, every item tells a story of transformation, from its original vintage form to its reimagined second life.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The merchandise at East Oklm falls into three categories. First, there are the remake pieces, which are the shop's signature. These are vintage clothes that have been taken apart and reconstructed into new silhouettes, combining different fabrics, eras, and styles into cohesive, modern designs. A 1970s military jacket might be merged with a 1990s denim piece to create something that has never existed before. Second, the shop sells an original clothing line designed by Son and Kim, which carries the same sustainable, artistic sensibility. Third, East Oklm carries a curated selection of vintage pieces sourced from Jeju Island, adding a uniquely Korean dimension to their inventory.
One of East Oklm's most distinctive features is their free movie screening held every Thursday night at 8 PM. This weekly event transforms the basement space into an impromptu cinema, attracting a mix of locals, creatives, and curious visitors. It is a wonderful way to experience the shop's community spirit and connect with Seongsu's creative scene beyond just shopping. The screenings are free and open to everyone, making Thursday evenings an especially good time to visit.
Prices at East Oklm are in the moderate range, reflecting the design work and creativity that goes into each piece. Remake items and original designs typically range from 40,000 to 120,000 KRW, while curated vintage pieces from Jeju are priced similarly to other Seongsu vintage shops. The investment is justified by the uniqueness of the pieces. You will not find the same item anywhere else in the world. For fashion-forward travelers who value sustainability, creativity, and supporting independent designers, East Oklm is an essential stop on any Seongsu vintage crawl.
Highlights
✦Unique remake fashion concept — vintage clothes deconstructed and reassembled into original one-of-a-kind designs
✦Run by designer couple Son Hyun-deok and Kim Ji-hye — every piece reflects genuine artistic vision
✦Free movie screening every Thursday night at 8 PM — a community event in the basement cinema space
✦Hidden basement location with art gallery atmosphere — a true hidden gem in Seongsu's creative scene
Visitor Tips
Visit on Thursday evening for the free movie screening at 8 PM — a unique way to experience Seongsu's creative community
The shop is in the basement level (B1) so look for stairs going down — easy to miss from street level
Take your time examining the remake pieces — each has a unique story of transformation worth hearing from the owners
If you appreciate sustainable fashion, ask about the design process — the owners love sharing their creative philosophy
How to Get There
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Located in basement level (B1) on Gwangnaru-ro 4-ga-gil 13. Look for stairs going down — the entrance is easy to miss from street level. Nearest station: Seongsu Station (Line 2). Free movie screening every Thursday at 8 PM.
Best For
Fashion-forward travelers who value unique, one-of-a-kind piecesSustainability-conscious shoppers interested in upcycled fashionArt and design enthusiasts looking for wearable artVisitors wanting to experience Seongsu's underground creative culture
