April 26, 2024

• 

[THE INVESTOR] US co-working giant WeWork said on Oct. 30 it is opening a new space in Cheongdam-dong, a posh fashion district in southern Seoul, in February next year, its 14th location in Korea.

The WeWork Designer Club will occupy three floors of the Designer Club building near Apgujeong Rodeo Station -- a fashionable neighborhood crowded with a slew of boutique shops of luxury fashion brands and fancy restaurants and cafes. The total capacity is about 700 people.

Considering the district is popular among emerging designers and the entertainment industry, the firm predicts the new location would serve as a platform that sparks inspiration for creators in the neighborhood. 

The planned WeWork Designer Club in Cheongdam-dong, southern Seoul

Since its Korean debut back in 2016, WeWork now operates 10 locations in Seoul, with four more opening in the coming months. This is a rapid growth even in Asia where it is pouring considerable resources for expansion more recently. There are 13 locations, including three pending, in Japan and nine in Singapore.

“WeWork Designer Club will serve as the pivoting space in the fashion and design industry, which will go hand in hand with the Cheongdam area, a popular neighborhood known for trendy and high-end fashion, goods, premium business,” said Matthew Shampine, the Korean chief.

“By connecting new members to our global community, WeWork will continue to work for Korea’s unique creator ecosystem to build a wider creator community, along with an optimal member experience by extending greater support across all industries.”

WeWork plans to hold the first Korean edition of its Creator Awards next year in Seoul. It is a global startup competition that tours big cities around the world.

By Lee Ji-yoon (jylee@heraldcorp.com)