As Korean culture continues to surge in popularity across the UK, Virgin Atlantic Holidays is giving Londoners the chance to experience a taste of authentic Seoul without leaving the capital.
The travel company has announced Heart + Seoul, a limited-time Korean supper club taking place in Shoreditch, bringing together traditional Korean cuisine, culture and storytelling through one of Korea’s most beloved cultural figures, Park Mak-rye, better known online as @korea_grandma.
The two-day dining experience aims to showcase the authentic experiences travellers can enjoy in South Korea, as interest in K-pop, K-food, K-beauty and Korean travel reaches new heights.
The Korean Wave Continues to Grow in the UK
South Korea’s global cultural influence—often referred to as the Hallyu Wave—shows no signs of slowing down. From K-pop superstars BTS attracting huge crowds in London to internationally acclaimed DJ Peggy Gou performing across the capital, Korean culture has become a major force in entertainment, fashion, beauty and food.
Virgin Atlantic Holidays is tapping into this growing interest with Heart + Seoul, offering guests an immersive dining experience inspired by the bustling restaurants, food markets and family kitchens of Seoul.
Meet Park Mak-rye: Korea’s Internet Grandma
At the centre of the experience is Park Mak-rye, one of South Korea’s most recognisable grandmother creators and cultural ambassadors.
After running a restaurant for more than four decades, Park built a huge online following by sharing traditional Korean recipes, home cooking techniques and family stories. Her social media content has introduced millions around the world to authentic Korean food and culture.
Flying into London via Virgin Atlantic’s new direct route between London Heathrow and Seoul, Park will personally host the event, sharing recipes and traditions passed down through generations.
Learn more about Park Mak-rye on her official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/korea_grandma/
What Guests Can Expect at Heart + Seoul
Visitors attending Heart + Seoul can expect a menu packed with traditional Korean favourites.
The communal dining experience will feature:
- Authentic Korean banchan (side dishes)
- Traditional home-cooked Korean mains
- Classic Korean desserts
- Korean soju
- Local beers
- Cultural storytelling and food demonstrations
Designed to replicate the atmosphere of Seoul’s local eateries and family dining tables, the event encourages guests to connect through food while learning more about everyday Korean life.
Virgin Atlantic Holidays Highlights Authentic Korean Travel Experiences
The supper club also serves as a showcase for the growing range of South Korean holidays available through Virgin Atlantic Holidays.
Travellers booking South Korea itineraries can experience:
- Traditional hanbok dress experiences
- Korean tea ceremonies
- Korean cooking classes
- Guided food market tours
- Visits to Seoul’s historic royal palaces
- Excursions to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Virgin Atlantic remains the only UK airline operating direct flights between the UK and Seoul, making South Korea increasingly accessible for British travellers.
Explore South Korea holidays via Virgin Atlantic Holidays: https://www.virginatlantic.com/holidays
Win Return Flights to Seoul
Alongside the food and cultural experiences, attendees will also have the chance to win a pair of return flights to Seoul.
One winner will be selected during each sitting across the weekend, creating a total of eight prize winners. Successful guests must embrace a spontaneous adventure by booking and travelling within two weeks of winning.
Event Details and Booking Information
Heart + Seoul will take place in Shoreditch across two days, offering both lunch and dinner sittings.
Dates: 10–11 July
Sitting Times:
- 12pm
- 2pm
- 6pm
- 8pm
Tickets are priced at £30 per person, with all proceeds being donated to Save the Children.
Official booking information is available via OpenTable: https://www.opentable.co.uk/
For more information about Virgin Atlantic Holidays and South Korea travel experiences, visit: https://www.virginatlantic.com/
Why South Korea Is One of the Hottest Travel Destinations Right Now
From globally influential music and beauty trends to rich culinary traditions and historic landmarks, South Korea has become one of the world’s most exciting destinations for international travellers.
Events like Heart + Seoul offer a glimpse into the authentic experiences waiting beyond the tourist hotspots, highlighting the country’s unique blend of tradition and modern culture. For Londoners curious about Korean food, culture and travel, this Shoreditch pop-up may be the closest thing to Seoul without boarding a plane.
