Latest news with #Korea-inspired
Korea Herald
a day ago
- Automotive
- Korea Herald
McLaren launches hybrid supercar Artura Spider in Seoul
UK's premium automaker unveils Korea-themed limited collection Ignition Sphere McLaren unveiled a Korea-inspired limited edition of its hybrid supercar, the Artura Spider, in Seoul on Friday as the UK's premium auto brand officially marked a fresh beginning for its Korean office with a new local dealership partner, Britannia Auto. 'Today marks more than the reopening of McLaren in Seoul,' said Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, chief commercial officer at McLaren, during the Artura Spider launch ceremony held at Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul. 'It marks a renewed commitment to this market, to our owners and to the future of McLaren in Korea. McLaren has always stood for cutting-edge technology, craftsmanship and pure performance. And Korea has always been a market where passion for these values runs deep.' Dubbed a next-generation supercar, the McLaren Artura Spider features a plug-in-hybrid powertrain with a powerful V6 petrol engine that enables the speedster to reach 100 kilometers per hour in just three seconds from standstill, 200 kph in 8.4 seconds and 300 kph in 21.6 seconds. It offers a maximum speed of 330 kph. 'To summarize the Artura Spider, we've got a very bold design, extreme and lightweight engineering and advanced technology making the car so compelling and so capable,' said Daniel Hotchin, regional sales manager at McLaren Automotive. 'But it's really the way that all of these things combine that make it such a complete supercar. From the twin turbo-charged V6 engine combined with the e-motor, the proactive damping control giving such precise and remarkable all-day comfort and, of course, the ability to drop the roof will truly amplify your experience.' McLaren's Seoul-exclusive Artura Spider Ignition Sphere Collection features a Korea-only bespoke exterior color "Midnight Han," a modern blue inspired by Seoul's night and the Korean ethos, according to the premium automaker. The interior seats are Volcano Red, which was intended to pay homage to Korea's traditional royal dynasty. The automaker pointed out that the blue-colored exterior and the red-colored interior combine to illustrate Korean national flag Taegeukgi's harmony, identity and pride. 'This year marks the 10th anniversary of McLaren's entrance into Korea,' said Kwon Hyeok-min, vice chairman of Deutsch Automobile Group and CEO of Britannia Auto. Britannia Auto is a premium dealership subsidiary of Deutsch Automobile Group. 'Based on McLaren's original innovative technology and performance, we will offer distinguished customer experiences in the Korean market. Through classy services and premium ownership programs, we will offer a truly McLaren opportunity to customers.' Along with the brand's relaunch, McLaren renovated its Seoul showroom in the Gangnam district with new models to upgrade it into a customized consulting space. According to Carisyou's data, McLaren sold 44 vehicles in the Korean market last year, up 41.9 percent from 2023.
Korea Herald
26-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Yongsan: Melting pot of coffee culture
The central district of Yongsan has become a rising star in Seoul's coffee scene. A melting pot of cultures due to the large expat population in the Itaewon neighborhood and the U.S. military base that existed in the area for decades, Yongsan has a diverse coffee scene, with international coffee chains and independent cafes offering a range of styles from around the world. Here's a guide to The Korea Herald's pick of cafes in Yongsan. Dotori stands out for its warm, rustic interior, combining natural elements like wooden furniture, soft lighting and earthy tones to create a homely and inviting atmosphere. The two-story cafe feels comfortable and unpretentious, making it an ideal place to unwind. Whether you are here to work, study or catch up with friends, the cafe provides a peaceful environment with cozy corners. Using freshly roasted beans, the cafe offers a variety of coffee beverages, ranging from classic espresso drinks to more adventurous options. Their pour-over coffee is particularly noteworthy for its smooth, rich flavor that highlights the quality of the beans. If you're in the mood for something different, Dotori also serves cold brew coffee, lattes and seasonal specials that incorporate local or unique ingredients. There are also Korea-inspired treats on the menu, such as matcha-flavored pastries and popular red bean-filled cakes, adding a local twist to the cafe experience. Stepping into Goonies evokes an unusual feeling -- laid-back, quirky and cozy, its one-of-a-kind vibe is completed by the vintage-inspired furnishings, unique artwork and retro items that fill the cafe's interior. It's a hip, artistic hideaway where you can escape the busy streets of Yongsan. At Goonies, the focus is on high-quality coffee served in creative, fun ways. The cafe offers a variety of espresso-based drinks, from traditional cappuccinos and lattes to flavored lattes and iced drinks. Signature beverages include the salted caramel latte and the honey lavender latte. Goonies offers a delectable selection of pastries and light snacks to pair with your coffee. Cakes, such as the fluffy cheesecake and the rich chocolate cake, are popular choices. Additionally, the cafe offers sandwiches and croissants, making it an ideal spot for a light meal or snack during the day. At Golden Ball, the cafe's namesake desert is a unique ball-shaped, bite-sized sugar-coated cake that's enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as Nutella, pistachios, honey chips and more. The cafe also offers a range of traditional espresso drinks, from rich cappuccinos to velvety lattes. The interior, painted in a cheerful yellow tone and accentuated with lemon-inspired decor, creates a fresh and inviting atmosphere. The space is compact but cozy, featuring tables that accommodate both small groups and solo visitors. Tucked away near Samgakji intersection, Pachamama stands out for the owner's love for high-quality coffee and wholesome food. From the moment you step into Pachamama, you feel as if you were in someone's cozy kitchen. The quiet environment is one of the cafe's standout features. Its cozy seating and calming vibe encourage long visits, whether you're reading, working or chatting with friends. In addition to Pachamama's passion for coffee, the cafe's food menu also impresses. The offerings include a selection of freshly baked goods that pair wonderfully with its coffee, such as cakes, muffins and pies. Befitting a cafe named for the Earth Mother goddess of the Incas, Pachamama's dishes incorporate local ingredients, supporting sustainability and promoting a farm-to-table ethos. The name reflects the cafe's focus on engineering and tech, offering an environment that appeals to digital aficionados and design lovers alike. The aesthetics of the interior also suit its name. With minimalist industrial design featuring exposed concrete, metal furniture and sleek lines, the cafe feels both cutting-edge and cozy. Engineering Club is committed to providing high-quality coffee and beverages that are expertly brewed and designed to satisfy a range of tastes. The espresso-based drinks are a standout, with a smooth, balanced flavor that coffee enthusiasts will appreciate. Whether you're enjoying a classic cappuccino, a rich espresso, or a more creative concoction, you are sure to find something that fits your taste. For non-coffee drinkers, Engineering Club also has refreshing iced teas and creative seasonal beverages. The matcha lattes, especially popular, provide a refreshing contrast to the standard coffee menu.
