A Visit to Alpha Tailor in Itaewon.
It had been a while since my last visit.
There’s something almost surreal about this place as if time has stopped.
While many tailor shops have flashy interiors and modern designs, this one doesn't.
It's a bit worn down, with traces of time etched into every corner, giving you the strange sense that you’re on a quiet time travel journey.
A friend of mine really likes this shop, and for good reason.
The owner is a seasoned tailor who used to be a master cutter.
From the initial fitting to the actual cutting of the fabric, he still does it all himself.
That kind of hands-on craftsmanship is rare in Itaewon these days.
The owner wasn’t at the shop when we arrived, so we waited a bit.
There were faded photos and old business cards stuck to the walls and doors memories left behind by past visitors, perhaps.
While looking around and waiting, I gave the owner a call.
He had actually stepped out to wait for us outside, since I’d called in advance, but it seems we missed each other on the way in.
Meanwhile, my friend was deep in consultation.
I helped by browsing fabric swatches and discussing possible suit designs with him.
As I chatted on the phone with another friend, I glanced at a photo frame and was surprised to see a picture of U.S. President Joe Biden.
Right next to it was one of NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo yes, the same Mutombo known for his dominant defense and that iconic finger wag.
If you're a basketball fan, you’d definitely know him.
Apparently, he's a regular here and still gets his suits made at Alpha Tailor.
Isn’t that fascinating? Why would someone from the U.S. come all the way to a tailor in Itaewon, Korea, to get a custom suit?
That’s a story best heard from the owner himself it's a long one,
but definitely worth asking about if you get the chance.
There were also many photos of military personnel in uniform.
Given that the U.S. military base used to be nearby in Yongsan, perhaps many came here to get their suits tailored.
Back in the day around 30 years ago this area experienced a tailoring boom.
There used to be numerous tailor shops in Itaewon.
But after the pandemic, many of the older ones have closed down, and there are now only a few left that are still run by true master tailors.
Alpha Tailor is one of them.
People still come from far away to get custom suits here.
Sure, the tailoring skill is a huge draw, but it’s also more affordable compared to other high end areas.
Some customers even use luxurious fabrics like Ermenegildo Zegna or Loro Piana, which are known to be extremely expensive.
I’ve only heard the names I wouldn’t know what they actually cost.
In places like Cheongdam-dong in Gangnam, suits made with these fabrics would be incredibly expensive.
But here? They say it's much more reasonable.
The owner didn’t mention exact prices, but people do inquire and come for it.
I saw several suits in the fitting stage hanging around the shop.
Even in tough times, loyal customers keep coming back.
Most find this place through word-of-mouth.
The location isn’t exactly visible it's tucked inside International Arcade, just beside Itaewon Market.
You have to enter the building and walk deep inside to the left.
The fact that people still find it says a lot.
Since it's summer, there were a few light-colored suits waiting for their owners.
The tailor told me they’re ready and just waiting to be picked up.
The fabric is beautiful noticeably different from off the rack suits in terms of texture and fit.
Each pocket is double stitched for durability, and the structure is crisp and clean.
One vibrant blue suit especially caught my eye it looked perfect for staying cool in summer.
There was even a tuxedo on display.
The owner mentioned that if you bring it back later, they can alter the shiny lapel, turning it into a daily wear suit.
Such services deserve praise it’s a practical win for customers.
As I admired the suits, my friend finished his consultation.
He’s looking forward to another great suit.
He told me the one he got last time from here was perfect.
And why wouldn’t it be?
The owner has decades of experience as a skilled tailor and it shows.
