Mode Around The Globe: Rachel Kwon
Rachel Kwon
@rachelheheh
Photography by Samantha Spence @samspensework
Videography by Tyler Gurd @tylergurdfilm
Location: Nikki Beach Koh Samui
www.nikkibeach.com
@nikkibeachkohsamui
How would you describe yourself in three words?
I’d describe myself as optimistic, creative, and unserious. I think a lot of people are afraid of being “cringe,” but I’ve learned there’s something so freeing about not taking yourself too seriously. Being cringe is camp — I love it.
What inspired you to start creating content or working in the influencer space?
When I first moved to Korea in 2013, it was honestly tough. I went from being surrounded by friends and family to suddenly being alone in a foreign country where I didn’t even speak the language. Watching my favorite YouTubers gave me a lot of comfort and, in a very parasocial way, felt like friends.
At the time, there weren’t many foreign creators in Seoul sharing their lives on YouTube, so I was inspired to start posting. I was just looking for connection. I never thought it would become my career.
What does a “perfect day” look like for you?
Since I’m homesick and hungry right now, I’d say my dream day would be breakfast at Waffle House with my sister, then driving through Sonic for a strawberry limeade. Followed by aimlessly walking around the holy trinity: Target, TJ Maxx, and Home Goods. Dinner at Chili’s with a satisfying mozzarella stick cheese pull, Lady and the Tramp style with my husband.
What’s something your followers might be surprised to learn about you?
I was a full-time kindergarten teacher in Seoul for seven years before I ever started posting videos on TikTok, which is where most of my followers know me from. Real ones know the full YouTube and teaching lore, but I've lived a thousand different lives at this point. I’m so grateful for every era that brought me here.
What’s been your proudest moment so far, personally or professionally?
I’d have to say reaching 1 million subscribers on YouTube. Not because of the number, but because of how many times I almost quit over the nine years it took to get there. Finally reaching that milestone felt like real proof that I was meant to keep going.
How do you usually start your mornings?
I start by chugging water and going for a walk with my dog Mickey, followed by a hot cup of coffee and journaling. Journaling has been one of the best things I’ve done for my mental health. I promote it so much you’d think I own a notebook factory.
What’s your go-to confidence boost when you’re feeling off?
I think confidence is something that really comes with age. For me, it’s getting to a place where I genuinely don’t care as much about what other people think.
Who or what inspires you the most right now?
Sounds cheesy, but definitely my husband Jay. He’s always making me laugh, sparking new video ideas, and encouraging me to go after things that scare me. He’s my biggest support system and hype man.
What’s one goal you’re currently working toward?
I’m currently writing a book, which I’ve come to realize is a much longer process than I ever expected. I can’t even imagine how surreal it’s going to feel when Dear Seoul is finally out in the world for people to read.
How would you describe your personal style in three words?
My style has changed a million times over the years, but I’d describe it as chic, classic, and cool. Now that I know what styles, shapes, and colors actually suit me, I’m less interested in following trends.
What’s your favorite way to unwind or reset?
There’s nothing more therapeutic than an everything shower. I imagine all my stress and negative energy getting washed down the drain. Then pajamas, a cold sheet mask, popcorn, and trash reality TV.
What’s a travel destination that has had the biggest impact on you and why?
Since I’m still living here 13 years later, I obviously have to say Korea. I moved here thinking it would be temporary, but it ended up completely changing my life. So much of who I am today was shaped by the experiences I've had here.
What do you look for in friendships or the people you surround yourself with?
Positive, open-minded people with a good sense of humor. People I can just naturally vibe with and feel completely myself around.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned recently that stuck with you?
Prioritizing yourself and having boundaries isn’t selfish. Learning how to say no without overexplaining has honestly been life changing for me.
What’s your current favorite song, show, or obsession?
My current obsession is Trisha Paytas randomly releasing a K-pop song. It's genuinely so good and has been stuck in my head for days.
What does success mean to you right now in this season of life?
Being genuinely happy. Waking up excited about life, doing work you love, and being surrounded by people who care about you. That’s a beautiful life.
What’s something you’re still learning about yourself?
I'm still learning how to trust my intuition more. I’m getting better at it, but I still have to remind myself not to let overthinking hold me back from going after what I want.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Stop worrying. Everything will work out how it’s supposed to, and mistakes will only help you grow faster. Also, take more pictures!
What’s next for you? Anything you’re especially excited about?
Right now I’m working on a few projects, but my main focus is my book, Dear Seoul. It’s a romance novel inspired by my own life about a young American girl who moves to Korea as an English teacher and unexpectedly gets swept up in a messy whirlwind romance with a K-pop idol. We’re still in the writing process, but getting to bring this story to life with my incredibly talented friend and co-writer, Leta, has been really special. I can't wait to finally put it into readers' hands.
What did you love most about your stay at Nikki Beach Koh Samui, Thailand?
The people. I arrived in Koh Samui not knowing anyone, and by the end of the week I was literally crying saying goodbye. I feel really lucky to have met such an amazing group of people.
