Bored of the usual Halloween activities? How about a zombie conga on the subway to spice things up?
Those who want something a little more original than the usual apple-bobbing parlor games ― and a little more interesting than a party in a bar ― can find their options limited in Korea.
But when a group of expats decided to set up their own event, a new phenomenon was brought to Seoul.
“When we discussed some of our favorite activities to do back home in America, zombie walks stood out to us,” said Mia Pak, one of the co-organizers.
The group will assemble in Seoul Forest Park at 6 p.m. Saturday, armed with outfits and gory makeup to turn themselves into an army of undead.
They will then prowl through Seoul from 8 p.m., surprising local residents out shopping or taking the subway.
This will be the third year that the zombie horde will descend on unsuspecting Seoulites. And the organizers said the reaction of the locals is part of the fun.
“I think the initial reaction is shock, followed by fear, then a ‘what is going on here?’ type of look,” said Philippe Teston, who also helps organize the event.
“I think the confusing nature of the zombie walk catches Koreans off guard, but as soon as they realize that it’s a joke, they loosen up and start taking pictures and laughing.”
Pak agreed, saying that bystanders soon joined in.
“Some people are initially frightened but are quickly delighted with the fun that surrounds them,” she said. “A lot of people take pictures and videos, many zombies are asked to be in people’s pictures.”
Aside the after party, highlights included a Thriller dance in the park before they headed down to the subway.
“The zombie conga line on the train definitely stands out,” Teston said. “We had passengers clapping along, it was a great time for everyone.”
This year will also have an after party, at Club DGBD in Hongdae organized by SuperColorSuper.
Acts playing will be Love X Stereo, the Rub, Sighborg and Black Illumin.
This year’s event will also be in support of Little Travellers, who will be at the walk selling Little Traveller zombie doll pins. The proceeds of the sales go to help people affected by HIV and AIDS in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa.
Organizers were keen to see more participation this year, especially from Koreans.
“Anyone can show up the day of the event and get involved,” said Teston. “We’ll be helping people with makeup and other zombification at Seoul Forest Park.”
“This isn’t just an event for adults, so families are welcome to get involved as well.’
Those who want to find out more can visit the Facebook page for the “3rd Annual Seoul Zombie Walk.”
The after party will run from 10:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Entry is 10,000 won, with a free drink for zombies.
By Paul Kerry (
paulkerry@heraldcorp.com)
