Park Ji-hye
Korean Tea Curator & Tea communicator
Introduction
Hello, I’m Jihye Park — a “Tea Communicator” who connects people and stories through tea gatherings. I host seasonal tea sessions centered around Korean tea in the Seochon neighborhood, sharing the stories within each tea and the people who enjoy them.
Originally, I studied international trade and worked overseas. But during my time in India, I happened to encounter “tea” — and it slowly began to change my life. That experience shaped who I am today. Currently, I run a seasonal tea gathering program at Seochon Lounge, and I also design tea-based cultural experiences at public institutions, department stores, and corporate events. What I value most is sincerity — the heartfelt connection shared through tea. I believe a single warm glance and an honest cup of tea leave a deeper impression than any grand gesture.
Highlight
Certified Tea Master
Host of “Korean Tea Walk” on Humanities on Foot
Tea programs for the Ministry of Unification
Hosted tea sessions for Shinsegae Academy and Warner Bros.
What to expect while doing this
Since starting this path three years ago, I find myself constantly learning — and feeling endlessly grateful. Although I still stumble at times, the people I meet through tea give me joy and inspiration every day. I’ve always been curious about people, and tea naturally opens up honest conversations. A simple tea table becomes a space of warmth and sincerity. Preparing for a tea session often feels like creating art. Choosing the right tea, the tea ware to match, the music to accompany the mood — every element blends to complete the experience. In that way, this work isn’t just about brewing tea. It’s about composing beauty and emotion in the moment.
Interview
Q. What are some of your most memorable places and experiences in nature in Korea?
One of the most unforgettable experiences was this spring, at Sancheong Tea Farm in Jirisan. In the morning mist, I walked through the tea fields, holding freshly dried leaves in my hands. The scent of earth and green filled the air — it was a powerful moment. I used to think making tea was simple. But when I tried it with my own hands, I realized it was farming, discipline, and art combined. Roasting the tea leaves is not something just anyone can do. Every sense must be fully alert — the fire’s heat, the pressure of the hands, the tiny crackles of the leaves. Even the slightest distraction changes the aroma. That tension made me realize: making tea is a conversation with nature — and perhaps a form of meditation. It felt like I was roasting not just leaves, but also my inner self.
Q. What does nature mean to you?
Nature has always been around me. But ever since I began working with tea, its meaning has changed. There’s a saying: “The best tea room is nature itself.” Every tea begins and ends with nature. Before, nature was something I took for granted — like air. Now, it’s a mentor that teaches me the rhythm of life. With every change in season, I sense new textures in the air, different colors in the leaves, shifts in the wind. And I learn: the world is always flowing, always renewing. Decorating a tea table with elements from nature makes me feel like I, too, am part of that cycle.
Nature, to me, is a presence I dare not take lightly. Like parents who silently stay near, or a grand teacher guiding me to my center.
Q. What do you want people to take away from the experience and healing you provide?
What I always wish to share through tea is sincerity and kindness. The Chinese character for tea (茶) combines “grass” (艹), “tree” (木), and “person” (人) — showing that tea exists between nature and humanity. No matter how fine the leaves or how elegant the cups, if the heart of the host is not clear, the tea session cannot truly be good. That’s why, before serving others, I try to calm my own mind. Our emotions and physical condition always show up in the tea.
Ultimately, I believe good tea comes from a good heart.
I hope the people who join my tea gatherings feel a bit of peace and warmth. That they can pause for a moment, reconnect with themselves, and feel: “This is enough. This is good.” My favorite tea changes with every month and every season — but during this time of year, I find myself drawn to Korea’s golden oolong-style teas.
맞춤코스 문의하기
Park Ji-hye
Korean Tea Curator & Tea communicator
Introduction
Hello, I’m Jihye Park — a “Tea Communicator” who connects people and stories through tea gatherings. I host seasonal tea sessions centered around Korean tea in the Seochon neighborhood, sharing the stories within each tea and the people who enjoy them.
Originally, I studied international trade and worked overseas. But during my time in India, I happened to encounter “tea” — and it slowly began to change my life. That experience shaped who I am today. Currently, I run a seasonal tea gathering program at Seochon Lounge, and I also design tea-based cultural experiences at public institutions, department stores, and corporate events. What I value most is sincerity — the heartfelt connection shared through tea. I believe a single warm glance and an honest cup of tea leave a deeper impression than any grand gesture.
Highlight
Certified Tea Master
Host of “Korean Tea Walk” on Humanities on Foot
Tea programs for the Ministry of Unification
Hosted tea sessions for Shinsegae Academy and Warner Bros.
What to expect while doing this
Since starting this path three years ago, I find myself constantly learning — and feeling endlessly grateful. Although I still stumble at times, the people I meet through tea give me joy and inspiration every day. I’ve always been curious about people, and tea naturally opens up honest conversations. A simple tea table becomes a space of warmth and sincerity. Preparing for a tea session often feels like creating art. Choosing the right tea, the tea ware to match, the music to accompany the mood — every element blends to complete the experience. In that way, this work isn’t just about brewing tea. It’s about composing beauty and emotion in the moment.
Interview
Q. What are some of your most memorable places and experiences in nature in Korea?
One of the most unforgettable experiences was this spring, at Sancheong Tea Farm in Jirisan. In the morning mist, I walked through the tea fields, holding freshly dried leaves in my hands. The scent of earth and green filled the air — it was a powerful moment. I used to think making tea was simple. But when I tried it with my own hands, I realized it was farming, discipline, and art combined. Roasting the tea leaves is not something just anyone can do. Every sense must be fully alert — the fire’s heat, the pressure of the hands, the tiny crackles of the leaves. Even the slightest distraction changes the aroma. That tension made me realize: making tea is a conversation with nature — and perhaps a form of meditation. It felt like I was roasting not just leaves, but also my inner self.
Q. What does nature mean to you?
Nature has always been around me. But ever since I began working with tea, its meaning has changed. There’s a saying: “The best tea room is nature itself.” Every tea begins and ends with nature. Before, nature was something I took for granted — like air. Now, it’s a mentor that teaches me the rhythm of life. With every change in season, I sense new textures in the air, different colors in the leaves, shifts in the wind. And I learn: the world is always flowing, always renewing. Decorating a tea table with elements from nature makes me feel like I, too, am part of that cycle.
Nature, to me, is a presence I dare not take lightly. Like parents who silently stay near, or a grand teacher guiding me to my center.
Q. What do you want people to take away from the experience and healing you provide?
What I always wish to share through tea is sincerity and kindness. The Chinese character for tea (茶) combines “grass” (艹), “tree” (木), and “person” (人) — showing that tea exists between nature and humanity. No matter how fine the leaves or how elegant the cups, if the heart of the host is not clear, the tea session cannot truly be good. That’s why, before serving others, I try to calm my own mind. Our emotions and physical condition always show up in the tea.
Ultimately, I believe good tea comes from a good heart.
I hope the people who join my tea gatherings feel a bit of peace and warmth. That they can pause for a moment, reconnect with themselves, and feel: “This is enough. This is good.” My favorite tea changes with every month and every season — but during this time of year, I find myself drawn to Korea’s golden oolong-style teas.
맞춤코스 문의하기