Becky Lee Smith, more widely known online as the illustrious Hanguk Hapa, is a British-Korean cultural ambassador dedicated to bridging communities and celebrating her heritage. Hanguk Hapa is a name known to almost all of those in the British Korean cultural society (especially in London’s “little Korea” New Malden) for stylishly and eloquently bringing together the best of both British and Korean culture. She currently heads various projects like The K-Supper Club, Hanbok Wave UK, and Banmal UK, cementing her position as a leading voice for Korean culture in the UK.
Combining food, fashion, and community-building, Hanguk Hapa sparks meaningful connections as she shares her own journey of identity, and her mission to make true Korean culture (past K-Pop and K-Dramas) and traditions more accessible. Her creativity and drive has succeeded in inspiring a wide audience, landing herself the title as the “Queen of New Malden” - the heart of London’s Korean community.
KpopWise: First of all, what were you doing before you became Hanguk Hapa, and what made you pursue a career in spreading Korean culture?
Becky: Before I created Hanguk Hapa, I was traveling and teaching. Regardless of where I was, I consistently found opportunities to share Korean culture with friends, students, and those I met along the way. In essence, I was embodying the spirit of "Hanguk Hapa" even before it became a defined concept (and instagram page).
KpopWise: It would be fair to say that you’ve become someone who wears many hats promoting Korean culture beyond the usual focus of K-pop and K-drama, and you explore a lot of different avenues. Could you describe them for us?
Becky: I am thankful for how K-pop and K-dramas have introduced Korean culture to a global audience. For many, this is their initial experience with Korean culture. However, I believe there are numerous additional layers of Korean culture that deserve just as much attention. These include the traditions of the culture such as: traditional clothing - hanbok, the significance of communal dining, and unique Korean values that lack direct English translations, like "Jeong": a shared connection and binding of people through mutual care. I strive to highlight these aspects of Korean identity, and invite others to learn alongside me as I venture deeper into my Korean identity.
KpopWise: As the founder of The K-Supper Club and co-founder of the Hanbok Wave, what first inspired these initiatives, and how have you seen them impact the Korean community in the UK?
Becky: I have been hosting the K-Supper Club, a monthly gathering at various Korean restaurants, since January 2024. This initiative stems from my passion to preserve authentic Korean cuisine prepared the right way. Growing up on my mother’s home-cooked Korean food, I can confidently call myself a connoisseur of authenticity when it comes to Korean food.
As Korean food has surged in popularity, many establishments have emerged that don't serve it authentically, yet still label it as "Korean." My mission is to shine a light on the Korean restaurants I cherish and trust for their genuine offerings, while also showcasing New Malden, London's Korea Town, and the family-run restaurants there that often lack the extensive PR that many other eateries enjoy.
Hanbokwave UK was established by my dear friend, affectionately known as "the hanbok prince," Mikey Espinosa, with my collaboration. Our mission is to share our passion for hanbok, which means Korean clothing, and to provide opportunities for others to wear and appreciate the beauty of this attire. We cherish spreading the history behind this stunning clothing and emphasise that it is not an act of cultural appropriation, when the enthusiasm and interest comes from cultural appreciation.
KpopWise: Are you a good cook? What’s your go-to dish to make? (Or order in!)
Becky: While I may not be as skilled in the kitchen as my mum (who is always honest about whether my dish is too salty or too sweet, or just not delicious!), my favourite go-to meal for a busy work night is bokkeumbap (mixed fried rice). It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers from the fridge; just combine them with day-old rice, drizzle in some quality sesame oil, and top it off with seaweed. It truly transforms the dish! My body cannot survive more than 3 days without rice, so often if I go on holiday, I have to bring some Korean food in my suitcase.
KpopWise: You’ve done a lot of work in creating a sense of community. How important is it for you to connect British Koreans and shine the spotlight on local businesses too?
Becky: As noted in question 3, regarding my motivations for launching K-Supper Club, I genuinely believe that fostering community is essential for spreading awareness and cultivating a movement. Being a British-Korean, born to a Korean mother and English father and raised in the UK - with the gift of the language of this land - I feel it is our responsibility to share the stories of our parents who might not have the language or resources to express them. This passion drives my commitment to promoting local, family-run Korean restaurants through K-Supper Club.
KpopWise:You’ve shared some gorgeous standout fashion moments, such as your ‘Qing dynasty vest in denim’ back in July. Do you see fashion as another extension of yourself as well as a fusion of modern and cultural styles? What’s been your favourite look so far?
Becky: I have a genuine passion for showcasing emerging fashion designers, including SUMLONDON’s Qing Dynasty vest and talented hanbok designers from Korea. I enjoy integrating elements of hanbok into my outfits, whether it be through an accessory like a daenggi or a hairpiece. Ultimately, I believe that elegance is the key to any outfit, whether it's casual, formal, or traditional attire.
KpopWise: On the topic of fashion, who are your current favourite designers?
Becky: My current favourite designers are: SUMLONDON for the UK, and for Korea hanbok designers: Sheen:Seoul, Gurioe Yeobeck, Leesle and ILOVESONGHWA.
KpopWise: Is there anyone in particular you’d like to work with?
Becky: I would like to work with the Korean-American community in well-established locations such as Los Angeles and foster a stronger relationship between British-Koreans and Korean Americans, in the hope that we can support one another to continue to promote Korean culture authentically, and for it to not become a commodity.
KpopWise: You often talk about how New Malden is "London’s Korea Town". For you, what makes this specific area feel so special to you?
Becky: In my view, New Malden stands out as a remarkable place, being home to the largest Korean community in Europe. It hosts not only South Koreans but also North Koreans and Korean-Chinese, all coexisting in a single town. There are dedicated community leaders who work tirelessly to bridge gaps between the various ethnic Koreans. One notable initiative is the "Reunification Kitchen" which is jointly operated by women from both North and South Korea.
KpopWise: Looking back, what’s been the most special or memorable moment in your career so far?
Becky: One of the most remarkable moments during my time as Hanguk Hapa occurred in 2023 when I was featured on BBC London. I pitched the idea to a BBC presenter about doing a story on "Chuseok" the mid-autumn festival, highlighting how it brings all Koreans—both North and South—together to prepare traditional foods for this harvest celebration. The team visited New Malden to film at the "Reunification Kitchen" and the story aired on BBC London. This was truly a standout moment, showcasing a positive narrative of hope and reunification for Korea.
KpopWise: What would you consider to be your ultimate goal? What would have to happen for you to suddenly realise, “Wow. I made it” – if it hasn’t happened already!
Becky: I am focusing on practicing gratitude and celebrating the small victories rather than fixating on a large goal that may never materialise. Each time I host an event and connect with individuals who share a passion for Korean culture, that feels like a win. Every K-Supper Club gathering, where people unite to share food and laughter, is a victory in itself. It’s the little moments that accumulate into meaningful "wins" and I am thankful for each one that comes my way.
KpopWise: From Hanbok Wave to the K-Supper Club, you’ve already launched many meaningful projects. Looking ahead, are there any other avenues you wish to explore? What would you love to create next?
Becky: I aspire to someday establish an all-encompassing festival celebrating Korean culture, akin to those organised by Korean-Americans in the United States. My goal is to rally a team that shares my vision of promoting Korean culture on a larger scale. With the hallyu wave gaining significant momentum in the UK, I see an incredible opportunity to harness this growth and create more meaningful experiences for those who cherish Korean culture.
[All photos provided by Hanguk Hapa]