BORNTOSTANDOUT
Korean Heritage - Bottled
1. Which fragrances influenced you on your path to becoming a perfume brand founder?
My journey started with my first perfumes at 15—Versace's Blue Jeans and Abercrombie's Fierce. Those scents got me hooked on perfume collecting. Later, brands like Serge Lutens and Tom Ford blew my mind with their artistic, niche creations. They showed me how perfumery can be an art form, inspiring me to craft scents that are bold and evocative.
2. How much of the Korean tradition is rooted in your brand?
Korean tradition is the soul of our brand. From our meticulous handcrafted processes to our flacon designs inspired by traditional porcelain shapes, we infuse our heritage into everything. Yet, our fragrances are anything but traditional—think avant-garde, contemporary, and totally unconventional. It’s this blend of modernity and tradition that gives us our unique edge.
3. What is special about your brand and your fragrances? What makes both unique?
As a non-European fragrance house, our minimalist design and bold "juices" set us apart. But what really makes us unique is our approach. I don’t follow trends or chase sales; I'm driven by a pure love for the art of perfumery. Our scents are avant-garde and sometimes downright bizarre—like Nanatopia with its banana bread, rum, and animalic notes, or Angels’ Powder with nail polish, paint fumes, and cotton candy. This approach is risky, but it’s what makes me proud and ensures every fragrance is a genuine piece of art.
4. How would you describe the BTSO-Customer?
Our customers are the ones who challenge the norm. They’re culturally savvy, love standing out, and express their unique identities through fragrance. They’re the nonconformists, trendsetters, and pioneers who inspire others. To them, fragrance is an extension of their personality.
5. Which of your own fragrances do you love and wear the most?
I’ve got a soft spot for “Dirty Heaven.” It’s a captivating mix of floral, gourmand, and animalic notes that perfectly captures the spirit of rebellion and elegance. It’s my go-to for any occasion and always gets the most compliments.
6. You call your scents "juices" – why?
We call our scents "juices" because they’re more than just perfumes—they’re vibrant, alive, and full of character, like freshly squeezed juice. It’s a fun, playful term that reflects the creativity at the heart of our brand.
7. BTSO is going to be featured in the Niche Beauty Gift Guide for the festive time around Christmas, which scents fit best to the following holidays and why:
- Cosy and Festive Christmas Eve: Nanatopia - warm, spicy, and comforting, perfect for a snug evening by the fire.
- Christmas Office Party : Angels’ Powder - bold and sophisticated, making a statement without overpowering.
- Christmas Brunch : Mary Jane - fresh and uplifting, ideal for a cheerful morning gathering.
- Boxing Day : Drunk Lovers - a balanced mix of woodsy and citrus notes, great for a relaxed day.
- New Year’s Eve : Drunk Maple - intense and seductive, the perfect companion for a night of celebration.
- Hangover January : Dirty Heaven - energetic and invigorating, the rejuvenating start you need for the new year.
8. Do you have any cherished Christmas traditions that you look forward to each year?
Absolutely! I indulge in an array of candies, chocolates, marshmallows, and ice cream. Christmas is the one time of year when binge-eating sweets is totally acceptable!
9. What are some of your favorite gifts to give and receive during the holiday season?
I love giving personalized gifts with special meaning, like a unique fragrance (not from our brand) or a small piece of art. Receiving thoughtful, handmade items always warms my heart because they carry a piece of the giver’s soul.
10. The best gift you have ever gotten?
The best gift I’ve ever received was a vintage Guerlain Bee bottle from the 1960s, given by a dear friend. For a true fragrance lover, Guerlain’s heritage is the pinnacle of respect and admiration.
11. Do you have a location tip or a must-visit spot in Seoul around Christmas Time?
Gwangjang Market is a must-visit. Its vibrant atmosphere, delicious street food (perfect for those ready to explore authentic Korean cuisine), and festive decorations make it feel like time has stopped. It’s an inspiring place, especially around Christmas.
Thank you!