Stitching the 24-Hour City: Life, Labor, and the Problem of Speed in Seoul by Seo Young Park (review).

"Stitching the 24-Hour City: Life, Labor, and the Problem of Speed in Seoul" by Seo Young Park explores the Dongdaemun Market in Seoul, which has transformed from a symbol of the labor movement to a popular shopping destination for fast fashion. The book examines the lives of garment workers, wholesalers, retailers, and designers in the market, highlighting the fast-paced production and circulation cycles of the industry. It also delves into the efforts of labor activists and the local government to create alternative spaces and slow down the market's pace. The book raises questions about the intersection of space, time, intimacy, and passion in the workplace, with a focus on the gendered dynamics and paternalistic practices within the industry. However, some questions remain about the author's engagement with the literature on space, the connection between the Dongdaemun Market and the broader urban landscape of Seoul, and the inclusion of immigrant workers in the analysis. A broader perspective at the global and local levels would enhance the understanding of the market and its participants. [Extracted from the article]