Turnabout Keigo

Written By Tan Wen Hui, Joyce
Interviewed on March 13th 2008
Last edited on March 26th 2008


A dedicated businessman, a caring husband and a doting father, it is hard to imagine that Mr Keigo Wee was once a problematic youth expelled from school and an ex-offender, too.

Yet as the 32-Year-Old stocky and jovial businessman spoke of his past deeds and achievements, a tinge of boorish cadence lingers in his speech, reminiscence of his early days as a ruffian.

A witty but rebellious youth who grew up in a dysfunctional family as an only child, Mr Wee's circle of friends then, were school dropouts and ruffians who enjoyed staying out late and getting involved in violent gang fights.

"Back then, I was a 'chao ah beng' who didn't care what I did and whom I mixed around with. I disliked going back home and even rented an apartment above Bugis market, so I could hang out more with my friends around areas nearby clubs and pubs."

A year later, Mr Wee ran afoul with the law. A minor, he was sentenced to a total of three years behind bars – with one year being spent at the Singapore Boys' Home and another two at reform school.

He was only 15-Years-Old.

When his grandmother learnt of his sentence, she became distraught by the thought of her only grandson having to live the rest of his life with a criminal record.

"When she came to visit me after my transfer to reform school, she lost so much weight I couldn't even recognize her." Said Mr Wee in fluent Mandarin as he recalled with distress on seeing how much his grandmother has suffered - thanks to his imprudent acts.

It was then he realized that he ought to turn over a new leaf.

A New Lease Of Life

Upon his release from reform school, Mr Wee requested for an immediate enlistment into National Service (NS), where he spent another 2 1/2 years kept away from bad influences within a safe proximity, this time, serving the Government as a civil servant.

Armed with neither qualifications nor working experiences, a determined Mr Wee took on a variety of challenging sales jobs which allowed him to prove his worth as a salesman, thereby earning as much as $11,000 a month.

"Initially, it was tough getting a job, especially in the era where a growing number of University grads are vying for a single job. Moreover, I'm just a PSLE cert-holder."

After having worked for a total of eight years coupled with his extensive experience in the sales industry, Mr Wee decided to set up his own baroque - rococo clothing line catered to a niche group of individuals who enjoy dressing up for special events and occasions.

In July 2004, Mr Wee successfully opened Sumairu Gothic Lolita fashion at Bugis Village. His shop imports three contemporary brand names - Sumairu, Gothic Lolita and Punk (GLP) fashion and Banana Fish.

Today, Mr Wee is gainfully employed as his own boss and is also happily married with an adorable 3-year-old daughter named Atsuki Wee. He subsequently changed his shop's name in tribute to his daughter.

Currently, Atsuki Gothic Lolita is located at My Playground in Suntec City, level 3.

"Seriously, its not worth getting yourself involved in gang fights. Being part of a gang is nothing glamorous, especially once you are caught red handed.”

“Also, it's both your family and friends who are suffering while you're placed behind bars."