K-lifestyle has become a primary focus as the Korea Craft & Design Foundation (KCDF) works to elevate traditional culture beyond mere preservation into a thriving global industry. In an interview, KCDF President Kim Kyung-bae emphasized that traditional culture must connect with modern utility to compete globally.
Building a Full-Cycle Ecosystem for Traditional Culture
President Kim noted that while the domestic traditional culture sector remains largely composed of small businesses, consumer interest in modern traditional styles, known as ‘hip-tradition,’ is surging. To support this growth, the foundation focuses on a full-cycle ecosystem spanning production, mediation, enjoyment, and reproduction.
Empowering Startups and Global Expansion
Since 2020, the ‘Today’s Tradition Startup’ program has backed 460 enterprises, achieving high survival rates and cumulative sales exceeding 60 billion won. Success stories like the ceramic brand ‘Mujagi’ and the hanbok brand ‘Lee_Wrist’ highlight how traditional crafts are being modernized and showcased internationally through pop-up stores in Paris and New York.
Connecting Consumers Through Upcoming Spaces
To continuously engage consumers, the KCDF is launching ‘Today’s Tradition Lab’ in Seoul’s Insadong district. This new hub will offer test markets, specialized libraries, networking zones, and workshops to help upcoming creators refine their ideas and scale their businesses successfully.
