The first book to explore the full scope and beauty of Korean design – from traditional craft to celebrated contemporary creations

Korean design which is characterised by its unique blend of tradition and innovation as well as its focus on sustainability and efficiency is becoming increasingly recognised for its creativity, quality, and beauty. This is the first book to present a substantial overview of the Korea s fascinating craft and design scene. At the core of the book is the concept of jeong a uniquely Korean emotion that shapes relationships, behaviors, and even artistic expressions. In the context of craft and design, jeong can be seen in the attention to detail, the longevity of materials, and the maker s relationship to both the object and its user.

The objects in this book are organised by use highlighting the utilitarian nature of Korean design. The book s specially commissioned images are accompanied by insightful texts by experts in the field exploring the significance of jeong, tracing the history of Korean craft, and placing Korean design in the context of the wider international design scene.

Details

ISBN13: 9781838669454
Format: Paperback / softback
Number of Pages: 224
Edition:
Publication Date: 03 Mar 2026
Publisher: Phaidon Press Ltd
Publication City, Country: London, United Kingdom
Dimensions (cm): 27(H)x20.5(L)x2.1(W)910
Weight (gm): 910

Author Biography

Born in Korea and based in London, Hyo Jung Lee is a graphic designer at Pentagram. In 2020, she founded the Korean Craft and Design digital platform, through which she has facilitated dialogues between Korean and international designers to explore the ways in which the world' top creatives take inspiration from Korea' rich craft culture.

Teo Yang is the founder of Seoul-based Teo Yang Studio, known for designing commercial and high-end residential projects and creative collaborations with international luxury brands. His studio earned the prestigious AD100 award from Architectural Digest in 2022 and was shortlisted for Dezeen' Interior Designer of the Year award in 2024. Teo Yang has also launched his own furniture brand Eastern Edition and skincare brand EATH Library.

Beth McKillop was formerly curator of Chinese and Korean collections at the British Library and Deputy Director of the Victoria & Albert Museum (2011-2016), where she is currently a senior research fellow. She was president of the Oriental Ceramic Society from 2018-2021 and co-authored Precious beyond Measure: A History of Korean Ceramics published in 2024.

Since 2013 J Kathryn Hong has served as the Chief Creative Officer of Onjium, guiding research and dissemination efforts focused on Korea' traditional culture of food, clothing, and housing. In 2025, she was appointed Chairperson of the Arumjigi Foundation - a non-profit private organization that showcases the beauty and values of traditional Korean culture.

Reviews

As featured in World of Interiors, National Geographic Traveller, Monocle, and BBC Radio London Robert Elms

‘A valuable resource on the subject, demonstrating how the Korean identity is embedded in the featured objects.’ – Daniella on Design

‘An extremely beautiful book with some very beautiful objects inside.’ – BBC Radio London Robert Elms

'The first book to map the full breadth of Korean design.' – Seoul Cult