Korean craftsmanship is gaining attention on the global stage, with a recent highlight being Cheyul's participation in the Berlin Craft Expansion Fair (BCF). The luxury handcraft brand showcased a collection that bridges traditional Korean origins with a universal aesthetic, drawing considerable praise at the inaugural event held from Wednesday to Saturday.

Cheyul’s 25-piece collection, which featured lacquered furniture and a striking black porcelain moon jar, was among the standout displays at the fair. In total, 120 items were exhibited, with Cheyul's pieces making up nearly half the total alongside works by nine other Korean craftspeople. The event took place in Berlin’s artistic district of Mitte and the neighboring Kreuzberg, attracting attention from both local and international visitors.

But the craft celebration does not end there. Until the end of this month, a special Korean Craft Exhibition will be held at the Free University of Berlin. This exhibition features 30 additional Korean objects, offering a deeper exploration of the cultural and artistic heritage of Korea.

“This exhibition aims to broaden understanding of Korean culture, which is often associated with K-pop and K-dramas, by showcasing both traditional and contemporary Korean crafts,” said An You-sun, director of the Berlin Craft Expansion Fair. She emphasized the importance of presenting Korea’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, which goes beyond popular entertainment. “This is an opportunity for dialogue and a multifaceted view of Korean arts.”

An added that the Berlin Craft Expansion Fair is more than just an event: “It is a movement that is redefining the role of modern craft, blending heritage with contemporary design.”

One brand leading this movement is Cheyul, founded in 2008 by sisters Lee Jeong-eun and Lee Jeong-yoon. CEO Lee Jeong-eun, 36, has been a passionate advocate for modernizing Korean traditions while preserving their spirit. She likens her mission to growing a Korean version of Hermes, the renowned French luxury brand. Under her leadership, Cheyul collaborates with approximately 20 artisans and a team of designers, some working in-house and others outsourced, to create unique handcrafted pieces.

“The special exhibit at the Free University of Berlin is particularly meaningful for us,” said Lee, expressing her pride in Cheyul's expanding presence on the global stage. “Berlin is only the beginning,” she continued. “We have our sights set on captivating art enthusiasts worldwide, with plans to further our reach over the next decade.”

Cheyul’s collection, with its mix of traditional and modern Korean craftsmanship, perfectly encapsulates the brand’s vision of fusing the old with the new. By blending minimalist design with the intricate techniques of Korean artisans, Cheyul has been able to create pieces that resonate with a global audience.

With this exhibition and fair in Berlin, Cheyul is solidifying its place as a key player in the global craft scene, while promoting Korean cultural heritage. As the demand for luxury handcrafted goods continues to grow, Cheyul is well-positioned to carry its vision beyond Europe, bringing Korean artistry to the attention of enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

Sayart / Jason Yim, yimjongho1969@gmail.com