The Korea Craft and Design Foundation (KCDF) has announced the selection of 25 new Outstanding Cultural Products for 2024, spanning six categories: crafts, design products, cultural content, food, Korean cuisine, and hanbok. This initiative is part of the K-Ribbon Selection Program, which highlights Korea’s cultural value through premium branding and marketing efforts. The program uses the K-Ribbon logo, inspired by the traditional knot detail of hanbok, to mark products that exemplify cultural and aesthetic excellence.

This year, 330 entries were evaluated, and 25 were designated as Outstanding Cultural Products. In the craft category, winners include Napcheong Yugi Ijiho Workshop, Somok Sobok, Sojae, Atelier Su, and Tongyeong Nubi Haesujeom. The design product category features six winners: Dadi Studio, Bitbom, Otte Midam, One Way International, Kim’s Me, and Hanbbyum Media. Cultural content winners are Woorinabi, Ace Edu, and Tud Design Studio, while the food category includes Maumiga, Sejun Food, Andong Jebiwon Traditional Food, Cossat, and Pyeongchang Flower Sooni. For Korean cuisine, Mrs. Kim and Yoseokgung 1779 were selected, and the hanbok category honored Myungssum, Songhwa by Jung, Sigoo Design, and Otjae.

Unlike in previous years, the KCDF introduced direct funding for the selected companies in 2024. While past recipients received a prize of 6 million won and participated in exhibitions organized by the KCDF, this year’s approach allows companies to independently allocate funds for domestic and international fairs or organize sales-driven events. This new system has enabled the winners to achieve meaningful distribution outcomes through participation in major industry fairs, exclusive pop-up stores, and online promotions.

Additionally, selected companies will showcase their work at key international events such as the Craft Trend Fair and Maison & Objet in France, with four craft companies and two design product companies representing Korea.

The KCDF emphasized that the Outstanding Cultural Products program is not only about celebrating Korea’s cultural heritage but also about supporting contemporary artisans and designers in reaching global audiences. The initiative aligns with the foundation’s mission to build a “Korea Premium” brand that resonates locally and internationally. By providing strategic support and expanded opportunities, the program reinforces Korea’s position as a leader in cultural excellence and innovation.

Sayart / Jason Yim, yimjongho1969@gmail.com