Korean Designs Go Beyond Shiny Smartphones

Photo Credit: The Korea Herald

A decade ago, when Korean electronic products started to slowly gain popularity in the global market, it was mostly because of the high quality and great durability. The design aspect wasn't at the same level as Japanese competitors.

Now things have changed, however. Many Korean companies are ranking in prestigious international design awards such as red-dot, IDEA and iF. Samsung received more awards at IDEA than any other company and Ralph Wiegmann, the Managing director of iF design award, says it's no surprise that Korean companies thrive in design as they have motivation and passion to improve.

Now the world stage is the playground for Korean designers in categories beyond consumer electronics. For instance, Maison et Objet is one of the world's largest design shows and took place in Paris in early September. This year several Elle editors chose designers to participate in a special section called Talents à la Cartes, selecting among them Korean designer Heewon Kim.

Kim is known for his witty, cool-looking furniture, which you can see in pictures below.

Project Name: Attractive Chair

Project Name: Take off

Project Name: Rest of

Another exciting design fair will be taking place in London soon! Earls Court London will host 100% Design from September 19 to 22. There will be a special exhibition called KOREA DESIGN 2012 that shows off Korea's cool, contemporary furniture, lighting and textile designs. For more information, check out the following website: http://www.100percentdesign.co.uk/page.cfm/Link=167/t=m/goSection=9/trackLogID=741148_FE79A7E76B

About the author by Sophie Choi

Born in Korea and raised on three different continents, I have always been enthusiastic to share the uniqueness of Korean culture and design. On top of that, the advanced level of Korean technology makes me proud to call myself Korean and motivates me to spread technology related news to more people around the world. The list of things I like (and like to do) is endless: Shopping, Gummy jellies, Lilies... and it goes on

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