KORAPHIC, a brand reinterpreting Korean traditions with a modern perspective, is gaining global attention for its unique approach to showcasing Korea’s rich cultural heritage. The name combines KOrean and gRAPHIC, reflecting its mission to go beyond nostalgia and create meaningful, contemporary designs inspired by tradition.
Rediscovering Tradition Across Time
KORAPHIC explores Korean aesthetics spanning the Three Kingdoms period, the Joseon Dynasty, and even the tumultuous eras of Japanese occupation and modernization. Its slogan, “connected, before I know,” embodies the philosophy of reconnecting once-forgotten traditions with the present. Examples include the Korean Empire playing cards, royal culture festival posters, and typography from early Children’s Day posters. These elements are reinterpreted through KORAPHIC’s lens, gaining modern functionality and new meaning.
Recognized for Design Excellence
KORAPHIC’s innovative designs have earned widespread acclaim, including awards at the 2024 Korea Tourism Souvenir Contest and the 2023 National Dokdo Design Contest. Its reinterpretations of traditional motifs—like plum blossom pin badges, the Korean Empire playing cards, and dancheong-patterned accessories—are showcased in prominent cultural venues, including the National Museum of Korea, The Hyundai Seoul, ddp design store, the War Memorial of Korea, Incheon International Airport and Gyeongbokgung Palace. These products captivate both younger generations and tradition enthusiasts.
Bridging Tradition and Modernity Through Collaboration
KORAPHIC has collaborated with various municipalities and companies, including Geumcheon-gu in Seoul, Mungyeong, Miryang, HD Hyundai Infracore, and the Cultural Heritage Administration, to carry out diverse cultural projects rooted in tradition. In particular, its products inspired by the Korean Empire worldview have demonstrated the potential for modern applications of traditional elements.
Founder Jang Ido emphasizes, “Tradition can feel distant, but everything we use today can become tomorrow’s tradition. Our goal is to connect history with everyday life.” KORAPHIC remains dedicated to reimagining Korea’s aesthetic legacy for global audiences, ensuring its cultural significance endures.
KORAPHIC’s journey to rediscover and share the beauty of Korean tradition has only just begun.
Company : KORAPHIC.
Contact Person: Creative Director Jang IDO
phone: 0507-1333-5591
Website: www.koraphic.com / https://www.instagram.com/koraphic_seoul/
Email: koraphic@gmail.com
