A showcase on Danish Design excellence at Seoul Living Design Fair 2024
In recent years, South Korea has cemented itself as a global cultural and creative phenomenon. The success of K-pop sensations like BTS and Blackpink, the critically acclaimed movie "Parasite," and the Netflix phenomenon "Squid Game" has propelled South Korea into the international spotlight, significantly shaping its global image and influence. While the achievements in music and cinema are remarkable, South Korea's creative talent extends beyond these realms. The country takes pride in a rich design tradition that skillfully weaves together elements of heritage and modern innovation, positioning itself as a trendsetter in the global design landscape. The essence of South Korean design is characterized by a blend of functionality, aesthetic appeal, and cultural significance, navigating the delicate balance between tradition and contemporary influences. Seoul Living Design Fair 2024 is set to showcase this unique blend of design excellence, also featuring Danish design.
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The fusion of Danish and South Korean design
The Danish approach to minimalist design and sustainability has evolved into a lifestyle appreciated in South Korea. The connection between South Korean and Danish design trends highlights how an emphasis on quality materials and simplicity goes beyond geographical boundaries, aligning well with Asian cultural preferences.
An integral part of the Danish design tradition is focusing on the user and designing for human needs. Danish designers create functional pieces without compromising on aesthetic values. Beyond aesthetics, the Danish and South Korean design traditions also share a commitment to technological integration and sustainability. In South Korea, a deep embrace of technology coexists with a profound appreciation for craftsmanship, a sentiment echoed in Danish design. Attention to detail and a dedication to eco-friendly practices are characteristics that bridge the two traditions.
As South Korea's design identity evolves, it leaves a mark on the global narrative, much like the lasting impact of Danish design. In this context, Seoul design fair is a dynamic platform akin to Danish design events, where the latest trends are unveiled, and the timeless essence of design is celebrated on a global stage.
“We aimed to capture the overlapping spatial characteristics of Han-ok revealed through the courtyard in the Danish Pavilion. Combining Denmark's timeless design with the Korean natural home, we sought to exhibit the beautiful moment when two different cultures and designs converge.”
Danish craftmanship at Seoul Living Design Fair 2024
The groundwork for the Danish interior design industry was laid in the 1940s, '50s, and '60s, with designers such as Hans J. Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, and Finn Juhl solidifying the concepts of 'Danish Design' and 'Danish Modern.' Since then, the Danish interior design tradition has further developed, adapting new materials and production methods, but the classics remain iconic and well-known around the world. The high quality and longevity of the pieces make it possible to pass them down from generation to generation.
Seoul Living Design Fair (SLDF) was inaugurated in 1994 and since then the design fair has grown into a major international living fair, not only shedding light on South Korea's vibrant lifestyle but also attracting a diverse global audience of over 280,000 enthusiasts in design, architecture, and cultural exploration. The fair, taking place in the last week of February 2024, serves as a platform for the exchange of ideas, fostering a dynamic dialogue between South Korean and international design influences, further solidifying South Korea's position as a global hub for creative innovation.
The Danish Pavilion “House of Danish Design” is curated by Sungjoon Chae, Head Architect at SPOA. Chae's goal is to integrate Danish design into a local Korean context, creating an inviting and immersive experience. SPOA’s work is wide-ranging, from apartment buildings, to bespoke private houses, public parks, and cultural spaces.
Among the exhibitors in the "House of Danish Design" are nine Danish companies, each contributing with a unique design approach and sense of style to the pavilion. The intersection of Danish and South Korean design at SLDF 2024 promises to be a cultural dialogue, a celebration of shared values, and a harmonious blend of design excellence from two corners of the world.
The Danish companies showcased are Carl Hansen & Søn, Quilts of Denmark/NorviGroup, Umage, VOLA, Natures collection, Fritz Hansen, Georg Jensen Damask, Fog &Venø, and DANISH LEGACY.
Explore their cases below.
The Danish pavilion at Seoul Living Design Fair 2024 is organised by Danish Industry, the Trade Council of Denmark in South Korea, and Creative Denmark.
