Q WHAT IS STUDIO VERGUM?

Vergum is a studio that aspires to create a Korean aesthetic. We conduct various design projects and develop our own cultural products. We find and commercialize Korea’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage assets. Like the saying in Samguk Sagi (the history of the three kingdoms), “To be frugal but not humble, to be gorgeous but not luxurious,” Vergum strives for balance in our design practices, and we do not gravitate toward one particular style.

Q WHY DID YOU FOCUS ON MYEONGTAE?

Japan has the maneki-neko, China has the chunlian, and Sweden has the dales pony. Each country has its good luck symbol, and so does Korea—myeongtae and myeongjusil (pollack and silk threads). We want to develop a product that combines them and brings you good luck.

Q WHY DID YOU CHOOSE 3D-PRINTING TECHNOLOGY AMONG THE REST?

We chose it because we wanted to make something realistic. Using a mold is only available for simpler objects, but with 3D printing, we could make sophisticated textures, like myeongtae’s scales and head, its irregular body, and the skein of thin silk threads. We also expanded the scope to include five different colors.

Q YOUR WORKS ARE ALREADY ON DISPLAY AT THE LEEUM, SAMSUNG MUSEUM OF ART; THE KOREA CRAFT & DESIGN FOUNDATION; AND ART SHOPS IN KOREAN AIRPORTS. THEY’RE ALREADY RECOGNIZED AS A VALUABLE TOURISM PRODUCT, AND I HEARD YOU’VE ALREADY SECURED A STABLE MARKET.

We’ve been joining the contest for 10 years to get objective reviews. It’s more reliable and trustworthy to have our work reviewed through applications, public opinion, and expert assessments.

Q WHICH ADVICE FROM THE JUDGES WAS THE MOST HELPFUL?

The most beneficial advice was that we should develop smaller product versions. We also consulted about overseas marketing with Mr. Choe Useok, the CEO of a pet soap brand, Favonex Korea Ltd.

Q ANY FUTURE PLANS?

We restarted the sale because the Leeum reopened, and the reaction was remarkable. We reorganized the production line to supply the products smoothly. We also plan to have active online marketing and sales. We will continue to develop products like myeongtae by studying Korea’s old customs.