1. Please introduce Atelier Bomnalae.

Atelier Bomnalae is a workshop specializing in eco-friendly recycled paper crafts. We engage in various activities centered around educational programs, including professional training, curriculum development, hands-on experiences, and teaching sessions. Additionally, in connection with this contest, we have launched our own brand "groo," which creates and produces traditional goods, expanding our scope into the merchandise sector. In the future, we plan to develop and produce craftwork products that incorporate traditional elements and stories alongside our craft education efforts.

2. Why did you develop ‘Ecopaper SaekDong Luckyshell Windbell’?

I aimed to express tradition through the material that best matches Korea’s nature and beauty. I also wanted to reinterpret in a modern way elements that were historically considered symbols of good fortune. The meaning of saekdong (colorfully striped fabric) that wards off misfortune and promotes health, the bokjumeoni (lucky pouch) that holds good fortune, the large seashell that fills one’s palm, the jeogori (traditional jacket) ribbon knot symbolizing reunion with loved ones, and the clear sound of copper bells that attracts good energy — I devised an entirely new craft technique and designed our products to bring these elements to life.

3. It seems there might have been many parts to consider given the nature of craftwork products.

Since everything is handcrafted, I inevitably had to pay attention to the level of perfection. To produce handmade crafts that can compete with mass-produced items, I emphasized durability and focused on establishing a production system necessary for maintaining product quality.

4. What challenges were there in the process?

As a relatively small workshop, the most challenging aspect was having to make all decisions and execute all tasks on my own. The extensive sampling process in completing the product components, to include packaging and brochure creation, was particularly difficult, and I believe there is still much room for improvement.

5. What was the most memorable moment during the contest?

The day the first-round results were announced was the most memorable. I was camping with my family when I checked the results. I remember feeling so happy that I hugged my kids and jumped up and down in excitement. It felt like positive feedback to this challenge I took on with curiosity about how well eco-friendly recycled paper crafts could perform in the market, despite its low popularity in Korea today.

6. What are Atelier Bomnalae’s future plans and goals?

Our merchandise brand ‘groo’ will showcase a variety of crafts centered around the concept of ‘Korean Dreamcatcher’. We aim to launch a range of home decor items that softly illuminate spaces and bring in good energy, as well as fashion accessories that can be carried daily. Ultimately, we want to convey a message that embraces both tradition and environmental consciousness through the warm and gentle nature of our materials.