Please introduce “MEIN GOLD Co., Ltd.”

MEIN GOLD Co., Ltd. is a family-run company founded in 2019. For over a decade, it has pursued the vision of creating “edible cultural products that reinterpret traditional gold leaf in a modern way.” The company currently holds patents in eight countries and over 30 intellectual property rights, with a focus on employing people with disabilities and generating social value. Its core mission lies not in simple metal processing but in the modern continuation of Korea’s traditional gold leaf craft.

What inspired you to create “Time Travel · Golden Legacy”?

The idea began with the intention of allowing people to experience gold leaf, once used exclusively in royal courts, in their everyday lives. “Time Travel · Golden Legacy” is a project that brings together the craftsmanship of the past and cutting-edge food technology, developed to introduce Korea’s unique K-Gold Leaf culture to the world.

What process was required to turn this innovative of using gold leaf as a topping for various foods and beverages into an actual product?

It took more than two years to develop the “five-second floating technology,” which allows the gold leaf to shimmer on the surface of a drink for about five seconds. This required delicate adjustments to factors such as surface tension, density, and temperature response. From there, it took nearly a decade to perfect the process, from manual craftsmanship to mass production systems, as well as design and content development. As a result, the product has established itself as a culture-driven innovation found nowhere else in the world.

What did you focus on most when creating the product?

The focus was on ensuring that it felt like an experience-oriented cultural product rather than a simple food item. We developed storytelling-based packaging and design elements to let international tourists sense the royal culture of the Joseon Dynasty and the tradition of gold leaf as they use the product. For foreigners, it’s a new experience; for us, it’s a rediscovery of tradition. “Time Travel · Golden Legacy” marks the beginning of this journey, and we plan to continue developing more cultural products in the future.

What regional culture or story inspired this product?

We took motifs from ten cultural heritages located in major cities across Korea, including Gwangju, Gyeongju, Seoul, and Buyeo. The shapes and patterns of each artifact were incorporated into the gold leaf designs, and QR codes were added to connect users to the history and stories behind them. This concept of “a time travel experience of appreciating artifacts while enjoying a drink” brings the idea to life.

Did you consider environmental or sustainability aspects during the production process?

Pure 24K gold is a 100% natural material with chemical stability and non-toxicity, making it an eco-friendly choice. By sourcing gold leaf domestically rather than relying on imports, we have reduced carbon emissions and improved logistics efficiency by minimizing product volume. MEIN GOLD continues sustainable production under the philosophy of creating “small, yet the most eco-friendly, gold leaf.”