Jeong - by Hyo Jung Lee (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

The first book to explore the full scope and beauty of Korean design - from traditional craft to celebrated contemporary creations

Characterized by a unique blend of tradition and innovation, and by a focus on sustainability and efficiency, Korean design is recognized for its creativity, quality, and beauty. Jeong: The Spirit of Korean Craft and Design is the first book to present an immersive visual exploration of the country's fascinating craft and design scene to an international audience.

A Korean concept with no direct translation in English, jeong conveys a deep affection, emotional connection, and a sense of attachment that develops over time through shared experiences, care, and familiarity. In the context of craft and design, jeong is revealed through attention to detail and the profound connection between maker, object and user.

This elegant volume presents 175 inspiring and important objects, from anonymous folk crafts to celebrated masterpieces, including lacquerware, ceramics, embroidery, furniture, textiles and more. Each illustrated with a striking full-page image, featured pieces include traditional moon jars, intricately woven baskets, delicate textiles, and cutting-edge contemporary furniture.

Printed on tactile craft paper and stitch-bound in traditional Korean style, the book is itself a stunning object that invites exploration. Design-obsessed readers will also find in-depth essays by contemporary Korean design prodigy Teo Yang; curator Beth McKillop; and J Kathryn Hong, Chairperson of the Arumjigi Foundation in Seoul.

This special book reveals the spirit and sensibility of jeong to readers around the world.

Review Quotes

As featured in World of Interiors, National Geographic Traveller, Monocle, and BBC Radio London Robert Elms

'A valuable resource on the subject, demonstrating how the Korean identity is embedded in the featured objects.' - Daniella on Design

'An extremely beautiful book with some very beautiful objects inside.' - BBC Radio London Robert Elms

'The first book to map the full breadth of Korean design.' - Seoul Cult

'Brings this cultural philosophy to the fore, exploring how the connection between maker, material, and user has shaped the country's craftsmanship over the past 3,000-plus years.' - The Slowdown

'Jeong is the new hygge...Korea's designers are countering the nation's fast pace of life by drawing on ancient traditions of mindfulness.' - The World of Interiors

About the Author

Hyo Jung Lee is a Korean-born graphic designer based in London. In 2020, she founded the Korean Craft and Design digital platform, through which she has facilitated dialogues between Korean and international designers to explore how leading creatives draw inspiration from Korea's craft culture. She has spent her career working with international branding agencies and is currently at Pentagram.

Teo Yang is the founder of Seoul-based Teo Yang Studio, known for designing commercial and high-end residential projects and creative collaborations with international luxury brands. His studio earned the prestigious AD100 award from Architectural Digest in 2022 and was shortlisted for Dezeen's Interior Designer of the Year award in 2024. Teo Yang has also launched his own furniture brand Eastern Edition and skincare brand EATH Library.

Beth McKillop was formerly curator of Chinese and Korean collections at the British Library and Deputy Director of the Victoria & Albert Museum (2011-2016), where she is currently a senior research fellow. She was president of the Oriental Ceramic Society from 2018-2021 and co-authored Precious beyond Measure: A History of Korean Ceramics published in 2024.

Since 2013 J Kathryn Hong has served as the Chief Creative Officer of Onjium, guiding research and dissemination efforts focused on Korea's traditional culture of food, clothing, and housing. In 2025, she was appointed Chairperson of the Arumjigi Foundation - a non-profit private organization that showcases the beauty and values of traditional Korean culture.