Changyeon was established in 2018 in Naju, a town that has long been known as the centre of Korea’s indigo dyeing culture, as the region benefits from ideal conditions for cultivating indigo. In order to preserve traditional dyeing methods, the artisan couple at Changyeon carries out every step of the process themselves, from farming the indigo plants to fermentation and dyeing. Large earthenware jars are used for fermentation and dyeing, and many of the tools required for the process are handmade. In winter, seashells are fired in a kiln for two days to produce lime, while lye is also prepared by burning plant materials such as soybean and sesame stalks, and indigo stalks.

The work at Changyeon follows the rhythm of nature in Korea where the four seasons shape daily life. In spring, indigo seeds are sown in the fields. In summer, the freshly harvested indigo is soaked in water, mixed with slaked lime, and vigorously stirred to precipitate the pigment into the traditional dye material called niram. This is also the peak season for preparing new fermentation vats and actively dyeing fabric. Dyeing continues throughout the year, with the most active period spanning from May to October. Rather than creating flashy colours that are quickly consumed and forgotten, Changyeon seeks to present hues that hold depth and invite lasting attention. "We hope people can slowly appreciate the clear, pure and profound tones of traditional Korean indigo, and the values it holds," they share.