Somi Ko
Somidang
Paper artist
Seoul, South Korea
Sculptural thread spun from paper
- Somi developed her own hanji thread called Somisa
- Her hanji creations, made with weaving and 3D papermaking techniques, transform spaces sculpturally
- She renews an ancient craft through collaboration with other artisans and material exchanges
Somi Ko transforms flat sheets of hanji, a traditional Korean paper made from paper mulberry, into 3D structures by cutting and twisting them into thread. Originally trained in East Asian painting, she first encountered hanji as a surface for drawing. While studying textiles in Japan, she explored the possibility of turning paper itself into thread. "I developed my own paper yarn, Somisa, from my drawings and practice sheets," she says. Carrying traces of Somi's craftsmanship and repeated gestures, this thread expands into objects and installations. She collaborates with hanji artisans in Andong and Jeonju, responding to the distinct texture, flexibility and strength of papers from each region. Somi also takes part in hemp farming, extending her practice into the earlier stages of material production and communal forms of making.
Discover her work
INTERVIEW
While studying textiles, I wondered if hanji could become thread, as wool does. This led me to create Somisa, my own hanji thread, made by cutting and twisting discarded diaries and papers. The repetitive act of spinning gives paper strength and form, while holding traces of time, labour and life.
I am drawn to hanji for its materiality and the sense of time it carries. Although it appears thin and fragile, hanji is surprisingly strong when layered, and long paper mulberry fibres give it enough tensile strength to be spun into thread. It also holds and filters light. To me, hanji makes time visible and carries the memory of the land and the labour of its makers.
I source my materials mainly from hanji artisans in Andong and Jeonju. Andong hanji is fine yet strong, making it suitable for structural works, while Jeonju hanji is softer and more flexible, ideal for spinning delicate threads. I also take part in hemp farming, deepening the exchange around materials and community.
To me, carrying on tradition means translating its spirit and history into the present, while maintaining an intentional attitude toward life. Hanji carries the labour and traces of its makers. By deconstructing and reconstructing it, I connect past and present through slow handwork.
Somi Ko
Somidang
Paper artist
Seoul, South Korea
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
PHONE
+82 226874864
LANGUAGES
Korean, English, Japanese
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