Woong Gul Yang
Furniture maker
Cheju, South Korea
Rooted in Jeju, shaped by concepts
- Woong Gul makes design-driven furniture using locally sourced wood
- His practice centres on reviving Jeju furniture traditions through slow craftsmanship
- In his works, structure and form respond closely to the behaviour of wood
After first encountering woodworking during military service, Woong Gul Yang trained with a master craftsman for several years in a workshop, before enrolling in Kaywon University of Art and Design to study furniture design. "This degree helped expand my conceptual thinking," he explains. This dual grounding in hands-on craft and academic training continues to define Woong Gul's work today. His return to Jeju in the mid-2010s marked a turning point, slowing the pace of making and renewing a sense of purpose. Jeju is a volcanic island off the southern coast of South Korea known for its distinct climate and calmer rhythms. "Being based here shifted my attention towards the island’s vanishing traditional furniture, which I reinterpreted in my own way," says Woong Gul.
INTERVIEW
I first define a category such as chair, table or another object I want to create. I make many sketches. Then I set it aside and forget about it. Ideas often come suddenly while driving or surfing. I then use 3D modelling to bring the design to life, sketch some more, experiment in the studio, and fnally start working with the material.
I like working with wood’s natural colour. I choose tones fitting the design, rather than adding pigmentation myself. I prefer subtle grain over strong patterns. Because wood expands and contracts, I avoid full glue fixation and use joinery and metal hardware to respond to movement.
I prioritise practicality and aesthetics in everyday life. The furniture I make should be easy to use, while also having a beautiful form. To my mind, even if an object is beautiful, if it is inconvenient to use, it has no meaning. In my work, both aspects must always coexist in balance.
I will continue working on traditional Jeju furniture, including sallejang, and aim to share it more widely. I also hope to combine materials from the local nature, such as driftwood shaped by wind and waves, and basalt stones, combining them with wood to create new works.
Woong Gul Yang
Furniture maker
Cheju, South Korea
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
PHONE
+82 1028872921
LANGUAGES
Korean, English
Homo Faber Finds is a new service aiming to inspire admirers of craft to connect and collaborate with exceptional artisans.
We invite you to submit an enquiry here.
