Yeodong Yun

Metal sculptor

©Studio Poles 박현성

©NONFICTION

©Studio Poles 박현성

Movement in stillness

Yeodong uses metal to turn everyday objects into art
She reinterprets historical pieces with a contemporary eye
Her work was featured in solo exhibitions in Seoul and Tokyo

Yeodong Yun is a metal artist based in Seoul who makes functional objects, jewellery and installations that reflect the subtle dynamism of time. She studied metalworking at Seoul National University and ESADSE in France. Yeodong's works are influenced by the Silla dynasty crowns, refined gold crowns of the 5th–7th centuries. She transforms everyday objects, such as wineglasses, coolers and teapots, into sculptural art, by balancing elegance, history and modernity. "I would describe my work as JeongJungDong, or 'movement in silence', which is a concept that embodies the subtle tremors and motion within stillness," she says. Her pieces are featured in global exhibitions, including Homo Faber 2024: The Journey of Life in Venice.

Interview

©Studio Poles 박현성

©박준우

What is the charm in metal sculpting?: Once raw gold, silver and copper are processed with techniques such as lacquering or cloisonné, they are never dull. This is more evident when these metals are finished with hairline textures, mirror shine and rainbow weld marks. Over time, as they are handled and used, the metal's coldness warms, its hardness softens and the beauty begins to reveal itself.
Which piece of work do you feel most attached to?: I think it would be the wine bucket. I have been making it since 2021, and I am grateful for the public appreciation this piece received during a wine-related exhibition. It embodies my signature hammer texture, welding marks and silver-gold harmony, which makes it even more special to me.
Is there a specific project you aspire to tackle next?: I want to create larger works, such as storage units and furniture, expanding beyond my current scale. Metal offers endless possibilities. I am eager to explore new challenges, pushing the boundaries of what I can design and craft in the future.
How do you want to be remembered as a maker?: I want to be remembered as an artisan who inspires others to see endless creative potential and think that any kind of craft is possible. For me, recognition means that my work is valued and utilised, which I find deeply rewarding.

Yeodong Yun is a rising star she began her career in 2018