Tchai Kim Young Jin is a custom hanbok brand. Tchai was derived from the Korean word "chai" that means "difference," as a tribute to the difference in approach and detail of the design. There is a famous painting titled "Portrait of a Beauty" by Sin Yun-bok from the 18th century and the hanbok in the painting inspired the artist's motifs. With experience as a designer for Louis Vuitton, Kim Young Jin respects the lines of a classic hanbok and transforms the pieces into fashionable modern wear. The haute couture designs are not restricted to traditional fabrics used for hanbok, and include French lace in the custom-tailored skirts and jeogori (hanbok jacket), and undergarments. Her second brand, tchaikim, focuses on daily wear that utilizes the sensitive shapes of hanbok in Western garment patterns. The Hannam-dong, Seoul showroom is housed in a 30-year-old building that is decorated by the designer, and also is the location of her workshop. The interior and handicrafts displayed offers a glimpse into the artist's lifestyle.
* This column was last updated in November 2022, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check details before visiting.
