서준호 | JUNHO SEO

An Ode to Hands

To create something timeless requires more than skill—it calls for a profound connection to one’s roots and a fearless embrace of the unknown. This is the story of Junho Seo, a Korean-born product designer now based in Copenhagen—a story fueled by passion, rooted in tradition, and inspired by possibility.

Junho’s journey began with an industrial design degree from Northumbria University, where he deepened his understanding of materials, manufacturing techniques, and the art of problem-solving through design. This foundation has shaped his unique approach, one that seeks to reinterpret everyday objects in new and meaningful ways.

7115: Can you tell us about a formative memory that shaped your relationship with making things by hand?

Junho: My early experiences reflect my passion for modification and transformation; as a young teen, I was always dissatisfied with something in the items around me and felt compelled to fix it. I would change buttons on clothes, swap buckles on bag straps, or dye items I didn’t like, starting with small adjustments and gradually pushing myself to explore more complex alterations. At some point, I realized that simple fixes were no longer enough, and the only way to achieve the satisfaction I sought was to create things from scratch, exactly as I envisioned. This is when the idea of becoming a designer first began to take shape. Whether crafting Mulberry paper lamps, leather goods, furniture, or clothing, my creations now reflect my fascination with the intersection of craft and materiality.

7115: You’ve mentioned how you used to modify objects around you. What do you think that urge to “fix” or rework things taught you about design?

Junho: In my opinion, disassembling is one of the best ways to learn and understand an object. By disassembling, you get to see the ‘guts’ of the object. I’ve always been fascinated by discovering the hidden complexity behind making something look and function ‘simple.’ I like things where the inside is as interesting and beautiful as the outside.

7115: How has your background in industrial design influenced the way you approach your more craft-based work today?

Junho: I would like to merge the industrial approach with traditional craftsmanship. For example, I aim to make certain processes within the craft as efficient as possible by using modern design tools and techniques. This can push the limits of traditional craft in many ways, ultimately expanding the freedom of design.

7115: How do you stay connected to traditional Korean craft while navigating a contemporary, global design world?

Junho: Whenever I go back to Korea, I always visit an area in Seoul called Seochon, where many individual craftsmen and craft associations are located. I make an effort to find them, connect with them, and discover techniques in their craft that I can apply to my own.

7115: Is there a particular piece you’ve made recently that feels especially meaningful to you? Can you share the story behind it?

Junho: Whenever I’m traveling, I try to find rocks from the places I visit and bring them home. I wrap them in leather—like a leather sock. I like the idea that I’m not actually designing but letting the shape of the rock do the work. Obviously, every finished outcome is different, yet so organic and beautiful. As a product designer, my work often focuses on precision, aiming to make things symmetrical, flush, and well-calculated. This (wrapping rocks) is the complete opposite, and I find it really relaxing and refreshing.

7115: Finally, how do you hope people feel when they interact with something you’ve made?

Junho: For me, it would be ideal if people could become personally attached to what I make by using it for a long time with care.

Few understand the interplay between tradition and modernity as profoundly as Junho. His relentless, multi-dimensional work showcases a deep respect for his Korean heritage combined with an unyielding curiosity to reimagine the familiar.

While living in Copenhagen, a city that presents unique challenges for a Korean-born citizen—including strict visa regulations—and working full-time as a designer at the furniture and lifestyle brand FRAMA, Junho’s path has been defined by hard work and openness to exploration. In the Danish capital, he has found a well of creativity where inspiration flows freely, ideas take shape, and timeless objects are born. This is a testament to his belief in the power of craft to tell stories that resonate across cultures and generations.

We are honored to have Junho share his story and to learn how he brings tradition and modernity into harmony, one piece at a time.

JUNHO SEO
Product Designer at FRAMA
Copenhagen, Denmark
@junhoseoo