When it comes to stationery, Japan is probably the first country that comes to mind when it comes to popularity and availability (and innovation too!). But Korea is also a pretty underrated country when it comes to this market but we’re slowly seeing some products and creators making a name for themselves. As someone who loves both Korean culture and stationery, this project appeals to me on so many levels.
Designer: UOS ID
Seoul My Soul is a project for a stationery merchandise collection that takes its inspiration from different famous landmarks in the South Korean capital. The designs give these iconic and easily recognizable places a modern touch while at the same time making it practical and useful since after all, stationeries are meant to be used. The four places showcased in the collection are Dongdaemun, Jongno, Hangang, and Yongsan. Anyone who has visited Seoul or has watched K-dramas probably know which landmarks are highlighted just looking at these places.
The N Seoul Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city, is one of the most visited places in the Yongsan district and this TONTI pencil sharpener pays tribute to it. It is not just an actual tool that sharpens your pencil but it is also a desk accessory that serves as a miniature version of this landmark. TADA meanwhile brings a piece of the Han River to your desk through this Hanriver Bridge Tape Dispenser. It pays tribute to the connection that this bridge brings to the city and its people, the same way that a tape can connect one item to another.
One of the things you need to experience when you visit the Jongno district is to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace. You get to see a cultural and ceremonial performance by the guards in red. ISUSI is a more humorous take on this as it’s a toothpick dispenser that holds several pieces when you remove the hat and you can stick one into the guard’s hand. Technically it’s not stationery and more of a kitchen/dining accessory but still it’s cute. Lastly, DIPY is inspired by the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a modern architecture landmark designed by the iconic Zaha Hadid in Seoul. This one is a pen holder that plays with the organic curves and structure of the building. It not only holds your pens but can also hold notes and magnets. If ever I run across these items, I’d probably get them for my desk, even the toothpick holder, just for kicks.
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