Contemporary Korean design stands out with a distinct focus on functionality and flexibility. Like in New York City, where space is at a premium, urban homes in South Korea are often compact and have a limited floor plan. As a result, designers need to get even more creative when designing furniture and products for these apartments. Which results in highly ingenious designs that – more often than not – solve several everyday problems at once. Curated for their inventiveness as much as for their simple elegance, these projects showcase the best of contemporary Korean design.

This selection offers a glimpse of some of the best examples of Korean design. On this page, you can discover projects that range from furniture and home accessories to audio products. One thing they have in common? They are designed with function in mind. A minimalist, timeless style is also a notable feature of these design projects. For example, here you can read more about an elegant speaker that takes inspiration from a blank canvas and the iconic style of Dieter Rams. Likewise, a series of stools and tables impresses with its sculptural appearance. Made from metal, these geometric volumes feature perfect cuts that slice the stools and side tables in two.

Functionality, multi-functionality, and flexibility define contemporary Korean design. For instance, take a ping pong table that also transforms into a dining table when needed and features integrated shelving and a wireless charging station to double as a workspace. Or a modular pendant light that allows the user to adjust the length to suit their home. This light references outdoor markets with a clever design. Moving the light horizontally on a rail, the user can focus it where needed.