'Strengthening Korean Craft Competitiveness'... Korea Craft & Design Foundation Announces New Excellent Craft Product Designation Contest

Up to 35 Million Won in Support for Selected Craft Products
Up to 7 Creative Works to Be Chosen... Distribution and Marketing Assistance Provided

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Craft & Design Foundation announced on March 5 that applications for the '2026 Excellent Craft Product (K-Ribbon) New Designation Contest' will be accepted until the 30th.

2025 Excellent Craft Product Designation 'Lacquer Basket_Bat (Sui57 Atelier)' Photo by Korea Craft and Design Foundation

The Excellent Craft Product Designation System, introduced in 2014, aims to discover craft products that combine practicality and aesthetics, with the goal of expanding the market for Korean lifestyle crafts and strengthening industry competitiveness. As of 2025, a total of 261 craft products have been designated as Excellent Craft Products.

This contest will select up to seven craft items that demonstrate creativity and a high level of completion. Selected products will receive a certificate of designation from the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the right to use the designation mark, support for entry into the foundation's own store 'Gongye Jeongwon,' and various other benefits. In addition, up to 35 million won in funding will be provided to support independent distribution and marketing activities.

According to the Korea Craft & Design Foundation, the 'Lacquered Basket_Bat (Sui57 Atelier)', which was selected as an Excellent Craft Product last year, achieved over 263% of its target performance through entry into markets in North America, Europe, and Asia. The 'Jogakbo Plate (Eea)' also recorded sales exceeding 292% of its target by selling out at overseas art fairs and solo exhibitions, as well as entering new distribution channels.

The application deadline is 2:00 p.m. on March 30, and any product developed and produced directly by a craft professional of Korean nationality is eligible to apply. Further details can be found on the Korea Craft & Design Foundation website.

Jeon Juhee, Head of the Craft Promotion Division at the Korea Craft & Design Foundation, stated, "Through this contest, we will continue to strengthen the self-sustainability of craft studios and support the expansion of Korean crafts in domestic and international markets."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.