In a traditional Korean household, the kitchen was a separate space, separated from the living room and bedrooms. In earlier generations, most people used a traditional kitchen. The fire was set low to the ground, so many women had to bend down while cooking, causing an inconvenience. They also had to keep the garbage and food waste outside the kitchen, since there was no spot for it inside the traditional kitchen.

Established in 1970 as a kitchen furnishings company, Hanssem introduced the new concept of a stand-up kitchen to Korea. A stand-up kitchen solved many of the inconveniences of traditional kitchens, which required moving the table and moving back and forth between the living room and the kitchen. Hanssem offered a well-built sink, countertops and cupboards that could store all the utensils and pots and pans. From preparing the ingredients to cooking and washing up afterward, a stand-up kitchen enabled people to complete the whole process in one spot. Its well-organized stand-up kitchen furnishings received favorable responses from its customers.

In the past, people used to regard kitchen furnishings as just “the sink.” To overcome such limits in the market, Hanssem continued to conduct research into how houses were designed, life style and cooking style changes and customers’ tastes, reflecting its results in its products.



Considering the eating habits of Koreans, who enjoy piping hot soups and stews, Hanssem designed large kitchen cabinets with deep drawers so that people could store large pots and pans and other utensils easily around their kitchen. The firm's cabinet and countertop designs also reflected the use of ovens and dishwashers.

The modern kitchen Hanssem designed is not just a space for cooking and eating. It is where people can use their computer or do other work, as well as kitchen work. For this reason, the firm introduced a pop-up electrical outlet that rises from the surface of the dining table, safe from water or fire. It was designed to make the most of the space available and to help people do various activities with their family while in the kitchen. Hanssem also designed a remote-controlled wooden screen that can cover or uncover some storage space in the kitchen wall so that people can use their space more effectively.




Hanssem’s kitchen cabinets and countertops have also shone in the spotlight overseas. The firm established its first overseas corporate office in the U.S. in 1986, and has now built branches in China and Japan. In the U.S., customers can have a one-on-one consultation with Hanssem staff who will give a price quote and produce a 3-D virtual image of the kitchen in order to help them choose a design for their kitchen. In fact, Hanssem has received much recognition from the U.S. forces community in Korea, as many of the apartments near Pyeongtaek and other large U.S. military facilities use Hanssem kitchen furnishings. In China, Hanssem cabinets and countertops have been used in many of the new apartment complexes being built by local Chinese construction firms.

In all, Hanssem has secured the top position in the kitchen, home interior and overall furniture market. Last year, the firm recorded more than KRW 1 trillion in sales, taking the prime position in the market for kitchen furnishings.

Article by Yoon Sojung
Photos: Jeon Han
Korea.net Staff Writers
arete@korea.kr