By Honorary Reporters Anshika Saxena and Khyati Negi from India
Photos = Erica Yeom

Pingpunk, a Seoul-based brand founded and led by designer Erica Yeom (born Yeom Han-saem), blends imagination and craft with bold structured pieces worn by leading K-pop acts including BLACKPINK, aespa, Stray Kids, NCT and APINK, solidifying her status as one of the most prominent designers in Korea's performance fashion.

Pingpunk by Erica Yeom

The following are excerpts from an email interview with Yeom on July 16-25.

Briefly introduce yourself.
After graduating from Konkuk University with a degree in fashion design, I started the artwear (stage costume) brand Pingpunk by Erica Yeom in Seoul. I also teach fashion design to students at my atelier and I'm preparing to launch the new brand Karv on the Bone.

What does "punk" mean to you and how does it influence the identity of Pingpunk?
To me, punk is not about breaking the social order or defying rules; it has always been about oneself and putting in the effort and mental strength to break through. The identity of Pingpunk reflects that punk spirit. My designs focus on breaking away from traditional norms and expressing myself in my own way. 

What techniques or methods do you consider essential to your artistic identity?
Since 2021, I've used the art fabric technique Magic Lace, which involves layering a water-soluble vinyl called alginate film with embedded materials. The fabric is sewn and washed, resulting in a unique fabric. I then cut, sew and embellish the garment with hand-stitched gemstone and raw stone decorations. In addition, I incorporate handcrafted techniques such as felt, macrame, hand knitting and handloom weaving in my work.

Design of Magic Lace dress artwear

How do you adapt your works to meet tight deadlines of customized stage outfits?
Stage costumes require a very different approach from artwear. They must be functional and comfortable and allow full movement. K-pop projects often have tight deadlines, sometimes requiring multiple outfits in a week. I work closely with designer Lee Hyun-woo on developing prototypes and patterns. Once the design is finalized, I maintain close communication with the director and the stylist to exchange ideas and feedback.

Custom-made Pingpunk outfits for APINK (left) and NCT 

What message do you wish to express through Pingpunk?
To me, fashion is fundamentally about intuitive style and self-expression, not delivering a message. There are times when beauty in form and color is more important than a complex meaning.  At Pingpunk, I design what I and the person wearing it want to wear, and this is what matters most.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.