Q. Could you briefly introduce yourself?

Hello, Song Jae-hoon here, the CEO and Creative Director of FE:RKER and TUMP.

Q. Could you introduce those two brands you are directing?

FE:RKER is a handmade sandals and custom sneakers brand launched in Seongsu in 2015. We design highly sensitive sandals with an organic and Bohemian mood in mind. At our specialized factory, we constantly strive to improve the details and durability of our products. TUMP is derived from a dialect meaning 'small hill,' inspired by everyday speed bumps, presenting witty custom sneakers.

Q. What motivated you to enter the footwear industry?

Initially, I was in the restaurant business, but I realized that it wasn't so much the business itself I enjoyed but rather the interactions with diverse people. So I went to Shoemasterbootsfactory, where I could meet various people in the shoe industry. This led me to my mentor, Mr. Seulgi, who taught me about shoes professionally, and that was the starting point of my life in footwear.

Q. What would be your philosophy in shoemaking?

It is a kind of cooking. Tasty food makes you want it again and share it with others. I hope my shoes are like that. Stylish shoes should be something you want to show off and gift to others. That's the standard I uphold as a director, but from a maker's perspective, it's simple: if it looks 'cool' to me, that's enough.

Q. You work extensively from production to customization. Do you have any project that stands out in your memory?

The first thing that comes to mind is the Crokyard, the one I interpreted the outer material of the Nike Mars Yard 3.0 with Crocs in my own style. It received more love than expected, marking the first time people learned about me. This led me to become a full-fledged "shoe enthusiast."

Q. We're sure the Crokyard has brought many interesting stories.

Initially, everyone around me said things like, "It's pretty," "I want to wear it," and "How much is it?" Then, it was featured in various magazines, especially gaining much attention from Hypebeast. After that, people requested a Crokyard for a raffle, which got over 3,000 orders. When more than 3,000 people want to buy a single piece of work, that's an extraordinary experience for a custom maker. I'm still grateful for it. 

Q. The Western and Indian-style sandals were impressive, especially the harmony with turquoise. How did these FE:RKER in-house products come about?

I carry any aesthetic or inspiring material/decoration in my bag (including turquoise), and they gradually build up various senses in my space. Then, I combine them according to my taste, freely following my hands, which leads to the products taking shape and coming to the world.

Q. Could you describe your workspace?

Think of it as a place where you can experience everything about shoemaking. It's where I can do anything from cutting to gluing in one place, and anyone can make and customize shoes here. Although classes are currently paused, I plan to resume them soon.

Q. How was your collaboration with Seven Eight Under?

It was a lot of fun. I couldn't help but feel bound because I was working with such great people. Hahaha I wanted to show what I do best and am grateful I could express that through the meaningful shoes of Seven Eight Under.

Q. Is there a message you would like to convey through this work?

"Don't stop, I'll help you" - The shoe's toe lifts up, adding propulsion to help you take another step forward. Also, the shoes weigh 4kg, heavier than the Balenciaga Triple S, providing strength to those carrying heavy burdens. Like Hermes, the winged messenger of the gods. By the way, this is a note to myself: 'Don't stop, Song Jae-hoon.'

Q. Could you highlight a few details of this work?

The raised toe spring, double welt, six-layer midsole, tassels, and decorations... As I list them, they all seem like highlights. Haha, but the best would be the tassel detail, which matches the shoes well.

Q. What is your ultimate goal?

To make FE:RKER the most famous sandal brand in South Korea. It will take a lot of time and effort, but it's possible if we don't stop. My ultimate goal is to create a company size of 100 people. The space where you can start and end the conversations with shoes. Can't wait for it. 

Q. Lastly, do you have any advice for those who 'keep marching for their dreams'?

There's this line in the movie 'The City of Violence': 'It ain't the strong who last, it's those who last who are strong!' I also aim to be someone who lasts. They say it's possible if you keep at it, but honestly, that's an easy thing to say and not that helpful. If you feel even a little bit of regret, I urge you to try harder really. I was about to give up, too, but I held on to that voice in my heart, and when the opportunity came, I didn't miss it. Now, I'll be off to work to catch another. Fighting!