Q. Please introduce Chilling Ceremony Club.

I believe CCC is all about "No Stress." As we grow, we adapt to new things but often feel a sense of emptiness. I wanted to share a message: "It’s okay to do nothing. You’re fine just as you are." That’s where our brand truly began.

Q. I heard you weren’t a fan of dress shoes before. What changed?

Leather shoes felt like a necessity for my parents’ generation—something tied to making a living. Worn-out shoes became a symbol of self-sacrifice. I also bought them for “happiness” at first, but they eventually came to represent discomfort and tension. That’s when I wanted to change that perception—leather shoes don’t have to mean sacrifice.

Q. Was it hard to create shoes that weigh only 270g?

Actually, convincing the market was harder than the making process. Whether they like "classic" or "practical" styles, everyone eventually looks for comfort. I’m focusing on a new generation of consumers who are just starting to wear dress shoes. I want to break the stereotype that they must be heavy and stiff. We’re changing that mindset one pair at a time.

Q. Why do you insist on "Handcrafted in Busan"?

Busan is my home and the heart of the shoe industry. While many move production overseas for efficiency, I want to make shoes that truly last. To do that, I need to be close to the artisans I work with. To me, Busan isn't just a factory; it’s the core attitude and identity of my brand.

Q. You put a lot of effort into your packaging. What role does it play?

Packaging reflects my inner feelings—I want to stand out, but not too much. I always try to find that perfect balance in the design. I believe the emotional connection starts the moment you unbox your new shoes. To me, it's not just a box; it's the first impression before you actually meet the product.

Q. What is the signature product that best represents your brand?

Our product names usually start from whatever inspires us, like "Day One" or "Be Free." Right now, "Myosu" defines us best. It gathers all our fun experiments from the past two seasons. I truly felt, "This is our clever move (Myosu)," and that’s how it got its name.

Q. Could you tell us about this collaboration piece?

It was a fast-paced project. I followed the same motto as my "Myosu" collection: "Keep it public-friendly, but subtle." While CCC is rooted in the traditional Hye style, Seven Eight Under draws from the structural Hwa. I felt the Hwa structure was the perfect way to present leather in a fresh, modern way. This wasn't just about mixing brand names; it was about connecting our different roots through a modern lens.

Q. What was it like combining two different worlds—dress shoes and sneakers?

Sneaker designers told me that dress shoes were a whole different world. For me, sneakers were just as alien—the tech and the process were totally new. As hybrid shoes become more common, I’ve learned exactly what to keep and what to cut. It was a lesson on why each style is loved and where they fall short.

Q. How would you style these shoes?

I always aim for seasonless shoes you can wear anywhere. If I had to pick, they look best with wide-leg pants and muted colors. I prefer a natural look that blends into your daily life rather than something too flashy.

Q. How do you want people to remember Chilling Ceremony Club?

I want us to be like a social club that brings consistent joy. I hope people think of us as a comfortable place to visit when they need a break from their busy lives. Even for first-timers, I want the brand to feel familiar and cozy, like meeting an old friend.

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

I love the song "This Is Me" from The Greatest Showman. There’s a line that goes, "I'm marching on to the beat I drum." We all live by our own rhythm. Don’t feel rushed by someone else’s speed or standards. It’s okay to take a detour or even stop for a moment. What matters is staying true to yourself. You’re doing great, so just keep walking at your own pace.