Modern room with Korean hanok chair and wooden elements blending traditional and contemporary design.

Ingenious Korean Chair Melds Hanok Architecture and Modern Comfort in $1,500 Design

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-10-10

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Unlike typical sofas, where structure is concealed beneath plush cushions, the Gyeolgu one-seater from Haesi invites you to explore its architectural essence. Infusing the sophisticated assembly principles of the Korean hanok with innovative chair design, its distinct components—seat, backrest, and arms—create a unique, assembled feel rather than a singular cushioned form. This piece seamlessly blends traditional design with modern aesthetics, offering a timeless appeal.

The Essence of the Korean Hanok Chair

The design echoes the harmonious connection found in hanok construction, emphasizing care in the intersection of parts. The piece’s two robust armrests flank its seat, with the backrest completing the structure. Though the construction details are hidden beneath the fabric, the deliberate alignment is subtly displayed.

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Brown Gyeolgu Chair

Close-up of wooden chair leg with intricate design pattern.

Side View of Gyeolgu Chair

Top view of ergonomic chair seat with smooth finish.

Detailed View of Gyeolgu Chair

Side profile of the chair showing armrest detail and craftsmanship.

With dimensions of approximately 47 inches in width and 40 inches in depth, the creation presents an impressive yet unassuming presence. Despite its generous size, it maintains a low profile, standing at around 26 inches high, providing a balanced room ambiance. The seat, positioned 16 inches above the ground, encourages relaxation rather than a mere perch.

Ideal placement near a window transforms it into a cozy reading nook, where its broad arms frame the space. These arms are designed for comfort rather than utility; they support the seated arrangement and offer resting spots for hands. Meanwhile, the seat extends beyond the armrest, adding a touch of visual intrigue.

Light-Colored Gyeolgu Chair Fabric

Rear view of chair highlighting backrest's elegant curve.

Textural Details of Gyeolgu Chair

Korean chair set against minimalist white wall display.

The chair’s softness, emphasized by various upholstery options—such as functional fabric, vegan leather, or the texturally engaging bouclé—tempers any architectural severity. A rich chocolate-brown iteration provides a grounded feel, while lighter hues lend an airy quality. Beneath the upholstery, engineered wood and polyurethane foam ensure support, diverging from the timber construction of its inspirations. This balance of tradition and modern comfort appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Available on Haesi’s platform for ₩2,100,000 (around $1,500), this piece isn’t solely about aesthetics. It requires ample space compared to a typical accent chair, making its placement crucial, especially if alongside other furniture. Its low-profile design suits placement by a window, though those desiring more back support may wish to assess its seating comfort firsthand.

Chocolate Brown Gyeolgu Chair

Detailed carving on chair backrest showing traditional motifs.

Assembled Gyeolgu Chair

Hand touching chair's smooth wooden armrest.

Chair in Room Setting

Assembled view of chair under soft lighting conditions.

Ultimately, the Gyeolgu piece serves as a calm retreat with its stylistic interplay of overlapping forms, establishing clarity and order in any space. Once seated, the architectural homage simplifies into a sanctuary of substantial arms, plush upholstery, and generous dimensions. It continues to embody its concept of convergence, this time embracing you within its sanctuary.

If you appreciate the clever use of traditional elements, explore how Inga Kordya infuses Hanok design into modern apartment settings, bridging past and present aesthetics.

Haesi Gyeolgu Chair Urban Living

Person sitting comfortably on the chair with relaxed posture.
Modern room with Korean hanok chair and wooden elements blending traditional and contemporary design.

Sources & Links

Source: yankodesign.com

Frequently asked questions

What design principles are used in the Gyeolgu chair?

The Gyeolgu chair infuses the assembly principles of the Korean hanok with innovative chair design, emphasizing care in the intersection of parts.

What materials are used in the Gyeolgu chair?

The chair utilizes engineered wood and polyurethane foam beneath its upholstery options, which include functional fabric, vegan leather, and bouclé.

How much does the Gyeolgu chair cost?

The Gyeolgu chair is available on Haesi’s platform for ₩2,100,000, which is approximately $1,500.