Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles (한국의류학회지)

The Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles (한국의류학회)
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Exploring Sustainable Values in Upcycled Korean Fashion Brands through Their Corporate Activities

  • Haemin Yu (Dept. of Fashion and Textiles, Seoul National University) ;
  • Jaehoon Chun (Dept. of Fashion and Textiles, Seoul National University/Research Institute of Human Ecology, Seoul National University)
  • Received : 2022.10.09
  • Accepted : 2023.05.08
  • Published : 2023.06.30
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Abstract

Over the past few years, the fashion industry has faced numerous environmental issues and sustainability is being promoted as the key to success. This study conducted in-depth interviews with a range of stakeholders, such as designers and marketing professionals from upcycled Korean fashion brands, to examine how their sustainable values are reflected and developed through corporate activities related to planning, production, promotion, and distribution. The sustainable values inferred from the interviews were coded based on Schwartz's universal values with a view to addressing conflicts of values and promoting the sustainability of upcycled fashion brands in Korea. Through this process, the study derived universalistic, economic, and self-oriented sustainable values. The study also proposed a conceptual framework for upcycled fashion brands by discussing difficulties and limitations and offer proposals that could help the industry. The results indicate that a key driver for market success is promoting sustainable values in upcycled fashion. Finally, suggestions are offered for follow-up research that can further support sustainable practices in the fashion industry.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

This article is part of a Master's Thesis.

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