Reviving Tradition: Han Sip's Innovative Korean Tea Packaging

Designers Mira and Mihyun Kim Blend Health, Tradition, and Sustainability in a Unique Branding

The designers' inspiration stems from the long-standing Korean practice of using tea as a remedy for ailments. Each tea, with its unique blend of fruits, offers a variety of health benefits. For instance, 'dodam dodam,' a mix of strawberries and Omija, is known to relieve fatigue and protect the respiratory tract. The vibrant colors and illustrations on the packaging represent the diversity of fruits used in the teas.

What sets Han Sip apart is its commitment to health and the environment. The brand caters to modern individuals who find it challenging to maintain a healthy lifestyle amidst their busy schedules. Instead of using syrup, the cafe sweetens its drinks with honey, a traditional Korean practice. Furthermore, the packaging is made from eco-friendly paper, reflecting the brand's concern for environmental sustainability.

The realization of this design involved the use of traditional Korean paper for the bottle caps, lending an authentic touch to the brand. The packaging, made from eco-friendly paper, is designed to be robust and recyclable, further emphasizing the brand's commitment to the environment.

The technical specifications of the design include three different box sizes, each made using origami techniques. The small box measures 90mm x 90mm x 80mm, the middle box is 80mm x 80mm x 120mm, and the large box is 75mm x 75mm x 170mm.

The design process, which began in March 2016 in Seoul and concluded in September 2016 in Sungnam, involved extensive research on how to attract consumers' interest through package design. The designers faced the challenge of preserving Korean sentiments while appealing to the younger generation. The solution was to incorporate illustrations of the fruits used in each tea, making the packaging more appealing and informative.

The designers' efforts were recognized when Han Sip was awarded Silver in the A' Packaging Design Award in 2017. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and evoke positive feelings, amazement, and wonder. The award is a testament to the designers' ability to blend health, tradition, and sustainability in a unique and appealing brand identity.