ASPECIAL THEMED area has been set aside at Interstoff Asia Autumn in recognition of South Korea's emergence as a leading manufacturer of cutting-edge textiles.
Many people visiting the display may be surprised to see how far this country has come in recent years. Korea traditionally has been a strong nation in basic manufacturing of man-made fabrics, but advancements over the past decade have made it one of Asia's most innovative producers.
At the fair, buyers can witness South Korea's advancement in a wide range of trendy yet comfortable fabrics. Examples of the innovations on display include Aquatrans by SilverStar Corporation, a revolutionary sweat-releasing fabric that helps keep the wearer cool in summer and warm in winter. SilverStar is one of 28 companies represented in the Korean pavilion.
Another key issue for the industry worldwide is the growth of China as a design force. This topic will be covered by Zhang Zhe of Shanghai Jinchen Fashion Consultant and Tsinghua University Academy of Arts and Design, as part of the fair's seminar series.
'Although Chinese designers are young and do not have enough experience and communication in the world fashion business, they are dynamic and have a huge domestic market,' Mr Zhang said.
'They are learning and working very hard, and gradually changing the image of China's garment industry from that of a huge production machine to a real fashion industry. This is just the beginning of a long process, but the world has not recognised it.'
However, China's designers could offer particular strengths, he said, most notably a close relationship with the world's biggest garment industry.
