The renowned magazine publisher showcases her stunning Hanam-dong residence on EBS's popular show
Category: Arts & Culture
In a highly anticipated episode of EBS's "Seojanghoon's Neighbor Millionaire," renowned interior design pioneer Lee Young-hye (이영혜) is set to reveal her luxurious Hanam-dong home, which has achieved remarkable success with annual sales reaching up to 48 billion won ($36 million). The episode will air on September 16 at 9:55 PM, providing viewers with an exclusive glimpse into the life and work of a woman who has shaped South Korea's home decor culture.
Lee Young-hye, often referred to as the "Queen of Magazines," made her mark in the industry by launching the country's first home interior magazine, sparking a nationwide trend in home decoration. With over 50 years of experience in magazine publishing, she is considered a living legend in the Korean publishing world.
In the upcoming episode, viewers will be treated to a tour of Lee's home, which showcases her distinctive interior design philosophy that incorporates traditional Korean elements, such as the principles of the five elements (saju-ohang). This philosophy is evident throughout her residence, from the entrance adorned with a male dog doll—chosen to balance the feminine energy of her household—to the carefully arranged furniture in the living room.
One of the highlights of Lee's home is a stunning table, valued at around 100 million won ($76,000), featuring a unique grape-patterned inlay and lacquer finish. When asked by host Seojang-hoon about the most valuable item in her home, Lee pointed to this exquisite piece, stating, "I believe that lacquer will be the starting point of Korean luxury." This sentiment reflects her commitment to blending traditional aesthetics with modern functionality, a hallmark of her design approach.
The episode promises to captivate audiences with the visual appeal of Lee's home and the intriguing stories behind her successful career. Lee has been instrumental in revolutionizing the magazine industry in Korea, having founded various specialized publications that cater to different aspects of life, including weddings, parenting, and luxury goods. Her flagship publications, "Monthly Design" and "A Home Full of Happiness," have set benchmarks in the industry since their inception.
During the episode, Lee will also discuss her experiences, including the challenges she faced when "Monthly Design" was on the brink of closure. She famously wrote a letter to the president at the time, advocating for the importance of design, which helped revive the publication. This anecdote highlights her tenacity and passion for the field, traits that have undoubtedly contributed to her enduring success.
As the camera pans through her home, viewers will be able to appreciate the unique design elements that Lee has incorporated. For example, her living room features a table that is aesthetically pleasing and functional, equipped with sound-absorbing materials that double as lighting. This innovative approach to design showcases her ability to merge beauty with practicality.
Lee's home also offers breathtaking views of the Han River, with the unique architectural layout allowing for vistas of both the eastern and southern banks. Seojang-hoon expressed his admiration, stating, "You don’t often see views like this from homes along the Han River. It’s truly a sight worth sharing." Such praise reflects the extraordinary nature of her residence, which stands out even among other luxury homes in the area.
In addition to her home, the episode will feature Lee's impressive 400-pyeong (approximately 1,320 square meters) office building, which consists of four separate structures. This expansive space serves as a hub for her various publishing and design ventures, reinforcing her status as a leading figure in the Korean design industry.
As the episode draws near, anticipation builds around the insights Lee Young-hye will share about her life, her design philosophy, and the secrets behind her remarkable success. Viewers are eager to see how her innovative ideas have shaped the contemporary home decor scene in South Korea.
Catch Lee Young-hye's story and her stunning home reveal on September 16 at 9:55 PM, exclusively on EBS's "Seojanghoon's Neighbor Millionaire," and discover the legacy of a woman who has changed the face of interior design in Korea.