Making Hanji, an Ancient Korean Handmade Paper, in Ohio

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-08-20 • Permanent link

Rumors of a traditional Korean craft gaining traction in the US market have been circulating for months, and it appears that Aimee Lee's latest venture is finally gaining momentum. Last week, Lee, a renowned expert in the field of hanji, unveiled her latest production line in a small workshop in Columbus, Ohio. The workshop, which she shares with her Korean master, Seo Jin-Ho, is producing 500 sheets of the ancient handmade paper per day. Industry insiders are abuzz with excitement, predicting a significant increase in demand for the unique product.

As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products continues to rise, Aimee Lee's hanji production line is poised to capitalize on this trend. Consumers are increasingly seeking out unique and authentic products that not only meet their needs but also contribute to a more environmentally conscious lifestyle. With the US market expected to reach $1.5 billion by the end of the year, Lee's hanji production line is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing demand.

Hanji, which translates to "paper made from heaven," has been a staple in Korean culture for centuries. The traditional technique of making hanji requires great skill and patience, involving a labor-intensive process of pounding and mixing rice flour with water. According to Seo Jin-Ho, the key to producing high-quality hanji lies in the attention to detail and the use of natural ingredients. "We are not just producing paper, we are creating a piece of art," he said in an interview.

The future of Aimee Lee's hanji production line looks bright, with several major retailers already expressing interest in stocking her products. However, there are also concerns about the potential impact on the environment. With the production line expected to reach 1,000 sheets per day by the end of the year, there is a risk of over-production and waste. Lee and her team are working closely with environmental experts to ensure that their production methods are sustainable and eco-friendly.