**Pottery and Culture Retreat to South Korea Set for 2027**
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Sophie Chai, who holds the record as the longest-serving international student of famed potter Master Lee Hyang-gu, is preparing for an exciting return to Icheon, South Korea. This time, however, she will not be alone, as she is set to lead a group of pottery enthusiasts on a week-long retreat that promises to immerse them deeply in Korean culture and ceramics.
Chai’s journey under Master Lee’s tutelage lasted nearly three months, during which she dedicated approximately 410 hours to mastering the art of pottery. The 74-year-old master emphasised to her the critical importance of passing on knowledge within the craft. “He expressed his concern that if he does not transmit his skills, the art form could fade away,” Chai shared with PEOPLE magazine. “This belief has profoundly resonated with me.”
Initially, Chai intended to spend only 20 days in South Korea, but she found herself captivated by Lee’s teachings, ultimately extending her stay significantly to delve deeper into the craft. Throughout her time there, she focused primarily on creating “moon jars,” a form that allowed her to learn the essentials of proportion, balance, and control, crucial elements in pottery.
Language barriers posed challenges in communication between Chai and Lee, with her limited Korean and his restricted English. They relied on translators and used a variety of techniques, including body language, to bridge the gap. Over time, they developed a unique blend of Korean and English that became their means of understanding.
Following her return to the UK, Chai maintained a close relationship with Lee and his family. She documented her experiences on social media, sharing the insights and skills she gained during her time in the studio. This attracted the attention of Goodmate Travel, a Korean tour operator, prompting them to propose the idea of a pottery-focused trip for her community.
Encouraged by the interest, Chai agreed to organise the retreat under one essential condition: the schedule must include a visit to Lee’s studio in Icheon. The retreat is now set to take place from May 16 to May 22, 2027, accommodating between eight to 24 participants at a cost starting from US$3,800.
The itinerary includes key locations such as Seoul and Gongju, where participants will not only engage in hands-on pottery experiences but also meet other master potters. Chai hopes to provide attendees with an authentic feel for Korean pottery and culture, connecting them to the traditions and craftsmanship that lie behind it.
Much of Chai’s own journey extended beyond mere pottery, encompassing a comprehensive exploration of both Japanese and Korean cultures over the course of approximately five months. Recognising that not everyone can embark on such an extensive adventure, she designed this shorter retreat to be an accessible introduction to the beauty of Korean ceramics.
When the trip sold out quickly, Chai felt a sense of affirmation about her decision to lead the group. “I suddenly realised that my return to Lee’s studio was not just as a student, but as someone bringing a community of excited individuals who were eager to share in the experience,” she reflected.
As she prepares to revisit the studio, aided by a supportive group of passionate learners, Chai expects the moment to be quite surreal. She is eager for her participants to witness the patience, discipline, and reverence that are intrinsic to Master Lee’s practice and the art of pottery.
Beyond the craft itself, Chai aims to deepen her guests’ understanding of Korean ceramics within their cultural context. She emphasised that this experience is not merely about admiring beautiful pieces but rather connecting with the people, traditions, and stories that breathe life into the ceramics she has come to cherish.
“For me, the human connections I made during my original trip were profoundly meaningful,” Chai shared. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share this part of my journey with others, allowing them to explore the rich world of Korean ceramics through the eyes of its devoted practitioners.” The 2027 pottery retreat is poised to be a remarkable cultural experience that fosters appreciation for this intricate art form and the traditions surrounding it.