Twelve years ago, a brand emerged to ignite a spark of hope in Daegu's textile industry, which was once considered a declining sector. It is '1507,' a brand specializing in socks. 1507 produces socks using honest yarn and following honest processes. While they could lower costs and increase margins, they choose to maintain their pride in manufacturing exclusively in their Daegu factory, utilizing high-quality yarn and materials. Unlike the past, when they sold a maximum of 10 pairs a day, they now easily sell 400,000 pairs a month. Having dedicated themselves solely to socks for 12 years, what sentiment does 1507 now pour into their socks?

I heard that '1507' is the address of the warehouse where you first went to learn about socks from your father. How did you come to focus solely on socks as a single item while inheriting the business?

My father ran a sock factory in Daegu for a long time. Although it is now gone due to redevelopment, the factory's address was '1507-42.' We took the address number as our brand name to signify carrying on the legacy through generations. When I visited sock factories in the Daegu area, I noticed they produced many items for famous international fashion brands such as Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Uniqlo. While the licensing business is good in terms of production scale, it carries the instability that production locations could shift to other countries at any time. I felt it was a waste to simply supply other brands with such high-quality work, so I thought it would be good to create our own brand. Above all, I had confidence in socks. When I visited a Uniqlo offline store, I noticed that the sock section was massive, unlike domestic fast fashion brands. Allocating such a large area to socks implies that they are that valuable.

Thanks to you, the legacy of Daegu's textile industry continues.

Since Daegu is my hometown, I grew up watching the city's sock factories. Uniquely, Daegu has many buildings where residential homes are combined with factories. The system involves using the ground floor as a home and operating the factory in the basement. From the outside, you wouldn't even think it is a factory. As the center of the textile industry, there used to be hundreds of these factories, but their numbers have decreased significantly now. Seeing the craftsmanship of the artisans who have been making socks here for over 20 to 30 years, I became convinced that I could definitely succeed if I worked alongside them. As 1507 grew in scale, I felt a sense of mission to revive the past glory of the textile industry. I do not want to let it fade away as just another declining industry.

I thought to myself, "Socks can come in such a wide variety of materials." It was the first time I had seen socks made of mesh or bamboo. 1507 socks stay true to the basics in form, but the materials are incredibly diverse.

I did some market research and noticed that the best-selling domestic sock brands had really cool designs. I felt like I couldn't compete with those design experts. So, after going in circles, I decided to stick to the basics. Instead of socks that wear out after just one season, I focused on high-quality, basic white socks that could be worn for a very long time. Once sales of white socks stabilized, I started diversifying the materials. My father and his acquaintances have been a huge help. They even casually tossed out ideas, mentioning that middle-aged men used to wear bamboo socks a lot in the 1980s. They tend to get holes easily, but they are incredibly cool to wear.

Since there is a 'sock lifespan guarantee' even if holes appear, I think you can purchase them without any worries.

It was an idea I came up with while having a drink with a friend I used to work with. Originally, I wanted to implement something like a traceability system for agricultural and fishery products, where you could verify the producer's face and origin. However, my father and the factory workers absolutely hated having their photos taken, so that plan fell through. While brainstorming ways to build trust, the idea of "exchanging socks with holes for new ones" came to mind. Since the unit cost of socks isn't very high, I was worried it might backfire in a way. But when we actually sent new socks to those who sent in their socks with holes—some skeptical, others were so touched that they ended up buying more. (Laughs) It’s a win-win situation for everyone.

What kind of socks do you want to make in the future? I am curious about the direction or ultimate goal that 1507 is pursuing.

I want to create socks that there is no reason not to buy. Free shipping and a sock guarantee are part of our strategy to ensure that while some people might miss out on buying because they don't know about 1507, once they do, there is no reason not to purchase. I also want to elevate the value of the 1507 brand, much like Gentle Monster, which sells sunglasses while operating a café, or Knotted Donuts, which sells hamburgers and produces merchandise. The idea is to promote the 1507 brand itself while simultaneously making socks. I am currently preparing to launch an F&B business in Dongseong-ro, Daegu. Wouldn't it be more interesting and effective to promote 1507 through a food and beverage business that has absolutely nothing to do with socks?

It seems you are making Daegu a mecca for socks. In that case, is there a specific mecca in Daegu that you personally consider to be one?

When you think of Daegu, you think of famous restaurants. While some people think Daegu food is bland or overly spicy, there are actually many delicious and healthy options. If I had to recommend just three places, the first is 'Yetjip Sikdang,' which serves Yukgaejang (spicy beef soup). The harmony of the sweetness of the green onions, minced garlic, and the broth is truly fantastic. The second is 'Sangju Sikdang,' specializing in Chueotang (loach soup). This place has also been run by the second generation, but they close in the winter and operate only from April to November. Also, Daegu is famous for its raw meat. There are many well-known spots, but I would pick 'Sinnokhyang Saenggogi' as a standout. They serve seasoned chives, and eating them with the mungtigi (raw beef slices) is absolutely amazing.

If you were to describe Daegu in one word, what would it be?

" Powerful ." I like that Daegu's slogan changed from "Colorful Daegu " to "Powerful Daegu ." If "Colorful" symbolized the city of textiles, "Powerful" is a word that serves as the driving force to revitalize the textile industry. I like it because it feels dynamic, infusing a determination that we can succeed in any field, not just textiles.

Maker's Pick

1507 CEO Park Jin-hyun's Top 3 Best-Selling Socks

Classic Double Athletic Socks

These sturdy and thick socks are recommended for active individuals. Crafted using double-knitting technology, the double cushioning on the sole reduces foot fatigue while providing a cozy and stable fit. The arch band minimizes twisting inside the shoe.

Mono trousers socks

1507's steady seller, featuring a sturdy elastic band to minimize slipping. It is longer than regular socks, covering the calf when worn, and is crafted with 200 stitches—used in premium socks—to provide a snug fit.

Unisex colored trousers socks

Color socks that allow you to select and purchase 5 out of a total of 15 colors. There is a wide range of choices, from calm basic colors to colors perfect for adding a pop of color. They are easy to match with various outfits to suit your mood. Additionally, the soft, wide band and the elastic band at the ankle opening provide double support for the ankle, ensuring a more secure fit.