Stories | April 11, 2022
Introducing Emmet Lee – product manager of sustainable spandex; creora® regen, creora® bio-based, and other specialty spandex
We are pleased to shine our Employee Spotlight on Emmet Lee this month! Emmet’s passion for textile development and sustainability led him to Hyosung in January 2015. Since then, Emmet has been influential in the development of our sustainable spandex program, specifically our GRS-certified 100% recycled creora® regen spandex and our creora® bio-based spandex – core fibers in our eco-friendly yarn portfolio. Outside of Hyosung, Emmet loves listening to music, and hiking. He’s looking forward to trekking the major peaks of the Himalayas once the pandemic is over. Enjoy our Q & A with Emmet!
How did you get your start in the textile industry?
I was not an expert in the fashion industry, however, I was interested in fashion as a kid. This interest piqued my curiosity in textiles, so I studied natural science in high school – and went on to major in textile engineering at university.
What led you to Hyosung?
Hyosung is the number one spandex maker in the world. This title fascinated me. I wanted to be part of a number one global company to inspire me and encourage me to learn and grow from my work.
Have you always been interested in the textile industry and if so why?
Yes. I’ve always thought textiles are a necessity of life. There are many potential developments in textiles, such as combining materials with electronic devices (wearable technology) and furthering sustainable innovation. These kinds of things make me very interested in the textile industry.
How has sustainable fiber innovation influenced your position at Hyosung?
I’m in charge of Hyosung’s sustainable spandex – creora® regen and creora® bio-based spandex. Therefore, sustainable fiber innovation influences every part of my job.
What do you like best about your role at Hyosung?
I’m proud that I can give a hand in helping save the earth even though the effect of my work might not be major right now, I expect that its influence will continue to grow.
Can you share a memorable/proud moment you’ve experienced at Hyosung?
I can say the most memorable/proud moment has not come yet but I’m on the way to my goal! I am waiting for the day when I see many people wearing apparel made with our sustainable yarns.
How do you think the textile industry and Hyosung have changed over the last 2 to 3 years?
While we continue to make keep our product stable and offer the best quality and service, we’ve placed more focus on developing a broad portfolio of sustainable specialty yarns. Also, we consider it is very important to listen, reflect upon and react to our customers’ voices – all along the value chain.
Do you have a favorite Hyosung fiber and if so, what is it?
Of course, it is our sustainable yarns – 100% recycled creora® regen spandex and creora® bio-based spandex. They are essential for helping save the earth.
Who are a few idols that inspire you and why?
I’ve formed an interest in Chuu who runs a YouTube channel named “Save the earth, Chuu”. It’s very interesting and makes me think a lot.
What music are you listening to these days?
I like listening to music regardless of genre. But these days, I’m into jazz music. I think jazz has the power to make a moment or inspire like a movie.
As we begin to come out from under COVID, what are you most looking forward to doing when more restrictions are lifted?
Breathing without a mask outside and going on a trip abroad.
Where is one place you’ve never been but is high on your list to visit?
There are so many places. But if I had to choose one, I’d like to visit Nepal and do some Himalayan trekking. Actually, I set up a plan to visit Nepal in 2021, but it was canceled due to COVID 19. If the restriction is eased, I’d like to go, feel the nature and have some time to relax.
