Throughout history, "scent" has symbolized more than just an olfactory experience—it has served as a marker of status and identity. In 17th-century France, where chamber pots were discarded out of windows, luxurious perfumes emerged as tools to mask unpleasant odors, becoming a clear indicator of one's social standing. In the film Parasite, smell becomes the protagonist Ki-taek's Achilles' heel, highlighting its power to convey social divisions. Scent, thus, has always been more than a personal concern; it carries profound societal implications.

Textile Innovation for Fresh and Clean Living

Korea’s cultural emphasis on pristine clothing—earning its people the nickname “the People of White Clothes”—has a rich history of inventive laundering methods. Our ancestors used vinegar, apricot seeds, and saltwater as natural detergents, and employed lye to effectively break down proteins in stains. During China’s Tang Dynasty, persistent odors in garments were sometimes addressed not through washing but by steaming clothes over aromatic smoke.

With scientific advancements, humanity recognized the importance of hygiene, leading to innovations in antibacterial and deodorizing technologies. Beyond laundry detergents and fabric softeners that eliminate bacteria from textiles, functional textile products where the fibers themselves offer deodorizing and antibacterial effects have been developed. Hyosung TNC, a key player in the global textile market for functional materials, boasts unparalleled antibacterial and deodorizing technologies, enabling modern consumers to enjoy a more comfortable and refreshing lifestyle.

Hyosung TNC CREAORA’s Textile Solution

CREORA Fresh, a groundbreaking functional spandex developed by HYOSUNG after extensive research, addresses the persistent issue of sweat odor in clothing. Existing antibacterial fabrics could only inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, which had limitations in odor elimination. Additionally, fabrics with deodorizing treatments often lost their effectiveness after washing. CREORA Fresh overcomes these challenges by maintaining the excellent stretch of spandex while chemically neutralizing odor-causing compounds, paving the way for a new generation of functional spandex.

CREORA Fresh chemically binds with odor-causing substances such as ammonia and acetic acid from sweat, as well as isovaleric acid responsible for foot odor, neutralizing them quickly and effectively. Thanks to these properties, it is widely used in sports and outdoor functional apparel, as well as underwear. Because the deodorizing functionality is embedded directly into the *yarn itself, its effectiveness remains intact even after repeated washes. Moreover, since only about 10–15% of the fabric’s weight needs to consist of CREORA Fresh yarn to achieve odor-neutralizing effects, it is also an economical choice for manufacturers.

* Yarn is a thread made by twisting multiple fibers together. Fibers are the raw materials used to create yarn, and yarn is then used to produce fabric for end products.

CREORA Aerosilver is a functional polyester that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria. Infused with silver ions, it effectively suppresses the proliferation of harmful microbes such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus, and Pneumococcus. Additionally, its unique clover-shaped cross-section increases the surface area in contact with the skin, enabling rapid absorption and drying of sweat. Combining moisture-wicking properties with antibacterial functionality, CREORA Aerosilver ensures a consistently comfortable wearing experience, making it a sought-after material for healthcare textiles, as well as sportswear and innerwear.

Functional Fashion Powered by HYOSUNG’s Textile Technology

▲ Xexymix’s “Non-Slip Metal Symbol Knee Socks” made with CREORA Fresh

Hyosung TNC’s advanced technologies are already a go-to choice for Korea’s functional fashion industry. In 2023, activewear brand Xexymix signed an exclusive supply agreement with HYOSUNG for CREORA Fresh fibers, integrating them into a wide range of products, including golf wear, yoga apparel, t-shirts, underwear, and socks. One standout item, the "Non-Slip Metal Symbol Knee Socks," incorporates CREORA Fresh throughout the entire sock, offering exceptional odor control and a refreshingly comfortable fit, earning widespread acclaim.

▲ ASRV apparel featuring CREORA Aerosilver

HYOSUNG’s functional materials are also making waves internationally. In 2023, U.S.-based premium activewear brand ASRV collaborated with HYOSUNG to launch a product line using CREORA Aerosilver. The technology was applied to a variety of items, such as hoodies, cargo joggers, t-shirts, and shirts. Perfectly aligned with the demands of activewear, CREORA Aerosilver inhibits the growth of harmful microbes and bacteria, ensuring long-lasting freshness during extended outdoor activities.

Starting with nylon, HYOSUNG has consistently pushed the boundaries of textile innovation. Today, its advancements in antibacterial and odor-controlling fibers like ‘CREORA Fresh’ and ‘CREORA Aerosilver’ support comfortable lifestyles while proving their versatility across industries. Hyosung TNC will remain committed to elevating quality of life and leading textile innovations for a better future through continuous research and development.