Gigi Jung leads the strategic commercialization of mycelium-based materials for next-generation luxury, bridging innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability. As Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Business Officer at MYCEL—a South Korea–based white biotechnology company spun off from Hyundai Motor Company—she drives market strategy and industry collaboration to translate biomaterial innovation into real-world applications across fashion, interiors, and industrial design.
About MYCEL
MYCEL is a South Korea–based white biotechnology company spun off from Hyundai Motor Company in 2020. Inspired by natural root structures, MYCEL has technologically recreated the self-growing network of mushroom mycelium to develop bio-based materials.
Through controlled mycelium growth, MYCEL forms intricate 3D mycelial networks that function as both material infrastructure and regenerative output. Its proprietary process generates two parallel results: mycelium-based material sheets and PCLM (Post Culture Liquid Media), a by-product designed for soil regeneration, bioremediation, and ecosystem restoration.
MYCEL’s premium material line, CELMURE, is a mycelium-based bio-material developed for applications across fashion, interiors, mobility, and industrial design. CELMURE is made from 100% biodegradable material and holds multiple global certifications, including B Corp, USDA Certified Biobased Product, and PETA-Approved Vegan.
To support production, MYCEL operates a pilot manufacturing facility using liquid medium fermentation and is developing a modular, renewable-energy-powered mass production system under its RHOMBUS manufacturing model. The company also collaborates with academic and industrial institutions across Korea on applications spanning biodegradation, soil health, agriculture, and environmental restoration.
