Korea Industrial Complex Corp. to make summer uniforms from Daegu functional textiles

Korea Industrial Complex Corp. will use Daegu's functional textile materials to produce summer work uniforms, launching what it calls a co-prosperity model that channels public procurement demand to local businesses through the city's signature textile industry.

The state-run industrial park operator signed an MOU with the Korea Textile Development Institute (KTDI) at its Daegu headquarters on Wednesday to create a "regional co-prosperity workwear support project model." The agreement aims to improve working conditions for field staff during extreme heat by using Daegu-made functional textile materials, while connecting the local textile industry's design and manufacturing capabilities to public institution demand.

The two organizations will run the project under an "All-in-Daegu" approach — designed, produced and sourced entirely within the city. Local designers and manufacturers will develop prototype uniforms, which KICOX will then purchase and issue to field workers.

KICOX will handle project planning and demand-tailored procurement, while KTDI will lead prototype development and production in coordination with local designers and manufacturers. Both organizations plan to complete production and distribution of the uniforms by the end of July.

The project is notable as an example of how public institutions that have relocated to regional cities are moving beyond simple events or donations to connect actual procurement needs with local industrial ecosystems. Daegu has long been a hub for the textile industry and has in recent years been pivoting toward functional materials — including cooling and quick-dry fabrics — as well as industrial textiles.

Since relocating to Daegu in 2014, KICOX has carried out a range of local co-prosperity initiatives, including a shared youth housing program providing residential support for young residents, a "traditional market healing tour" tied to local market patronage, a mural garden project to improve the local environment, and a charity bazaar combining purchases of local products with donations.

"This agreement is especially meaningful because our employees will use products designed and produced right here in the region in their daily work," KICOX President Lee Sang-hoon said. "We will continue to identify co-prosperity projects that link local industries with public institution demand."