MEET THE CREATOR
“The ocean and I are no strangers.”
Hello,
It’s lovely to meet you.
My name is Tess, the founder and designer of Ufulu Swim.
I was born in South Korea and raised on the beautiful Pacific island of Guam. Growing up surrounded by the ocean shaped who I am today. Later, years of backpacking around the world helped me discover my identity, my creativity, and my love for the ocean even more deeply.
The ocean has always felt like a close friend to me. It brings joy, comfort, and a sense of freedom without saying a word.
While traveling, I made a promise to myself: One day I would create my own swimwear brand and share this love for the ocean with the world.
That promise became Ufulu Swim.
But as much as the ocean gives us, it is also suffering from the waste we create.
Our approach to sustainability may not be perfect, but I believe that small and consistent actions can create meaningful change.
Using recycled fabrics made from discarded plastics is one way we try to give back to the ocean that inspires us.
Creating Ufulu Swim is my way of saying:
“Earth, I love you.”Let’s build the Ufulu community together — enjoying life, looking good, and raising awareness for our planet.
THE UFULU STORY
“A Slice of Freedom Wherever You Go.”
The word Ufulu means freedom in the Chichewa language spoken in Malawi.
To me, swimwear represents freedom.
Think about your favorite travel memories: the warmth of the sun, perfect waves, waterfall adventures, scooter rides, delicious food, sleepless nights, and strangers who became lifelong friends.
When I look back on my travels, the moments I felt most alive were often the simplest ones — wearing a bikini under the sun, feeling completely free and comfortable in my own skin.
Ufulu Swim was created to capture that feeling.
We want you to feel confident, beautiful, and free, wherever life takes you.
Because freedom is something you can carry with you.
INSPIRATION
"Where Cultures, Ocean and Freedom Meet"
Ufulu Swim draws inspiration from the meeting point of cultures, the rhythm of the ocean, and the spirit of travel.
Many of our prints are inspired by elements of Korean heritage — from Mugunghwa, Korea’s national flower, to traditional architectural patterns found in temples and hanok walls.
These cultural elements are reimagined through a tropical lens, blending Korean symbolism with surf culture and island life.
The ocean is at the heart of everything we create.
Waves, sunlight, salt air, and the feeling of freedom they bring shape both our designs and the lifestyle Ufulu represents.
Ufulu is also inspired by the women who wear it — the surfers, travelers, and dreamers who choose a life guided by curiosity, connection, and adventure.