She is often asked, "Who are you?"

Svetlana Vladimirovna Tsoy is recognized in the industry as a skilled seamstress, designer, and founder of the creative house DARALACE. However, only her close circle – relatives, friends, and colleagues – know that she is fluent in the Kazakh language.

The renowned designer was the first in Kazakhstan to merge two ethnic styles in her creations – Kazakh and Korean. This fusion led to the creation of the first children's and adult hanboks adorned with Kazakh patterns, as well as traditional Kazakh costumes featuring wide sleeves and Korean designs. This blending of styles inspired the designer to delve deeply into the art and cultural history of both Kazakhstan and Korea.

As Svetlana Tsoy recalls, she learned to speak Kazakh in school.

– I was born in Uzbekistan and spent two years living in a Korean village where everyone spoke only Korean with me, – she shares. – So, after moving to Kyzylorda, I didn't know a single word in Kazakh or Russian. My late father, Vladimir Gennadievich, not only spoke but also thought in Kazakh. Now I do too. For instance, in conversation, I automatically say «автобөлшектер дүкені» instead of «магазин автозапчастей». I suppose, as an artist, I have a strong visual memory.

The knowledge of the state language greatly aids in her life, the designer admits. In shops and markets, she asks questions or responds in Kazakh. Svetlana Tsoy believes that everyone living in Kazakhstan should know the Kazakh language for their own benefit, and she recounted a humorous incident.

– My daughter and I traveled to visit relatives in Uzbekistan via Shymkent. We took a taxi to the customs point «Chernyaevka». The taxi driver was discussing the characteristics of different nationalities, saying that some plant gardens, others raise livestock, and some open shops – in short, everyone is doing great. Naturally, we were conversing in Kazakh. He said: «Once, I was driving a woman, and we talked about various subjects. At the end of the ride, I asked her: «Руың қандай?» She replied: «Кореянка!» And then I said in Russian: «Я тоже кореянка!» He drove in silence for about five minutes, and then he burst out laughing! He said: «I never thought I would fall for that a second time!» We both had a good laugh! This happens to me often when people ask which Kazakh clan I belong to...

Svetlana Tsoy is a connoisseur of Kazakh cuisine. She personally buys жілік, butchers meat, makes қазы, and prepares ет and баурсаки. She claims to be mentally Kazakh as well. Additionally, she enjoys cooking dishes from Korean, Uzbek, and Russian cuisines.

– Yes, yes, Aunt Sveta makes signature баурсаки; none of us can cook them like she does! Whenever we set the table, we always ask her for баурсаки, – her seamstress colleagues join in the tasty conversation.

– When I visit relatives in Tashkent, I always bring my own ingredients – жайма, meat, казы, and other essentials, and I prepare our signature кызылординский бешбармак there, – she continues. – Generally, most of my acquaintances are Kazakh. I am well-versed in all Kazakh customs and traditions, and I participate in all ceremonies: бесікке салу, беташар, қыз ұзату, құдалық. I feel right at home in these events and often give advice on what to do and how.

Svetlana Toy's children and relatives suggest that she move to Korea. However, she is firmly against it. She says she feels comfortable living, working, and growing up in Kyzylorda, and doesn't experience any issues.

– Currently, I am a «monopolist» in Korean outfits, – the designer smiles. – I have found my niche. I receive numerous orders from both Kazakhstan and Korea. Interestingly, they request clothing made in the Kazakh ethnic style from there. Korean Kazakhs have a mentality that aligns more with Kazakhs. Our traditions and values are similar – respect for elders, love for children, and a desire to preserve culture.

Svetlana Toy's dream is to establish a modeling school for special children and bring them to the runway. She believes they should be part of society. Currently, three out of fourteen models in her collection's show are special children.