Interview with Lia Jiyun Kim

Becoming a designer has been a journey driven by my innate passion for creativity since a young age. The desire to craft something unique and bring joy to others naturally led me to pursue a career in design. Starting with industrial design, I soon discovered my fascination with branding, which sparked my interest in business administration. To equip myself with comprehensive skills, I pursued an MFA in Graphic Design, ultimately realizing my dream of becoming a proficient brand designer. The continuous pursuit of knowledge and the unwavering passion for design have been the guiding forces behind my journey as a designer.

Designing brings a range of emotions - excitement during the initial idea phase, fulfillment in the journey of exploration, and joy in seeing the final product come to life. The dynamic and transformative process is what I enjoy most, finding possibilities beyond the first sketch.

Although I am still at an early stage of my career, my advice is to embrace feedback and not hesitate to seek it. Be confident and brave in reaching out to professionals in your desired career path. I was initially shy but learned the value of networking and seeking guidance from experienced individuals. It has been instrumental in my growth and overcoming challenges. Stay curious and open-minded to new opportunities and experiences.

Being recognized for my work by esteemed professionals in the industry gave me a sense of validation and belief in my abilities. Also, participating in the award exposed me to the work of other talented designers. Observing their creativity and unique approaches inspired me to push the boundaries of my own design practice and continuously improve.
Knowing that my work was appreciated by the design community encouraged me to strive for excellence in every project I undertake.

I've always had a passion for creativity from a young age. The desire to make something unique and bring joy to others naturally led me to pursue a career as a designer.

I specialize in brand design and have a particular interest in creating designs for public goods. I am passionate about using my skills to contribute to projects that benefit society and make a positive impact on people's lives. I am eager to further explore opportunities where I can design meaningful and impactful solutions for public goods.

A great designer distinguishes themselves from a good designer through their ability to create designs that transcend mere client satisfaction and have a broader impact on the world. While good designers excel in meeting their clients' needs and expectations, great designers go beyond that by designing solutions that address larger societal or environmental challenges. They possess a deep understanding of the human experience, cultural context, and the power of design to influence behavior and shape positive change. Great designers leverage their creativity, empathy, and innovation to create designs that not only serve their immediate clients but also contribute to the greater good, leaving a lasting and meaningful impact on the world.

My secret recipe for success in design lies in two essential ingredients: deep research and keen observation. I find daily inspiration in the small things around me. For instance, in the Donut Branding Project, I loved to look at the donut-making process and I connected the fermentation process and swelling of donuts to the concept of "richness." This approach allows me to infuse unique and meaningful elements into my designs, resulting in captivating and memorable outcomes. Embracing the power of research and finding beauty in the ordinary enables me to create designs that resonate with audiences on a profound level.

I think I still need to improve, but my journey to becoming a great designer has been fueled by my dedication to continuous improvement, collaboration with other professionals, and an open-minded approach. Seeking feedback, staying updated with design trends, and embracing diverse perspectives have been instrumental in shaping my skills. I believe empathy is vital in creating designs that truly resonate with users. Winning this opportunity would inspire me to further evolve as a designer and contribute meaningfully to the design world.

Design plays a crucial role in shaping a better society by inspiring engagement and fostering meaningful connections among people. Beyond just visually attracting attention, design has the power to motivate action. This was precisely my intention with the "We Belong Here" project, where I aimed to encourage individuals to embrace diversity and learn about different backgrounds.

As a designer, I'm passionate about creating meaningful experiences. Besides design, I'm a foodie who loves exploring new culinary adventures. One day, I hope to have the opportunity to design for a food brand and blend my two passions seamlessly. Thank you for your support!

I have my own design studio that offers branding services for small brands. I've had the opportunity to assist Korean Americans, and it brings me joy to support the Korean community. I strongly believe that good design has the power to connect people and constantly strive to innovate and push boundaries in my work.

For me, design is the art of connecting people by creating meaningful and purposeful experiences that resonate with them on an emotional and functional level.

I have a particular fondness for designing works that have a meaningful impact on society. Recently, I have been particularly drawn to the realm of inclusive design. Inclusive design involves creating products, services, and experiences that are accessible and considerate of the diverse needs and abilities of all individuals. By embracing inclusive design principles, I strive to ensure that my creations cater to a wider audience, promote equality, and enhance the overall user experience for everyone involved. This approach allows me to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society, which is something I find incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

I designed a visual identity for a diary for Buddhist learners in Korea. I was thankful for that opportunity to develop something meaningful for them.

I feel most creative when I'm at a cafe, in a good mood, or when faced with a deadline.

During the design process, I prioritize thorough research as it plays a pivotal role in ensuring a strong foundation and successful outcome.

My design inspiration comes from everyday experiences and paying attention to small details. For example, when working on a donut logo design, I might draw inspiration from the donut-making process itself, like the expanding dough. In addition to finding inspiration in everyday experiences, I also consider the broader concepts behind my designs. For instance, if I'm working on an expanding theme, I might explore its connection to historical elements, like a cultural era known for its growth and nourishment. By incorporating these deeper concepts, I strive to create designs that have a meaningful and resonant impact.

Macbook. Ralph Lauren tea cup, The Politics of Design(Book), Carnegie hall ticket,

I am most passionate about design projects that have a positive impact on the world and align with my values. Working with CRNGO at the United Nations was a deeply rewarding experience, as it allowed me to contribute to their mission of promoting peace, understanding, and mutual respect. Designing for such a noble cause inspires me to create purposeful and impactful visuals, aiming to reach a broader audience and make a difference.

send me email - liajiyunkim@gmail.com