Today we’d like to introduce you to Soyeon Kim.
Hi Soyeon, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I am currently working at Google Creative Lab as a Motion Designer via Pro Unlimited. Originally from Seoul, South Korea, I spent my early years there until high school. I started a new chapter by relocating to Los Angeles to study graphic design.
The privilege of straddling two distinct cultures has proven to be a tremendous blessing in my journey as a designer. This unique experience has endowed me with rich cultural influences, seamlessly weaving them into my creative process.
Back in Korea, I dabbled in computer science for a bit and found myself intrigued by technology. But it was that ‘Hello C++ world’ moment that really got me excited about making things not just functional but also visually stunning. That’s when I knew I wanted to dive into the world of graphic design and still love what I’m doing.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
English not being my first language, I often found myself among the quieter students in college. As a design student, being able to discuss and defend my design choices was crucial, but I struggles a bit due to reserved nature. When it came to deciding on my career path, I wasn’t sure if staying in LA or returning Seoul was the right move. I was concerned about how my English proficiency might impact my success in LA.
I shared these uncertainties with my instructor, expressing my anxieties. Surprisingly, he pointed out that even thought I may not be the most vocal, my work was never quiet. This was a significant realization for me, reshaping how I think about design – that design should speak for itself.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in brand identity design with a specific focus on motion design. The satisfaction for me lies in the intricate process of translating written briefs or clients’ ideas into impactful visuals, seamlessly extending them across the entire brand to craft a systematic and visually compelling identity.
Contrary to the perception that designers primarily deal with visuals, what I truly appreciate is the multifaceted strength designers possess—the ability to apply rational thinking and strategically shape brand identity, solving challenges with both instinct and visual acuity. With my proficiency in motion design, I not only construct comprehensive design systems but also bringing life into them. This skill is particularly vital in our digital age, where the majority of brand touchpoints reside on-screen.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I consider those who inspire me to be my mentors, encountered in various aspects of life—whether in school, personal relationships, or professional settings. Each person has played a crucial role, acting as both a design mentor and a life coach, influencing my journey as a designer. During my school years, I encountered mentors who shaped my mindset as a designer and shaped my craftsmanship. In the workplace, I interacted with individuals who further influenced my skills and taught me how to present my work professionally. Currently, I am surrounded by individuals with diverse backgrounds, such as filmmakers, copywriters, and creative technologists, which has led me to expand my horizons beyond visually interesting design, encouraging a more holistic and collaborative approach to my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://soyeonkimwork.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soybean_gx/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soyeon-kim-514766201/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/soybean_gx
