Interview with Eun Ji Kim

Over the past 10 years, I’ve embraced unfamiliar challenges, built my life from the ground up, and grown through every experience. I came to the U.S. alone to study design, and since then, I’ve contributed to a wide range of digital projects across industries.

I originally studied psychology, which gave me a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, perception, and emotion. That background naturally sparked my interest in user experience and how design shapes the way people interact with the world.

Later, I pursued a design degree at the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York, where I was able to combine my analytical mindset with visual creativity. Living far from home and adapting to a new culture deepened my appreciation for how design can make digital experiences feel more intuitive and human.

There was no single turning point. It was a gradual realization that design could be my way of creating meaningful impact. That belief continues to guide my work today.

First, I focus on clarity, both in communication and in the user experience. I want the design to feel intuitive and effortless so users can focus on what they need without confusion.

Second, I always consider empathy. My background in psychology helps me think from the user’s perspective and design for a wide range of people, especially those who might otherwise feel left out by fast-moving technology.

Third, I care deeply about consistency across the design system, making sure every detail feels intentional and coherent across the product.

Most of my work is digital, and I rely heavily on tools like Figma for wireframing, prototyping, and collaboration. I also keep a personal Are.na board where I collect references and ideas. It’s how I stay visually inspired and grounded at the same time.

When I’m designing, I feel a mix of excitement, curiosity, and sometimes frustration. The most exciting phase for me is the initial idea and exploration when possibilities feel endless and creativity flows freely. I enjoy brainstorming and sketching out concepts because that’s when I feel most connected to the core purpose of the project.

Several aspects of my background have shaped me as a designer beyond just design skills. My study of psychology has been especially valuable, as it helped me understand human behavior, perception, and emotion. This insight allows me to design with empathy and create user experiences that truly connect with people.

Another important skill is communication. Collaborating with experts from different fields taught me that design is a team effort, and clear, honest dialogue is key to success. Being adaptable and open to feedback has also helped me grow and improve continuously.

My biggest influence has been my experience living and studying abroad. Navigating new cultures and environments made me more aware of diverse perspectives and the need for inclusive design.

My growth as a designer has been about learning and adapting to the fast-changing digital world. I want to keep evolving by embracing new technologies and focusing on inclusive design to make experiences accessible for everyone.

In the future, I hope to lead projects that make a real impact by bridging technology and diverse user needs. I want to be remembered as a designer who cares deeply about people and creates thoughtful, human-centered solutions.

One dream project is to build a digital platform that supports international students and people living abroad. It would offer practical resources, community connections, and mental wellness tools to ease the challenges of living in a new country. This project is meaningful to me because I’ve experienced it firsthand and understand how valuable that support can be.

To young designers just starting out, especially those navigating new environments or working abroad, my advice is to be patient and stay curious. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by language barriers or cultural differences but do not let that discourage you. Design is a universal language and honest thoughtful work will always connect with people.

One warning I have is not to underestimate the importance of communication. Many challenges I faced could have been eased with clearer dialogue and openness. Also do not fear failure because mistakes are a vital part of learning and growing.

Focus on building good habits like asking questions, seeking feedback, and staying open to new ideas. Keep learning continuously and remember that growth takes time.

To be successful, stay curious and develop disciplined habits. Communicate clearly and welcome feedback because design is a team effort. Embrace iteration and don’t settle for the first idea. Build a strong network and seek inspiration from diverse sources. Success comes from skill, empathy, and persistence.

My day usually starts by checking my to-do list on Notion to get organized. Sometimes I scroll through design news or Are.na for inspiration but honestly some days it’s more about pushing through the tasks. Most of my time is spent working in Figma fixing details and coordinating with the team. What keeps me going even on the slow days are small moments like figuring out a better solution or getting helpful feedback. Those little wins make the routine feel worth it.

I keep an eye on design trends through sites like Are.na, design blogs, and social media, but I don’t follow them blindly. Trends can inspire fresh ideas, but I believe it’s more important to focus on timeless, user-centered design that truly solves problems. I prefer developing a consistent style that reflects my values and the needs of the project rather than chasing what’s trendy this season.

Good design means it’s simple, helpful, and easy to use. I think a design is good when even people without a design background can understand and use it without feeling lost or annoyed. If using a product feels natural and it really helps people, then it’s well designed.

I also pay attention to how everything fits together and feels consistent. A common mistake is making things look nice but hard to use, which isn’t helpful.

For me, the moment I say “this is good design” is when using it feels smooth and effortless. Good design solves real problems and makes the experience easy and pleasant.

I believe design is never truly “complete” because there’s always room to improve. However, I decide a design is ready when it effectively solves the problem, meets user needs, and passes usability testing without major issues. At that point, further changes often bring only minor improvements and can delay other important work.

I usually set clear goals and deadlines to know when to stop iterating and move on. Even after launch, I stay open to feedback and improvements, but I avoid endlessly tweaking earlier work to stay productive.

For me, a design feels successful when users find it easy and satisfying to use, and it achieves the intended purpose in real life. That’s when I know the design has done its job well.

One of my most meaningful projects was a digital platform for the luxury lifestyle sector, developed over seven months. I aimed to create an elegant and intuitive interface that balanced sophisticated design with practical usability.

The challenge was to maintain clarity, empathy, and consistency while meeting diverse user needs. The most rewarding part was seeing it launch successfully and improving it continuously based on real user feedback.

These days, design trends change so fast, and there are so many talented designers on platforms like Instagram where I find a lot of inspiration. Instead of having just one favorite, I prefer to learn from and be inspired by the diverse and ever-evolving work of many different creators. I really admire the creativity and variety that today’s designers bring to the field.

I live and work in New York, a city full of energy and diversity that inspires my design. The fast pace and mix of cultures shape how I create inclusive and accessible work.

Growing up in Korea and living abroad gives me a unique perspective. I see design as a way to bridge cultural gaps and make new places feel welcoming.

I believe good design helps society progress by improving how we interact with technology and each other. In my own life, design brings small but meaningful improvements that make daily tasks easier and more enjoyable.

I believe in open communication and collaboration, which makes working with me straightforward and enjoyable. While I’m comfortable working independently, I thrive best in teams where ideas flow freely and everyone respects each other’s input. In my work culture, respect and empathy are essential because design is a team effort. Understanding different perspectives is key to creating better solutions that truly resonate with users.

For a good designer, qualities like curiosity, empathy, discipline, and strong communication skills are crucial. These traits enable us to create meaningful, user-centered work that stands out.

To be honest, I haven’t participated in formal philanthropic design work yet. However, I strongly believe in design’s power to create positive social impact. I’m inspired by designers who use their skills to support communities and humanitarian efforts, and I hope to contribute more actively in the future.

For now, I’m focusing on building my experience so that when opportunities arise, I can provide meaningful help. I’m also open to informally mentoring and sharing knowledge with young designers whenever possible.

Attending the A’ Design Award gave me a boost of confidence and motivation. Being named Designer of the Day made me feel proud and more sure of my path.

Design awards help by giving exposure, feedback, and connections. They push me to improve and open doors for new opportunities.

I think design competitions are important because they challenge us and connect us with others. This recognition reminds me that my work matters and encourages me to keep going.

I think I always had a vague but persistent feeling that I wanted to do something more practical, something that could make a real, visible impact. That’s what eventually led me to design. It felt like the right balance between creativity and utility, giving me a way to turn ideas into tangible solutions that people can actually use.

I chose to become a designer, but it wasn’t an obvious or immediate decision. I had always been drawn to understanding how people think and feel, which is why I studied psychology at first. But along the way, I realized I was craving a more hands-on, creative way to apply that curiosity. Design allowed me to turn ideas into tangible solutions and gave me a clearer sense of purpose. Looking back, it felt less like a single decision and more like following a series of instincts that led me here.

I mainly design digital products like websites and apps, focusing on creating clear, intuitive and user-friendly experiences. Going forward, I would love to work more on projects that help people adapt to new environments, like tools for international students or people living abroad, where design can make a real positive impact on daily life.

To become a great designer, young designers should stay curious and open minded. It’s important to keep learning, embrace feedback and not be afraid to fail. Building strong communication skills and empathy helps create work that truly connects with people. Most importantly, be patient. Growth takes time and every experience is a step forward.

What distinguishes a good designer from a great designer is mostly about attitude and openness. A good designer has the necessary skills and delivers solid work. A great designer, however, stays open to feedback, continuously learns, and deeply understands problems from the user’s perspective. It’s the willingness to grow and the ability to empathize that truly set great designers apart.

A good design is clear, useful, and easy to understand even for people without a design background. I evaluate good design by how well it helps users achieve their goals without confusion or frustration. If the design feels intuitive, meets real needs, and creates a positive experience, that’s when I know it’s really good.

Good design matters because it makes life less complicated. It helps people get things done without wasting time or feeling annoyed. Investing in good design is not just about looking nice but about solving real problems and making things work better. When design works well, everyone benefits even if they don’t notice it consciously.

If I had the time, I’d create a digital platform based on my own experiences living abroad, especially as an international student. It would offer practical resources, ways to connect with others, and mental health support to help people feel less alone and more supported in a new country. Having gone through that myself, I know how much something like this could make a real difference.

My dream project is to build a platform that supports people living far from home, especially international students and expats. It would combine useful resources, community connections, and mental wellness tools to make adjusting to a new culture easier and less lonely. I haven’t had the time or resources to bring it to life yet, but it’s a project very close to my heart.

I think the secret ingredient is staying curious and open minded. Design is always evolving so being willing to learn and adapt keeps my work fresh and relevant. Also, empathy plays a huge role. Really understanding the people I’m designing for helps me create solutions that truly matter. There is no magic formula but combining curiosity with empathy and persistence has helped me grow as a designer.

These days, design trends change so fast and there are so many talented designers on platforms like Instagram that I find a lot of inspiration there. Instead of having just one favorite, I like to learn from and be inspired by the diverse and ever-evolving work of many different people. I really admire the creativity and variety that today’s designers bring to the field.

To be honest, I tend to prefer designs that don’t use many elements but focus on simplicity and refined details. I appreciate work that is minimal yet carefully crafted, where subtle details create strong impact without unnecessary complexity. I like designs that balance beauty and functionality without being overly complicated. Those that solve real problems and make people’s lives easier stand out to me.

One of my greatest design works is the VXT Plus app, which I submitted for this competition. It was especially meaningful to me because I was involved from concept to execution. What makes it great in my eyes is how it balances clarity, functionality, and emotional resonance. I focused on making it intuitive and accessible while ensuring the experience felt thoughtful and personal. The positive feedback and recognition it received made me feel that I succeeded in creating something that genuinely helps and connects with users.

I think the best way to grow as a designer is to stay curious, ask questions, and remain open to feedback. For me, shifting my mindset helped a lot. I began to see design not just as something visual but as a way to solve problems. I learned the most by working with others, listening carefully, and accepting that I won’t always have the right answer. Paying attention to everyday moments also helps because inspiration often comes from unexpected places.

If I hadn’t become a designer, I might have pursued something in psychology since that was my first major. But to be honest, I’m not sure I would’ve stayed in that field either. I think I would’ve eventually looked for a different path, something more creative or hands-on. I’ve always been drawn to work that has a visible and practical impact, so even if it wasn’t design, it probably would’ve been something where I could build or create things that help people in real ways.

For me, design is about solving problems in a thoughtful and human-centered way. It’s not just about how something looks, but how it works, how it feels, and how it fits into people’s lives. Good design makes things clearer, easier, and more meaningful. It’s a quiet but powerful tool for change, and that’s what makes it so valuable to me.

Without a second thought, I would say my biggest supporters are my parents and family. Their unconditional support and belief in me have been the foundation that helped me reach where I am today. My family always encouraged me to keep exploring and stay curious, even when my path wasn’t clear.

I think my biggest driver has been a sense of restlessness and the feeling that things are never perfect. That constant feeling of wanting to improve and do better pushed me to keep learning and growing. This kind of discomfort actually became a strength that helped me become a better designer over time.

One of the biggest obstacles was learning to trust my own instincts. Early on, I doubted whether my ideas were good enough or if I truly belonged in design. At the same time, developing strong communication skills was crucial. Being able to clearly explain and defend my ideas helped me gain confidence and work better with others. Overcoming these challenges took time but made me a stronger designer.

Designers should present their work clearly and confidently. It is important to tell the story behind the design, why certain choices were made and how the design solves real problems. Using simple language helps everyone understand the value of the work. Visuals should support the message without overwhelming it. Being open to feedback and ready to explain your decisions shows professionalism and builds trust.

Right now, I’m working on a digital platform for the luxury lifestyle sector. My goal is to create an elegant and intuitive interface that balances sophisticated design with practical usability.

The challenge is to keep the design clear, empathetic, and consistent while addressing diverse user needs. The most rewarding part is seeing it launch successfully and then continuously improving it based on real user feedback.

My ultimate goal as a designer is to craft intuitive and meaningful experiences that truly connect with people. Across every project, I focus on creating designs that positively shape how people interact with the world around them and improve their daily lives.

I think people expect me to do good work that actually helps users and solves problems. They want me to be professional and clear in how I explain my ideas. Honestly, they probably also expect me to keep learning and improving, and to support others when I can. At the end of the day, people just want designs that work well and make sense, not just something that looks nice.

Design helps create a better society by making things easier and more accessible for everyone. Good design solves real problems and improves daily life, whether through better tools, clearer communication, or more inclusive experiences. It can break down barriers and connect people across different backgrounds. When design focuses on the user, it helps build a society where everyone can participate and thrive.

I’m currently working on refining a digital platform I helped launch in the luxury lifestyle space. It’s a project I’ve been involved in for months, and now I’m focusing on improving the user experience based on real feedback. Seeing how people interact with the product and finding ways to make it clearer, more intuitive, and more human-centered has been really rewarding.

One of the most satisfying projects for me was the VXT Plus app, which I submitted to this competition. It was meaningful because I was involved in every step, from research and strategy to UI/UX design, and I could apply both my design skills and my background in psychology. Seeing the final product come together in a way that feels useful, intuitive, and emotionally considered gave me a deep sense of fulfillment.

I’d love to see the design industry become more inclusive and empathetic. There’s still room for improvement when it comes to accessibility and designing for diverse age groups, cultures, and abilities. I also hope the industry continues to value thoughtful, human-centered solutions over flashy or trend-driven work. Good design should solve real problems and make life easier for everyone, not just a specific group.

I think the design field is moving toward more personalized, ethical, and responsible practices. With the rise of AI and data-driven tools, there’s a growing need for designers to think critically about the impact of their work. I see a future where designers are not just solving problems but also questioning them, making sure what we build is truly meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable.

It really depends on the scope and complexity of the project. Some smaller projects can be wrapped up in a few weeks, while others, especially those involving multiple stakeholders, user testing, or a full digital experience, can take several months. I try to stay flexible and responsive throughout the process, always aiming for quality over speed.

When I start a new design project, I begin by understanding the context, the users, their needs, and the goals of the project. I spend time asking questions, doing research, and identifying any constraints or opportunities. Once I have a clear foundation, I move into sketching ideas, building wireframes, and exploring concepts that balance function and emotion. I believe a thoughtful beginning always leads to better outcomes.

My life motto as a designer is to stay curious and keep learning. I believe growth comes from being open to new ideas, embracing challenges, and constantly refining your craft. Design is never finished, and neither am I.

I think it’s a bit of both. Sometimes design leads the way by introducing new ideas that later become trends. Other times, trends influence designers and shape what they create. It’s a continuous cycle where design and trends feed into each other.

As a UI/UX designer, technology is at the core of everything I do. It enables me to prototype, test, and iterate designs quickly, which is essential for creating user-centered experiences. Technology also shapes how users interact with products, so understanding its capabilities helps me design interfaces that are intuitive, responsive, and accessible. Without the right tech tools and platforms, delivering seamless digital experiences would be much harder.

It might sound typical, but I use Figma the most. It’s really versatile and works well for both design and collaboration.

Personally, I think color, materials, and the overall ambiance are what really bring a design to life. They create the feeling you get when you use something or enter a space. The right colors can set the mood, materials add a sense of quality and touch, and the ambient vibe helps make the whole experience feel natural and inviting.

I wish people would ask about the thinking and intentions behind my design choices. Not just how it looks but why certain decisions were made and how the design aims to solve real problems or improve the user’s experience. That’s where the true value lies for me in thoughtful, purposeful design that makes a difference.

When I see a great new design or product, I immediately think about how well it solves a problem or improves the user’s experience. I’m curious about the choices behind it, why it works so smoothly, what challenges the designers faced, and how it balances form and function. It’s inspiring to see something that is both useful and beautiful.

My ideal design partner is someone open-minded and curious, who communicates clearly and respects different perspectives. I believe in co-design because great ideas often come from collaboration. Working together allows us to combine strengths, challenge assumptions, and create solutions that none of us could achieve alone.

The people who influenced my design the most are my mentors and colleagues who challenged me to think deeper and push my limits. Also, users whose feedback helped me understand real needs shaped my approach a lot. Everyday collaboration and honest conversations with diverse people have been key to my growth as a designer.

I don’t have a single favorite book, but I’ve been influenced by a mix of design, psychology, and creativity books. Since I studied psychology before design, books about human behavior and decision-making really shaped how I think about user experience. I also appreciate design books that focus on simplicity and problem-solving rather than just aesthetics.

I developed my skills through a combination of formal education, hands-on experience, and continuous learning. Studying psychology first helped me understand people’s behavior, which is key in design. Then, studying design gave me the tools to turn those insights into practical solutions. Over time, working on real projects, getting feedback, and staying curious pushed me to improve and refine my skills.

Without hesitation, I would want to meet and talk with my parents and family. They have been my biggest supporters and the foundation of who I am. Beyond that, if I think about design, I’d love to have a conversation with a design legend like Dieter Rams to learn from his timeless approach to simplicity and functionality.

I appreciate the recognition because it shows that my work resonates with others but I try not to focus too much on fame. For me the most important thing is doing meaningful work that helps people and keeps pushing my own growth. Being famous isn’t the goal it’s a byproduct of staying true to good design and continuous learning.

My favorite color is white because it feels clean and simple. I really like Brooklyn for its creative vibe and community. I enjoy early summer the most since the weather feels just right. Lately, thanks to the weather, my favorite food has been cold pasta salads because they are refreshing and light. As for a brand, I like Apple because of their clean design and user-friendly products.

Sometimes I find myself obsessing over tiny details no one else notices. It’s funny how those little things can take hours, but in the end, they make the design feel special.

I usually find motivation when I’m working with others. Sharing ideas and collaborating sparks new energy and keeps me engaged. It’s inspiring to see how different perspectives come together to create something better. Being part of a team where everyone contributes and respects each other’s input really helps me stay motivated and excited about the work.

Not at all. When I was a kid, I didn’t even know what design really was. My younger sibling was already pursuing art, so I thought that path wasn’t for me. I was curious about many things but never imagined I’d end up as a designer. It was only later, through exploring different paths and interests, that I found design to be the right fit for me.

It’s hard to imagine exactly what the world will look like in a thousand years, but I think design will play an even bigger role in how we live and interact. Technology will likely be far beyond what we can picture now, and design will need to keep evolving to make these advances accessible and meaningful for everyone.

I want people to know that my design work comes from a real desire to make things easier and more meaningful in everyday life. I’m always learning and trying to improve, and I believe that good design is about empathy and connection, not just aesthetics. I’m grateful for the support and excited to keep growing and creating work that truly helps people.

I'm currently working as a designer at an advertising agency, where I focus on creating digital experiences that connect brands with people in meaningful ways. The project I submitted for the award actually began as a student work during my time at the School of Visual Arts. I revisited and refined it after gaining more experience in the field, and I’m proud to see how it’s grown since its early concept stage.

For me, design is a way to make ideas visible and meaningful. It goes beyond creating beautiful visuals. It is about crafting digital experiences where a brand's identity and the user's expectations naturally meet. My background in psychology has helped me approach design with empathy. Understanding human behavior and emotion plays a big role in how I create. I believe good design tells a story and solves problems at the same time. It is where creativity meets clarity.

I enjoy designing UI/UX experiences that go beyond just creating beautiful interfaces. My focus is on designing intuitive, user-centered solutions that align with the brand's identity and meet the users' needs. I love the challenge of crafting seamless digital journeys, where every interaction feels natural and efficient. Whether it’s optimizing navigation, improving accessibility, or enhancing the overall usability, I’m passionate about ensuring that users not only enjoy the design but also find it easy to use and meaningful. For me, the most rewarding projects are those where design truly improves the user experience and leaves a lasting positive impact.

One of my favorite designs is the 'Vxt Plus' UI/UX project I worked on during my time as a student, which I later refined and submitted for an award. The design focused on creating a seamless and visually engaging experience for users, all while maintaining a strong brand identity. What I love most about this project is how it blends the principles of user-centered design with creative problem-solving. It wasn’t just about making something aesthetically pleasing; it was about understanding the user’s journey and ensuring each interaction felt intuitive and meaningful. I was able to dive deeply into how design elements could evoke emotion and guide users through the experience naturally. The end result was a design that balanced function and beauty while keeping the users’ needs at the forefront.

The first thing I designed for a company was a digital interface for an internal project during my early days in the design industry. It was a user interface for an internal tool that streamlined communication and workflow within the team. I worked closely with developers and product managers to ensure that the design met both functional requirements and user needs.

It was a learning experience, as I was just starting to apply the design principles I had studied, but it gave me a solid foundation in UI/UX design and introduced me to the importance of user-centered design. What I found most rewarding was seeing my design improve the efficiency of the team and create a more seamless workflow. It helped me realize the real-world impact that thoughtful design can have on productivity and collaboration within a company.

As a UI/UX designer, Figma has become an essential tool in my workflow. It's a versatile platform that allows me to design and prototype in real time, making collaboration with team members, developers, and stakeholders smooth and efficient. Its cloud-based nature means I can work on projects from anywhere at any time, and easily share designs and receive feedback without worrying about compatibility issues.

Additionally, Are.na is one of my go-to sources for inspiration. It’s a great platform where I can explore a wide range of design references, art, and ideas. It allows me to create mood boards and connect seemingly unrelated concepts, often sparking new directions in my work.

I feel the most creative when I’m in a flow state, usually when I’m fully immersed in a project without distractions. Late at night or during quiet early mornings are often the best times for me. That’s when ideas just seem to come together more naturally. I also find that taking a break or going for a walk can spark new perspectives and help me think more freely.

When designing, I focus on creating intuitive user experiences while maintaining a strong visual identity. I prioritize usability and accessibility, ensuring that the design not only looks good but also functions seamlessly. I pay close attention to hierarchy, typography, and color choices, as they play a crucial role in guiding users through the interface. Balancing aesthetics with functionality is always at the core of my design process.

When I design, I often feel a sense of excitement and curiosity. There’s a thrill in solving complex problems and finding creative solutions that enhance the user experience. At the same time, I experience a sense of responsibility, knowing that my work will impact how people interact with a product or service. There can also be moments of frustration, especially when things don’t come together as expected, but overcoming these challenges brings a deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

When my designs are realized, I feel a sense of joy and pride. It's a rewarding experience to see something I’ve worked hard on come to life. It also gives me confidence that I made the right choice by pursuing this field. Knowing that my design has made an impact or fulfilled its purpose is incredibly fulfilling.

Successful design is intuitive and accessible to all users, regardless of their expertise. It creates an experience where users can understand and navigate easily without needing instructions. A successful design should be self-explanatory, allowing even non-experts to use it seamlessly. It’s about balancing simplicity and clarity, not just aesthetics, to solve a problem in a way that feels natural and effortless.

When judging a design, the first things I consider are usability and intuitiveness. A good design should be easy to understand and use without causing confusion. Next, I look at the visual hierarchy and whether the design effectively communicates its intended message. It's also important to see if the design aligns with the brand’s identity and goals. Lastly, I evaluate how well the design solves the problem it was created for, ensuring that both functionality and aesthetics are well balanced.

As a UI/UX designer, I believe that with the rapid advancement of technology, it's essential to design with inclusivity in mind. This includes reducing the digital divide between different age groups. As technology continues to evolve, we should focus on creating experiences that are accessible and understandable for everyone, regardless of their age, ensuring that no one is left behind.

The design field is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and shifting user needs. The focus is moving toward user-centered design, prioritizing intuitive, accessible, and seamless experiences. With the rise of digital services, UX/UI design is becoming crucial, considering not just aesthetics but also emotional impact and inclusivity. The future of design will involve deeper integration with AI, VR, and AR, creating more interactive and immersive experiences. Sustainability will also be a key factor, pushing designers to consider the long-term impact of their work.

I haven’t had the opportunity to hold an exhibition yet, but I’m definitely open to the idea in the future. My focus has mainly been on digital design and client-based projects, but I would love to showcase my work in an exhibition someday, possibly once I have a collection of projects that truly reflect my design journey. I’m excited about the potential to engage with a broader audience and share my creative process

My design inspiration comes from a mix of everyday life, art, nature, and travel. I stay curious and observe the world around me, whether it's how people interact with technology or the beauty of the natural world. Platforms like Are.na and collaboration with other creatives also fuel my ideas. I find inspiration in diverse fields, like psychology, which helps me design more intuitive and user-centered experiences. By staying open and connected, I keep my creativity flowing.

My design style is clean and user-centric, focusing on creating intuitive and visually appealing digital experiences. I aim to balance aesthetics with functionality by using clear layouts, thoughtful typography, and engaging interactions. This approach comes from my belief that good design should make complex information feel simple and approachable. I’m drawn to this style because it aligns with my goal of making technology accessible to users of all backgrounds.

I live in New York, but I’m originally from South Korea. My cultural background definitely influences my design approach, blending a sense of minimalism with attention to detail. Living in New York exposes me to diverse perspectives and innovative ideas, which fuels my creativity. However, balancing different cultural aesthetics can sometimes be challenging when designing for a global audience. Since the trends in each country are different, I often find myself balancing contrasting elements. The minimalist and detail-oriented approach influenced by Korean design blends with the bold, diverse, and experimental spirit I experience in New York, allowing me to create designs that feel both refined and dynamic.

I work closely with various teams, including developers, strategy, and product teams, to ensure that designs are not only visually engaging but also aligned with the overall business objectives. In my role, collaboration is key, whether it's refining user flows with the strategy team, ensuring technical feasibility with developers, or aligning design elements with the product vision. I prioritize open communication and iterative feedback to create designs that meet user needs while also supporting the broader goals of the company.

When selecting a designer, companies should not only focus on a designer's portfolio or technical skills but also consider their communication and collaboration abilities. I realized early on in my career that strong communication skills are essential. As a designer, being able to effectively collaborate with different teams, such as developers and strategists, is often more important than just technical expertise. Adaptability is another key factor. During my time as a student, I mostly worked on personal projects, so I didn't fully understand the importance of these skills. But after entering the professional world, I learned that collaboration and adaptability are crucial for successful design work.

The design process for the project I submitted to the competition started with a strong focus on understanding the user's needs and solving their problems. Initially, I began with thorough research and ideation, exploring various approaches before selecting the most effective solution. I then developed the design by considering both visual elements and user experience. Finally, I refined the design based on actual user feedback, ensuring the end result was both practical and creative. This process helped me clearly convey the message I wanted through the project, ultimately leading to a design that was both functional and visually engaging.

Hmm, hard to pick five but here are my top two:

1. IKEA OMAR Shelf: I love its honest, utilitarian design. It fits anywhere, holds everything, and somehow always looks right.
2. Noguchi Akari Lamp: It brings such a soft, sculptural presence to the room. Turning it on feels like a daily ritual.

These days, my daily routine primarily revolves around creating prototypes, refining existing work, conducting Q&A for current designs, and managing design systems. A typical day also includes collaborating with the development team, reviewing user feedback, and ensuring that all design elements are aligned with the overall vision. Given that my job requires me to spend most of the day working in front of a screen, I make it a point to take regular breaks. I step away from the monitor by going for short walks, doing stretches, and taking time to recharge, which helps me stay focused and energized throughout the day.

To all young designers navigating unfamiliar paths, especially those starting their journey abroad, I want to share this: don't be discouraged by language barriers or cultural differences. Design is a universal language. If your work is honest and thoughtful, it will connect with people beyond words.

Stay curious, communicate openly, and treat every experience as a chance to grow. It’s okay to fail. What matters most is that you keep moving forward with heart and intention. We’re all learning, one step at a time.

As a UI/UX designer, one of the biggest positives is solving real problems for real people. It’s rewarding to see your design make someone’s experience easier or more enjoyable. Every project is a chance to learn something new, and you get to collaborate with many different teams.

On the other hand, not everyone fully understands what UI/UX involves. Sometimes design decisions are rushed or overlooked, and that can be frustrating. It also takes a lot of communication to make sure your ideas are heard.

My golden rule is to design for everyone. As technology evolves quickly it is important to create experiences that are intuitive inclusive and accessible to all users no matter their age or background. Design should make life easier and never leave anyone behind.

I believe communication is the most important skill for a designer. Many projects I’ve worked on succeeded because of ongoing dialogue and coordination with experts from different fields. This taught me that design is never just an individual achievement but a collective effort. Good design comes from honest communication and teamwork.

Honestly, it might sound obvious, but Figma is definitely my go-to tool. It’s flexible, collaborative, and just fits perfectly with how I work on UI/UX projects.

For inspiration, I’m really into Are.na. It’s a simple and smart way to gather and organize ideas, visuals, and references all in one place.

I use Notion a lot to organize and track my tasks. I break my work into smaller steps and set clear daily goals. When my system gets messy or breaks down, it stresses me out because it becomes hard to keep everything on track. That’s why I’m working hard to make staying organized a daily habit.

Since I’m working in a team now, the timeline varies a lot depending on the project’s complexity and scope. But ever since my student days, I’ve learned that design almost always takes much more time than I initially expect. Because of that, I try to start as early as possible and leave plenty of time for revisions and improvements.

Honestly, one of the most common questions I get is, “Do you ever regret choosing design as your career?” or “Was it the right major for you?”

I can honestly say I have never regretted it. It’s not always easy, but design allows me to solve problems and create things that matter, so I’m glad I chose this path.

One of the most important job experiences for me was working on a large-scale project that required close collaboration with different teams. It taught me how crucial communication and teamwork are in design.

That experience helped me grow not only as a designer but also as a collaborator, understanding how to balance creativity with practical needs.

I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients across different industries. Some of the brands I’ve worked with include Coca-Cola, USPS, New York Lottery, and Four Seasons Yachts.
Each project brought unique challenges and helped me grow as a designer.

I enjoy working on UI/UX design the most because it allows me to create meaningful and intuitive experiences for users. I like solving problems and making digital products that are easy and enjoyable for people of all backgrounds and ages to use.

It’s rewarding to see how thoughtful design can improve everyday interactions and make technology more accessible.

Design trends are moving faster than ever, so I want to stay adaptable and keep up with those changes. My focus is on delivering clear and practical designs that meet users’ needs in a rapidly evolving environment.

I mostly work as part of a team. Collaboration is a big part of the design process, and I believe great design comes from sharing ideas and feedback with others.

Lately, I’ve been working on a digital platform in the luxury lifestyle sector. After about seven months of development, it launched earlier this year. We’re currently enhancing the platform by adding features and improving the user experience based on actual feedback.

The best way to reach me is through my email keunji9433@gmail.com or via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eunji-kim-2962a323a/. I’m always happy to connect!

I’d just like to say that design is a continuous journey. There’s always something new to learn or improve, and that keeps the work exciting.