HAI WON JUNG

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer HAI WON JUNG ("HWJ") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

HWJ : My background is primarily in product planning rather than formal design education. My journey into design began when I decided to create a prayer bracelet for my mother. This project ignited my passion for design and allowed me to explore my creative potential.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

HWJ : I was motivated to design by a deeply personal need to create something meaningful for my mother. Seeing an idea come to life and positively impact someone's life is what drives me.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

HWJ : I was motivated to design by a deeply personal need to create something meaningful for my mother. Seeing an idea come to life and positively impact someone's life is what drives me.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

HWJ : I have designed a prayer bracelet and wish to design more items that blend cultural heritage with modern aesthetics, particularly those that hold personal significance and emotional value.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

HWJ : Young designers should follow their passion, stay curious, and never stop learning. It's important to embrace challenges and use them as opportunities for growth.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

HWJ : A great designer not only masters the technical aspects of design but also connects emotionally with their work and the people who use it. Passion, empathy, and perseverance are key.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

HWJ : A good design is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and emotionally resonant. It should solve a problem or meet a need effectively while also connecting with users on a deeper level.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

HWJ : Good design enhances our daily lives by making products more functional, beautiful, and enjoyable to use. Investing in good design leads to better user experiences and long-term satisfaction.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

HWJ : If I had the time, I would design more items that merge traditional Korean elements with contemporary design, aimed at preserving and celebrating cultural heritage.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

HWJ : My dream project is to create a comprehensive line of jewelry that incorporates traditional Korean designs with modern aesthetics, appealing to a global audience.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

HWJ : The secret ingredient is passion. Passion drives creativity, persistence, and the desire to continuously improve and innovate.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

HWJ : I am inspired by designers who blend cultural heritage with modern design, creating timeless pieces that tell a story.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

HWJ : I admire designs that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. These designs often have a unique story and convey a deep sense of culture and identity.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

HWJ : My greatest design is the prayer bracelet for my mother. Its greatness lies in its personal significance, emotional value, and the meticulous craftsmanship that went into its creation

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

HWJ : Continuous learning and staying curious are crucial. I improved by taking on challenges, seeking feedback, and iterating on my designs.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

HWJ : If I hadn't become a designer, I would have continued in product planning, focusing on bringing innovative products to market.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

HWJ : Design is the process of turning ideas into tangible, functional, and aesthetically pleasing products that solve problems and enhance lives.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

HWJ : My biggest supporter has been my mother, who inspired me to embark on this design journey. Her encouragement and the motivation to create something meaningful for her were pivotal.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

HWJ : Passion, persistence, and a willingness to learn from every experience have helped me grow as a designer.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

HWJ : One of the biggest obstacles was the lack of formal design education and the challenge of balancing design with my job as a product planner.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

HWJ : Designers should present their work with a clear narrative that highlights the purpose, process, and emotional impact of their designs.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

HWJ : I am working on a new line of jewelry that incorporates traditional Korean elements with modern design principles. Expect innovative and culturally rich pieces

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

HWJ : My ultimate goal is to create designs that are meaningful, culturally significant, and impactful, bringing joy and value to those who use them.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

HWJ : People expect creativity, innovation, and designs that are both functional and emotionally resonant.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

HWJ : Design improves the quality of life by creating products that are functional, beautiful, and accessible. It can also address social and environmental issues.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

HWJ : I am particularly excited about my new jewelry line that celebrates Korean heritage while appealing to a modern audience.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

HWJ : The prayer bracelet project gave me the most satisfaction because it was deeply personal and impactful, created out of love and hope for my mother.

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

HWJ : I would like to see more emphasis on sustainability and cultural preservation in design.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

HWJ : The design field is moving towards greater integration of technology, sustainability, and personalized experiences.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

HWJ : The duration varies depending on the complexity of the project. The prayer bracelet took several months of ideation, prototyping, and refinement.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

HWJ : I start with a clear concept and purpose, followed by research and initial sketches to explore different ideas and approaches.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

HWJ : My motto is "Design with passion and empathy." Creating meaningful and impactful designs requires both.

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

HWJ : Design can set trends by introducing innovative ideas, but it is also influenced by existing trends and cultural shifts.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

HWJ : Technology plays a crucial role in enabling the design process, from digital sketching to prototyping and manufacturing

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

HWJ : I use digital sketching tools like the iPad and various design software for prototyping and visualization

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

HWJ : Color, materials, and ambient elements are essential in creating the desired aesthetic and emotional impact of a design

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

HWJ : I wish people would ask about the inspiration and story behind each design, as well as the process involved in creating it.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

HWJ : I think about the thought process and creativity behind the design, appreciating the innovation and effort that went into it.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

HWJ : My ideal design partner would be someone who shares my passion for meaningful design and cultural heritage. Co-design can bring diverse perspectives and enhance the creative process

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

HWJ : My mother has been the most influential person, inspiring me to create designs with deep personal and cultural significance

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

HWJ : Books on design principles, cultural heritage, and creativity have greatly influenced my approach to design.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

HWJ : I developed my skills through practical experience, continuous learning, and seeking feedback from others

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

HWJ : I would love to meet and discuss with designers who have successfully blended cultural heritage with modern design, learning from their experiences and insights.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

HWJ : Recognition is gratifying, but the true reward is knowing that my designs have a positive impact. Fame is secondary to the joy of creating meaningful work.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

HWJ : My favorite color is blue, favorite place is my hometown, favorite food is traditional Korean dishes, favorite season is spring, favorite thing is my prayer bracelet, and favorite brand is one that values sustainability and innovation.

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

HWJ : One amusing memory was when I was sketching my design on an iPad and accidentally sent the draft to a wrong contact, who ended up giving me some surprisingly insightful feedback!

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

HWJ : Seeing progress in my projects and receiving positive feedback motivates me. Knowing that my work can make a difference keeps me going.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

HWJ : As a child, I was always curious and creative, but I didn't foresee becoming a designer. It was the desire to create something meaningful for my mother that set me on this path.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

HWJ : In a thousand years, I envision a world where design is fully integrated with technology to create sustainable and harmonious living environments.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

HWJ : I want my fans to know that every design I create comes from a place of deep personal connection and cultural appreciation. I am committed to creating meaningful and impactful designs that resonate on a personal and cultural level.