A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
By Mira Do
Photo credit: Eugene Do
New York, the global hub of business and careers. What is life like for young Korean-American professionals working in this vibrant city? The thought alone is enough to evoke excitement and envy. We invite four confident Korean designers, who are steadily building their careers, to "Happy OUR Talk", the new segment by Mom & I. Let us delve into the passionate discussion with these creative and enthusiastic New Yorker designers!
Organizer: Mira Do
Photography: Eugene Do
Makeup: Izabel Kim
Venue: 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Jung Kwon majored in finance at Virginia Commonwealth University before returning to study graphic design. Currently, he is a design director specializing in corporate branding. Believing that doing what he loves is success, he may already be a success story. He met his wife, now the mother of his daughter, during their university days.
After majoring in graphic design at the San Francisco Academy of Art University, Vicky Ban moved to New York, driven by the determination to work on equal terms in American society. She found her niche in architecture and real estate, working as a graphic designer and earning a real estate sales licence. Her goal is to create a foundation to support individuals who lack basic support to chase their dreams.
Mom & I: Please introduce yourself, focusing on your current work or hobbies.
Jung Kwon: I am Jung Kwon, working in corporate branding, with major clients such as Starbucks, airlines, and longstanding relationships with Korean companies like Samsung and LG.
Isaac Lee: I’ve been in the interactive design field for 10 years, working with web design and digital marketing. I live in Bayside with my wife and two daughters.
Yousun Min: I am the lead graphic designer at Elie Tahari, having studied communication design at Parsons. I live on the Upper West Side.
Vicky Ban: I work in the graphic design and marketing sector at CBRE. My aim is to balance work with pursuing what I love.
Mom & I: Jung, why did you switch from finance to graphic design?
Jung Kwon: Initially, I thought I'd follow my father’s business path, but realized it wasn't for me. I returned to design, something I've loved since childhood.
Mom & I: Vicky, you’ve worked in architecture for 7 years and have a real estate license. Can you elaborate on your journey?
Vicky Ban: Starting in a design firm with no other Asian employees, I transitioned to architecture. The learning experience was invaluable, though I faced challenges.
A Parsons graduate, Yousun Min works with global fashion company Elie Tahari. She draws inspiration from travels and explores pure design joy through personal projects like canvas bag silk-screen printing.
Isaac Lee has spent 10 years in the interactive design field, a niche area still unfamiliar to many. He currently holds a leadership role at MCD Partners, supported by his creatively understanding spouse.
Mom & I: Isaac, you’ve advanced to the role of design director at MCD. Could you detail your work?
Isaac Lee: I honed my skills at my first job for four years. My current company was a small but promising firm that offered more responsibility.
Mom & I: What insights do you have for young Koreans aiming to succeed in the mainstream industry?
Isaac Lee: Communication skills are crucial. It's not just about technical skills but also about finding team chemistry and taking initiative.
Jung Kwon: Avoid focusing too much on the environment. Concentrate on your work, and career success will follow. It’s important to love your work genuinely.
Mom & I: How do you define success, considering the current economic challenges?
Isaac Lee: Finding and pursuing what you love is crucial. I pray for a path that allows me to contribute to society through my work.
Yousun Min: I dream of connecting with others through my designs and giving back, as I experienced the challenges of studying abroad.
Vicky Ban: I aim to establish a foundation in New York to support those lacking familial support. This has been a longstanding personal dream.
Jung Kwon: For me, success is being grateful for doing what I love and focusing on my design philosophy, regardless of the market's state.
Mom & I: As young professionals, how do you view love?
Jung Kwon: I met my wife in school. It's crucial to be adaptable in relationships, balancing personal preferences with your partner’s.
Yousun Min: Supporting each other’s dreams is vital in a partnership.
Vicky Ban: To meet a good partner, I focused on improving myself. Now, I seek a life partner rather than just marriage.
Isaac Lee: Love can be disappointing, but loving your work provides constant satisfaction.
Mom & I: Thank you for sharing such sincere and passionate stories, and best wishes for realizing your dreams!
All participants: Thank you for having us! It was a delightful experience!
Eugene Do, based in New York, has participated in numerous exhibitions across LA, Miami, and Chicago. Known for dismantling and recombining contrasting subjects, he has garnered international photography awards.
Contact: jinbada@gmail.com
This iconic Manhattan rooftop bar features expansive outdoor gardens and penthouse space, offering breathtaking views of the Empire State Building.
Address: 230 5th Ave, 20th Fl, New York, NY 10001
Phone: (212) 725-4300
Website: 230 Fifth
Izabel has worked with celebrities in Korea and now thrives in New York, aiming to become a main artist in fashion shows.
