An exploration of dichotomies in South Korea’s (design) identity.

Abstract

A research paper presented at the INTERNATIONAL FORUM ON NEW CONCEPTS IN CONTEMPORARY ASIAN DESIGN EDUCATION. Abstract The Korean design industry has been transformed strategically from imitator to innovator through an institutionalized approach. One of the key milestones in this process has been the formulation of a national design identity known as K-Design DNA. Additionally, there is a strong focus in the design community on intangible cultural values and cultural phenomena as cornerstones of the discussion around the Korean design identity. Overall, Korean design appears to be existing in and emerging from a multidimensional tension field, challenged by at least five apparent antagonistic dichotomies: traditional and modern, top-down and bottom-up, global and local, exclusive and mundane, as well as vertical and lateral. The present study explores these oppositions and suggests further investigation at the intersection of design, cultural studies and philosophy.