Contemporary Traditions: South Korea’s Emerging Design Identity- An Exploration among Professional and Academic Design Experts Aged 30-50

Abstract

Background Through an institutionalized approach the Korean design industry has been transformed strategically from imitator to innovator. One of the milestones in this process has been the formulation of a national design identity known as K-Design DNA. Since no clear consensus exists within academia regarding the nature of Korean design, this research examines key characteristics oft the emerging Korean design identity based on the hypothesis that a considerable gap exists between professional practice and institutional, orchestrated efforts. Methods Insights from qualitative research among leading representatives of the Korean design community were analyzed and set in relation to the institutionally formulated design identity. The research identifies core topics, isolates gaps, and provides solutions to address these issues. Results The emergence of the Korean design identity is currently taking place in both a top-down approach and a bottom-up movement. Efforts are being made from the governmental and institutional side to define an identity, and vibrant discussions are being held in the design community around the nature of this identity.Within the design community,a strong focus exists on intangible cultural values and cultural phenomena as cornerstones of the Korean design identity that has not yet been appropriately addressed by the involved institutions. Conclusions Overall, the findings indicate that there is a clear requirement for a reevaluation of the institutional approach. The study suggests three possible interlinked directions to articulate the national design identity in a more holistic, concise manner, and to synthesize the top-down approach with the bottom-up movement.