- Why did you decide to join Shiseido Creative?
- I was born in Korea and raised in Japan. While I was studying product design at university and grad school, I became curious about how design thinking and values differ by country or region. So, after graduation I wanted to study abroad. However, while I was working part time at a design company, one of my seniors spoke so highly of Shiseido, and because of that I checked out the website. I was impressed by their unique concept of 美 [beauty] and their attitude toward beauty and creativity. It really resonated with me, so I applied to join the company and participated in a 3-day workshop. I really wanted to throw myself in there and create beauty. Shiseido’s global environment was also very attractive.
- What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
- Shiseido Creative works in teams by brand, and I mainly design packaging for ELIXIR and ANESSA.
What brings me the most satisfaction is taking an initial idea and bringing it to life by adding text, playing with color and altering the design by millimeters. It brings me so much joy. Seeing them progress into the final product — it’s like watching my child grow. I love to see the beautiful product visuals and the actual products in store.
Also, my seniors always give me solid advice — advice that makes my designs so much better. I learn new things new things every day and I can feel that I am growing as a creative.
Participated as a designer. “Doraemon” design for the Elixir limited edition.
CD: Kanako Kawai, AD: Yasuhiro Tsukamoto D: Sayoko Kangawa / Minhu Park
- What is the most important part of your work?
- Both ELIXIR and ANESSA products are sold outside of Japan, in Asia and Europe. So, I try to keep a diverse perspective and wide range of thinking in my designs. Also, I analyze the kind of values consumers are looking for, and try to design from their perspective.
I think it’s important to create products that deliver high “experience value.” In university, I learned the importance of user experience, but at Shiseido Creative, I’m learning more about the details. Things like text placement to ensure visibility in store. - Tell us about your team and your working environment.
- My teammates and seniors are all great people. I can contact them anytime. Above all, I am grateful that they are honest with me. Sometimes it can be harsh, but because they explain everything, I can really learn from them. They’re also very generous with praise, which is a great motivator and confidence booster for me.
Having a meeting with other members.
- Shiseido is a company that supports employees’ desire to grow. For example, I did a lot of research on 3D modeling at grad school, so I’m pretty good with the 3D printer. Soon after I joined the company, I wanted to brush up and share my skills, so I talked to my manager. Following our chat, we acquired a high-spec computer and I was able to take training courses to learn new techniques. I still have a lot to learn from in terms of design, but in 3D printing and digital, I can sometimes teach my teammates. I’m now known as “the master of the studio” [laughing].
Creation with a 3D printer.
- In terms of work style, I am very satisfied. I can take holidays by talking to my manager, and I only work overtime when I must. The benefits are great, and I believe it may be one of the best working environments among all Japanese companies. It’s almost unheard of for a man to take childcare leave, but it’s encouraged here. In my second year here, one of my male teammates took childcare leave and I couldn’t believe it! When the time comes, I would also like to take childcare leave.
- What are your goals for the future?
- I believe Shiseido Creative is made up of some of Japan’s best designers. There are professionals everywhere, so I get so much inspiration and influence from them.
My first goal is to firmly establish myself as a package designer. In the future, I would like to work across various fields of design, such as in space design and graphic design. I want to hone my skills and continue to create designs that enrich people’s minds. By harnessing the power of beauty, I want my designs to contribute to a future in which everyone can shine, regardless of nationality or gender. That is my dream.
”Mirai Package” Exhibition