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Born in Seoul, South Korea and raised in the United States, JUNG HU (LUKE) KIM is an inter-diciplinary designer currently based in Los Angeles. Ranging in practices through image making, typeography, branding, and spatial design, earning his degree in Graphic Design at OTIS College of Art and Design.
[OTIS]
Over the decades, Itaewon has evolved into one of Seoul’s most internationally diverse districts. It became a melting pot of cultures where people from all around the world settled, opening businesses and creating a unique blend of Korean and global influences. The area is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, with international cuisine from all over the globe, as well as a thriving nightlife and fashion scene.
Today, Itaewon is celebrated for its inclusivity and multiculturalism, attracting both locals and international visitors. It is home to diverse communities, including immigrants, expatriates, and multiethnic Koreans. The area has also gained fame for its LGBTQ+ friendly spaces, making it one of the most progressive and open-minded areas in Seoul.
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I chose Itaewon as the focus of my flag project because it’s a part of my identity and personal history. Itaewon is where I grew up, went to school, and spent countless nights hanging out with friends.
I wanted the flag to be designed in a way that it can be viewed and flown in any direction, symbolizing how Itaewon defies a single perspective or rigid interpretation. This reflects how some purist viewpoints may see Itaewon in a biased or narrow way, while in reality, it’s a place defined by fluidity, openness, and a mix of identities. The flag stands as a statement against fixed perceptions—representing Itaewon’s essence as a space where cultures converge without boundaries or hierarchy.