Jenny SeoYoon Kim

Loosely based on Ray and Charles Eames’ House of Cards, this project aimed to design a cohesive set of cards that informs the viewer on a subject that is of interest to me as a design and as an individual.

To provide a portal into a facet of my individuality and strive to make it resonate with a broader audience, I reflected on my past influences that shaped my identity and the way I see the world.

As a designer born in Korea and raised in the Philippines, I created a set of educational cards that is meant to teach users how to form the Korean alphabet (Hangul) and pronounce them. Not only did I intend to express my cultural identity through the set of cards, but by incorporating a welcoming Filipino aesthetic, allowed users to see the Korean language as more approachable.

The card set’s design inspiration, the Jeepney, is the most commonly used form of public transportation that can be seen in the Philippines. Body panels are built with sheet metals or stainless steel, and decorated mostly with stickers or spray paint. Designs consist of caricatures, illustrations and pictures inspired from popular culture.

The crazy color palette and —my favorite element—the beautiful handmade type, make the Jeepney a symbol of a warm and welcoming country that is the Philippines. The card set draws influence from the Jeepney to convey the same sentiment and showcase the approachability of the Korean alphabets.