Meet Jeongmin Koo | Storyboard Artist & Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jeongmin Koo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jeongmin, what do you want your legacy to be?
It’s always an interesting question to me. I haven’t actually thought about how I specifically ‘want’ people to think about me. Instead, I prefer them to remember my works because I consider them as reflections/portraits of myself as well.

Actually, if people briefly think ‘this is a good piece of work’ when they see my artwork, that’s enough for me. Of course, it would be nice to receive admiration and respect from many people like famous artists such as Hayao Miyazaki, but for now, I’m content if just one person feels momentarily happy after viewing one of my paintings or films.

Therefore, if I have to answer the question: since I’m making films and art, I hopefully want people to remember me as just a filmmaker and an artist who created works that brought them happiness, even if only for a moment.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is mostly rooted in fantasy, and it serves as a means to delve into a realm brimming with hidden wonders and beauty. I feel that amidst the hustle and bustle of life, we often overlook the precious elements that deserve our attention. Through my art, I want viewers to have a moment of reflection, allowing them to reconnect with what may have slipped from their grasp. This aspect of being an artist resonates deeply with me—it’s not merely about capturing what’s visible, but also about unraveling the mysteries of the unseen. By uncovering the concealed gems within our everyday lives, I believe that our perspectives on our world will be renewed and filled with positivity and appreciation.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would love to show my best friend around my hometown, Seoul, South Korea, where I know all the best spots. First, I would take them to Gwanghwamun, a place rich in traditional Korean palaces and hanok houses, to introduce them to Korean culture. There are plenty of dessert cafes nearby where we can enjoy coffee and pastries. After exploring Gwanghwamun, we would stroll through the food streets and dine at a traditional Korean restaurant for dinner. The next day, we would walk around Itaewon and then head up to Namsan Tower to enjoy the panoramic view of Seoul. Afterward, we would have lunch at Namdaemun Market. Following that, we would visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). While these are must-visit places for first-timers in Seoul, I personally prefer taking my friends to more natural landscapes after that. I also enjoy nature more than the city. I think my friends would appreciate the unadorned beauty of Korea in places like Juknokwon, a bamboo forest, Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm, and Jeju Island, where they can experience the serene natural landscapes.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

There are many people who have played a crucial role in bringing me to where I am today. Firstly, my dream of entering the animation industry was sparked by the works of Studio Ghibli, Disney, and Pixar after watching their films. They ignited my passion for animation from the very beginning. I am also grateful to a person who was a supportive instructor as well as a good friend during high school while I was building my portfolio for college. Despite facing self-doubt and struggles that hindered my enjoyment of drawing, she provided continuous encouragement with positive affirmations and artistic support, ultimately enabling me to pursue higher education. Even during my college years, a professor who’s a story lead at the college also helped me during difficult moments on my path to becoming a storyboard artist. Furthermore, many storyboard artists whom I befriended after graduation empathized with my challenges and offered their support. I am truly grateful to these individuals, and I aspire to someday be able to help others in need, just as they have helped me.

Website: https://jemikoo.wixsite.com/website

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jemi_art/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeongmin-jemi-koo-ba8860167/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQryyLBN6TRGK74NJtJ_VZA

Image Credits
First image: A still image from my latest animated short film “Tree”. Third image: A storyboard panel from my personal storyboard piece “The Most Valuable Friend”.