Meet Jihwan Jeon | Graphic Designer & Cultural Enthusiast

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

Hi Jihwan, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Taking risks has been a foundational aspect of my journey as a designer. Moving from South Korea to the United States to pursue my passion for design was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken. This choice was fueled by my long-standing fascination with American subculture, street culture, and fashion—areas that have inspired me for many years.

In the process of pursuing my MFA in Graphic Design, I embraced the challenges of adapting to a new culture and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. Each project and collaboration presented opportunities to step outside my comfort zone, allowing me to explore new perspectives and grow as a designer.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned that taking risks is essential for personal and professional growth. It has enabled me to develop a unique design perspective that blends my Korean heritage with the dynamic influences of American street culture. These risks have not only shaped my career but have also enriched my creative approach, allowing me to bring fresh, cross-cultural ideas to the table.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My design work is centered around blending traditional elements with modern aesthetics to create visuals that tell meaningful stories. I believe that good design should evoke emotion and inspire thought, making each piece resonate on a deeper level.

What sets my work apart is my focus on merging diverse influences to create something unique. Whether celebrating cultural heritage or challenging norms, I strive to craft designs that are both impactful and relevant.

My journey has taught me the importance of persistence, adaptability, and staying true to my creative vision. Through my work, I aim to celebrate diversity and creativity, pushing the boundaries of what design can achieve.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Even before moving to the United States, I always dreamed of visiting Fairfax in Los Angeles. This neighborhood is the heart of street culture, where iconic streetwear brands first started, and where subcultures like skateboarding and graffiti thrive. As a passionate fan of subculture, Fairfax was at the top of my list.

If my best friend were visiting, I would start by exploring the independent boutiques and streetwear shops that define Fairfax. We’d then visit local skateparks to watch skaters in action, surrounded by the vibrant graffiti that tells the story of the city’s underground art scene. To wrap up the day, we’d enjoy the diverse food offerings from local trucks and eateries, soaking in the neighborhood’s unique atmosphere.

Fairfax isn’t just a place; it’s a living experience that embodies the creativity and passion of street culture. It’s a must-visit for anyone who shares a love for this vibrant, ever-evolving world.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely, there’s one person who played a pivotal role in shaping my path toward graphic design. During my time at university, I happened to take a foundational course in graphic design purely by chance. It was in that class that I discovered my passion for the field. The professor, who noticed my growing interest and potential, encouraged me to pursue graphic design more seriously. Their words of praise and recommendation were exactly what I needed at that moment, and it was their belief in my abilities that set me on this journey. I owe a great deal of my current path to that early encouragement, and I’m deeply grateful for it.

Website: https://jihwan.design/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jihwandesigns/