Discover How KIDP Contributes to Korea’s Design Ecosystem

This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.

Korean Design Institute
Korea Institute of Design Promotion

From Packaging to Promoting Design

The Korean Institute of Design Promotion (KIDP), initially known as the Korea Design Packaging Centre, has been pivotal in elevating South Korea’s design landscape. Founded to boost Korea’s export trade through enhanced design standards, KIDP has significantly contributed to improving design quality in everyday life. This transformation from focusing on packaging to a broader design promotion indicates a deep understanding of design’s integral role in trade and daily experiences.

Major Design Exhibitions and Influence

The Korea Industrial Design Exhibition, established in 1966, showcases KIDP’s commitment to design excellence. Evolving into the country’s premier design exhibition, it highlights the Institute’s influence in shaping Korea’s design ethos. These exhibitions serve as showcases and catalysts for design innovation and industrial growth.

‘Good Design’ Award Scheme

In 1985, KIDP launched the ‘Good Design’ or GD Mark scheme, aligning with global trends in design promotion. This award scheme was crucial in bringing well-designed products to public attention and emphasized the economic significance of high design standards. The GD Mark became a benchmark for quality and innovation by recognising outstanding designs.

Korea Millennium Products Award

The Korea Millennium Products (KMP) Award, introduced around the turn of the century, marked a significant leap in Korean design. Notably, the comprehensive plan for promoting industrial design in 1998 and the 1st Korea Industrial Design Convention in 1999, graced by the President of Korea, underscored the national importance of design. The KMP Award focuses on innovative, well-designed, and technologically advanced products, highlighting Korea’s global design stature.

Promoting Industrial Design on the World Stage

KIDP has not only influenced local design but also made significant strides on the international scene. The Institute has been at the forefront of exploring emerging design paradigms by hosting significant conferences like the Icograda Millennium Congress and the ICSID 2001 Seoul Congress. These events underpin KIDP’s role in shaping global design conversations.

The Korea Design Centre: A Hub for Design Innovation

The establishment of the Korea Design Centre in 2001, with facilities like the Design Innovation Centre and Exhibition Hall, further solidifies KIDP’s commitment to nurturing design culture. This Centre is a hub for design education, showcasing, and innovation, propelling Korea’s design identity forward.

Sources

Woodham, J. M. (2006). A dictionary of modern design. Oxford University Press.

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