Minjae Kim bridges Korean tradition and contemporary design

Minjae Kim, a designer based in New York and originally from Seoul, introduced ten lacquered chairs in Seoul last year, marking his first use of a traditional Korean technique. After pursuing studies in painting and architecture, completing military service, and earning a master’s degree at Columbia University, he worked at Studio Giancarlo Valle before launching his own studio during the pandemic. His initial showcase at Marta in LA in 2021 reinterpreted Western designs, such as a chair from Freud's study, by quilting fiberglass. In 2022, he exhibited alongside his mother, painter Myoungae Lee, at Matter Projects in New York. His 'IYKYK' show at Nina Johnson Gallery in Miami drew attention to his heritage, featuring moon jars and ceremonial robe lights. Three years prior, Arumjigi invited him to Korea, resulting in the lacquered 'Seoul' chairs. In 2025, his exhibition 'Phantom-22' at Marta in LA will reference mountain lion P-22. He observes that South Korea's increased global presence has diminished the need for explanations of his references. He is set to showcase with Marta at Frieze Seoul in September 2026.