Feb 20 • 00:31 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

“The First Impression of a Book is Determined by Its Letters”

This article highlights the insights of Park Yeon-mi, a veteran book designer, on the artistry and emotional impact of book design.

In an interview with renowned book designer Park Yeon-mi, she describes how a book serves as a home built by text, capable of evoking anticipation before opening and leaving a lasting impression after closing. She emphasizes that effective book design is not just about aesthetic covers but involves deep consideration of typography, materials, and how these elements contribute to a tactile reading experience. Her accolades, including a prestigious award from the Korean Publishers Association for her design work, underscore her commitment to high-quality book design.

Park Yeon-mi, who began her career at Sigongsa in 2009 and has worked at various publishing houses like Minumsa, has designed approximately 600 books over her 18-year career. Notable works that have solidified her reputation include the comprehensive collection of Milan Kundera's works, Proust's ”In Search of Lost Time,” and the literary magazine ‘Litteur’. Her design for Kundera’s collection harmoniously balances surreal imagery with symbolic elements, cleverly encapsulating the weightiness and lightness of Kundera's themes. This approach not only gives each volume distinct personality but also enhances the series' overall collector's value.

Her impact on contemporary design is also evident in her award-winning interpretation of Proust's monumental work, which achieved remarkable sales figures and earned her special bonuses in a traditionally design-focused industry. Furthermore, as the designer for the literary magazine ‘Litteur’, she has pushed boundaries since its inception in 2016, showcasing a departure from conventional literary magazine formats and presenting innovative possibilities in magazine design. Her work, particularly the popular book ‘Kindness Survives,’ further illustrates her ability to resonate with the reading public, selling over 100,000 copies and solidifying her status as a significant figure in the world of book design.

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