Seoulscape
A Design Tribute to Seoul’s Unique Vibe
For the final project in my Graphic Design course, we were assigned to create a city poster. The focus was on incorporating personal experiences and highlighting places that evoke memories or emotions.
For me, it was essential to distill the visual elements of Seoul into a cohesive concept. The city’s vibrancy is marked by its striking contrasts: from sleek, modern streets to areas overflowing with maximalist design. To truly capture the essence of Seoul, I focused on reflecting its dynamic character and pulsating energy. This involves highlighting the city's neon lights, which bring a vivid glow to the night, and the ever-buzzing atmosphere that characterizes its fast-paced environment. My goal was to convey not just the physical appearance of Seoul, but its soul—a city in constant motion, brimming with color and life, and always evolving.
Alcohol, specifically Soju, a common beverage for work outings and friend gatherings, is also represented in the scribbles. The N Seoul Tower, depicted in a more structural form, symbolizes the ever-evolving city, continuously modernized and reconstructed. This reflects the idea that Seoul's identity is fluid, full of diverse emotions and constantly changing.
The scribbly nature of the design captures the essence of my experience walking along the river and drawing the dynamic cityscape of Seoul. The city, known for its artistic vibrancy, conceptual depth, and unique character, is depicted as an ever-evolving and pulsating environment. Through these scribbles, I aim to convey the rapid pace and constant transformation of Seoul, reflecting its energetic rhythm and the fleeting nature of urban life. Each sketch encapsulates the city's vibrant pulse, offering a glimpse into its fast-moving and ever-changing essence.
The primary motif I chose is the N Seoul Tower, a landmark visible from nearly every corner of Seoul. It stands like a guardian, watching over the city. Perched atop a lush, green mountain, the tower creates a striking visual contrast to the concrete jungle of the capital. This location is perfect for sitting down to enjoy the sunset, spending time with friends, or engaging in quiet contemplation.
The second element I wanted to include was neon lights. At night, the streets and skyscrapers come alive with a kaleidoscope of colorful signs. Walking through the city during the monsoon season reveals stunning reflections on the wet ground, which I abstractly represented with side-to-side strokes in my scribbles, mimicking the appearance of gentle waves. This combination of motifs captures the dynamic and vibrant spirit of Seoul, blending its natural beauty with its urban energy.
To maintain a minimalist approach, I chose neon pink, a lively and welcoming yet attention-grabbing color. As Seoul buzzes with people at night due to long workdays and the streets heating up during the day, I selected a dark background. This complements the neon lights and reflects the ideal time for a city stroll.