We had the good fortune of connecting with Yoo Kyung Lee and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yoo Kyung, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I was drawn to a creative path because I’ve always been curious about people and the way they experience the world. Early on, I found myself noticing small moments—where things felt intuitive, confusing, or quietly frustrating—and wondering how they could be made better. Creativity became a way for me to explore those questions with care and intention.

Over time, I discovered design as a space where listening mattered just as much as making. Through research and collaboration, I learned how creativity could translate real human stories into experiences that feel more thoughtful, inclusive, and approachable. That balance between empathy and problem-solving is what continues to inspire me.

Today, I design with the hope of creating products that feel human at their core—tools that support people, respect their differences, and gently improve everyday interactions. That purpose is what keeps me grounded in a creative career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been shaped by curiosity, persistence, and a deep commitment to designing for people. What sets me apart is a research-led, human-centered approach—I focus not only on how things look, but on how they work, feel, and support real human needs. I’m especially drawn to complex systems and emerging technologies, where thoughtful design can quietly simplify everyday experiences.

One of the moments I’m most proud of was my work at Aesthetic Record, where I helped design a smart calendar hub application for clinic appointment advisors. The project was rooted in understanding real workflows and reducing friction in appointment scheduling. Being recognized with different international design awards affirmed that my work was making a meaningful impact on users’ lives. This recognition was not only a major milestone in my own career, but also for Aesthetic Record.

As the sole lead UX designer on the project, I was responsible for creating the end-to-end experience from the ground up—shaping both the product vision and its execution. Seeing the positive, real-world impact this had on users was deeply rewarding. The work went on to receive multiple international design honors, including recognition from the MUSE Design Awards, the C2A Creative Communication Awards, and the Design MasterPrize. Beyond the awards, the experience strengthened my design and research skills and gave me the confidence to trust my creative instincts and advocate for solutions that truly reflect user needs.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy or linear. There were moments of uncertainty, self-doubt, and steep learning curves, especially when navigating complex product ecosystems and cross-functional collaboration. I overcame those challenges by staying curious, seeking feedback, and trusting the iterative process. Each challenge reinforced the importance of listening—to users, collaborators, and mentors—and helped me grow both professionally and personally.

Along the way, I’ve learned that good design isn’t about perfection; it’s about intention, empathy, and continuous learning. The most meaningful progress often happens quietly, through consistency and care.

What I want the world to know about my story and my brand is that I design with purpose. I believe thoughtful, inclusive design has the power to reduce friction, create clarity, and make technology feel more human. My journey continues to unfold, but it’s guided by a simple goal: to create work that is meaningful, empathetic, and lasting.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want them to experience the many layers of DFW—because what makes this area special is how different each community feels, yet how connected they all are. I love showing people that DFW isn’t just one city; it’s a collection of cultures, neighborhoods, and creative pockets.

I’d start by exploring different communities through food. One day might be dedicated to Korean spots in Carrollton, another to Vietnamese cafés in Garland, and another to authentic Mexican food in Oak Cliff. Food is the fastest way to understand a place, and DFW’s diversity really shines through its restaurants.

To balance that out, I’d take them into DFW’s creative side. We’d spend time in the Design District, walking through galleries, studios, and design-forward spaces. Lower Greenville would be next—great for casual hangs, coffee shops, vintage stores, and a relaxed night out. I’d also make sure we visit a few museums, like the Dallas Museum of Art or the Nasher Sculpture Center, where art and architecture come together beautifully.

For slower moments, we’d hang out at local cafés, explore neighborhood parks, and maybe catch a live show or pop-up event—DFW always has something quietly interesting happening if you know where to look. By the end of the week, I’d want them to leave feeling like they didn’t just visit Dallas-Fort Worth, but experienced the many cultures, creative voices, and communities that give it its energy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who believed in me long before I fully believed in myself. First and foremost, I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my parents and my sister, whose unwavering love, patience, and encouragement created a foundation that allowed me to explore, take risks, and grow creatively. Their support gave me the confidence to pursue a path that didn’t always come with certainty.

I also owe deep gratitude to my professors at Southern Methodist University—especially Professor Jessica Burnham and Justin Childress—who challenged me to think more critically, design more intentionally, and trust my creative voice. Their mentorship shaped not only my approach to design, but also my understanding of what it means to be a thoughtful, responsible creative.

Each of these people played a meaningful role in bringing me to where I am today. Their guidance, belief, and generosity continue to influence how I show up—as a designer and as a person.

Website: https://www.yokyunglee.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoo-kyung-lee/

Image Credits
Aesthetic Record EMR, Tiphany Hall

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