By Honorary Reporter Preeti Rawat from India
Photos = Park Su-yeon and Gangwon 2024

The Gangwon Winter Youth Olympics (Gangwon 2024) on Feb. 1 concluded its 14-day run. The competition's official mascot Moongcho emerged as a popular figure, with its branded merchandise selling out.

The mascot's creator, designer Park Su-yeon, has since earned recognition and opportunities to attend major events featuring Olympic officials and stars.

 
The following are excerpts from an email interview with her from Jan. 30 to Feb. 12.

Describe your background as a designer.
After majoring in visual design, I began my career as a designer. My journey took a significant turn when I created the mascot Moongcho for Gangwon 2024. Despite numerous challenges ranging from entering art college to graduating, I pursued my passion for design and now strive to make a positive impact on the world through my field.

When did you decide to create the mascot and why?
In 2022, during a period of stagnation in my design studies, I stumbled on the announcement for the contest to design the Gangwon 2024 mascot. I was intrigued by the opportunity to push my boundaries.

What was the creation process like?

Among 601 participants, only seven including myself advanced to the final round. We received weekly guidance from professional mentors to refine our designs. Despite the nerve-wracking experience of presenting in front of design consultants, I remained focused. 

What does the mascot symbolize?

Moongcho symbolizes a flying snowball, reflecting the unity of nations coming together for the Youth Winter Olympics. Inspired by the universal joy of snowball fights, I aimed to capture the spirit of camaraderie and shared aspirations associated with winter sports.

What inspired the name "Moongcho" for the mascot?
Naming the mascot posed a significant challenge that required a legally unregistered and culturally resonant title. After extensive deliberation, I opted for "Moongcho" to convey a sense of unity and enjoyment in Korean. 

What was the creation process like?

It was like an internal battle that demanded meticulous planning and execution. In a creative slump, I spent over a month on research and numerous sketches to turn my vision into reality. It took five to six months from the initial proposal to the final design, with the majority of my time spent refining and perfecting Moongcho for the second round.

Were you surprised by Moongcho's popularity at Gangwon 2024?

The response surpassed my expectations. Seeing crowds lining up to photograph the Moongcho statue and related merchandise selling out due to its popularity felt incredibly heartwarming. 

What was your reaction after your design was selected?

Initially, I was in disbelief after learning that my design was selected. But this experience reignited my passion for design, reminding me of a dream I had almost forgotten amid my busy life.

How have things changed for you since your design was selected?
It profoundly shifted my outlook on life. Previously, I was conservative and prone to self-doubt, hesitating before attempting something new. But creating Moongcho inspired me to push beyond mere victory and explore the extent of my impact in the design realm. I surpassed my perceived limits and gained newfound confidence in my abilities.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.