By Honorary Reporter Foteini Chatzoudi from Greece
Photos = Vanessa Mi Kyung Lee

Vanessa (Mi Kyung) Lee, a Korean American costume designer (fabricator) and owner of Super Suit Factory in Los Angeles, has crafted several of Hollywood's most iconic superhero and character suits. 

Despite suffering from polio, she has an impressive resume including designing costumes for over 100 films like "Thor" and "Red One." The following are excerpts from an email interview with the Korean American from Feb. 7-9.

What inspired you to pursue costume design?
It's been nearly 20 years since I began working as a specialty costume fabricator. My entry into Hollywood was entirely accidental. I was working as a pattern maker in the garment industry but had to quit when my daughter fell ill. Once she recovered, I planned to return to garments, but saw a small job ad for a pattern maker for TV and movies. I felt this was fate. Working in the movie industry had been my dream since I was a teenager, so I applied for the job though it paid far less than my previous job.

Briefly explain the process of creating a costume.
It depends on the project. Sometimes I work with designs from a studio while other times I create the designs. Most of the time, it's a collaborative effort, with feedback from producers and actors; when working on superhero suits, I also consider fan feedback. Once the design is finalized, it typically takes two to three months to create a costume. After fittings and adjustments, the costumes are ready for the shoot.

What costume are you particularly proud of and why?
One of my proudest works is the bodysuit I created for Gary Oldman in "The Darkest Hour." I applied new techniques, and Hollywood makeup artist Kazu Hiro was very receptive to my ideas, giving me the freedom to design the suit. It was the first bodysuit made from flexible silicone that could stretch, which set it apart from the traditional methods of Hollywood. 

What is the best part about costume design?
The best part is meeting new people and creating costumes, but the real thrill comes from seeing your work on the big screen while holding popcorn. That's the best feeling you can experience.

Have you used a Korean design or aesthetic in a work?

Yes, when I was working on "Black Adam." I was struggling to design the wizards' outfits, and I eventually drew inspiration from the silhouettes of Hanbok (traditional clothing). The result was amazing. I always make sure to stay true to my roots and keep practicing. 

 

Do you hope to work in Korean entertainment?

I would love to support the Korean movie industry, and I've worked on a few projects like the movies "Illang: The Wolf Brigade" and "Blood Free."

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.