Joong Seok Kim

Born in Seoul Korea in 1972, Joong showed early talent in art and was encouraged by his parents to pursue art school. By the age of 13, he came to realize that his true passion was film. In 1991, he came to the United States after being accepted into the Cinema-Television studies program at the University of Southern California. He received his Bachelor’’s degree in 1996. While at school, Joong directed several experimental films, blending art with humanistic themes. In addition, the multi-talented Joong was a graphic designer, creating logos, menus and newspaper ads for selective clients. He also painted with acrylic using single color, simple forms and personal and humorous themes.

In 1996, after marrying his lovely wife, Bomi Lee, Joong was accepted into the prestigious American Film Institute, in the Production Design program. In the summer of 1997, Joong wrote, directed and acted in a high concept science fiction short film, FROGMAN, a love story between a robot and a scientist. This daring experimental film mixed cinematrography with digital special effects and miniature motion control.

In the fall of 1997, Joong was Production Designer on the AFI Masters thesis film, THE WATER GHOST. For Joong, the most challenging visual aspect of this project was to create a world that linked the past and present and tastefully blended cultures from both the East and West. Joong, with his personal background and rich training in Eastern and Western art forms, accomplished his goal with elegance.

Joong also produced an award-winning Hyundai car commercial. He is also writing a new science fiction script, FRUIT PLANET, ORANGE AUNT, a story about handicapped people in a futuristic world. For this project he will create a unique design, blending miniature models and special effects. He plans to go into production next year.

In 1998, Joong received his MFA from AFI as Production Designer for THE WATER GHOST.

In 1999, Joong returned to AFI, in the Directing Program.

In 2000, Joong and Bomi returned to Korea with their son.