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In The Streets of Seoul With Kia (part 2)

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Marc Bouchard
Introducing Kia's new design language
He added: "Design is but a tool and the impact is immediate. We start off with something small and raw, we refine it, we modify it, but the most important thing is and will always be the user. If we manage to strike a personal chord and create a product that is easily manufactured, then design becomes a trademark."

Professor Keoun Nah, general manager of "World Design Capital Seoul 2010," further explained this approach: "I specialize in ergonomics, meaning the way people interact with objects, with a focus on convenience and functionality. This is the practical application of design, as seen with modern cars. Drivers are really the ones that give value and purpose to a design."

Photo: Kia

The Soul, a global success story
These three experts all give rave reviews of the Kia Soul. "With no bias," insisted YoungSe Kim. "This is the first time Peter and I meet, but it seems like I already know the man through people's reaction and admiration of his work. The goal now is to maintain this unique design language to bring the entire family in line."

Peter Schreyer is taking up the challenge with optimism. "We've already produced a number of successful designs, including the new Optima and Cadenza. Both have retained their core values and character while incorporating the family attributes we've developed. This language will define and shape Kia products from now on," he pointed out. "It literally is a global challenge since our products have to appeal to consumers everywhere, from every culture and every continent, but I think we're on the right track."

"Koreans are willing to take risks and try new ideas," added Professor Nah. "Design plays a vital role, obviously, but we're also fully aware of outside forces and trends. More than anything else, the auto industry represents our country, our culture and our outward-looking tradition."


Marc Bouchard
Marc Bouchard
Automotive expert
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