Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Shinyoung Kim of Manhattan

We recently had the chance to connect with Shinyoung Kim and have shared our conversation below.

Shinyoung, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
One of my college friends moved into my building a few months ago, and another just moved into my apartment a few days ago. Since we’re all mutual friends, we love spending time together after work—cooking for each other and ending the day with some laid-back story times. It’s exactly how I imagined living with roommates would be, and after six years of shared living, I feel like I’m finally living that dream.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a graphic designer at KTM Group NYC, a hospitality company that owns several restaurants in Manhattan. I primarily design for Food Gallery 32 in K-Town, and I’ve recently joined projects for Howoo, DubuHaus, and Musaek.

A lot of my friends ask what it’s like to design for the hospitality industry. My role covers everything visual—menu design, photoshoots, signage, posters, social media, and more. My favorite part, though, is getting to collaborate with people outside the design world—chefs, accountants, even construction workers. It’s given me a completely new perspective on how a company operates and how different roles come together to shape a brand.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
Our facilities manager at work. I only got to know him a few weeks ago, but his story really inspired me to go after everything I want to try. Even though his current title is facilities manager, he’s done so much—acting, baking, photography, cooking, serving, and more. His passion for learning and constantly challenging himself pushed me to step outside my comfort zone. He reminded me that one experience always leads to another, and that curiosity can open unexpected doors.
At the same time, I’ve been reading Work and Sense by Cho Soo-yong, which taught me about developing a sense of ownership in the work I do. It’s helped me approach projects—and even stressful situations at work—with a stronger mindset. Both have shaped how I think about work in really meaningful ways.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid of failing! You’ll eventually end up somewhere.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Money, haha. Everyone probably knows this, but soju is so cheap at its original price, and then it gets resold for up to $20 a bottle.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Jobs. I notice that when I don’t have work, I’m always searching for opportunities—but once I land the job I wanted, I immediately start thinking about what’s next. I guess it’s because I’m ambitious: I want to grow, enjoy what I do, meet new people, and keep improving how I handle stress at work. For me, it’s less about chasing the ‘perfect job’ and more about constantly moving forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kimshinyoung.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newzerogold/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-shinyoung/