How many K-pop albums do you have in your collection? If you’re a true enthusiast, you must’ve spent hours admiring not just the music but also the stunning album designs that perfectly capture the essence of your favorite artists. But have you ever wondered who’s responsible for those captivating visuals? The name behind this brilliant magic is Ordinary People — a design studio that has quietly become a powerhouse in Korea’s design industry, including the creator of BTS album.
Now, if you’re curious about the extraordinary minds behind BTS’s album designs and how they’ve become a go-to creative hub in Korea, it’s time to meet Ordinary People.
About Ordinary People: Humble Name of Highly Influential Design Studio
Yes, at first glance, the name Ordinary People may seem too humble for a design studio that has shaped the visual identity of some of Korea’s biggest brands and entertainment icons. But the story behind the name actually reflects their humble beginnings.
Formed in 2006 by a group of passionate college friends from Hongik University, the studio was named after John Legend’s soulful 2005 hit “Ordinary People.” And just like the song, Ordinary People’s approach to design is heartfelt, authentic, and rooted in the pursuit of excellence.
The team initially started small. Back then, they were hanging up posters around the bustling Hongdae neighborhood, offering free design services for non-profit exhibitions and events. But little did they know, those humble posters would pave the way for collaborations with top-tier clients.
Fast forward to today, Ordinary People is now a 10-member design powerhouse known for crafting unique brand identities. This brilliant creator breathing life into visual concepts, and creating unforgettable album artwork, including the groundbreaking design of BTS album.
The Brilliant Minds Behind BTS Album Design and Beyond
As BTS geared up to release “Proof” in 2022 – their final anthology before embarking on hiatus – they needed more than just another album. This project demanded a visual representation of their journey: a celebration of their legacy while leaving the door open for future possibilities.
Recognizing the significance of this moment, HYBE turned to Ordinary People to translate this pivotal chapter into a powerful visual statement.
Designing “Proof”: A Door to a New Era
And so, as Ordinary People created the design for BTS “Proof” album, they understood the weight of their task. The studio knew that designing for a project that symbolized nearly a decade of success was no small feat.
Rather than creating something flashy, Ordinary People went the opposite direction: minimalist yet deeply meaningful. They zoomed in on BTS’s signature trapezoid logo, manipulating it to form the word “Proof”. It then resulted in a sleek, powerful image that symbolized both closure and the opening of new doors.
“We imagined a new perspective — like stepping into a whole new dimension”
Seo Jeong Min, Creative Director of Ordinary People
Beyond “Proof”: Crafting Iconic Solo Projects
But the studio’s work didn’t stop there. When BTS members pursued solo projects, Ordinary People stayed by their side, shaping the visual narrative. They also worked on the design for Jungkook’s solo hit “Seven” (2023). For Jungkook’s album, the studio successfully crafted a luxurious and high-end visual concept that felt like a premium fashion campaign.
In contrast, for j-hope’s “Hope on the Street Vol. 1” (2024), the approach was entirely different. Inspired by the golden era of hip-hop magazines, the cover burst with bold, graffiti-style fonts and urban imagery — a perfect tribute to J-Hope’s roots in street dance.
This ability to adapt their artistic direction to match each artist’s vision has solidified Ordinary People’s reputation as the go-to creative studio for K-pop’s biggest names.
A Legacy Beyond K-pop
While Ordinary People made their name in K-pop, their creative reach stretches much further. They’ve spearheaded major rebrands like MBC’s 2018 visual overhaul. For MBC, Ordinary People created bold, colorful graphics that gave the public broadcaster a fresh, dynamic identity.
Their work also shines in the art world. For the iconic Leeum Museum of Art, they crafted understated, earthy signage that keeps the focus squarely on the artwork.
Meanwhile, at the Hoam Museum of Art, they took the opposite approach. The studio showcased vibrant primary colors and a pixelated font, creating a striking balance between tradition and cutting-edge modernity.
More Than Just Design: Shaping Korea’s Visual Landscape
In 2021, Ordinary People went into art curation with their “Digital Wellness Spa” exhibition at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). This time, they explored new forms of leisure in an increasingly digital world. This marked yet another dimension of their creativity. It also proves that Ordinary People isn’t confined to a single genre or industry.
From K-beauty brands like Olive Young to streaming platforms like Watcha, the studio has crafted memorable brand identities that resonate with diverse audiences. They have done a great job showing how to tell stories through design in different areas, like K-pop albums from famous artists such as BTS and even big art shows, in a way that’s easy for new fans to understand.
Why Ordinary People is the Ultimate BTS Album Design Creator
So, what makes Ordinary People stand out from other Korean design studios? It all comes down to their unique ability to capture a brand’s—or an artist’s—essence and turn it into a striking visual identity. Through Ordinary Studio, these creators can forge a real connection with their audience, going beyond just great design. They craft stories, stir emotions, and leave a lasting impression.
Take the BTS album “Proof” project design, for example. Ordinary People didn’t just create a visually stunning album. They designed a powerful symbol of BTS’s journey, one that reflected both their legacy and the excitement of their future. It’s this rare mix of artistry and storytelling that cements them as the ultimate BTS album design creator.
Closing Thoughts: The Extraordinary Journey of Ordinary People
What began as a group of college friends making posters in Hongdae has now blossomed into one of Korea’s most in-demand design studios. And the journey of Ordinary People is as compelling as their masterpieces. Their role as the brilliant creator behind BTS “Proof” album design and other iconic projects has cemented their place as a creative powerhouse in the Korean design industry.
In the end, Ordinary People does more than catching the public’s eyes with their design. Instead, they offers a visual narrative that’s as powerful as the music, stories, and brands they represent. Their designs may seem ordinary at first glance, but upon closer inspection, they reveal something truly extraordinary.
So, visit Ordinary People official website or Instagram and be the witness of this brilliant BTS album design creator!
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