Derek Kirk Kim, a Korean-American creative force, has made a lasting impression in the worlds of graphic novels and television animation through his exceptional artistic and storytelling abilities.
As a multifaceted individual, Kim wears many hats, effortlessly transitioning between the roles of writer, director, and artist.
His impressive repertoire has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Eisner Award, which he received in 2004, alongside the Harvey Award, also in 2004, and the Ignatz Award, bestowed upon him in 2003.
These esteemed honors were awarded to Kim for his groundbreaking debut graphic novel, Same Difference and Other Stories, a work that has left an indelible mark on the graphic novel genre.
Kim's remarkable collection of short stories, initially showcased on his website, formerly known as Lowbright and Small Stories, was later transformed into a graphic novel, with the invaluable support of a 2002 Xeric Award, thereby expanding his reach to a broader and more diverse audience.
Kim is a highly accomplished television director, whose most notable achievement is his work on the Disney+ animated series Amphibia, a testament to his exceptional storytelling prowess.
Before his stint as the director of Amphibia, Kim made a name for himself as the lead character designer for the Cartoon Network series Adventure Time, a show that received widespread critical acclaim.
In addition to his work on Adventure Time, Kim also served as a story artist for the Netflix animated series Green Eggs and Ham, further showcasing his versatility and range as a television professional.
Kim is also a talented writer, having penned the graphic novel TUNE, a unique and captivating work that showcases his ability to craft compelling stories in various formats.
Furthermore, Kim has also ventured into web series, serving as both the writer and director of the spin-off series Mythomania, a project that demonstrates his ability to adapt his storytelling style to different platforms and formats.
Kim's remarkable career has been punctuated by a multitude of animated shorts, one of the most notable being the Webby Award-nominated "Sympathy for Slenderman" in the year 2014. This outstanding achievement is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft, a dedication that has garnered him widespread recognition and acclaim within the industry, ultimately cementing his status as a preeminent figure in the realms of graphic novels and television animation.
