Korean Tarot is a 3D interactive web experience that reimagines traditional tarot with Korean cultural aesthetics. Designed to blend Eastern influences with the universal appeal of tarot, this project offers a fresh and immersive way for users to explore fortune-telling through Korean-inspired visual storytelling.
Background
Problem Statement
Project Goals
Key Features & Interactive Solution
Users enter a 3D space within each tarot card, where they interact with various symbols that reveal meanings based on Korean cultural interpretations.
Users can select different fortune types—wealth, love, career, or annual fortune—then explore past, present, and future predictions within each.
Each card incorporates Korean symbols and stories, blending traditional fortune-telling with historical references, allowing users to learn about Korean culture while exploring their fortunes.
Competitor Analysis
We reviewed popular online tarot platforms and noted that existing services primarily rely on text and static images, limiting engagement. Additionally, most platforms have a Western-style design that does not fully resonate with an Eastern audience. Based on these findings, we developed a unique 3D experience rooted in Korean aesthetics.
Benchmarking the use of 3D graphics to interact with users and see the tarot.
Benchmarked for interactivity where the space on the page moves, and content where you can create your own cards.
Design Process
Adapting the 22 Major Arcana cards to Korean cultural figures was challenging. We explored using the 12 Zodiac animals, Korean deities, historical figures (like Emperor Gojong and Hwang Jini), and fictional characters (like Jeon Woo-chi), but maintaining consistency was difficult.
To ensure unity and avoid sensitivity, we chose generic titles—using "Emperor" instead of "Emperor Gojong" and "Fairy" instead of specific names. Each card’s interaction was crafted to align with its meaning, balancing cultural representation with tarot archetypes.
Design & Prototype
Through low- and high-fidelity wireframes, we mapped out the user journey and interactions within the 3D environment. Initial designs explored a 2D approach, but we ultimately pivoted to a 3D format, which allowed for a more immersive experience. I was mainly responsible for character modeling and rigging, adding depth to the visual experience within the interactive tarot cards.
Initially, we were concerned that a 3D design would not feel like a card, so we approached it as a 2D design.
However, after creating the spaces in the tarot card in 3D, I realized that the 2D graphics card felt too foreign, so I switched to a 3D design.
I designed a tarot card back that visualizes the Eastern yin-yang spirit.
The initial approach was to design a character with no eyebrows or a cute childlike character. However, in order to capture the mysterious and serious vibe of the tarot cards, I switched to a 3D character with a more realistic image.
I was primarily responsible for modeling and rigging the character faces.
Information Architecture & User Flow
The structure is designed to guide users through various fortune categories seamlessly:
Choose a Fortune Type
Users select a fortune category, such as love or career.
Draw Three Cards
Users explore their past, present, and future fortunes within the selected category.
Interact and Discover
By clicking on a card, users enter a 3D space filled with symbols, allowing for a deep, interactive fortune-telling experience.
Visual Design Choices
To align with Eastern aesthetics, we used Korean traditional colors, historical elements, and a unique back card design that reflects the yin-yang philosophy. This distinct design approach provides an engaging yet culturally rich visual experience.
3D Card Design
The cards were designed in 3D to give users the sensation of stepping into an immersive world within each card. Each fortune type is represented with unique color schemes and elements that align with traditional Korean symbolism. My primary contributions in the 3D design aspect included character modeling and rigging, ensuring the characters supported the interactive and mystical atmosphere of the tarot experience.
Outcomes & Recognition
The Korean Tarot project was successfully developed as an interactive website, receiving positive feedback for its cultural depth and innovative use of 3D design. Notably, it was awarded the Encouragement Prize at the 29th International Communication Design Competition in 2023, recognizing its unique blend of traditional Korean aesthetics with modern interactive design.
Reflection
Through this project, I gained experience in integrating 3D design with UX principles, creating a user journey that encourages exploration and interaction. This project reinforced the importance of cultural relevance in digital products, especially in visual-driven experiences.
