Andre Kim

André Kim was a pioneer and icon of Korean fashion, who became the first male fashion designer in Korea and the first Korean to hold a fashion show in Paris. He was known for his elegant and futuristic designs, often featuring white as the dominant color and incorporating elements of Korean culture and history. He designed costumes for many celebrities, events, and organizations, such as the 1981 Miss Universe beauty pageant, the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, and UNICEF. He also expanded his business into various fields, such as cosmetics, jewelry, home appliances, and interior design. He received many awards and honors for his contributions to the fashion industry, such as Italy's Cultural Merit Award, South Korea's Presidential Culture and Art Medal, France's Art and Literature Medal, and UNICEF's Goodwill Ambassador. He died in Seoul, South Korea, in August 2010 due to pneumonia and colorectal cancer, twelve days before his 75th birthday. His wake service was held at Seoul National University Hospital on 12 August. The Korean press described his death as a loss of a Korean fashion icon. Upon his death his son, Kim Jung-do continues the Andre Kim brand as CEO, through the Andre Kim Design Atelier located in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, managing their various licensed brands.