Character Design Development for the Visualization of the Transnational Identity Narrative between South Korea and Indonesia
Johanes, B.A, M.Sn - Jessica, B.A, M.M

Universitas Bina Nusantara - Universitas Bunda Mulia

Abstract

In the era of globalization, individuals can create relationships with others despite the barriers of distance and time, thanks to the development of communication and transportation technology. Within this context, individuals with transnational identities may emerge. A transnational identity is formed when a person maintains a connection to the culture of two or more countries, which often happens with immigrants or people of mixed heritage. A transnational identity can lead individuals to face dilemmas when adopting moral values and societal expectations, especially if role models such as religious figures or parents are difficult to find during their character development. This study aims to observe the identity dilemmas experienced by individuals who grow up with the cultures of South Korea and Indonesia. The research uses a qualitative method, specifically narrative inquiry, followed by a creative production method. The narrative inquiry method is employed to understand the process of identity formation and common challenges faced by the participants. After gathering data from the narrative inquiry, the creative production method is used to visualize the ideas into character designs with appropriate narratives and symbols.
These character designs are created to be used in a comic narrative centered on self-discovery. The researched-based character designs can strengthen the theme of the comic narrative, which aims to foster self-confidence in individuals with transnational identities as they socialize with their surrounding communities.

Keywords: Identity, globalisation, transnationality, character design

Topic: Anthropology