Transformed encounter items spark deeper relationships through artistic flair
In the world of design, the Tok_u project stands out as a unique collection of thoughtfully crafted objects aimed at fostering genuine and meaningful connections during first meetings. Created by a team of five designers – Dami Seo, Mingyu Seo, Songhee Kim, 허 정안, and sooa Kim – the Tok_u project was featured at the prestigious 2025 YUPD Exhibition, showcasing its potential to revolutionise the way we approach initial encounters.
The name Tok_u is inspired by the Japanese pronunciation of "talk," symbolising the project's goal to facilitate natural conversation flow. The slash in the name Tok_u also stands for "us," reflecting the designers' intention to create items that bring people together.
The Tok_u project reimagines first meetings as opportunities for genuine connection, rather than awkward or anxious experiences. Central to this vision are four key items:
- The Tok_u Cup: Designed with a motif of a "couple item," the Tok_u cup forms a heart shape when the two cups are joined, symbolising unity and togetherness. Sharing a drink with someone becomes more than just a simple act – it becomes a symbol of connection and unity.
- The Tok_u Fortune Printer: Inspired by the joy of fortune cookies, this device dispenses conversation topic cards to prompt dialogue and bridge silences, keeping conversations flowing naturally during initial meetings. The Tok_u Fortune Printer is designed to bridge silences or spark new dialogue, making it easy to keep the conversation flowing in first meetings.
The Tok_u collection turns first encounters into opportunities for authentic bonding and mutual engagement by making interaction playful, meaningful, and visually symbolic of unity. By using objects designed to spark interaction and comfort, the Tok_u project provides a refreshing alternative to the traditional, often stressful, first meetings.
The Tok_u project, inspired by the Japanese pronunciation of "talk," aims to revolutionize the lifestyle of first meetings, fostering genuine connections and smooth conversations with its thoughtfully crafted objects. The collection, which includes the Tok_u Cup and the Tok_u Fortune Printer, blends fashion-and-beauty with home-and-garden elements, creating a unique blend of items that bring people together, offering a fresh perspective on events such as meetups and networking events.
