Grey Group announced today it has acquired a majority stake in Vinyl-I Co, a leading creative digital agency based in Seoul, South Korea.
Established in 2000, Vinyl-I Co has evolved from a web/UX design agency to a full service digital advertising agency which incorporates new media technology to enhance the user experience, especially in the area of interactive design.
The technology recognises consumer behavior using interactive panels which in turn provides a customised response based on the consumer’s preferences.
The agency’s stellar works have won a slew of awards including the Red Dot Award, International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA), International Forum Design Award (iF), the Korea Advertising Awards, and most notably the grand prize at the ‘2015 IDEA Digital Design’.
With a headcount of 80, Vinyl-I Co has an impressive roster of clients including GS Shop, Intel, L’Oreal, Lotte, Microsoft, Naver, Nike, Samsung, SK Telecom and SM Entertainment, amongst many others.
Vinyl-I Co is managed by Paul (Hong Rai) Cho, chief executive officer & executive creative director, and Gil (Jung) Kim, chief operating officer. Both will continue to lead the operations of Vinyl-I Co in their existing roles.
Cho founded Vinyl-I Co 15 years ago after a short stint at Samsung Design Lab. Working in the digital media art space where art meets technology, Cho often incorporates technology into his creative work.
With his innovative ideas and solid business strategies, Cho has grown Vinyl-I Co into one of the most reputable and cutting-edge agencies in South Korea.
Kim is a veteran digital marketer with 19 years of experience. He started his career at Samsung Electronics before moving on to Siemens, where he worked for 12 years. In both companies, in his role as key account director, he successfully launched numerous new product campaigns.
Kim joined Vinyl-I Co in 2011 where he has led a number of integrated marketing campaigns for international and local accounts including Intel, Nike, Microsoft, Samsung, Naver, Hyundai Motors and SM Entertainment.
“At Grey Group, we are always looking for ways to provide our clients with the best innovations. The interactive technology has grown exponentially and will change not only the advertising landscape but branding too,” Grey Group Asia Pacific chairman and CEO Nirvik Singh said.
“With Vinyl-I Co’s outstanding work for highly acclaimed brands, in tandem with Grey Group’s extensive network, this partnership will go from strength to strength.”
“At Vinyl-I Co, we are proud to be specialists in the digital convergence communication space,” Cho added.
“It has always been our vision to be a part of a global communications network where we can capitalise on our strengths and execute innovative ideas to serve the global consumer market. Joining the Grey Group family gives us an amazing opportunity to follow our vision.”
