Jung Hyun Kim
About Jung Hyun Kim
Jung Hyun Kim is the Lead Technical Director of Simulation at Pixar Animation Studios, where he has worked since 2019. He has extensive experience in the animation industry, having previously held positions at Industrial Light & Magic, PDI/DreamWorks, and NC Soft.
Work at Pixar Animation Studios
Jung Hyun Kim has been a part of Pixar Animation Studios since 2016. Initially serving as a Technical Director specializing in Simulation and Crowds, he worked in this capacity until 2019. In 2019, he advanced to the position of Lead Technical Director, Simulation, where he continues to contribute to the studio's innovative projects. His experience at Pixar spans over five years, during which he has played a significant role in enhancing the studio's technical capabilities in simulation.
Previous Experience at Industrial Light & Magic
Before his tenure at Pixar, Jung Hyun Kim worked at Industrial Light & Magic as a Senior Technical Director focused on Crowds for a brief period in 2016. His role in this prestigious studio allowed him to further develop his expertise in crowd simulation, contributing to high-profile projects within the San Francisco Bay Area.
Education and Expertise
Jung Hyun Kim holds a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from Seoul National University, where he studied from 1998 to 2004. He furthered his education at Carnegie Mellon University, earning a Master’s degree in Entertainment Technology from 2005 to 2007. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his technical roles in the animation industry, particularly in simulation and crowd dynamics.
Career at PDI/DreamWorks
Jung Hyun Kim worked at PDI/DreamWorks as a Technical Director specializing in Crowds from 2006 to 2015. Over the course of nine years, he developed his skills in crowd simulation, contributing to various animated features. His experience at PDI/DreamWorks laid the groundwork for his future roles in the animation sector.
Early Career at NC Soft
Jung Hyun Kim began his career as a Software Engineer at NC Soft, where he worked from 2003 to 2005. This early experience in software development provided him with essential skills that he later applied in the animation industry, particularly in simulation technology.