KakaoTalk
KakaoTalk is a leading messaging app used by millions around the world to stay connected with friends, family, and communities.
This is a feature concept I worked on to improve communication for KakaoTalk’s global users. From competitive research and UX strategy to UI design and prototyping, I led the design of a built-in translation feature aimed at breaking language barriers and fostering more inclusive conversations across different languages.
the challenge of multilingual conversations on kakaotalk
As someone who regularly chats with friends and family across different countries, I’ve experienced firsthand how frustrating it can be when language becomes a barrier. Whether it’s missing out on jokes in a group chat or struggling to express something clearly, the communication gap can feel isolating—even in a messaging app designed to bring people closer.
That’s what led me to this project. I wanted to understand how KakaoTalk, one of the most popular messaging apps in Korea, could better support conversations between users who speak different languages.
My goal was simple: make multilingual conversations feel natural, not like a chore.
Research
understanding the conversation gap
To begin, I dug into other apps that are already tackling this challenge. I looked at LINE, HelloTalk, and WeChat—each offering unique translation or language support features. HelloTalk, for example, builds its whole community around language learning, while WeChat includes message-by-message translation as an optional tool. These helped me see what was working and where KakaoTalk could stand out: by integrating a translation feature directly into the flow of conversation, making it feel seamless and human.
This analysis revealed key insights:
The translation feature must be intuitive and feel like a natural part of the chat experience.
Fun and engaging elements—like stickers or auto-replies—keep users coming back.
Using smart translation technology is crucial to reduce errors and preserve message accuracy.
learning from real conversations
To better define the problem and understand how language barriers affect KakaoTalk users, I conducted qualitative research through user interviews.
These conversations focused on uncovering real experiences where language got in the way of connection.
pain points
Participants shared common frustrations:
having to switch between KakaoTalk and third-party translation apps
struggling to understand slang or nuanced messages
feeling disconnected in group chats where multiple languages were spoken
solution
From these insights, it became clear that users wanted a seamless translation experience built directly into the chat, one that would allow them to stay engaged and communicate naturally—without interruptions or confusion.
Define
who we’re designing for
With these insights, I created a user story around a 25-year-old Korean woman who moved to California at a young age. Not being fluent in Korean made it difficult for her to stay in touch with her grandparents on KakaoTalk.
Her experience helped humanize the problem and guide the design strategy for a built-in translation feature that truly supports meaningful, cross-language communication.
problem statements
pov statements
I often struggle to understand messages in different languages, especially when talking to loved ones. I need a built-in translation tool that helps me stay connected without confusion.
Using external translation apps during conversations is inconvenient and breaks the flow. I want a smooth, in-app translation experience that saves time and helps me communicate easily.
hmw statements
How might we design a translation feature that automatically detects and translates messages in real-time for smoother conversations?
How might we integrate an easy-to-use translation tool directly into KakaoTalk’s chat interface to support seamless multilingual communication?
user flow
Design
design goal
Our goal is to develop wireframes that clearly define the product's structure and layout, all while staying true to its brand identity. This phase ensures the design is not only visually engaging but also functional and user-friendly.
The goal was to enhance KakaoTalk with a seamless translation feature for better multilingual communication.
Test
refining design through prototyping and user testing
testing methods
I conducted 5 usability tests using Figma prototypes, both in-person and remotely. Participants completed tasks like changing language preferences and translating text messages without assistance. The goal was to evaluate the translation feature's effectiveness, usability, and user satisfaction.
results
Users appreciated the feature's simplicity and cohesive design, highlighting its ease of use and quick access.
Suggestions included:
Allowing users to click anywhere in the text for translation
Exploring real-time translation while typing
conclusion
In this project, I integrated a new feature into an existing app while keeping its branding intact. This experience sharpened my UX design skills, pushing me to work creatively within established UI patterns and follow branding guidelines.
I particularly enjoyed creating a feature that helps users overcome language barriers, inspired by my own communication challenges.
challenges
Using Figma and optimizing screen layouts proved difficult, highlighting the need to improve my design tool proficiency.
final thoughts
I made sure my design aligned with user needs by regularly referencing insights from user interviews and personas. This experience taught me to prioritize user goals and continually improve my technical skills for future projects.