Lives Well Lived: LG’s Brave Optimists Shed Light on What a Good Life Entails

Three “Brave Optimists” explain what a good and fulfilling life means to them. 

LG believes “Brave Optimism” is a quality that makes life better for its customers; it’s also a core philosophy that drives innovation. For the brand, a good life is a fulfilling one that involves many beautiful moments, big or small. Viewed through the lens of courageous positivity, the notion that “Life Is Better When Together” is a tenet that spins off to four different pillars of human existence: Living, Enjoying, Resting and Feeling. When nurtured, these four main facets of our daily experience help create a more fulfilling life for ourselves and those around us.

To shed light on this concept, three “Brave Optimists” – LG managing director Yuri Han, Digital Art Fair founder and global exhibition director Gillian Howard, and singer, actor and Handsome Factory founder Brian Siswojo – share insights on how they achieve balance and success in their lives.

Yuri Han – LG Managing Director

What’s a “Brave Optimist”? 

For me, the “Brave Optimist” embodies a mindset that embraces challenges with resilience and a positive outlook. It’s about being fearless in the face of adversity, seeing opportunities where others see obstacles and driving change that improves lives. This concept also informs LG’s commitment to continuous innovation.

How has smart technology transformed the way we live?

Here at LG, we strive to bring smart tech into the home through products that integrate seamlessly into our daily lives, from intuitive home appliances to immersive Entertainment systems. By simplifying routine tasks, enhancing comfort and offering new ways to enjoy life, we’re able to free up valuable time and energy for what truly matters: spending quality moments with loved ones, pursuing passions and embracing new experiences. 

As Managing Director at LG, how do you lead as a “Brave Optimist”?

Leading as a “Brave Optimist” to me means approaching every challenge with a balanced perspective, combining confidence with caution, and innovation with pragmatism. It drives me to stay focused on the bigger picture and see potential setbacks as opportunities for growth instead. My team is always encouraged to think creatively, take calculated risks, and remain resilient, even when things may be uncertain.

Tell us more about the “Life Is Better When Together” campaign. What are the four facets of a fulfilling life?

With this campaign, our aim is to create a better life for our customers through the philosophy of “Life Is Better When Together.” The experience of using LG products brings about inner transformations, such as feeling worry-free, more confident, recharged, and uplifted in mood – those intangible feelings that warm the heart and power a smile. In partnership with the Digital Art Fair and the digital artist Zenavi, we’ve opened the Jar of Life installation in Causeway Bay, which features vibrant digital art and large-scale outdoor displays that highlight how LG’s innovative products can improve our daily lives across four of the interconnected aspects of Living, Enjoying, Resting, and Feeling. Each Jar symbolises a part of life that our products help nurture, and when all these aspects are cared for, you’ll find the true essence of “Life’s Good”.

What’s the core message that LG aims to express? 

That of optimism and togetherness. At LG, we believe life’s challenges and joys are all part of a wonderful journey. A fulfilling life isn’t just about overcoming challenges, but also cherishing every moment, whether it’s the comfort of a clean home, the joy of leisure time or the peace of a good night’s sleep. By integrating art, technology and lifestyle, we hope to inspire Hong Kong to embrace “Brave Optimism” and see that, with LG, life can truly be better when we’re together.

Brian Siswojo – Handsome Factory Founder

Do you think you’re a “Brave Optimist”?

I always think positively, but it’s not simply about the desire to achieve something or the courage to try – I also believe I can accomplish it. In 2015, there were no barber shops in Hong Kong, and my aim was to establish Handsome Factory. Instead of thinking about the pros and cons, I believed in myself and knew I’d be able to create a successful Business. Combining that drive for success with the belief in yourself is what “Brave Optimist” means to me.

What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs and creative souls who are looking to balance multiple passions?

The most important aspect to me is loving what you do and having passion. When you truly love what you do, then it won’t feel arduous or challenging. You’ll be motivated and positive. If you’re simply working on something just for income, most of the time you won’t be successful. When you’re doing something you genuinely care about, the financial reward will come naturally.

How do you believe we can achieve a “Better Life” by nurturing and balancing the four facets of life?

I look at living as exercising. We need to promote a Healthier Lifestyle, and even when you’re fatigued, learn to push hard anyway. You’ll feel the endorphins afterwards and that will be rewarding. Not having time is not an excuse – no one has time, and it’s not about having time, it’s about having the right priorities. Enjoying for me means family, and I make sure to spend time with my wife, my children and my relatives. Resting is often overlooked but is equally important. Everyone needs sleep, because if you aren’t well rested, you cannot be in the right, positive mindset. Finally, feeling is about passion. I trust my feelings in everything I do, but it’s not just about your own feelings. Consider other people’s feelings too and learn to have sympathy and empathy.

What does attaining a good life mean? How do you ensure your daily choices and actions align with this vision of a fulfilling life?

Loyalty is of utmost importance to me. Maintaining Healthy personal relationships with my loved ones is a daily priority, whether it’s family or friends. To be truly successful is to manage both your internal, personal life and your external career and achievements. Never overlook the significance of this.

Gillian Howard – Digital Art Fair Founder and Global Fair Director

Do you consider yourself a “Brave Optimist”? 

I do consider myself a “Brave Optimist.” Sometimes it might not feel that way, but every day is a new opportunity to reset and try again, and I never stop trying. Letting yourself fall, getting up and trying again is crucial to success, and that’s what I do.

What inspired you to establish the Digital Art Fair, and how did you overcome your challenges?

Pure positivity helped me overcome many of the challenges I faced when I began the Digital Art Fair. It was something I’ve always wanted to do, and at one point I stopped thinking about the worst possible outcomes and took a leap of faith. There were many struggles, but I focused on finding solutions and I trying my absolute best.

As a global exhibition director, how do you incorporate art appreciation into your daily routine?

I’ve installed myriad screens at home, which all aid in my meditation. On the ground level is a room I use as a meditation space, and those displays will feature my favourite art, music and mindfulness apps while I destress and focus on being in the moment.

How do you believe we can achieve a “Better Life” by nurturing and balancing Living, Enjoying, Resting and Feeling?

To me, living is about being present and intentional. Whether it’s managing my Business or spending time with my children, I make sure I’m fully engaged in the moment. Enjoying the smaller things in life is equally important. It’s not about having more, but about savouring the moments that matter. Resting is non-negotiable for me. Whether through meditation or simply taking a break from screens, it’s crucial to recharge. Finally, in terms of feeling, emotional wellbeing plays a big role in my life, not just for myself but for my family too. It’s about being mindful of the choices we make, because they all have an impact on how we feel.

What does attaining a good life mean? 

For me, a good life is balanced, intentional and aligned with what truly matters. I strive to live with purpose and stay present, whether it’s work or family. I value quality experiences and make time for activities that bring joy and connection. Finally, I practise mindfulness to help me detach from material things and focus on what brings peace. A good life is about living mindfully, making intentional choices and creating moments of joy, no matter how busy life gets. 

Venue: Hei Design Interiors