Pinkoi: The Leading Curated C2C Community and Marketplace for Designers in Asia

Pinkoi is a design-focused e-commerce platform founded in Taipei in 2011 that has since grown into one of Asia’s most recognized hubs for creative expression. Guided by the belief that design is more than aesthetics, Pinkoi brings together independent designers and consumers who share a passion for products that embody values, culture, and individuality. Over the years, the company has expanded into cities such as Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Bangkok, cultivating a community that thrives on the power of design to shape lifestyles.

The platform operates as a two-way ecosystem where designers gain tools and exposure, while consumers discover products that go beyond utility to carry cultural and emotional resonance. This dual mission has helped Pinkoi stand apart in the e-commerce landscape, offering not just products but meaning.

Peter Yen, co-founder and CEO of Pinkoi, has often described the company’s journey in terms of its role within the global design ecosystem and the broader implications of design for culture and commerce. His perspective provides insight into how Pinkoi continues to bridge creativity, technology, and lifestyle across borders.

The Inspiration Behind Pinkoi

Peter Yen explained that the idea came from observing how design often remained confined to niche circles or limited markets. He felt that design should not be restricted to museums or galleries but should touch everyday life. “Design is not decoration,” Peter said. “It is how people connect with meaning, identity, and lifestyle.”

According to him, the early days of Pinkoi were driven by the conviction that great design can change how people experience their homes, workplaces, and communities. He recalled that many young designers in Taiwan and across Asia were producing original work but lacked access to international buyers or the digital tools to manage growth. Pinkoi was created to bridge that gap.

Defining Great Design

Peter described great design as something layered. It can embody cultural interpretation, showcase artisanal spirit, or become an outlet for creative self-expression. He emphasized that design is not only about beauty but also about connection. A well-designed product, he said, gives people a way to express who they are while also fulfilling a practical need.

He pointed out that consumers are no longer content with mass-produced items that lack distinction. “People want to surround themselves with products that reflect their values and aspirations,” he said. “They are looking for design that resonates personally.”

Expanding Beyond Taiwan

The company’s expansion to Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Bangkok reflects both the demand for unique design and the global ambitions of Asian creators. Peter explained that each market brings different cultural contexts, which enrich the platform rather than complicate it. Designers who might begin selling locally on Pinkoi often find themselves connecting with buyers from another country within months.

Peter described this as one of the most rewarding aspects of Pinkoi’s work. “Design is a universal language,” he said. “Even if the cultural background differs, people recognize authenticity when they see it.”

The Role of Technology

Although Pinkoi is deeply rooted in creativity, technology provides the structure that allows the ecosystem to function at scale. Peter noted that the platform’s Lifestyle AI Model supports designers by providing SaaS-based services. These tools help them manage their shops, analyze data, and understand customer behavior.

He highlighted the Retail Media Network, which gives designers advertising opportunities within the platform. By offering this support, Pinkoi allows small brands to compete more effectively without being overshadowed by large retailers. Yet Peter was careful to frame technology not as the star of the story but as the enabler. “Technology serves design, not the other way around,” he said.

Building Designer Communities

Beyond digital tools, Pinkoi invests in building communities both online and offline. The company has organized events in multiple cities where designers and customers can interact directly. Peter observed that these experiences create lasting impressions because they bring together people who value the same things.

He noted that in-person engagement matters even in a digital era. “Commerce may start online, but relationships are built when people meet,” he said. Pinkoi’s role, as he sees it, is to provide the bridges that make those connections possible.

Easing Burdens for Designers

Peter acknowledged that designers often struggle with the business side of creativity. Many have the talent and passion to create outstanding products but lack the resources to scale. Logistics, marketing, and customer service can be overwhelming for small teams. Pinkoi aims to reduce that burden by giving them a structure where they can focus more on design while the platform supports their growth.

He added that another challenge lies in consumer education. While many people now appreciate design, convincing them to pay for quality over mass-produced alternatives remains an ongoing effort. Pinkoi responds by highlighting the stories behind products, helping consumers understand the craftsmanship involved.

Impact on Society

For Peter, the company’s mission goes beyond commerce. He believes that supporting design-driven businesses contributes to cultural preservation and innovation. “Every product carries a story,” he said. “When people choose a handmade ceramic cup over a factory-made one, they are also choosing to support the artisan’s heritage and creativity.”

He sees Pinkoi as a platform that empowers not only individuals but also communities. By enabling small designers to thrive, Pinkoi contributes to the vibrancy of local economies. He believes this ripple effect has a long-term impact on how societies value creativity.

What’s Next for Pinkoi

Peter outlined ambitions to deepen Pinkoi’s presence across Asia while continuing to refine the services offered to designers. He envisions a platform where technology anticipates market trends and helps creators respond quickly, while also remaining simple enough for small businesses to use without difficulty.

He also expressed interest in expanding Pinkoi’s offline footprint, creating more opportunities for direct interaction between designers and consumers. “Digital connection is powerful,” he said, “but human connection is irreplaceable.

As the conversation closed, Peter returned to the idea that design shapes how people live. He believes Pinkoi’s role is to make that design accessible, meaningful, and sustainable. “If we can help people live closer to their ideal lifestyle through design, then we have achieved something valuable,” he said.

Pinkoi’s journey from a Taipei startup to a multi-market platform reflects more than business growth. It represents a belief that design should not remain an abstract concept or luxury. Instead, it can become part of everyday life, transforming the way people see their surroundings and themselves.

Peter Yen, Co-Founder & CEO, Pinkoi

Design is not decoration. It is how people connect with meaning, identity, and lifestyle.