Shigetaka Kurita
Shigetaka Kurita is a Japanese designer best known for creating the first set of emojis in 1999 while working for the mobile phone company Docomo. His original collection of 176 emojis, which included iconic symbols like the heart, was designed to enhance digital communication in Japan and has since become a global phenomenon. In recognition of his pioneering work, Kurita was awarded the Webby Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2023, highlighting the lasting impact of his designs on modern communication.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Shigetaka Kurita invented the first emojis in 1999.
O poder dos emojis: facilitam a comunicação e fortalecem relações | Relações
Portugal· 2025-07-30
Shigetaka Kurita is known for inventing the emoji.
Could ‘fashioneering’ be a future trend?
United States· 2025-07-20
Shigetaka Kurita’s 176-icon set was the first emoji set to go mainstream.
Emojis are now everywhere – but using them can be a minefield | Language
United Kingdom· 2025-03-29
Shigetaka Kurita was commissioned by Docomo to design symbols for message transmission, resulting in the creation of the first emoji set.
Seit 30 Jahren gibt es Herz-Emojis
Switzerland· 2025-02-14