David Hwang was born in Pyung-Yang, Korea, and later moved to Seoul during the Korean War in 1951. His passion for art began in middle school, where he excelled in drawing and won numerous national competitions. He pursued formal education in painting at university, developing a strong affinity for landscape art, particularly inspired by his love for mountains. Despite his artistic talent, economic conditions in Korea led him to open a sporting goods store while painting in his spare time.
In 1981, Hwang relocated to Southern California, where he immersed himself in the American painting style while working as a studio artist. After six years, he began producing and selling his own work, collaborating with designers and consultants on prestigious projects. His journey reflects a deep commitment to art, influenced by his family's legacy and personal experiences across Korea and the United States.