linked seoul's 2011 '40 under 40
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Linked Seoul's 2011 '40 Under 40' profiles.TRANSCRIPT
Linked Seoul’s 2011 group of 40 Under 40 have been specially selected from a stack of nominations submitted by our members. Only 40 individuals were selected for their unique contributions, particular skills and impressive backgrounds - these 40 young professionals set a clear example of success and dedication to the work they do. These young influential movers and shakers come from a range of various fields across business, government, education and nonprofit organizations in Seoul. Hope you will enjoy reading about, and are inspired by these 40 people. Thank You for a great 2011 and looking forward to next year’s 40 Under 40 list!
www.linkedseoul.org
www.linkedseoul.org
40 Under 40: Where They Are From
Youngest Age: 26 Oldest Age: 39 Average Age: 32 Number in 20’s: 12 Number in 30’s: 28
www.linkedseoul.org
33% 67%
Been in Korea longer than 5 years.
40 Under 40: By the Numbers
30% 15% 10% 7% 7%
12%
Chris Backe Hannah Bae John Bae Lukas Beech Simon Bell Szymon Belnaik Ricardo Bielma David Carruth William Choi Erik Cornelius
Joshua Davies Kevin Dowling Michelle Farnsworth Simon Gillett Alina Kavalchuk Yeonji Kim Eugene Lee Jin Lee Lea Lee SeHee Lee
Nick McHugh Mike Meier Kyla Mitsunaga Alberto Mondi Modesta Naciute Manny Palomo IV Aico Peek Rahul Prabhakar Devin Rupert Jaena Ryu
Olga Sadaeva Campbell Scott Jody Shipton Micheal Sohn Scott Walker Simon Walsh Kent Wong Glen Yi Katherine Yoon Eric Zeller
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Learn Korean – then be patient with their English. Favorite job perk: Seeing so many people appreciate my posts or photos. A typical day at work is: Spent mostly in front of my computer, my laptop, or my iPad. How you define success: Being able to travel and live freely. The secret to my success was: I’ll let you know when I find it – until now, it’s been hard work. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I wanted to be in the middle of it all. Having lived in Bucheon, near Suwon, and traveling the rest of the country, Seoul is indeed the center of it all. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Trying to get out of the U.S.! First job ever: Little Caesers – making pizzas, baby! Favorite place for dining: Itaewon. ‘nuff said. What’s next after Seoul? Who knows – perhaps elsewhere in Asia. As soon as I know I’ll get the domain name and keep blogging!
Chris in South Korea Writer Arrived in Seoul: March 2008 University: Berea College Western Age: 29 [email protected] Twitter: chrisinseoulsk
Chris Backe
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Learn Korean, and network like crazy. Favorite job perk: Being able to feed my news and social media addiction while I'm on the job. A typical day at work is: A lot of editing, with some meetings and outings thrown into the mix. How you define success: Taking joy from working in the field you've trained for since your teenage years, with the freedom to have a life outside of work. The secret to my success was: Working hard, building a good reputation and cultivating my network. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I got a journalism fellowship from the Princeton-in-Asia program to work as in Seoul after graduating from college. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Trying to ply my trade in the rough-and-tumble world of New York's media industry. First job ever: RA at Johns Hopkins University's Center for Talented Youth Favorite place for dining: OKitchen in Itaewon What’s next after Seoul? Probably an MBA
US Embassy Public Affairs Assistant Arrived in Seoul: June 2007 University: University of Miami Western Age: 26 [email protected] Twitter: hanbae
Hannah Bae
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Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: “Don’t speak in English, communicate in English” Favorite job perk: Being a professional in the Oil and Gas industry travel could be a nuisance or a perk. Being caught up on hectic day to day business in Seoul, I try to take advantage of every opportunity when I am abroad to be inspired and grow as a professional. A typical day at work is An average day would probably start off with negotiating contract awards of USD$20,000,000+ to subcontractors, while filing the same amount in claims to the client on a USD$400,000,000 Petrochemical Project. Much of the afternoon would be spent debating with local lawyers and coordinating with offices in Seoul, Houston and possibly anywhere else in between. How you define success: I define success with trust. Maintaining a network of clients, colleagues, employees that trust you ensures a measure of success and opportunity. The secret to my success was: The secret to my success has been persistent personality and adaptable methodology. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I was a finance professional in New York City prior to coming to Seoul in 2008. Being a Korean American it was important to me to develop a better understanding as a businessman on working culture and market nature of my parents native country. First job ever: My first job ever was tutoring math at my parent’s private academy when I was in the 7th grade. Favorite place for dining: I am a huge fan of the fresh seafood in South Korea. Noryangjin seafood market has to be my favorite place for dining whether I am craving some “Hwe” or a steamed lobster. What’s next after Seoul? While I do look to progress my professional career (oil and gas would probably land me in Houston, Singapore or Australia), I am indeed a serial entrepreneur. I look to bring back what I have experienced in business, culture, entertainment back with me to wherever I may end up and develop it into my next challenge.
Samsung Engineering Contract Engineer Arrived in Seoul: September 2008 University: University of Rochester Western Age: 26 [email protected]
John Bae
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Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Give before you get. Favorite job perk: Summer vacation airfare coverage. A typical day at work is: Get to the office at 7AM and clean out the inbox. Grab a coffee with a neighbor at 8 or 9 and get up to speed with what’s in the news. Badger away at projects. Grab a nice hot soup for lunch. Meet clients and candidates. More coffee. Knock it on the head at around 6 or 7. Go to a dinner meeting, catch up with friends or go home and enjoy a nice cold brew. How you define success: The opportunity to reach and exceed my goals. The secret to my success was: Making other people successful. How did you choose to work in Seoul? Good fortune rather than choice. Seoul has an addictive attractiveness. Once you’re in, you don’t want to get out. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Working in Berlin or Wellington. First job ever: Cutting up dog food for my grandmother’s dachshund. Age 4! Favorite place for dining: The 아줌마 집 across the street or lobby of the Park Hyatt, 23rd floor. What’s next after Seoul? TBA. It will be Seoul for a while yet.
McKinney Consulting Executive Search Consultant
Vice Chairman , The Kiwi Chamber of Commerce Arrived in Seoul: November 2005 University: Hamburg University Western Age: 33 [email protected] Twitter: lukasbeech
Lukas Beech
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Be respectful of the culture of doing business in Seoul . Bow, business card exchange, etc
Favorite job perk: I get to work every day in a 5 star luxury hotel....that is the perk!
A typical day at work is: Meetings, speaking to staff, meeting guests, generally making sure that everyone is having a good day and supporting where ever I can.
How you define success: In our company we have what is called a Balance Scorecard. There are 6 different measurements and for me to be successful I have to succeed in all 6 areas.
The secret to my success was: Hard work! In my younger years when friends were out having a good time, I was working. I have also taken opportunities to work in all different areas of the hotel business which has made me a much more rounded General Manager.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? Just lucky. I was working in the Caribbean and wanted to move closer to Australia and I got a phone call asking if I wanted to open a new hotel in Seoul. That was almost 3 years ago and still loving it here.
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Probably working somewhere else in Asia.
First job ever: Working in my parents take away store.
Favorite place for dining: Any Korean BBQ Restaurant.
What's next after Seoul? Who knows, for now I am happy to stay in Seoul as long as I can.
Renaissance Hotel, Seoul General Manager Arrived in Seoul: February 2009 University: GCIT Western Age: 38 [email protected]
Simon Bell
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Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: First- be patient. Second- learn to adapt but at the same time be true to oneself. Favourite job perk: Toothpaste.in the office A typical day at work is: No typical days, most days are unpredictable. You never know what exciting things the day will bring. How you define success: To be able to spend your life in your own way. The secret to my success was: Perseverance and being ready for the opportunity when it came. How did you choose to work in Seoul? Seoul chose me. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Dreaming about going somewhere and trying to do something different. First job ever: Raspberry picker. They were very small and it was really hard to fill the bucket. Favourite place for dining: Old traditional place with local food, not easy to find. Almost always has to be recommended by someone. What’s next after Seoul? Life will show but I’m sure it will be great.
Samsung Engineering Assistant Manager Arrived in Seoul: November 2010 University: Cracow University of Technology Western Age: 30 [email protected]
Szymon Belniak
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Samsung Engineering Co. Ltd Civil Engineer Arrived in Seoul: March 2010 University: Universidad Veracruzana Western Age: 29 [email protected]
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Work hard and try to make it simple so a 10 year old boy can understand it. In that way, your seniors will like you.
Favorite job perk: Discounts, free coupons, free goodies and tickets just for being a Samsung employee
A typical day at work is: Drinking a cup of coffee early in the morning for powering up, reading and sending emails, from time to time delivering presentations for investors and Clients, preparing documentation and stuff...and sometimes, after a hard day's work dining and drinking with my co-workers or Korean class mates.
How you define success: Success is not measured by monetary terms, how big is your pack check or by the way you are called, but on how can you positively impact on other people's lives.
The secret to my success was: I'm not sure yet if I will consider myself a true successful person, but I always keep in mind two things: 1. Always follow the good advice of your parents and seniors, they always speak from their experience. 2. 'Always smile, no matter how stressed you are, remember to smile to others, in that way half of your problems will be eased'...something that a Vice President in my Company told me.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? The company invited me to work in the Head Office here in Seoul, after completing a job in the Caribbean. I came to Korea 4 years ago for holidays and I found it fascinating, so there was not that much hesitation going on for me to come here.
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Probably still working in the Caribbean, or establishing my own construction company in Mexico.
First job ever: Samsung Engineering Co. Ltd. in Mexico. Favorite place for dining: For dining in Seoul, I always prefer any good korean bbq restaurant where you can sit outdoors, drink soju or macoli and have a good time with your folks.
What’s next after Seoul? I'm planning to stay in Seoul for a while, learn the language and then probably move with the Company to any of its Projects overseas in the Middle East, South Asia, Latin or North America.
Ricardo Bielma
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: It’s all about who you know. The best jobs you’ll ever get will come through your network. If you aren’t out there meeting people, keeping in touch, and making your presence felt, you will miss out on some incredible opportunities. Favorite job perk: Being in a small office means that everyone knows everyone else quite well. And fortunately, we all manage to get along. A typical day at work is: Show up, check the magazine Facebook page, try to catch up on emails, assign some articles, and edit the material coming in. How you define success: Some do it for love and some do it for money, but for me success is when at the end of the day you feel like you’ve done the right thing. The secret to my success was: Doing my best, keeping my promises, and getting the job done. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I wanted to try something a bit different out of college and a friend was living here. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Had I not come to Korea, I might very well be teaching Latin in some small-town American high school. First job ever: Working the concession stand at a rodeo in Arkansas. Favorite place for dining: OKitchen in Itaewon, hands down. Haven’t been there? You’re missing out. What’s next after Seoul? Graduate school back home, maybe.
10 Media Planning Editor Arrived in Seoul: June 2006 University: John Brown University Western Age: 28 [email protected] Twitter: @davcarruth
David Carruth
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Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Korea is aiming to become a leader in green growth, great timing, you are in the right place! Favorite job perk: Travelling – meeting great people A typical day at work is: Meeting and calls with people How you define success: Loving what you do, having a dream, and contributing to a better Korea The secret to my success was: Beating adversity How did you choose to work in Seoul? I travelled to Korea frequently for business during life in Canada, my wife longed come back to Korea where she is close to her family, and so it was a natural move. I am still able to conduct business and travel while my family is happy being in Korea. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Doing the same thing, just living either in another major city. First job ever: Pumping gas for Esso at a local station near my school Favorite place for dining: My little secret, if I told you, I’d have to find another! What’s next after Seoul? The world
CB Williams Group of Companies Executive Director Arrived in Seoul: March 2009 University: University of Western Ontario Western Age: 36 [email protected] Twitter: Carbon_Finance1
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William Choi
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Just because something is done differently in Korea that America, that doesn’t necessarily make it wrong. (It also doesn’t automatically make it right.)
Favorite job perk: At Daumsoft we have no dress code. I still have to suit up for meetings with powerful ajosshis but it’s great to be able to sit comfortably at my desk wearing a pair of New Balance on regular days.
A typical day at work is: Thankfully there is no typical day at work. One day I might be dreaming up new ways to market Daumsoft outside of Korea and the next I’ll work with a client to determine what kind of data they need to be analyzing to get a good read of their customers. What stays the same is our young, vibrant and surprisingly liberal office atmosphere.
How you define success: Whether it’s with work, relationships, photography or cycling, I feel successful when I feel a sense of accomplishment and see that I’m growing personally. Success is more of a journey than something that you achieve once.
The secret to my success was: I’m still on the journey, every day.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? In college I studied Korea quite a bit from the perspective of it’s economic success. When I saw an opportunity to come work here and experience the country in person, I couldn’t turn it down.
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I’d probably be in Washington, DC raising money for a political campaign or cause. I’m glad I’m here and not there.
First job ever: Being a smart businessman, my father took full advantage of the efficiencies offered by child labor. Before I was old enough to flip burgers I was helping my father keep his files in order. I still consider myself an above-average alphabetizer of manila file folders.
Favorite place for dining: Outdoors. I like to breathe fresh air while I’m eating fresh food. It’s great that more al fresco dining options are popping up in Seoul. What’s next after Seoul? Someplace warmer, perhaps.
Daumsoft International Marketing Manager Arrived in Seoul: February 2005 University: Thiel College Western Age: 29 [email protected] Twitter: @HubOfErik
www.linkedseoul.org
Erik Cornelius
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Get out and network beyond your immediate circle. Expats are only a tiny portion of the professional population, so relations and understanding beyond that realm are necessary to really get the most out of what Korea has to offer. Favorite job perk: Traveling around Asia meeting business men and women from a huge variety of professional, cultural, and personal backgrounds. I learn something new each day. A typical day at work is: Atypical. I could be researching in Seoul, doing negotiation training in Shanghai, or coaching an executive through a keynote in Hong Kong. We go wherever persuasive communication is needed in Asia, and that leads to a workweek which is both exciting, and occasionally exhausting. How you define success: Immensely enjoying what I do, and at the same time giving back to the community around me. If I can get paid to do what I love and help others in the process I'm set. The secret to my success was: William Feather's quote that "Success is largely a matter of holding on after others have let go" resonates with me. I think the secret to any success is a mix of curiosity and determination- taking something you love and just pushing it to the logical extreme in spite of any obstacles. How did you choose to work in Seoul? When I transitioned into more corporate work from the academic world I was faculty at Yonsei University, but before that even, what originally brought me here was a fascination with the region- I tend to like areas undergoing demographic transitions, and Korea is doing that faster than most. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Finishing a PhD in Communications. It's on the agenda...but Asia keeps providing new opportunities. First job ever: Working in an Italian deli on Bainbridge Island. We made a mean minestrone. Favorite place for dining: Star Chef if I'm trying to go classy, but my local haunt is still either Tabassum in Dongdaemun for international food (Uzbek), or Korean style duck at Do Ori in Hyhewa. What’s next after Seoul? The company I work with is expanding throughout the Asia region and it is great to be a part of that growth. Hopefully we'll lock down a few key partnerships in further flung regions as well and take our services global in the near future.
LAM Institute Communications Consultant Arrived in Seoul: August 2006 University: Shenandoah Western Age: 32 [email protected] Twitter: JoshuaDavies
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Joshua Davies
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: No matter what, always smile : )) Favorite job perk: Working and meeting with people from different parts of the world. A typical day at work is: Email, phone calls, corporate meetings, and visiting homes for pre-move survey's. How you define success: Setting your sights on a particular goal, working hard to get there, and seeing it finally come together. The secret to my success was: believing "it" will happen, staying positive, and surrounding myself with good people. How did you choose to work in Seoul? One of my best friends and his family relocated here and told me I should come. Next thing I know I was teaching in a Hagwon. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Probably living and working in Boston. First job ever: Counting bottles at a beverage redemption store. Favorite place for dining: There is this place I love at home in Burlington, VT...callled Koto Japanese Steakhouse. Here is Seoul - Top of Namsan, Seoul Tower! What’s next after Seoul? Good question...maybe Hong Kong, maybe Australia. Or maybe staying right here!
AGS Four Winds Corporate Account Manager Arrived in Seoul: April 2010 University: Johnson State College Western Age: 35 [email protected]
Kevin Dowling
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Adapt, but don’t lose yourself.
Favorite job perk: I can take care of all my banking transactions while I’m on the clock!
A typical day at work is: I answer emails, Facebook inquiries, and telephone calls from customers. I attend training on specific banking products and then write up an English overviews of those products. I have lunch. I work with my team to ensure that our strategy is going along according to schedule. I develop training materials for our staff and I visit Shinhan Bank branches around the city to train and support the staff there.
How you define success: I think success is living a happy, balanced, meaningful life.
The secret to my success was: I always do my best.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? I had taught English in China for a summer while I was in college and decided to come back to Asia to teach for one year. But then I got a better job so I stayed for one more year. And then one more. And then a couple more after that!
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I often think about that and I wonder where I would be if I hadn’t come to Korea 9 years ago. I’ve loved my life in Korea and I’m happy to be here.
First job ever: I worked at my uncle’s video store when I was in high school – “Reel Action Video”.
Favorite place for dining: Home. I like to cook. But when I go out, I like to go to Craftworks.
What’s next after Seoul? I just recently got my F-2 visa after quite a bit of work and it’s good for 3 years, so I plan to stick around for the foreseeable future. But, you never know where life will take you.
Shinhan Bank Foreign Client Relationship Manager Arrived in Seoul: September 2002 University: Sejong University Western Age: 32 [email protected] Twitter: @farnsie79
www.linkedseoul.org
Michelle Farnsworth
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Make formal connections, for if you carry on out of goodwill you'll make friends, but you'll be working without gain.
Favorite job perk: The daily job is great and there aren't many jobs where the people you work with shed tears of gratitude and laughter.
A typical day at work is: Teaching at University in the mornings, Researching and Networking in the afternoons and evenings. I read a lot, too.
How you define success: Spending time with family and doing hobbies. I am recently married (August this year) to my beautiful bride Caitlin.
The secret to my success was: Illegitimi nil carborundum.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? I was already working in Korea and wanted to advance my career. I made connections through my profession and applied to a position in Seoul. Seoul is totally different from Korea, in my opinion, because of a large network that operates through word-of-mouth.
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Scuba diving in the tropics. I am a PADI dive master, so if I can train and lead divers.
First job ever: International Management Trainee at Standard Chartered Bank, London.
Favorite place for dining: International food street, Itaewon. The large hotels where expat chambers of commerce hold events are also great.
What’s next after Seoul? I look forward to living and working in Seoul for the foreseeable.
International Leadership Development Director and CEO Arrived in Seoul: February 2011 University: University College London Western Age: 37 [email protected]
Simon Gillett
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: I do not think I received any good business advice or at least anything I can remember now.
Favorite job perk: I would have to say the business trips. Because I get the opportunity to meet many different people and learn from their experiences. Most of the people I work and meet with during my business trips are directors and presidents of companies. They have worked to build their company and what they have now from nothing.
A typical day at work is: Every day is busy for me. But then again, if I didn’t have problems to fix I am not really working. It never stops and I love it )))
How you define success: For me I define success as being free to live your life on your own terms. I am successful when I’m free to do what I love and make a difference along the way.
The secret to my success was: Be Honest And Dependable. It is very important to be able to have a healthy business relationship between you and your business partners. Same rules as for friendship and relationship. Learn to understand and motivate others. Success is a marathon, not a sprint. Never give up!!! If it is not happening at the present moment for some reason, you can be sure it will happen later if it really good for you. How did you choose to work in Seoul? Honestly...I did not even choose. I believe it was meant to be...I do not really have any other explanation...
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I have worked constantly since graduating from my university. So if I wasn’t working here, I would be working somewhere else. I cannot picture myself doing anything else; I really like what I am doing.
First job ever: That was a long time ago, maybe I was 16. I used to deliver newspapers.
Favorite place for dining: It is depends. Steak, then it would be Seoul club, Mexican -really small Taco place in Kangnam, French – Paul at Marriott, Russian food, since there are no good Russian food in Seoul so far I will go to Bulgarian – Zelen.
What’s next after Seoul? What’s next after Seoul? I am not sure yet, I haven’t planned that far ahead. I prefer to keep my plans to myself until I am ready to make a change.
Unisource Incorporated Team Manager Arrived in Seoul: 2006 University: Belarusian State University of Transport Western Age: 29 [email protected]
Alina Kavalchuk
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Be careful not to be burned out. Make a balance between work and your personal life..
Favorite job perk: Trip to favorite place.
A typical day at work is: Research, Writing, Class Preparation etc.
How you define success: To be person who can make positive influence to society.
The secret to my success was: Positive thinking, Open mind, Balancing between work and life, Passion, Sincere attitude for work and I'm really trying to be ready for opportunities! How did you choose to work in Seoul? I was born in Seoul : ) After completing University, I got a job. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? If I work in other countries, working industry shall be same as here. If I don’t work, I may travel and write travel essays. First job ever: I worked in the “Green” industry as a volunteer in Australia and the United States as a student. I started my career officially as program coordinator at United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) National Committee for ROK. Then I was working as Corporate sustainability consultant at the Sustainability Management Department, Korea Productivity Center.
Favorite place for dining: I like traditional style restaurant in Insadong and Samcheongdong. What’s next after Seoul? Now I attend Korea University for my master degree and I'm studying "Energy and Environmental Policies”. I would love to visit Europe or somewhere I can experience booming green industry issues and international relations.
MS Candidate Graduate School of Energy: Environmental Policy and Technology University: Korea University Western Age: 27 [email protected] Twitter: greenest_kim
Yeon Ji Kim
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Plan and network go together. It helps you evenly distribute your resources and time. Whatever you do personally or in a team, and even a company, planning can be very crucial in delivering good results. However, your plan is nothing if it is not properly introduced to people who you work with, be it your client or your colleagues. Favorite job perk: I choose what to wear and I choose my clients. A typical day at work is: Trying to understand what people really need and help them to understand it. Part of my work is to strengthen people's standing in the market or even in their organizations (improve their working atmosphere and corporate culture). Observations help a lot. How you define success: Sometimes a little is a lot. Don't rush things. Sometimes you may get what you don't expect. The secret to my success was: Perseverance. There are days when everything is going well, and there are days when everything is bleak. Sometimes stays on the track and running is a key. How did you choose to work in Seoul? If one believes in destiny then probably it was it. I lived here for few years before making the decision to get Korean citizenship. Just took a test. Passed it that's basically it. It was a year long process. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be in Daejon. First job ever: Making wooden apple crates in vacation time in the middle school Favorite place for dining: Sanjang Garden in Chochiwon, Chungchongnam-do (Stone-Grilled Pork Ribs) What’s next after Seoul? No plans as yet.
E&D Consulting Executive Manager Arrived in Seoul: March 1998 University: Yonsei University Western Age: 39 [email protected] Twitter: EugeneLee12
www.linkedseoul.org
Eugene Lee
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Quality networking is critical to making business connections and realizing your business potential. Favorite job perk: I create something new for each project, so I never get bored and am always being challenged. A typical day at work is: Lots of physical work, sculpting! Sometimes I design new projects and meet with business contacts. How you define success: To have the freedom to work on the projects you want and having pride in the work you do. The secret to my success was: Creativity and unique concepts/designs. How did you choose to work in Seoul? After working in overseas for a while, I returned home to establish my base with what I had learned from experiences working abroad. I want to build a sculpture garden house in Korea and produce works of art for buildings and public display. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? If I were not working in Seoul, I would love to have an art studio somewhere in Southern France and to live as a full time artist. First job ever: Art teacher in Art institute for high school students preparing for their university exams. I was 21. Favorite place for dining: Buddha’s Belly for their authentic Thai cuisine. What’s next after Seoul? I would like to keep my base in Seoul and expand my range of clients more internationally. Therefore, I will put efforts into developing potential markets in Hong Kong & Singapore.
Solar Art Studio Owner and Sculptor Arrived in Seoul: October 2006 University: Hong-ik Fine Art Univ Western Age: 38 [email protected]
Jin Lee
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Get connected with people! Koreans are willing to help each other once you get into the inner circle. Favorite job perk: Vacation or Traveling! A typical day at work is: Busy, busy, busy – it starts around 9am-??? J Meeting people, writing emails, proposals, reading news and so on! How you define success: Feeling happy or Self-satisfaction with anything I’ve achieved. (Financially, socially, mentally or even spiritually) The secret to my success was: Hard work, staying positive in any situations- Never give up. You can give it up anytime, just try once more! How did you choose to work in Seoul? Applied to multiple PR agencies, especially global PR agencies, and they chose me. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Well, teaching Bikram yoga in Australia? Or hanging out in Hawaii looking for a job?! Haha First job ever: A French aluminum trading company, now merged with Rio Tinto => Teaching yoga in Hawaii, Indonesia, Korea…and now working at a PR firm. Favorite place for dining: Zelen in Itaewon. or Paris Grill at the Grand Hyatt! What’s next after Seoul? Who know? I’m ready for working anywhere all over the world with traveling and meeting people.
LG-One / Synergy Hill & Knowlton, WPP. Account Manager University: Korea University Western Age: 32 [email protected]
Léa Lee
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Well, as a Korean I would say the working ambiance in Korea is very dynamic and also team oriented. So, if I’m ready to go for socializing with the colleagues, it will be fun and great experience working in Seoul. Favorite job perk: Sending me a long term vacation far far from work! A typical day at work is: Start a day with a cup of coffee, check all the emails and list up what to do today. Meet clients for lunch and make phone calls and emails to the partners in the afternoon. When time is allowed, get on the FB and check the online news and have meetings with my team before getting off the work. How you define success: Being satisfied by myself not only in work but in life itself by knowing how to fully enjoy my work and keep balance. The secret to my success was: Staying passionate about work and about life as well. How did you choose to work in Seoul? Since I’m a Korean, it happened naturally! If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be studying more abroad or floating around the world exploring unknown? First job ever: Gave piano lessons to high school students. I majored in music composition at college. Favorite place for dining: ‘Recipe’ in Hyojadong, near Kyungbokgung station. ‘Between’, ‘Kyotofu’, ‘Thai Garden’ in Itaewon ‘The Kitchen Salvatore Cuomo’ in Apgujeong ‘Bruce Lee’ in Yangjae What’s next after Seoul? Either moving to Singapore or San Francisco!
KMP Holdings Marketing Manager Arrived in Seoul: March 2008 University: UC Berkeley Western Age: 33 [email protected] Twitter: bigeyeslee
SeHee Lee
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Don't try to be a Korean. Play to the advantages of the fact that you are a foreigner. Favorite job perk: Paid attendance to networking events (like Wine Down Wednesdays) A typical day at work is: Wake up later in the morning after spending all night out at events. Work on my home computer then travel around Seoul meeting clients. Not much time spent at the office. How you define success: Happiness. Life is here to be enjoyed. The secret to my success was: Doing a lot of work for organizations for no money and hoping that it eventually pays off. How did you choose to work in Seoul? Ex-girlfriend made me come here instead of Beijing. I really loved Seoul, she didn't like it so much. Four years later and I am still here. (I think she is in London) If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Working in New Zealand for an Asian trade related company. First job ever: Working from the back of a milk truck delivering milk. A lot of running up hills and jumping on and off a moving truck. Favorite place for dining: Sin-seon Seolleung Tang. A nice chain restaurant with one of the best soups for when you are sick. What’s next after Seoul? Perhaps Australia or back to New Zealand for a while. However that could be a few years off.
The Liam Partners Sales Manager Arrived in Seoul: March 2008 University: Otago University Western Age: 26 [email protected]
Nick McHugh
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: ”Michael, learn to speak Korean!” I’ve applied this advice, studied hard, and now speak Korean at a conversational level. Because of that, I’ve met people I never would have before, and more importantly, been able effectively communicate with them. Favorite job perk: Traveling! On top of being Managing Director of FOCUSED PURSUIT, I’m also an author & consultant, as well as an International Table Tennis Umpire. Because of diverse profile, I’ve been able to visit more than twenty countries, and look forward to adding more to the list. A typical day at work is: One day I could be consulting someone about their career, the next day giving a talk about Chinese business culture, and the following day off to a table tennis tournament to umpire. How you define success: Happiness is success in itself. Every day, when I wake up, I’m excited to take on the world, make a difference in people’s lives, and learn something new. The secret to my success was: Taking advantage of those “In the Moment” opportunities. It’s at these special crossroads where my life took drastic turns for the good. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I came here on vacation two years ago and fell in love with the city immediately. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? It would be a toss-up between living in either Beijing, China or Dallas, Texas. First job ever: My first part-time job was as a baseball umpire at age 11. Favorite place for dining: I frequent ON THE BORDER at all three of their Seoul locations (Apgujeong, Sinchon, COEX). What’s next after Seoul? Who says I have to leave? I think it’s really funny (and frustrating) that some people naturally assume I will leave in the near future. Living “In the Moment” in Seoul is awesome, and I look forward to my future here in Korea.
FOCUSED PURSUIT Managing Director Arrived in Seoul: March 2010 University: Texas Wesleyan Western Age: 29 [email protected] Twitter: FOCUSEDPURSUIT
Mike Meier
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: “Don’t let married men take advantage of you. If they do, slap them in the face!” Favorite job perk: 5 months paid vacation. A typical day at work is: Helping to shape and change the lives of Korea’s future generation of leaders. How you define success: As a teacher, my “successes” come when my students truly believe in themselves, have the confidence to “succeed” in their own definition, and can admit that failure and mistakes are actually good, as they help you learn. The secret to my success is: Everyday I try to be the best and do the best for my students. I am constantly thinking: how can I be better? What can I change in my classes to make lessons more interesting/challenging for my students? I think the minute you think you have become a “success” you often lose sight of what is really important and you stop trying. Thus, to me “success” is a constant battle and it is really a journey not a destination. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I was in California and had everything someone would perceive as “The American Dream”: a nice apartment, a car, a great job, great family, friends. Yet something was missing: I was not being challenged enough and had become complacent. I had many Korean students and friends tell me that I should move to Seoul and that I would love it here. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be teaching in another country. First job ever: I spent my freshman year in high school working as a waitress in an Italian restaurant in Singapore. It was a great first job and taught me to not only really appreciate wait staff, but made me realize how challenging it was to juggle plates, trays, and be on your feet for 10 hours a day. Favorite place for dining: Anything home-cooked. What’s next after Seoul? It’s my dream in the next 5 years or so, to create a global leadership academy for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking as I have spent a ton of time volunteering and doing research on these important issues.
Yonsei University Professor Arrived in Seoul: March 2010 University: Harvard University Western Age: 33 [email protected]
Kyla Mitsunaga
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Keep things easy. Make things happen. Favorite job perk: My i-pad. A typical day at work is: From 10 am to 2 pm I'm in the office. I do a lot of different things, mostly related to brand management and customer relationships management. The most time-consuming activity is planning everything we do for the brand, and reporting everything to Hong Kong and London. In the afternoon I visit restaurants, bars, pubs, clubs and other places that matches with Peroni's style and sells beer. I usually finish around 9.00, however I often have to attend parties, various events, business meeting etc. and stay out until late at night. But that's the best part of the job. How you define success: I thing being successful is a temporary condition. Waking up in the morning full of energy and happy to start a new day, and going to bed at night satisfied with what you did and thankful for what happened during the day can be defined as being successful. It's a condition that always needs to be maintained and improved. The secret to my success was: Being always curious and willing to learn something new. Putting enthusiasm in what I do. Being able to risk for achieving what I want. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I came to Korea because of a Korean woman I met in China, who now became my wife. She's the biggest reason why I'm working in Seoul. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Most probably I'd be working in a import-export company in the North of China, or I'd be working as a musician in Venice. First job ever: As a pool attendant in a water park in Italy when I was 16 years-old. Favorite place for dining: "Esclusivo" restaurant in Sinsa-dong. www.esclusivo.co.kr What’s next after Seoul? I'd love to work in Hong Kong, or in France, or in a Latin American country.
SAB Miller Peroni Nastro Azzurro Brand Ambassador Arrived in Seoul: May 2007 University: Cà Foscari of Venice Western Age: 27 [email protected] Twitter: twitter,com/elalbe
Alberto Mondi
www.linkedseoul.org
Xeron Healthcare Corporation Assistant Manager Arrived in Seoul: March 2008 University: Stockholm School of Economics Western Age: 34 [email protected]
Modesta Naciute
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: “Please, just smile and don’t say what you think” Favorite job perk: Being the only blonde among 23 colleagues . A typical day at work is: Drinking R&B that 야쿠르트 아줌마 brings every morning, staying fixed to the screen for few hours reading, having an occasional meeting (all in Korean) on genetics & EMR or a presentation on newest body sensors for healthcare, going to lunch at exactly 11:30am , corresponding with European companies regarding joint R&D opportunities, going through Korean-English online dictionary in order to understand where my colleague is inviting me , standing up at 5:30pm (if we do not have a monthly 회식) and.. evening starts! How you define success: When you do what you love + you are good at it + what you do is needed and meaningful The secret to my success was:: Still looking How did you choose to work in Seoul? I originally came to study for Masters (scholarship at EWHA). It was a true 빨리빨리– from the moment I received “congratulations” email to start of semester . I knew little about South Korea, and even less – about Seoul and EWHA. Yet I decided better I try and regret rather than regret not trying. So I packed luggage to suffice for 1 month and came to Seoul. This “one month” extended into almost 4 years by now. Seoul truly sucked me in. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Being back in Europe, enjoying fiesta, siesta and manana… First job ever: Destination management (worked for Polish charter tour operator serving Polish guests in Mallorca, Spain) Favorite place for dining: Truly – tiny kitchen of my best friend in Seoul. If I have to impress my friends who come to visit me, I always take them for 삼겹살 at세마을 식당 in 신촌. What’s next after Seoul? A place with lots of sun, nice beaches, coffee culture, relaxed people, yet dynamic and filled with challenges. If you know of such – drop me an email, pls.
LG CNS Co Ltd. Sr Manger Arrived in Seoul: March 2006 University: De La Salle University Western Age: 35 [email protected]
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Know who you are, what you can do, why you are in Korea, and why you are with LG CNS. Bottom line being: I am an expat/foreign professional in Korea with unique set of competencies and expertise which may not be easily provided by others within the country/company. I can't and should not try to act, think, or be Korean. My real value is to be able to impart a different way of thinking...perhaps a better way of doing things...provide more global perspective.
Favorite job perk: Being able to travel in many parts of the world where I got to meet people of different nationalities, professional background, personal character, and culture-- and along the way learn things that I would not otherwise learn if I just stay in one country or in the four walls of my office.
A typical day at work is: It would start with checking my e-mails and meeting schedules for the day and then it would be work, work, and work with a couple of formal presentations and meetings thrown into the mix.
How you define success: Simply doing what you like, doing it well, and gaining a sense of fulfillment that you've made a difference.
The secret to my success was: Doing what I like, doing it well, and making sure that whatever I do, I do it because I am aiming to make a difference.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? I was part of the management team running LG CNS in the Philippines back in 2001. While being part of the company I was able to build really good friendship both from Philippine-based and HQ Korean colleagues. When it was time to move on, I was offered to instead join the HQ in Korea to support the global efforts of the company.
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be in the Philippines doing what I like, doing it well, and hopefully, making a difference.
First job ever: Selling home-made ice candies in front of our house., then as a Business Consultant for Andersen Consulting.
Favorite place for dining: I eat anything...I love eating...I love trying new dining places. But if I am to choose which my favorite place for is dining, it would be: in my kitchen, on my own dining table, dining with my family and loved ones.
What’s next after Seoul? Philippines...enjoying its natural beauties, taking pleasure from the basic luxuries of life that it offers, and doing what I like, doing it well, and making a difference.
Manny Palomo IV
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: If you can make it here you can make it anywhere… Favorite job perk: Getting opportunities to travel. A typical day at work is: Meeting clients and doing everything possible to exceed their expectations. How you define success: You can define it by the number of goals you reached. The secret to my success is: I celebrate every victory and learn from every loss. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I followed my instinct, moved here to look for a job and succeeded in that by being very creative. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be travelling around Korea…. And after probably going back to Ireland, where I worked before I came here. First job ever: At a Tour operator offering package holiday trips in Amsterdam. Favorite place for dining: The restaurant (Not the buffet restaurant) in the Namsan Tower. What’s next after Seoul? Only God can tell!
Allied Pickfords Korea Sales Manager Arrived in Seoul: September 2004 University: ROC Utrecht Western Age: 31 [email protected]
Aico Peek
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Anyone eager to work in Korea must understand the social, cultural, economic, and political environments in which Korean companies operate. Favorite job perk: Work from home option and opportunity to meet the customer directly. A typical day at work is: Just work, nothing more. How you define success: It is relative. The secret to my success was: Stick to your guns even if the going gets tough How did you choose to work in Seoul? Back then, none of friends knew about the city, leave alone the people, the cost of living, or the culture there. With little help from folks, I turned to the Internet as my only saving grace. Not surprisingly, every bit of information I garnered from the web, helped me enormously with my decision to relocate. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be working for a multinational company in India. First job ever: Information Developer. Favorite place for dining: Ganga Indian Restaurant. What’s next after Seoul? The world is my oyster.
Lionbridge Technologies Inc Solutions Architect Arrived in Seoul: March 2005 University: India Institute of Management Western Age: 32 [email protected] Twitter: rahulprabhakar
Rahul Prabhakar
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Network and meet new people, even if it’s for social. It’s not only important to build relationships, but also to maintain them. Favorite job perk: I work for an American company for an American client in Korea. Work hours is 8-5 and it’s pretty much like working in the US. I often hear my friends who work for Korean companies say how log they stay at the office, etc. So, I value my working conditions, plus the client is nice as well. A typical day at work is: Review emails, collet information/reports, analyze data, prepare briefings, do lots of powerpoint! How you define success: If you love what you do, then you are successful. The secret to my success was: I found something that I love doing. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I found this company online and applied, then a few weeks later they moved me here. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would still be in Seattle working for an insurance brokerage company. I enjoyed that job. Small company, long hours, but I had fun. Great people there and I miss them too. First job ever: At the time it was my dream job! In high school I was a waiter for Pizza Hut! Favorite place for dining: Kitchen Salvatore – the Summerset location. Goo Steak in Sinsa too! What’s next after Seoul? I would like to continue living abroad, thinking UK because of all the cool concerts I could go to!
SMITH/Associates Country Manager, Analyst Arrived in Seoul: March 2008 University: University of Maryland Western Age: 37 [email protected] Twitter: devinrupert
Devin Rupert
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Great business is nothing without people, so get harmony with them and make them to believe in you Favorite job perk: At ERM, we always get fresh fruit instead of snacks which has been considered for employee’s health. A typical day at work is: Staying, and working at the office until 9 to 10Pm these days, and having dinner with colleagues. How you define success: Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. The secret to my success was: I haven’t reached success yet, but I would like to say I am pretty much enjoying my job and going for success now. Please give me a chance to tell the secret in advance. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I was planning to go to England for studying but when I knew about my company, it just made me to stay in Seoul, Korea. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be in England or Scotland studying Petroleum engineering or in the Middle East studying Arabic. First job ever: Native speaker recruiting manager. Before getting into a real work I really enjoyed and helped my foreign friends. Favorite place for dining: Samchunggak which serves a traditional Korean food course. The place is located in Mt Bukak and the restaurant is in a beautiful traditional Korean house. What’s next after Seoul? I would like to work in Hong Kong or America which I have never been.
ERM Consultant University: Hanyang University Western Age: 30 [email protected]
Jaena Ryu
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Be polite and obedient, but let your boss know that overtime work must be paid. Favorite job perk: Relative freedom compare to regular Korean company. A typical day at work is: Emails, research, phone calls, meetings. How you define success: Create something that would be used or observed (or both) and affect people’s life, even after you are gone. The secret to my success was: Hard work, luck, and just being myself. How did you choose to work in Seoul? First I came to study at graduate school at Seoul National University and then worked for Seven Resources, a private investment firm for two years, then Samsung recruited me. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Perhaps I would have been already married and have at least one kid. First job ever: In high school during summer vacation it was mandatory for students to go to the school’s potato field and take care of your own area that you were assigned to. I guess, that was the first job I got paid for. Favorite place for dining: Tasting room, Kitchen Salvatore, Nolita, 시골집 (near Naksondae st), On the border, Scarlett, Baba India, Zen, 2900 Food, Oktoberfest, Pattaya and Gran Gusto! What’s next after Seoul? Nothing is planned yet, but I’d like to try NYC, Singapore, London, Milano.
Samsung Engineering Analyst Arrived in Seoul: September 2007 University: Novosibirsk State Univ Western Age: 27 [email protected]
Olga Sadaeva
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Network! Network some more! be prepared for long hours.
Favorite job perk: Coffee...the good stuff, not your freeze dried coffee mix...proper barista quality.
A typical day at work is: Right now, wake up early, laptop on... stop to eat when I remember, go to sleep. repeat! Building a good network and working on business plans which hopefully will be seed ready by summer. One of the other key things I have to do in the work day is to find a role in Seoul as the move from London was all very quick, so there is a lot of meeting HR professionals and such like.
How you define success: Waking up and doing what you enjoy...rather than working.
The secret to my success was: One thing I will say... avoid overly negative people as there is a point where someone's constant critiquing actually starts to make you think that what you are doing is not worthwhile. prove them wrong. Some people also say there actually aren't any secrets to success, there are just people who let other things get in the way of their success.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? A series of fortunate experiences. My wife was tired of London, I was enthused about Seoul. Our son likes kimchi... what better reason is there to throw the towel in on a corporate job, pack the house, sell the car and move to Seoul.
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Still be commuting in London and thinking...Why is the weather so rubbish here in the UK?
First job ever: I lied to a company and told them I was 18 (I was 14 almost 15) and went door to door for a summer, selling discount cards for ‘Sunshine Trading Company'.
Favorite place for dining in Seoul: I can't remember the name but its a pork bbq restaurant just on the North side of the river near Ttukseom station or Ttukseom Resort. The guy who runs it is an ex Olympic backstroke swimmer.
What’s next after Seoul? There is a definite plan to spend 5 years based in Seoul, whether that transpires to other things out in Asia I would hope so. But the way I view it is - when in Seoul I am one flight back to UK, one flight to NZ. Happy to stick in the middle for a little while.
Newscorp Finance Projects Manager Arrived in Seoul: February 2001 University: Cass Business School Western Age: 34 [email protected] Twitter: campbellj_scott
Campbell Scott
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: You can never become a Korean- so don't try. Be polite, but keep your identity. Favorite job perk: I can do whatever I want within reason; developing new curriculums A typical day at work is: Not so typical. I'm "on" from morning to evening- finishing around 10 or 11 typically. I go to the office usually around 11 am, have lunch with a colleague and then teach a class or two and have coffee with another colleague, read, computer work another class and then home! How you define success: Being able to do what you want, when you want. The secret to my success was: I don't know if I'd say I am so successful, I'm always looking to improve and better myself, but these days I'm trying to appreciate more what I have, and realize just what I have and extend myself to others more. I'd say the secret to my success was a combination of desire and anxiety... feeling I never really had enough and needed to be doing more always. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I think Seoul chose me! I put the conditions I wanted in a job on a jobsite, and they contacted me with those conditions. From there I "worked my way up the ladder" with a lot of luck and good timing! I'm always humbled by the fact there are so many amazing people out there that could do what I'm doing at any time. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I'd be thinking of how to start my own business, or searching for interesting NGOs to work for- especially in the environmental field. First job ever: Babysitting! Madame Monroe's two children from Grade 9 French History class. Why she picked me I don't know- I was afraid the whole time I'd fall asleep in front of the TV with the kids! Favorite place for dining: Il Parco, in Nowon-gu----but I've already spent a ton of money there so am looking for new places these days. What’s next after Seoul? For now, I'm here. Possibly a move back to Canada, or??
Induk Universiy Tourism Professor Arrived in Seoul: August 1996 University: Laurentian Western Age: 39 [email protected]
Nicole Shipton
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Dedication to work is important but so is networking! Favorite job perk: That I don't have any bureaucracy or office politics to deal with, that means a lot to me . A typical day at work is: I like the fact that at the moment everyday is different, there are some reports to be checked on a daily basis but that's a small proportion. Every deal or project is different, so it feels new and keeps me on my toes. How you define success: I would say if you're satisfied with what you do and where you're at , you’re successful. The secret to my success was: Be prepared for what might be required and solve problems by looking at it from many perspectives. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I work for a family business in construction and real estate development and I got a call one day from my parents to come and help them out. I knew I'd be working with them one day but the call came sooner than I thought. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I'd be working in either NY or London, I prefer the cosmopolitan, dynamic cities than quiet ones. First job ever: Private banking for a boutique financial company where remuneration was 100% commission (no salary). That was an interesting way to start a career in finance Favorite place for dining: Whole crab pasta at Zino Francescatti (Samsung-dong), brunch at Queens Park (Sinsa-dong), lambchops at Blooming Garden (Sinsa-dong), Thai food at Itaewon and Indian food at Ganga. What’s next after Seoul? I have no plans to leave Seoul at this stage but if I were to leave it'd be for Sydney.
Metrogold General Manager Arrived in Seoul: April 2008 University: University of Oxford Western Age: 35 [email protected]
Michael Sohn
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Always trust in the local knowledge of your friends, colleagues and business partners. Favorite job perk: Blackmore's Campus visits to Australia. Its an amazing place to work and I am quite envious of my colleagues, particularly as they are less than 5 minutes drive from some of Australia's most beautiful coastlines. That, and of course the vitamins! A typical day at work is: Other than the usual barrage of email, phone and texts, each day comes with its own unique challenges and opportunities. A typical day for me involves identifying and actioning those opportunities while managing any and all challenges that come along. How you define success: Success to me is that internal feeling of gratification, fulfillment and elation when the decisions you make as well as the hard-work and discipline you put in culminate in a positive result beyond your expectations. The secret to my success was: Naturally, hard work and an open mind are key factors to success when working in any international environment. However I firmly believe in the role of networks and networking as critical in providing you with opportunities to reach your goals. How did you choose to work in Seoul? A Korean Government Scholarship lead me to commit to three years in Korea. It was this time that gave me the chance develop and locate opportunities in Seoul. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Most probably working through a Phd. First job ever: Pharmaceutical delivery boy from 13 years of age. Favorite place for dining: Bistecca What’s next after Seoul? For now, my focus is on making Blackmores a great success in Korea. Beyond that, will have to wait and see!
Blackmores Country Manager Arrived in Seoul: July 2007 University: Monash University Western Age: 31 [email protected]
Scott Walker
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Business is about experiences. It’s all about smoke and mirrors. Favorite job perk: I drink very good wine all the time! Along with drinking great wine another perk of the job is great food. A typical day at work is: Emails during breakfast – meeting with staff early morning – Calls to New Zealand before lunch (due to time difference) - Meetings with Restaurants – Wine tastings in the evening. How you define success: Success is an evolving creature that changes over time. Our priorities and what we would call success changes as we do. The secret to my success was: Long hours, and learning from my mistakes. Some people don’t make the same mistakes, because they don’t try. How did you choose to work in Seoul? By accident. I originally came for just one year. Then saw an opportunity in the market and meet a partner that shared the same vision. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? In another market doing the same thing First job ever: I had many jobs when I was young. I was always looking at ways to make money. Mowed lawns, dug gardens, cut wood, sold pinecones, skinned possums, delivered newspapers. Favorite place for dining: Difficult one to answer, as I eat out 99% of the time due to work. What’s next after Seoul?: Family is important, so I am trying to spend more time in New Zealand. I will also be looking at opportunities in other Asian markets.
TiwiTrade President Arrived in Seoul: April 2007 University: Massey University Western Age: 27 [email protected]
www.linkedseoul.org
Simon Walsh
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: If a Korean starts calling you brother, run. Favorite job perk: Free Aloe juice. A typical day at work is: It starts with coffee and a bagel, emails, meetings, review files, Facebook, more meetings, lunch, check sports news websites, more reviewing files and more meetings. How you define success: Happiness. If you love what you do, then you’re successful. The secret to my success was: Still got a ways to go. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I threw a dart at a world map and it landed on Pyongyang. I chose Seoul because it seemed close enough. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Waiting tables at a dim sum joint in Chinatown. First job ever: Delivering pamphlets after school helped me to earn a bit of pocket money. It also helped me to appreciate nowadays, the effort it takes to get those fried chicken and Chinese food flyers accumulating on my door. Favorite place for dining: Hell’s Pizza, Apgu. A great imported franchise from NZ. Try the Envy Pizza (Salami, Triple Smoked Champagne Ham, Onions, Mushrooms, Pineapple, Bacon). What’s next after Seoul? Hidden beach in Thailand (not the one Leonardo Dicaprio made famous).
APEX LLC Sr. Foreign Attorney / Partner Arrived in Seoul: March 2008 University: Victoria University of Wellington Western Age: 36 [email protected] Twitter: #kentbags
Kent Wong
www.linkedseoul.org
Honeywell System Sales Engineer Arrived in Seoul: April 2007 University: University of Toronto Western Age: 30 [email protected] Twitter: glenyi
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Always have business cards on hand and follow-up with people you meet at social events. That and watch out for soju at company dinners. Favorite job perk: Probably not the most fun perk for many, but I enjoy all the internal learning resources available. There’s always something new to learn or discover. A typical day at work is: I study security and/or airport solutions and prepare proposals or training materials for the sales team. I usually have a meeting with my team members or with sales at one point to make sure things are on track. How you define success: Doing something you love and believe in, and hopefully doing it well. The secret to my success was: I’ve had a little luck finding work in Korea, but for me it was keeping a good network of people around and actively going out looking for opportunities. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I came to Korea to visit family, see the country and learn some Korean. I just happened to get a job at a Korean military company through a family connection and my 1 month visit suddenly turned into a 4 year stay. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would probably be back in Toronto doing some sort of programming work. Coming to Korea was really what gave me the opportunity to get into pre-sales and I found that I enjoy it much more. First job ever: Bicycle mechanic! My parents owned a bicycle shop when I was in high school so I learned to fix bikes and I worked there in the summers. It was fun and rewarding, but I basically had to work for free! Favorite place for dining: I prefer to try new places but one of the best buffets I’ve ever had was at the Imperial Palace Hotel. I also love those all you can eat Tuna places found all over Seoul! What’s next after Seoul? Seoul is an amazing city, but I’ve thought of working in other big Asian cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong or Shanghai. I definitely see myself going back to Toronto at one point though.
Glen Yi
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: Get in the circle. Do not be outsider. Be clear about work, but also respect Korean's working culture. Be aware of the possibility of changes even at the last minute - things can change all the time.
Favorite job perk: My previous position allowed me not only to enjoy free happy hours but also, more importantly, to meet influential business and political leaders in and outside Korea.
A typical day at work is: Now it's different, but, meetings after meetings after meetings and then continue to work after office hours!!!!
How you define success: Success isn't something that can be measured only by how much money, reputation, or power you possess. It's rather a whole package with fulfillment and contribution to make this world better. If you enjoy what you do in everyday life without reservation and if you add value and make a difference, I'd say that is success!
The secret to my success was: To be very honest, I'm still finding it. But so far, I'm trying to be healthy (both physically and mentally), to be able to share with others, to develop myself continuously, and to accept the things I can't control.
How did you choose to work in Seoul? After studying in Boston and working in Washington DC, I felt I wanted to be closer to my family, especially my mom. Also, I wanted to work for the government sector which wasn't really plausible as I am not a US citizen - why I moved back to Korea.
If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? Let me use this question as an opportunity to introduce my recent accomplishment. I have recently finished my solo world travel which was one of my lifetime dreams. I have traveled 19 countries for a year (mainly in Latin America, Africa, and Europe) and met many treasured friends along the way.
First job ever: My first job ever was a tour guide in Fiji when I was 19 while at college. Of course, after college, I worked full time at Samsung for six years as a PJT manager and HR assistant manager.
Favorite place for dining: Barlin at Somerset Palace in Anguk-dong. I love its traditional German cuisine, beautiful settings, and good vibe.
What’s next after Seoul? I'm currently applying for PhD programs in the US and UK and opportunities for the professional transition in the US at the same time. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!!
Currently between jobs Arrived in Seoul: August 2001 University: Harvard University Western Age: 34 [email protected]
Katherine Yoon
www.linkedseoul.org
Best business advice you received for working in Seoul: My uncle told me before I came here that if someone bumps you in the street just bump them back and keep going. I apply this to business as well. Favorite job perk: Half of my Korean language school tuition was picked up by my company. A typical day at work is: My day always starts with the Mixed Martial Arts ("MMA") section on ESPN. From there I go through emails and do other typical office work-related functions. How you define success: Having the loudest and last laugh. The secret to my success was: A combination of good fortune and the ability to surround myself with the right people. How did you choose to work in Seoul? I was working in Bangkok and due to the Korean Wave I saw dramas such as "Punch" and game shows like "X-men" and "Love Letter" . I realized then that I should go to Korea, learn Korean, and make my Korean mother proud. If you were not working in Seoul, what would you be doing? I would be in some other city watching K-Pop and Korean dramas longing for the opportunity to work in Seoul First job ever: I worked as a caddy on a few golf courses in New Jersey. Favorite place for dining: AJNA in Garasukil. The "crazy" chicken dish is out-of-this world. Everyone I take there says that "this is the most amazing chicken I have ever had with a true renaissance man." What’s next after Seoul? I have no plans to leave Seoul as I feel now is a great time to witness history in the making. The natural charm of the city combined with the relentless work ethic of Korean people will undoubtedly lead to Korea's positioning as a global leader in the near future.
Samil PricewaterhouseCoopersManager
Arrived in Seoul: November 2008 University: Rutgers School of Law-Camden Western Age: 35 Email: [email protected]
Eric Zeller
www.linkedseoul.org
