1. Tell us about your career journey. When you look back, what moments most changed the course of your career?
I began as what many would see as an ordinary professional, working at a nonprofit foundation supporting startups in a small city in Korea. About three years ago, things started to shift when I wrote my first short article. That single step eventually led me to publish a book, be selected as one of the Top Contributors for a tech media outlet in Singapore, and be recognized as a LinkedIn influencer in Korea, with interviews and features in leading Korean media.
One moment especially showed me how far this journey had gone. I once asked a journalist why she chose to interview me instead of others. She told me that when she reached out to the media team at LinkedIn US to ask for a recommendation for a Korean LinkedIn influencer, they came back with only one name — mine.
The real turning point came when I stopped focusing only on telling my own story and started paying close attention to how startups actually work and how people behave on social media—who gets attention, why certain messages spread, and how influence is built over time. Those observations now shape the way I write and interview global leaders. Going forward, I want to share more of these insights on business, influence, and global leadership so that others can navigate their own journeys with more clarity.
2. What motivated you to become a Founding Member of the WomenTech Network?
I’ve always grown through learning from global leaders, especially women who bring diverse experiences and perspectives. I’m excited to hear their real stories—what they’ve struggled with, what changed their path, and what they’re working toward next. I believe these conversations will broaden my perspective beyond my usual environment in Korea.
Professionally, I see WomenTech Network as a platform where my work—supporting startups, writing, and interviewing global leaders—can connect with a wider network of women shaping the future of tech and innovation. For now, I want to listen, learn, and slowly find natural ways to contribute. It’s not just a new line on my profile; it’s a community I hope to grow with over time.
3. Who were the mentors or role models that shaped your path, and in what ways did they leave a mark?
I wouldn’t say I had one single “hero” mentor. My path has been shaped more by a series of leaders I’ve met, watched, and learned from over time.
Some taught me how to make clear and courageous decisions, even when the outcome wasn’t guaranteed. Others showed me how to pursue ambitious goals while still treating people with genuine respect. And there were leaders who modeled what it looks like to stand confidently on a global stage without losing their authenticity.
The common thread among all of them was this: they knew where they were going, and their actions consistently matched their words. That combination of direction and integrity became a reference point for how I want to lead—and for the kind of impact I hope to create through my work, writing, and interviews.
4. What does being part of the WomenTech Network mean to you personally and professionally?
Even though I’m new to this community, I’m excited to learn from women across different countries and disciplines and to hear their real stories—their challenges, turning points, and ambitions. I believe these experiences will continue to expand my perspective beyond my familiar surroundings in Korea.
Professionally, I see it as a place where my work—supporting startups, writing, and interviewing global leaders—can connect with a wider network of women shaping the future of tech and innovation. For now, I simply want to listen, learn, and gradually find natural ways to contribute. It’s not just a new line on my profile; it’s a community I hope to grow with over time.
5. If you could sit down with your younger self, what single piece of advice would you give her?
“The connections you build will eventually lead you to a much bigger stage. Don’t be afraid—keep expanding.”
When I was younger, I thought my ability to connect with people was just a personality trait. Now I know it is the core of my career and the greatest value I can offer to the world.
A Place to Grow, Be Seen, and Belong
Stories like this remind us that growth doesn’t happen by chance — it happens when we choose to show up, stay curious, and surround ourselves with people who challenge us to think bigger.
Some journeys unfold quietly. Others begin with a decision to no longer do it alone. If you’re seeking that next step — a way to grow, give back, and be seen — Consider becoming a Founding Member.