Steve Ahn
About Steve Ahn
Steve Ahn is a professor and director at KAIST, where he leads the Institute for Startup KAIST and K-School, focusing on entrepreneurship and innovation. He has a diverse educational background and extensive global experience, having worked in various countries and industries.
Current Role at KAIST
Steve Ahn serves as a Professor and Director of the Institute for Startup KAIST and K-School at KAIST, a position he has held since 2019. His work focuses on fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, aiming to support startups and promote a culture of business development within the academic environment. In addition to his role as Director, he has been a Professor of K-School and Director of the Division of Global Promotion at the Institute for Startup KAIST since 2014, contributing to the institution's mission of advancing education and research in entrepreneurship.
Previous Experience
Steve Ahn has a diverse professional background. He worked at National Semiconductor as Research Staff for one year in Santa Clara, California, from 1988 to 1989. He then served as Executive Director at Samsung for eight years in Kiheung, Korea, from 1992 to 2000. Following this, he founded Leadis Technology, where he served as CEO from 2000 to 2006 in Santa Clara, California. His extensive experience spans various roles in technology and management, contributing to his expertise in startup development.
Educational Background
Steve Ahn has a comprehensive educational background in engineering and business. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Seoul National University from 1974 to 1978. He then pursued a Master’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology from 1978 to 1980. Ahn continued his studies at Stanford University, where he achieved a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from 1983 to 1988, and also obtained a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1988. Additionally, he completed an EMBA at Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management and INSEAD from 2007 to 2009.
Global Experience and Language Proficiency
Steve Ahn has extensive global experience, having lived and worked in multiple countries, including the United States, Japan, China, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. This international exposure enhances his ability to engage with diverse communities and understand various market dynamics. He is fluent in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, and Korean, which further supports his interactions in global contexts and contributes to his effectiveness in fostering international collaborations.
Achievements in Furniture Making
In addition to his academic and professional pursuits, Steve Ahn is recognized for his craftsmanship in furniture making. He was named Student of the Year at the Chippendale School of Furniture in Scotland in 2013. This achievement highlights his skills and dedication to craftsmanship, showcasing a unique aspect of his diverse interests and talents.