Yong Kim
About Yong Kim
I grew up in South Korea. When I was 12, I had an opportunity to spend one month in the U.S. I fell in love with America, the land of the free, the land of opportunities. As soon as I came back from that trip, I begged my parents to send me to the U.S. to pursue American Dream. They said no. However, I didn't give up on my dream. After persistently asking them for 3 years, my parents finally gave in. So, I immigrated to the U.S. alone at the age of 15. This was before the days of the internet. Living alone in a foreign country, not knowing anyone and not speaking English, was extremely difficult. However, I had incredible learning opportunities, and every challenge helped shape who I am today: - In college and graduate school, I learned how to think and solve difficult problems. - Throughout my professional career, I have learned to listen to others (especially those who I do not agree with), step up in difficult situations, and make a real difference. - At home, I am learning to stay humble, be thankful for what I have, and just be happy. I am learning these lessons from my wife and three daughters who are my life-long teachers. I enjoy making my three daughters laugh with silly voices with my Korean accent. I am passionate about equality for women/minorities, leadership, and entrepreneurship. I love finishing a meal with sweet things. I am addicted to speed and drawn to anything that moves fast. I believe that life without music is boring. I embrace being an introvert.