South Korea is a powerhouse of innovation, home to forward-thinking leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers shaping industries and driving transformation. As one of the most technologically advanced nations in the world, it has cemented itself as a global innovation hub, excelling in fields like AI, IT, green energy, and biotechnology. The country’s startup ecosystem is thriving, fueled by strong government support, venture capital investment, and a culture that embraces entrepreneurship. From tech pioneers and policymakers to marketing strategists and startup accelerators, South Korean professionals are making a global impact, setting new benchmarks for excellence.
In this piece, we highlight South Korea’s Top 10 Influential LinkedIn Voices—trailblazers who are redefining their industries, sparking innovation, and building communities that foster growth. These thought leaders are revolutionizing traditional sectors, tackling global challenges with sustainable solutions, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, an investor scouting emerging markets, or simply someone eager to stay ahead of the curve, these influential figures offer valuable insights, practical lessons, and fresh perspectives to help you navigate today’s fast-changing business world.
- TaeYong Kim (김태용)
TaeYong Kim, CEO of eo Studio, is at the helm of a global media company that empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs through storytelling and innovation. Under his leadership, eo Studio brings transformative stories to a wider audience while providing access to the tools and resources needed for innovation. The company’s initiatives range from producing high-quality videos featuring top entrepreneurs to hosting global events that build strong communities. Additionally, through EO School, it offers educational programs designed to support and equip founders with the knowledge they need to succeed.
- Chaerin (Lynn) Lee (이채린)
Chaerin Lee, Founder and CEO of CLASSUM, is reshaping the way people learn through her innovative, communication-driven platform. Her impact has earned her a spot on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia, recognizing her as a trailblazer in education technology. Passionate about fostering collaboration and lifelong learning, she leads CLASSUM in transforming how organizations communicate—creating an environment where teams can thrive through knowledge sharing and meaningful engagement.
- Soojung Shin (신수정)
Soojung Shin is a visionary CEO and transformational leader with a strong track record of driving business growth and innovation. An expert in B2B and global business, she led KT’s Enterprise Division to remarkable success, boosting sales from $4 billion to $5 billion in just three years. Before that, she played a key role in shaping the information security industry by growing SK Infosec (now SK Shielders) from a $40 million business to a $200 million powerhouse. With a background in IT consulting, entrepreneurship, and leadership, Soojung is passionate about fostering growth, building meaningful connections, and making a global impact.
- Seulki Kang (강슬기)
Seulki Kang is a marketing expert who blends data-driven insights with compelling storytelling. With experience at top global agencies like Ogilvy and Leo Burnett, she specializes in media planning, performance analysis, and AI-powered marketing strategies. As a Marketing Data Analyst at Focusmedia, she develops innovative measurement methodologies and promotes data-driven decision-making across various advertising platforms. Fluent in both Korean and English, Seulki is passionate about crafting actionable strategies that strengthen brand positioning and optimize marketing performance.
- Sanghee Lee (이상희)
Sanghee Lee, General Manager of AI Business at Sendbird, is at the forefront of redefining digital communication. Leading AI innovation across the Asia-Pacific region, she helps shape the future of how businesses connect with their customers. With Sendbird’s API platform powering over 7 billion messages each month, companies like Hinge and Paytm rely on its technology to foster deeper engagement. Under Sanghee’s leadership, Sendbird isn’t just enhancing conversations—it’s building stronger, more meaningful connections in an increasingly digital world.
- JP Lee (이재피)
JP Lee, CEO and Managing Partner at SBVA (formerly SoftBank Ventures Asia), has made it his mission to back the dreamers and underdogs with bold, world-changing visions. Since 2000, SBVA has been a catalyst for innovation, championing entrepreneurs who dare to disrupt. With JP at the helm, the firm is more committed than ever to empowering startups that are pushing the boundaries of technology and sparking societal transformation. His leadership ensures that SBVA remains a beacon for those whose ideas have the power to change the world.
- Dongmi (Sarah) Choi (최동미(사라))
Dongmi Choi is a trailblazing startup accelerator and one of Korea’s top LinkedIn influencers. Awarded the 2024 Global Women of Influence Award, Dongmi brings over 8 years of expertise in shaping Korea’s thriving startup ecosystem. Specializing in helping early-stage startups expand globally and seize investment opportunities, she’s known for her creative approach to fostering innovation. As “Dongmicus,” her engaging content—especially a popular YouTube series—shines a spotlight on Korea’s vibrant entrepreneurial scene, offering insights and inspiration to entrepreneurs around the world.
- Kye Hyun Kyung (계현경)
Kye Hyun Kyung, Head of Samsung’s Future Business Division and the Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology (SAIT), is a forward-thinking leader driving the next wave of technological breakthroughs. With three decades of experience in the semiconductor industry, Kye has been at the heart of numerous innovations. His dedication to AI and groundbreaking research ensures that Samsung continues to lead the charge in global technological advancement, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for the future.
- Jungwook Lim (임정욱)
Jungwook Lim, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups in South Korea, is a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship and innovation. With a diverse background that includes roles as a venture capitalist, Silicon Valley executive, journalist, startup leader, and government official, Jungwook brings a wealth of experience to his mission. He’s dedicated to driving Korea’s tech startups to global recognition, using his expertise and leadership to help elevate the nation’s entrepreneurial landscape on the world stage.
- Juhee Park (박주희)
Juhee Park, a dynamic project manager at OYA, is a true global citizen whose decade-long professional journey through Singapore and Canada has enriched her with a vast array of experiences. Returning to Korea, she brings a wealth of knowledge across multiple fields—sales, HR, marketing, and logistics—woven together by her unique “multipotentiality” approach to career development. Juhee thrives on the belief that one’s career can be as multifaceted as their interests, always venturing into new horizons with passion and curiosity. Through her compelling storytelling and insatiable drive to learn, she encourages others to embrace the joy of navigating diverse paths, transforming uncertainty into opportunity and purpose.
South Korea’s Trailblazers Shaping a Brighter Tomorrow
Voices of Inspiration and Innovation” highlights the Top 10 Leaders in South Korea who are transforming industries, from communication to entrepreneurship and research. These figures are not only excelling in their fields but also inspiring others to think bigger, aim higher, and create impactful change. Following their journeys provides valuable insights and opportunities for both aspiring professionals and experienced leaders, helping foster growth and innovation. Their stories, marked by vision and resilience, transcend borders and offer a roadmap to success and transformation.
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