“All Aboard, CHOO CHOO!”… 19th Cohort Startups Embark on Their Entrepreneurial Journey in Earnest  The orientation for the 19th cohort of CHOO CHOO's newly admitted resident startups was held on Tuesday, July 1, at Room 201 “The Stage” in the KUBS Main Building. Nine startup teams attended the session to introduce themselves and receive guidance on life at the Startup Station.  The newly admitted teams include △Mindful Labs, an AI-powered service addressing mental health issues △Tart, a data-driven AI all-in-one fractional investment platform △Thermit, an AI-based promotional page creation service △Eduforce, an AI platform for personalized lecture content and automated class delivery △Socially, a local community-based platform for social engagement △Franchat, an anonymous random chat service for connecting with acquaintances △During, a premium self-care brand targeting menopausal women △GAON, a platform for MRV (Monitoring, Reporting, Verification) of greenhouse gas reduction activities. These startups span a broad spectrum of industries, from technology to lifestyle.  The event began with a welcome address by Joon Ho Hwang, Director of the Startup Institute. Director Hwang offered words of encouragement, saying, “You must have gone through many challenges and hardships to get to this point, and I commend you for making it through.” He continued, “Since taking office as Director in March, it’s especially meaningful for me to meet our resident teams in person for the first time.” He then introduced key programs operated by the Startup Institute, including Entrepreneurship Academy, featuring lectures from CEOs and experts, Startup Express, a program that selects excellent startups and provides residency opportunities, Startup Essentials, practical entrepreneurship education for resident startups, and CHOO CHOO Day, a pitch program designed to help teams attract follow-up investment. During the summer break, the resident teams will take part in the Startup Essentials program.  Next, Young Kyung Kim, Head of the Iljin Startup Support Center, explained the purpose and structure of the mentoring program for resident teams. Using semiconductor circuits as an analogy, he emphasized, “Just as a slight deviation in current flow can cause a system-wide failure, various elements in business—such as identifying target customers and attracting investors—must function in an organically connected way.” He continued, “While I may not be an expert in every field, mentoring is fundamentally about identifying the networks you need and helping you make those connections.” Kim noted that mentoring at Startup Station is not merely feedback-oriented, but rather focused on building relationships. The program consists of bimonthly ‘Station Meetings’ and flexible one-on-one ‘On-Demand Mentoring’ sessions. He encouraged students, saying, “Feel free to stop by even if you don’t have a specific agenda,” and highlighted the importance of communication by adding, “Being a good listener is key to enabling meaningful dialogue and discussion.”  Following this, representatives from the resident startups took turns introducing their teams and sharing their thoughts on joining the program. Each expressed a strong commitment to making the most of their time during the residency and voiced a shared desire to collaborate and grow together.  After the introductions, staff member Chae Rin Kim provided a detailed overview of office space usage, including procedures for issuing access cards, reserving meeting rooms, and general workspace guidelines. She also explained the registration process for the monthly anonymous peer evaluation system and outlined the terms of residency. The standard residency period is six months, with the possibility of extension to up to one year following a performance-based review. The highest-performing team may remain for up to 18 months, while underperforming teams may be asked to vacate the space after just three months.  The final part of the orientation was the allocation of team workspaces. Five teams that received awards at the 2025 Summer Startup Competition were given priority in selecting their seats, while the remaining teams were assigned seats through a random draw. Team members reviewed the seating chart and selected their spaces before leaving the orientation venue for a casual lunch meeting. Following the meal, onboarding interviews for each team were held in a pre-scheduled order, marking the conclusion of the orientation program.  Through this orientation, the 19th cohort of CHOO CHOO resident startups has officially embarked on its entrepreneurial journey. With upcoming educational programs, mentoring sessions, and diverse networking opportunities, each team is now well-positioned to build a strong foundation for future growth. 

Celebrating a Semester of Hard Work – Korea MBA End-of-Semester Gathering Filled with Laughter  Korea University Business School’s Korea MBA program held its end-of-semester gathering and celebratory dinner for the first semester of the 2025 academic year on Friday, June 20, at Ahn Young-Il Hall in the LG-POSCO  Hall.  The event was organized to celebrate the end of the semester, strengthen the sense of community among current students, and provide an opportunity for new students to share their thoughts and challenges from their first months in the program. Approximately 120 Korea MBA students attended the event, exchanging stories and reflections in a warm and memorable atmosphere.  A special highlight of the evening was the wine provided with the support and encouragement of the Dean, which contributed to the warm and festive atmosphere of the event. Students exchanged words of appreciation and support for one another’s efforts throughout the semester, reaffirming their motivation and commitment to their future studies and activities.  The 107th Korea MBA Student Council, which organized the event, stated,  “We hope this gathering served as a meaningful opportunity for communication and connection among classmates. Moving forward, we will continue to offer a variety of programs that support the growth and collaboration of all members of the MBA community.”  Korea University Business School will continue to promote a student-centered approach by fostering a sustainable networking culture and providing an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can grow and thrive together.   

Bridging Academia and Industry: 2025 Capstone Seminar Held at KUBS  On Friday, July 4, Korea University Business School held the 2025 Capstone Project Topic Seminar at Sudang CLC Lab 2 (Room 328C), LG-POSCO Hall. Hosted by the Center for Digital Transformation & Business (CDTB), the seminar featured the participation of Hyundai Motor Securities, which proposed project topics based on real-world data and collaborated with students to refine and develop the ideas.  Hyundai Motor Securities proposed a project that enables students to apply their analytical and strategic planning skills using qualitative data—such as individual behavioral traits—highly valued in the finance and investment sectors. The students will continue to develop the project in teams through ongoing collaboration with the company.  Earlier in June, a series of topic seminars were held in collaboration with leading companies from a range of industries, including LG Household & Health Care, PwC, LG CNS, Hyundai Department Store, Hyundai Home Shopping, and Hyundai Motor Company. Each session featured in-depth Q&A discussions on the background of the projects, approaches to data utilization, and analytical frameworks, helping students gain a deeper understanding.  Through its Capstone Project program, Korea University Business School aims to cultivate practice-oriented talent by providing hands-on learning experiences that address real-world industry challenges through data-driven analysis and solutions. 

A Stepping Stone to the Real World: 2025 Capstone Project Topic Seminar Held      The 2025 Capstone Project Topic Seminar was held over three days—Monday, June 9; Wednesday, June 11; and Friday, June 13—at Sudang CLC Lab 2 (Room 328C), LG-POSCO Hall.  Co-hosted by the Center for Digital Transformation & Business (CDTB) and Business Analytics (BA) at Korea University Business School, the seminar featured participation from major companies across various industries, who proposed project topics focused on digital transformation and data-driven challenges.      Participating companies included LG Household & Health Care, PwC, LG CNS, Hyundai Department Store, Hyundai Home Shopping, and Hyundai Motor Company. Each company presented project topics to students based on real-world challenges and datasets drawn from their operations. Through this initiative, students were able to gain hands-on experience tackling practical issues, while participating companies had the opportunity to generate fresh ideas through collaboration with the university.      Following each presentation, students participated in open Q&A sessions, posing a wide range of questions on topics such as data acquisition methods, analysis techniques, and the scope of the proposed themes. Corporate representatives responded thoughtfully, helping students better understand the direction and feasibility of the proposed projects. Afterward, students will choose a topic of interest from among the company proposals, continue communicating with the respective corporate mentors, and further refine their projects to produce final deliverables.      The seminar served as a meaningful platform for collaboration between industry and academia, aiming to foster future talent while addressing real-world challenges.   

The Power Behind 1.2 Million Subscribers: Geekble CEO Chanhoo Park's Content Strategy      The “2025 Spring Semester Entrepreneurship Academy: Lecture Series 5,” hosted by the Startup Research Institute at Korea University Business School, was held on Tuesday, June 10 in Room B307 (Kolon Lecture Hall), Hyundai Motor Hall. The special lecture featured Chanhoo Park, co-founder and CEO of the maker-based content startup Geekble, who delivered a talk titled “The Hidden Secrets of the Media Content Industry.”  Park began by sharing his personal journey—graduating from a science high school and studying computer engineering in college—along with the career-related uncertainties he faced. He recounted how his accidental participation in the Google News Lab during his undergraduate years sparked a deep interest in the content industry and new media.  Highlighting a graph that showed smartphone screen time surpassing TV viewing time—despite the latter remaining steady—he explained that this shift helped him realize that the total volume of content consumption was increasing, which ultimately inspired him to pursue entrepreneurship.      Founded in 2016, Geekble has become a leading media content company with over 1.2 million subscribers on YouTube. The company has expanded its business into a variety of fields, including engineering, education, and branded content.  Park shared, “We wanted to take on the role that traditional media outlets like National Geographic or BBC Science play—only on new media platforms.” He went on to explain that the name ‘Geekble’ reflects the philosophy that ‘Geeks are able’ (Geek + Able).  The lecture also highlighted several of Geekble’s bold and innovative content projects. These ranged from experimental videos that focus on the creative process—such as the “Failed Fish-Shaped Bread Automation Machine”—to more advanced creations like an AI-powered scent-mixing device developed in collaboration with Google.  This machine, which can blend up to eight out of 45 fragrance components to produce personalized scents, was even exhibited in Japan.      Beyond producing content, Geekble also serves as a media platform that shines a spotlight on engineers. “Just as artists and athletes receive attention and support, we want to create a stage where scientists and engineers can be recognized and celebrated,” said Park. He added that Geekble works in collaboration with schools and educational institutions to help nurture the next generation of engineers.  In the latter part of the lecture, a participatory session was held in which students analyzed and presented industry data. One student from the Department of Statistics presented a graph illustrating the growth of the web novel market alongside the steady state of the print book market. Park remarked that the trend was similar to the relationship between TV and smartphone usage, describing it as a noteworthy case.  To conclude, Park introduced Warren Buffett’s concept of a business “moat,” outlining its five key elements: network effects, cost structure, intangible assets, switching costs, and efficient scale. He emphasized that aspiring entrepreneurs should develop long-term vision and build structural competitiveness from the outset.      During the Q&A session that followed the lecture, Park revealed one of the “hidden secrets” of the media content industry. “Platforms design their algorithms based on viewer retention time,” he explained. “It’s not just about producing one good video—it’s about designing an experience that aligns with the user’s overall content consumption journey.” For instance, Geekble uses tagging strategies to increase the likelihood of algorithmic recommendations on YouTube—such as guiding viewers from a science documentary to a related movie review.  Through this special lecture, attendees gained valuable insights into the content industry and the startup ecosystem, and had a meaningful opportunity to experience firsthand the entrepreneurial spirit that embraces challenges and failures.      Meanwhile, the “Entrepreneurship Academy” is a startup education program organized by Korea University’s Startup Research Institute. It aims to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with practical insights through special lectures delivered by startup experts. 

“120 Years of Legacy, Connecting to the Future” – Korea University Business School Celebrates Its 120th Anniversary      On Friday, May 23, Korea University Business School (KUBS) held a commemorative ceremony at SUPEX Hall in the LG-POSCO Hall to celebrate the 120th anniversary of its founding. This meaningful occasion marked both the 120th anniversary of Korea University and the establishment of the Department of Commerce at Bosung College—the predecessor of KUBS—offering an opportunity to reaffirm the school’s pioneering role as the cradle of business education in Korea.      The ceremony began with student ambassadors Shin Woo-jin (President of KUBE) and Kang Min-ji (Vice President of KUBE) serving as hosts. Following the national anthem and official proceedings, a series of congratulatory remarks were delivered. KU President Dong-One Kim stated, “The 120-year journey of KUBS is not only the history of the growth of business education in Korea, but also a story of challenge and innovation that has contributed to the development of the nation’s economy and society. In this era of great transformation symbolized by AI, I hope KUBS will continue to lead as a hub of future intellect and innovation.”  Alumni Association President Myung Ho Seung encouraged the students, saying, “KUBS has preserved its traditions while keeping pace with the changing times. I hope every student will rise to the global stage with fiery ambition and unwavering conviction.” Dongseop Lee, President of the KUBS Alumni Association, reflected on the school’s legacy, stating, “The 120-year history of business education has been built on the passion of our professors, the efforts of our students, and the dedication of our alumni.” He went on to highlight the late Sang-il Lee (Class of ’57) as a devoted benefactor, noting his consistent donations and support. “I am deeply grateful to KUBS for laying the foundation that enabled me to grow as an entrepreneur,” he said. He concluded by emphasizing, “Even in a globalized world, KUBS will continue to cultivate outstanding talent and contribute to the advancement of our alma mater, grounded in its traditions and strong alumni bonds.”  Alumnus Haksoo Lee (Class of ’65) delivered a congratulatory address, offering warm encouragement to the students: “I hope the four years you spend at Korea University Business School will be a great fortune and blessing for the Class of 2025.” He continued, “Today, I was once again reminded of how truly fortunate I was to have entered Korea University 60 years ago.” He went on to say, “When the university celebrates its 180th anniversary in 2085, I hope today’s freshmen will have become distinguished alumni who proudly pass down the traditions of Korea University and its Business School to future generations.”He also expressed his deep affection and gratitude for his alma mater, stating, “Korea University has always been my greatest source of strength and support.” “In return for the many blessings I have received, I have continuously sought to contribute to the university’s growth and development,” he added.      The event continued with a presentation reflecting on the 120-year legacy of KUBS. Professor Hojung Shin, Chair of the 120th Anniversary Commemorative Committee, gave a briefing on key milestones that have shaped Korea University Business School as a pioneer of business education in Korea, including: △the founding of Bosung College, △the establishment of the Department of Business Administration, △its elevation to an independent college, and △its transformation into a global business school.  Dean Eonsoo Kim presented an academic and strategic development report, expressing his appreciation by saying, “What began as the humble Department of Plutology has grown into Korea’s leading business school, thanks to the passion and dedication of so many.” He then introduced the school’s forward-looking vision of Next Intelligence, which aims to integrate Human Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence, and announced plans to establish the “3C 4Tech Trading Zone” within the school as a central space to bring this vision to life.      He emphasized, “A creative convergence space that breaks down the boundaries between technology, business, and art is a vital environment for nurturing the talent of the future,” and added, “This Trading Zone will serve as an open platform where students, companies, startups, and artists can freely interact, experiment, and grow together.”  The 3C 4Tech Trading Zone will feature the following:  △ 3C Café, offering refreshments and beverages; △ Transparent Whiteboards that encourage the free flow of ideas; △ Open Theater, presenting cultural content on Friday afternoons; △ Art Sculpture, a fusion of sculptural art and technology; and △ Art-Multimedia Practice Rooms.  Students from the Business School, College of Engineering, and School of Art and Design will form interdisciplinary teams to identify and carry out projects. These teams will collaborate with startups and companies, ultimately leading to the production of real-world products. The space will be operated as an Experiential Learning Place, where learning is driven by hands-on engagement. Dean Kim declared that through this initiative, Korea University Business School aims to become a central hub for cultivating creative talent grounded in 4Tech, reaffirming his strong commitment to leading innovation in future-oriented education.      The highlight of the ceremony was the Intergenerational Message Exchange. Alumnus Jaebong Suh (Class of ’65) delivered a heartfelt message to the freshmen of the Class of 2025, which was followed by a hopeful response from Hyunho Lee (Class of ’25), addressed to the incoming students of 2085. This symbolic moment of connection across generations left a lasting impression.  In his message, Alumnus Suh shared his life journey, including his experience of studying abroad in the United States with his family after graduation and the many challenges he overcame along the way. “I proudly say that I have lived a happy life thanks to the support of many people,” he said, encouraging the younger generation to embrace a spirit of challenge. He continued, “Although today’s youth face a difficult reality, you are students of Korea University Business School—carry the pride and responsibility that come with that name. When opportunities come your way, I hope you won’t hesitate, but step forward with courage.”    In his message to the Class of 2085, student Hyunho Lee began by saying,  “I feel truly grateful to be here, taking part in the 120th anniversary celebration of Korea University Business School.” He continued, “As I go through my student life, I often realize how fortunate I am to be studying in such an exceptional environment. The thoughtful care and warm atmosphere of the Business School support our growth,” and expressed his hope that this sense of gratitude will carry on into 2085 and beyond. His message to future generations has been sealed in a time capsule—along with a special edition of the Korea University newspaper from 1965 and articles featuring students from the Class of ’65—and is now on display at the KUBS Story exhibition in Hyundai Motor Hall, scheduled to be opened in 2085.      After the official ceremony concluded, all attendees stood together to sing the school anthem, sharing the emotion of the 120th anniversary. A group photo was then taken in front of SUPEX Hall, followed by a celebratory luncheon. The second part of the event began with a toast from alumnus Kwang Na (Class of ’65), who lifted the mood by proclaiming,  “Let us raise our glasses and shout: ‘Korea University Business School, shine forever, and ever, and ever!’”      For the past 120 years, Korea University Business School has laid the foundation for business education in Korea. For the next 120 years, it will continue its bold journey of innovation and global leadership.