KUBS Carves Its Name on the Global Stage: 1st Runner-Up at 2025 UW GBCC 

Students from Korea University Business School (KUBS) demonstrated their outstanding problem-solving and presentation skills on the global stage by securing 1st Runner-Up in the Long Case division at the 2025 Global Business Case Competition (UW GBCC), held at the University of Washington in April. 

The UW GBCC is a prestigious international business case competition where top business students from around the world are challenged to develop strategic solutions to real-world business problems within a limited time frame. The competition is renowned for testing analytical thinking, strategic creativity, and communication skills under pressure. 

Representing KUBS were four students: Junhee Park (Class of ’22), Seoyeon Ko (’22), Oscar Javier Castillo Vazquez (’22), and Seokjun Oh (’21). The team was mentored by Professor Tony Garrett, a specialist in marketing. 

The competition consisted of two parts—a 5-hour Short Case and a 24-hour Long Case. Junhee Park participated individually in the Short Case, clinching first place in a multinational team. For the Long Case, the full KUBS team tackled the challenge of devising a revitalization strategy for Starbucks China. Their proposal included: 

• Implementing a low-cost operational model, 

• Introducing regionally tailored store formats, and 

• Forming strategic partnerships for digital transformation. 

Their solution was praised by the judging panel for its strategic insight and feasibility. 

To celebrate the achievement, Dean Eonsoo Kim of KUBS hosted the team on May 13 at the Dean’s Office. Dean Kim congratulated the students for their effort and emphasized the significance of institutional support in creating such learning opportunities. 

“This achievement is not only a reflection of the students' talent but also the result of the learning environment and opportunities KUBS has consistently nurtured. We will continue to support our students to challenge themselves and grow globally,” said Dean Kim. 

Professor Tony Garrett commented: 

“The students delivered a compelling and well-analyzed presentation within the limited time. It was an impressive demonstration of critical thinking and teamwork that resonates on the global stage.” 

[Reflections from the Team] 

Junhee Park (Team Leader) 

“This experience allowed me to grow by transforming business challenges into practical strategies. Leading the team and working on both the storyline and strategic direction was incredibly rewarding. Winning the 5-hour Short Case with an international team was also an unforgettable moment. Although we missed the grand prize, being invited to present again in front of Starbucks executives at their headquarters was a huge honor. I'm truly grateful to KUBS and Professor Garrett.”

Seoyeon Ko 

“Applying what I learned in class to real-world problems was a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. Competing with students from various countries was a great stimulus. I focused on validating our strategy through deep analysis, which broadened my industry understanding. I'm deeply thankful to the International Affairs Office and our mentor for making this possible.” 

Oscar Javier Castillo Vazquez 

“I’m thrilled that our five weeks of intense preparation with teammates and our professor paid off. Being invited to present to 150 Starbucks executives was an especially meaningful moment. This wasn’t just a competition—it was a learning journey in business strategy and marketing that helped shape my career direction.” 

Seokjun Oh 

“My passion for business strategy began with KUBS Challenge in my freshman year and has grown through several competitions. This one stood out—we prepared like it was the real world, often working through the night. The intense preparation and discussions will stay with me long after graduation. I’m truly thankful to the KUBS International Affairs Office and my teammates. Go KUBS!”