“Luck Favors the Prepared”…Global CEO Talk by Chairman of Seok Electronics 

On May 18th, Korea University Business School (Dean= Sang Yong Kim) hosted the Global CEO Talk in Room #303, Hyundai Motor Hall. The speaker for the lecture was Mr. Dong-seok Lee, the chairman of Seok Electronics. Seok Electronics Co., Ltd. is an electronic parts distributor that was founded by expanding its business based on exceptional technology while initially operating as a small subcontractor. The lecture included △an introduction to Chairman Lee’s careern, △the background of Seok Electronics’ foundation, △ advice on the value of trust and human relationships, and △ a Q&A session.  

Firstly, Chairman Lee completed the 55th Advanced Management Program (AMP) at KUBS. and received an honorary doctorate in Business Administration from KIMEP University in Kazakhstan. He also held positions such as the president of KUBS AMP Alumni Association, executive vice president of the Gangwon Provincial Council, and the 31st president of the Seoul Central Lions Club. Additionally, he generously donated 100 million KRW to KUBS to support student development.  

In Chairman Lee’s hometown of Hwacheon, Gangwon-do, he faced challenging family circumstances that led him to forgo attending university. Instead, in his early 20s, he moved to Seoul and started working as an employee at a small supply store operated by his brother-in-law in the Cheonggyecheon Sewoon Shopping Center. Desipite working at the smallest store in the mall, Chairman Lee did not allow complaints to overshadow his ambition and determination. He firmly believed in the saying, ‘I should be the owner of every place I work.’ Reflecting on his 13 years as an employee, he stated, ‘I always strived to give my best.’ 

In particular, Chairman Lee developed his business acumen by observing and analyzing the success and failures of individuals in the mall. He stated, ‘I never believed that I couldn’t achieve anything, and without my experience as an employee, I wouldn’t have had the courage to start my own business.’ Even after establishing Seok Electronics, Chairman Lee continued to expand his business ventures. Notably, he gained recognition for identifying and investing in innovative venture companies, despite challenging economic conditions in the country. To date, Chairman Lee brought around 10 companies to prominence, including △Hotel Maremons, △ Monoris, and △ Makestar. 

Chairman Lee emphasized the importance of human relationships and highlighted the value of ‘trust.’ He stated, ‘If labor represents primary capital and information represents secondary capital, then trust is the the tertiary capital.’ Reflecting on his own experiences, he mentioned, “The individuals I had high expectations for did not always prove helpful, while those I never considered showed remarkable qualities.” He also offered advice to young people preparing to venture into business, “When dealing with money, trust and credibility are crucial. However, above all, they are built through consistent time commitments and diligent efforts in our daily lives.” He further added, “Approach every task with a positive mindset and strive to do your best in all endeavors.’ 

After the lecture, a Q&A session was held. During this session, a student expressed their aspiration to adopt a positive mindset and asked for advice or tips on maintaining positivity.” Chairman Lee responded with the following advice: 

“No one is inherently positive. Life often unfolds differently than we anticipate, so it is important to set goals based on what you can control and follow your path. Along the way, you will encounter new environments and opportunities that are unique to your journey. It’s just like you looking at a mountain from the bottom and seeing only one ridge, but as you clink higher, you discover there are many more. Do not stress yourself out while facing challenges and competing with others. Always remain in control of yourself, regardless of the circumstances. If you approach your work with the mindset of ‘I can do it!’ and ‘I will do it!’, I believe that you will be able to unlock the maximum potential and blessings that life has to offer.”