As a university student in Seoul, I had a defining opportunity to compete in LG’s ‘21st Century Pioneers’ program. The challenge was to submit a unique project proposal with a detailed research plan aimed at expanding our—and LG’s—horizons. For us, it was a valuable learning experience, and for LG, a way to reinforce its image as an innovative company.

“This is a great opportunity!” mom said, just as she had years before, when I was nine, encouraging me to research women’s suffrage. “History is important,” she’d reminded me. Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to have parents who valued curiosity and critical thinking, pushing me toward challenges that seemed daunting but ultimately shaped my path.

A New Perspective on Sustainability

With only 100 spots available from thousands of applicants, I brainstormed endlessly, determined to find a topic that would stand out. While environmental concerns weren’t mainstream then, my dad, who attended the 1992 UN Earth Summit and lectured on sustainability in geopolitics, had shaped my perspective through countless conversations. One night over dinner, it clicked. Sustainability in construction seemed like a promising topic.

Building a Winning Team

I assembled three brilliant friends, and our proposal began to take shape. We mapped out visits to Swiss companies leading sustainable construction and simultaneously explored Korean construction sites to assess our current state and future needs. The effort was immense, but by the time we submitted the proposal, I knew we had something special. Then, the phone rang. We were in.

The LG Experience

Our training at LG’s employee campus opened my eyes to how forward-thinking the company was. We learned how to represent LG and honed practical skills in communication and etiquette. Outside the sessions, we bonded with other pioneers, sharing experiences and collaborating on team-building activities.

A Glimpse of the Future

Then came Switzerland, a stark contrast to the construction practices we knew. Our contact had meticulously planned a journey through the heart of sustainable innovation. We explored eco-friendly designs by visionary architects, recycling centers that transformed waste, and urban spaces seamlessly integrated with nature. This experience was about understanding how design, infrastructure, and environmental responsibility were deeply interconnected. We were witnessing a glimpse of the future.

The Impact of Experience

The details have faded, but the impact remains.

Although my research focused on sustainable construction, a field far removed from design, the skills I gained—such as gathering insights, analyzing data, and storytelling—became integral to my approach to brand design. Both fields require vision, a focus on long-term impact, and an understanding of how different elements interact to create something meaningful.

And, of course, there’s the enduring power of a parent’s nudge. That small push that opens doors to experiences you never knew would define you. Their belief in curiosity, discovery, and stepping into the unknown continues to shape my approach to this day.