Describe your background.
I was born in Pusan, South Korea, and grew up in Chicago. My parents worked hard and didn’t have a lot of money when we first moved to America, but always taught us the importance of compassion, mindfulness and love, especially for the disadvantaged. I still try to live with those values in the work I do and with everybody I meet.
What issues going on in the world, and/or in the Korean American / Asian American community affect you the most?
As Asian-Americans, we need to be more vocal about standing in solidarity with other people of color, women, the LGBT movement, lower-income communities, immigrants, the disabled, and the oppressed all over the world. It’s important to push back against the model minority myth and casual racism. We also need to make mental health treatment a priority.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
I’d like to think that I learn something from every single person that I meet, not one single person.
What is one goal you would like to accomplish during your lifetime?
I want to work to fight wealth inequality in this country.
Tell us about a unique or quirky habit of yours.
I watch Key and Peele almost every day… over and over again.
If you had to describe yourself using three words, they would be…
THIS IS REAL!!!
If you could be anybody besides yourself for a day, you would be…
Kanye West, obviously.
Is the glass half empty or half full for you?
The glass is half-full. Your happiness in life can’t be solely dependent on “good” or “bad” things happening to you.
Who is someone you look up to and what about them inspires you?
I really look up to my mom. She is so open-minded, loving, patient, strong, and humble.
When people look at me, they would never guess that I…
…am Korean. Especially other Koreans.
If you were given the opportunity to travel to one place in the world, where would it be and why (money is not an issue)?
I travel a fair amount, so I don’t have a dream destination, but I’d love to take some of my best friends to visit Korea and learn more about my culture.
Would you rather be rich or famous?
How rich are we talking? And what am I famous for?
What is your best and worst trait?
I sweat a lot.
What was the last good book you read?
I just finished a good book on Buddhism and now I’m reading Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
Capitalism.
What has given you the most pleasure in the last year?
Living in Oakland, California. My lovely neighbors, our community garden, East Bay Meditation Center, Habitat for Humanity, Lake Merritt. I’ve met the most fun, beautiful, and inspiring people here.
What food do you absolutely HATE?
Chicken feet. WHAT’S THE POINT?
Tell us about the last time you had to ask for help.
I just had my heart broken pretty bad and all my friends were so incredibly supportive. As were Christopher Owens, Elliott Smith, and Boyz II Men.
How do you show your love for others?
I’ve been doing a better job of vocalizing my appreciation for those around me. I’m a fan of just telling people how much they mean to me, even if it’s cheesy.
What is one quality you admire most in others?
Unconditional kindness.
What is your favorite outfit to wear?
Cutoff jean shorts
Tell us about a vivid dream you have had.
I have a recurring dream of being in an earthquake. Most recently, I had a pretty intense earthquake dream and when I woke up, I got a text from a friend in Chicago who asked if I was okay. Turns out it was a real earthquake…
