Describe your background.
My mother is Korean. My father is German and Irish.
What issues going on in the world, and/or in the Korean American / Asian American community affect you the most?
World: The stability of the Korean Peninsula is something I think about and along those lines, reunification. I strongly believe we are one people.
Community: I worry about health issues in the Korean community and about giving the younger generation the tools to succeed in America. I want to encourage philanthropy in our community.
If you could choose one song to describe your life, what would it be and why?
“Wait A Little While” by Kenny Loggins
What do you feel is your most attractive physical feature?
Before or after photoshop? I think my cheekbones are serving me well.
What takes you out of your comfort zone?
Any form of confrontation.
Is the glass half empty or half full for you?
Half empty! So much to do still!!
Who is someone you look up to and what about them inspires you?
My grandfather Kim Sang Kwon was an amazing man! He was an educator, author, pastor and … prince. He was loving, strong, intelligent and hard working. He braved many adversaries yet persevered by sticking to his beliefs and faith.
When people look at me, they would never guess that I…
I secretly love Cinnabon and eat them every time I am in an airport.
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)?
Hellooooo … Korea!! It would be great to be able to for an extended period of time. I would like to drink from the river in Pyongyang one day–they say women who drink from that river are very strong minded.
Would you rather be rich or famous?
I wish I were very rich so I could give more to people who need it.
What is your best and worst trait?
Best: I am kind and caring. Worst: I love to complain.
What was the last good book you read?
Proof of Heaven by Dr. Eben Alexander
What has given you the most pleasure in the last year?
I love my German Shepherd.
What food do you absolutely HATE?
MEAT.
Tell us about the last time you had to ask for help.
I ask for help daily. I have the best staff. I hate to talk on the phone so I ask my assistant to call for me.
What would be your ideal vacation?
Hanging out in cafés in Myongdong
If you could go on a date with any Korean/Korean American/Asian American celebrity, who would it be and why?
Are you kidding?? Have you heard of or seen Daniel Henney?! Oh my!
(Of course we have.)
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
Early bird.
What quality do you appreciate most in a friend?
Unconditional love.
What is one characteristic you received from your parents what you want to keep, and one you wish you could change?
I will keep tenacity and get rid of the whininess.
If you knew you couldn’t fail and money was no object, what would you like to do in the next five years?
I would like to set up an organization that galvanizes the Asian American community to be more philanthropic, whether by volunteering, giving money or serving on boards. It would be great to have resources to educate younger professionals and students on these issues through educational seminars, community round tables, service projects and position papers. Oh wait! We have the organization already–Jade Philanthropy Society! But we need more resources!
If you would like to participate in I Am KoreAm, you can find more information here. Students and alumni, be sure to also check out Student Spotlight and Alumni Catalogue.
