Hong shares secret of success with students

Hong Seok-cheon talks to Korean students studying abroad, on stage at Club Ellui, Seoul, Aug. 6. / Korea Times photo by Kim Jae-heun

By Kim Jae-heun

The actor-turned entrepreneur Hong Seok-cheon met with Korean students studying abroad to share his life story on Aug. 6 at Club Ellui, Seoul.

Hong, one of the most prominent openly gay celebrities in Korea,said he could empathize with the audience because he has two children studying in the United States.

"I adopted my nephew and niece who are studying in Boston right now," Hong said. "Although I am not their biological parent, I know what it's like to send kids abroad."

The meeting between the celebrity and students was organized by Rhythm Nation, Korea's international students association whose members are primarily studying in the U.S., Japan and China.

Most of the students' questions focused on how to prepare for their careers, particularly starting a private business like Hong did with his restaurants.

Hong suggested that the students have at least a year of field experience before starting their own restaurant. He saidthat running a business requires a great deal of accountability as the owner has to take full responsibility for every decision.

"If you have lived overseas for a long time, you will find it especially hard to work under the strict Korean culture. But running your own business requires a lot of interaction and communication skills. You will fail if you don't learn human relationships, whether you have money or good ideas," Hong said.

Hong owns nine restaurants in Itaewon, central Seoul. He started his first restaurant in 2002, two years after he openly came out as gay and left the entertainment business. Hong planned to study in New York, but decided to stay in Korea to fight against those who discriminated against him because of his sexual identity. He wanted to prove that he could have a successful life like anybody else.

"In the early stages, I lost a lot of money after being swindled. But it was a lesson for me. Restaurant owners have to pay attention to various matters, such as alcohol, food and human relationships," Hong said.

Hong told the students to think outside of the box as it gives a sense of accomplishment and motivation. For youngsters, he said they should play "constructively."

"Learn something while playing. Bring items to Korea and share them with people who share your vision. Don't try to hit the jackpot, but start simple," Hong said.

jhkim@ktimes.com,