Editorial

Insights from a Walla Team Co-founder Shared in a University Lecture

April 5, 2023

"At the Age of 23, Speaking at Ewha Womans University Chapel"

"Ewha University has a traditional mandatory course that all students must take, and that is 'Chapel.' When I was a freshman, I thought Chapel was all about religious topics, but it turns out they cover a wide range of subjects, including musical performances and guest speakers unrelated to religion.

Last winter, while I was working at my office, I received a call from my alma mater asking me to give a lecture on entrepreneurship at Chapel. Back when I was an undergraduate student, I used to watch guest speakers from various fields and imagine myself speaking on that big stage someday. I never expected that opportunity to come so soon.

Ever since I received the invitation to speak, I've been reflecting a lot on myself and entrepreneurship. Trying to articulate my thoughts intentionally in order to share them with others has been a transformative experience, making me feel more grown-up than before. So today, I'd like to share some of the answers I provided during my Chapel speech.

The Starting Point of Student Entrepreneurship

I often receive questions about what motivated me to start a business. In reality, it all began quite simply. Rather than driven by a sense of mission, I started my entrepreneurial journey because I found it incredibly fun and fulfilling. I participated in a 'Startup Hackathon Camp' and teamed up with some amazing people, and the experience was so enjoyable that it led me to continue. Many people say that 'getting started is half the battle,' and I completely agree. However, I also believe that getting through the challenges and persevering is even harder. Starting a business feels like walking through a foggy path, and you have to gradually clear the fog by yourself. It's not easy to navigate through that misty, uncertain feeling, but as you clear the fog step by step, you'll find yourself in a better place without even realizing it.

While the start was simple and driven by happiness and passion, my reasons for continuing have become more complex and robust. For those who are just starting with student entrepreneurship, I want to say that you don't need to feel a tremendous sense of purpose from the beginning. Most student entrepreneurs don't start with a grand mission but rather with the excitement and passion of something new. It's only later, as you meet investors and stakeholders, that you begin to build a more significant purpose and story. So, embrace the joy and excitement of your entrepreneurial journey now. The interactions with countless customers, stories, and experiences you gain along the way will eventually shape the purpose of your entrepreneurship. That's the beauty and advantage of student entrepreneurship. Since you haven't already built your career in society, you have less pressure. Enjoy your current 'excitement'! With that mindset, immerse yourself and explore, and you'll naturally develop your unique approach to the world.

The Biggest Challenges in Entrepreneurship

In my experience, the most challenging aspect of entrepreneurship is dealing with people. It was tough when I couldn't find customers or when team members left. I used to take these situations very personally and blame myself for everything. Only recently have I overcome this mindset. I've realized that people coming and going is a natural part of entrepreneurship, and by focusing on the essence of my product, I can persevere and trust that good people will come back into my journey. So, if you've ever felt hurt by people around you, I encourage you not to blame yourself but to see these situations as part of the natural course. Instead, concentrate on something more fundamental.

Crossroads Between Entrepreneurship and Employment

To be honest, when I started my entrepreneurial journey in my second year of university, I wasn't particularly interested in finding employment. I always tried to make the most out of every situation as it came along, and unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to experience the joy of job hunting. If I had faced such a crossroads, I would have thought about what would make me happier and chose accordingly. Regardless of how you obtain a job or what profession you enter, don't forget that you should never compromise your happiness. I believe that whatever you do, you should do it passionately and well. Instead of seeing a job as merely a means to make money, focus on whether it brings you happiness. Whether it's entrepreneurship or employment, in a world where nothing comes easy, I want to congratulate you all for your hard work.

Regrets or Missed Opportunities in Your School Life?

As for regrets, I'm naturally an introverted person, and I found it very challenging to approach others for help or advice. Surprisingly, people rarely reject you when you reach out to them. Rejections were not as common as I had expected. One of my biggest regrets was feeling uncomfortable asking for help or advice from seniors, professors, or friends. We all live in the same 24 hours a day, and everyone leads busy lives. So, don't hesitate to ask for help boldly and confidently. Rather than feeling burdened by these interactions, simplify them by thinking of them as trying on clothes. Try various options to find the one that suits you best. Although it may not be easy, try to approach these situations with a straightforward mindset. Always remember the essence and find happiness in the process. Keep persevering, and I hope to see you all again in the field someday.

In Conclusion

When you go shopping for clothes, you try on different outfits before making a choice. Is trying on multiple clothes to find the best one considered a failure? Think of your challenges and struggles as you would selecting clothes. Despite the difficulties, don't forget the essence and happiness you seek. Stay focused on your path, find joy in the process, and persevere. You've all worked hard, and I want to say thank you. Let's meet again in the field."