The 6th Talent Recruitment by YU is a 'Fintech Expert' Working Mom

Hong Jeong-min, CEO of 'RoStory'
Obtained Lawyer License and PhD in Economics After Resignation
"Committed to Legal Preparations for the 4th Industrial Revolution" Expresses Ambition

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jin-young] The Democratic Party of Korea announced its sixth recruitment for this year's general election on the 9th. The main figure is Hong Jeong-min (41, photo), CEO of the startup 'Lostory'.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

CEO Hong holds a Ph.D. in economics and is a lawyer. He worked at Samsung Economic Research Institute, handling corporate consulting and regulatory research. After resigning to focus on childcare, he challenged the bar exam and earned a Ph.D. in economics, obtaining both a lawyer's license and a degree, overcoming career interruption. Currently, he leads a startup that provides AI-based legal services, continuing efforts to integrate law and economics.

At the recruitment press conference held that morning, CEO Hong expressed his ambition, saying, "I will take charge of legal preparations for the Fourth Industrial Revolution that can be felt in everyday life." Regarding his reason for entering politics, he explained, "Because we all need to live well together." He added, "Two years ago, I resigned from the research institute where I was working. Although it was a comfortable and stable job, I could not clearly understand the reason for living. I had achieved a lot, but I did not want to settle for happiness that was only good for me and comfortable only for my children."

He continued, "The second reason is the sense of disconnect," adding, "I am someone who has mainly conducted in-depth research analyzing the Korean economy. However, there was always a wall that blocked me. The people who should benefit from the growth of companies were missing."

Having experienced career interruption, he also showed interest in women's issues. CEO Hong said, "Although I have quite a few credentials and titles, in fact, being a mother of two children is the most challenging role as a working mom." He added, "I am well aware of the reality faced by many women in our society who suffer from career interruptions. I want to create even a small basis of hope so that they can regain courage and stand up again."

In the subsequent Q&A session, when asked, "Since you are from Samsung Research Institute, are there concerns within the party?" he replied, "My first research topic was the need for a tax system that contributes to reducing inequality." He added, "If there are concerns, I want to work hard from now on to conduct much research that promotes coexistence and participate in institutional improvements."

Lee Hae-chan, leader of the Democratic Party, said at the press conference, "It is very good that experts participate not only in society but also in politics," and urged, "I hope that experts with rich field experience will participate in politics and play a significant role in innovating Korean politics."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.