Choi Jong-hyun's Parenting Method

Chairman Choi Jong-hyun, the Leader Who Drove SK Group’s Growth

SK Group began its remarkable growth under its second chairman, Choi Jong-hyun. One notable fact about him is his engineering background. He first enrolled in the Department of Agricultural Chemistry at Seoul National University and later transferred to the University of Wisconsin in the United States.

With his expertise in chemistry, he took over the business from his older brother, Chairman Choi Jong-gun, and successfully expanded SK Group into a leading Korean conglomerate. Chairman Choi was particularly involved in his children's education, more so than other business leaders. Let’s take a look at his approach to education.

[SK's 2nd Chairman Choi Jong-hyun Source: Naver]

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A Business Leader Who Emphasized Science

Because of his background in chemistry and experience studying business, Chairman Choi emphasized the importance of natural sciences to his children. He believed that a deep understanding of economics was essential for managing a business. However, to truly grasp economics, one needed strong logical thinking skills, and he saw science education as a key way to develop them.

For this reason, he also encouraged SK employees to have knowledge of high school-level physics, chemistry, and biology. Influenced by their father’s strong belief in science, his children were “almost compelled” to pursue science-related fields. As a result, Chairman Chey Tae-won and Vice Chairman Chey Jae-won both studied physics at Korea University.

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"Entrepreneurs Must Draw New Pictures on a Blank Canvas"

Chairman Choi frequently told his children, “An entrepreneur must always have fresh ideas and insight. You should think of yourself as painting a new picture on a blank canvas.”

He wanted them to learn how scientists break away from conventional thinking, make logical inferences, and reach conclusions through continuous experimentation. He applied this scientific approach to management, which became the foundation for SK Group’s success.

 

Chairman Choi Jong-hyun played a key role in SK Group’s transformation into a major conglomerate. As a chemistry major, he stressed the importance of understanding scientific principles. His experience as a science student in the U.S. shaped both his business strategies and his philosophy on education. He especially emphasized to his children, “Entrepreneurs must always think as if they are painting a new picture on a blank canvas.”

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