Who’s the Mentor Who Changed Your Life?

Hi friends!

Do you ever think about the people who’ve helped shape your life? Those who’ve guided you, inspired you, and given you the strength to keep moving forward?

For me, my journey with KINIKORA has been shaped by a few incredible mentors. They’ve taught me valuable lessons, supported me when I needed it most, and reminded me of what it means to dream big. Today, I want to share their stories with you, and I hope they inspire you to reflect on the mentors who’ve made a difference in your life.

Mentor #1: Baek Jong-won – The Power of Simple and Delicious

Do you know Baek Jong-won? He’s one of Korea’s most famous chefs, entrepreneurs, and TV personalities. When I first discovered him, it wasn’t because of my work or my brand—I just liked him the way someone admires their favorite idol.

It all started with a Korean TV show called Baek Jong-won’s Alley Restaurant. Week after week, I watched as he traveled across Korea, helping struggling small business owners rediscover their strengths and turn their restaurants around. I was so inspired that I even visited many of the restaurants he helped!

What struck me most was his ability to see the unique “weapon” each business owner already had—the talent or strength they didn’t even know they possessed. He nurtured those strengths and helped them grow, rather than trying to change who they were.

One of his most memorable quotes has stuck with me ever since: "Let’s make good food that anyone can easily enjoy."

It sounds simple, but the word good—or delicious—adds a layer of responsibility. It’s not enough for something to be easy; it has to be made with care and passion. That philosophy is something I carry with me every day as I grow KINIKORA.

Mentor #2: The Guiding Tree in My Life

If Baek Jong-won was my distant mentor, there’s someone much closer to my heart who has had an equally profound impact on me.

This person helped me figure out what my own “weapon” was at a time when I couldn’t see it myself. They encouraged me to embrace my strengths, pushed me out of my comfort zone, and gave me both the carrot and the stick I needed to grow.

Even now, they’re like a deep-rooted tree in my life—a steady source of strength that I can always lean on. They’ve been by my side through every challenge, every success, and every moment of doubt. If I could describe them in one word, they’d be my very own key-da-ri ahjussi—a guardian who believes in me and always lifts me up.

Mentor #3: The Virtual Teacher Who Sparked My Curiosity

And then there’s my third mentor—a person who I’ve learned so much from, even though most of it came through a screen.

Whenever I had questions, I’d turn to Google or YouTube. And over time, I found someone whose content felt like a treasure trove of knowledge. Watching their videos felt like taking an online course, chapter by chapter: watch, learn, repeat. They taught me to dig deeper, to stay curious, and to never stop learning.

One day, I had the chance to meet them in person. But guess what? I froze! I couldn’t say a single word—I felt like I was meeting a celebrity! To me, they were more than just a teacher; they were a true inspiration.

Even now, they continue to create and share their knowledge with the world. They may seem like an AI with their endless creativity and precision, but their warmth and humanity shine through everything they do.

Who’s Your Mentor?

I believe we all have someone like this in our lives—whether it’s a chef we admire, a close friend who guides us, or a virtual teacher who inspires us from afar.

But here’s the thing: sometimes, you have to reach out for help to discover your mentors. They can’t support you unless they know you need them. And when you find someone who changes your life, don’t forget to let them know how much they mean to you.

So, who’s your mentor? Take a moment to think about the people who’ve shaped your journey, and maybe even reach out to thank them.

Until next time,

With love and gratitude,

Joy

Founder of KINIKORA