Tae Kyun Yoon of Green Whale Global.
Tell us about yourself?
I have established GWG in 2019 as a culmination of six years as private equity fund manager implementing impact investment strategies and more than 8 years trading raw materials prior.
we are a leading in bioplastic resin and compound manufacturer founded with the objective to tackle the plastic problem.
GWG’s proposed solution to the plastic problem stems from the source/feedstock of plastic rather than the supply chain to be truly sustainable. GWG’s products degrade safely in mere months in nature in contrast to plastic, requiring hundreds if not thousands of years.
I am a Korean American US Army veteran who attended Pennsylvania State University.
What do you think is the single biggest misconception people have when it comes to startups?
I think people have the misconception that startups are mostly focusing on the tech base and platform.
If you could go back in time to any moment from your journey, and give yourself one tip, what would it be?
Choose your partners more wisely and should set up an agreement better and clear to avoid any misunderstanding.
What makes you stand out as an entrepreneur?
Enthusiasm, high tolerance, vision, and acting forward. I have a high-stress resistance level compared to ordinary and other people, and I always try to take one more step than others.
What are some of the best working habits you’ve gained over the past couple of years?
When the day is over, I try to separate myself from work to my rest time. This separation gives a full recharge of energy for the next day.
It seems like I have two different characters and not bringing any issues or unsolved problems to my house.
Give us a bit of an insight into the influences behind the company?
I have established GWG where I have traveled to various countries across 5 continents and witnessed first-hand the impact of humans to the environment and increasing pollution.
Where do you see your business in five years?
I expect our company to expand worldwide and IPO in the U.S with over USD 200 million in annual revenue and branch offices in various countries.
I vision our company will be a pronoun in the bio-plastic industry and see our brand recognized through its products and unique culture.
What do you think the biggest challenge will be for you in getting there?
Keeping a straight and positive mind where no excuses and compromises to the easy access. This means I must be consistently well aware of my stance, and self-control is essential.
Talk to us about your biggest success story so far?
When I started our company, there were only possibilities with unproven theories available. We had to prove our concept and technology from the bare ground. We went through a machine failure, melting product, burning, etc.
However, with the sweat and tears, it was a moment of joy when we saw the product was made from our conceptual theory. I will never forget the day the product was successfully made after hundreds of failures.
How do clients and customers find you? Are you much of a salesperson for yourself?
Yes, I am very familiar with sales because I grew up in an international trading family business. My company focuses on our public relations very much.
Luckily, we are now at the status where customers find us due to their ESG regulation requirements and government policies.
We still have missing space for promoting our company, but we are slowly filling the gap.
What one tip would you give to fellow startup founders?
I am not so sure if I am in the situation to give any tips to fellow entrepreneurs.
However, if I have to say one thing, I will tell fellows that we must trust our partners once they are on the team.
We should raise a very high bar to accept and let them into the circle with much verification; however, trust and patience are essential once they are on the team.
And finally, what do you hope the future brings both you personally, and your business?
I started this company to share the benefit with people and society. I have a vision and obligation to make this company a unicorn.
Once I reach my dream, I would like to start a venture capital to share my experiences and pieces of knowledge with the next generation. This shall complete my personal goal in life and find peace.
For the company, I would like to invite and deliver my responsibility to a better candidate who can do and grow better than me.
And lastly, it will be my joy to watch how the Green Whale Global will sail in the new ocean with a new captain.
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