1516T2g1 South Korea/Participant Information/NG Kai Xuan
SMU email: kaixuan.ng.2013@smu.edu.sg
Facebook: Ng Kai Xuan
Academic Year: 3
Degree: Information Systems
2nd Major: Operations Management
Interests: Photography, Film, Guitar/Bass, Technology & Innovation, Acoustic Covers
What motivates you to join TSM?
To better understand how a technology-based startup thrive amidst the ever-competitive, ever-changing technology landscape.
Why pick South Korea?
South Korea was recently ranked first in the Bloomberg’s Global Innovation Index, particularly in patent activity and information and communication technology. I’ve always believed that South Korea is the Silicon Valley of Asia, choosing to focus on innovation and R&D in all that they do. It may not be such a surprise as South Korea is not rich in oil or other natural resources and has limited agriculture capacity – much like Singapore, therefore promoting technology and innovation as a nation seems logical. As more young people and overseas VCs find themselves part of the business venture ecosystem, smaller businesses flourish and entrepreneurship may only seem like a common culture thereafter. This is pretty much intriguing.
Being very much exposed to western technology disruptions (i.e. Facebook, AirBnB, Uber, Google, Stripe etc), I have come to realize that there is the very same going on here closer to us – South Korea. A peek into this realm will inspire, I reckon.
What types of business interest you? Technology based that will change the way we do things
- Fintech (i.e. Payments, Stock Analysis, Blockchain)
- IoT
- Analytics
What plan do you have in starting a business? (list existing business)
Currently running a startup that specializes in IT and media. Started off with systems consulting and successfully developed a customized management system solution for a SME which is tested and deployed live.
“Because the ones that are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do” – Steve Jobs
