Ki Wan Kim
(Former)Executive Vice President, LG Electronics
During South Korea’s period of rapid industrial growth, he contributed to the national interest as a leading figure in export, promoting Korean products across the globe.
As Global Marketing Officer (GMO) at LG Electronics, he spearheaded creative and customer-centric marketing initiatives, playing a key role in establishing LG as a world-leading brand.
He pioneered entry into emerging markets such as Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and India ahead of competitors, successfully building a strong market foundation. He was also among the first to introduce Korean Wave (Hallyu) marketing, enhancing Korea’s national brand value on the international stage.
Additionally, he organized the LG Cup Football Tournament targeting Central and Middle Eastern countries, creating a model case in sports marketing. In 2001, he secured an order for six million telematics units from General Motors (GM) USA, laying the foundation for what would later become LG Energy Solution’s battery business and LG Electronics' vehicle component business.
To promote women's empowerment, he launched beauty salon marketing campaigns and organized international culinary competitions for LG's Lightwave Oven marketing, helping to position LG as a brand beloved by women.
Practice Areas
Education and Career
· Executive Vice President, LG Electronics — Regional Head for Middle East & Africa, Global Marketing, Home Entertainment Business Division, and Managing Director of LG India (2007–2019)
· Senior Vice President, LG Electronics — Head of Overseas AV Sales (1999–2005)
· Branch Manager, European Headquarters, LG Electronics (Europe) (1986–1994)
· Outside Director, Iljin Materials Co., Ltd. (2022)
· Chairman, Andong City Facilities Management Corporation (2023)
Achievements
· Developed a five-year growth strategy for LG Electronics in the Indian market.
· Established a five-year vision plan for LG Electronics in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.
· Formulated a mid-to-long-term business strategy for LG's AV (Audio-Visual) Division.
· Received an Appreciation Plaque for contributions to the Cultural Section of the Korea-Middle East Forum (awarded jointly by the Egyptian government and Congressman Kim Young-sun).
· Awarded the Industrial Medal at the 47th Commerce and Industry Day in 2020.
· Co-hosted the Greenomics Forum with the UAE government.
· Served as President of KOCHAM (Korean Chamber of Commerce India), contributing to strengthened Korea–India relations.
· Proposed and helped realize the establishment of the Seoul National University Hospital Branch in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, with support from the UAE royal family.
· Published a book titled "There Are No Borders in My Dreams" in October 2021.
· In partnership with KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency), established the LG Hope School in Ethiopia.
· Organized diverse cultural events for local communities—including a K-POP Singing Contest—in collaboration with the Korean Cultural Center and Korea Tourism Organization to promote the Korean Wave (Hallyu).