What do you consider your hometown, and how has it shaped who you are today?
I consider Seoul, South Korea, my hometown. Growing up in this vibrant, fast-paced city shaped my values, work ethic, and sense of community. The culture, which emphasizes diligence, respect, and perseverance, deeply influenced how I approach challenges.
At the age of 12, I spent a year living in Palo Alto, California – an experience that left a lasting impression on me. I was especially struck by the openness of the people I met and the richness of perspectives that surrounded me. Through this experience, I was introduced to a culture of exploration and individuality, which broadened my worldview and reshaped the way I perceive learning and personal growth.
Ever since, I have felt a strong desire to return to the United States for my studies. That aspiration guided my academic journey, leading me to pursue a PhD and postdoc in the U.S.
Can you tell us about your current research at Dartmouth and what excites you most about it?
I currently work with Geoffrey Parker, faculty director of the Irving Institute, who has been an incredible mentor and supporter of my research. Together, we explore the nexus of energy, platform ecosystem, data, and economics. Our research focuses on platform business models, regulatory frameworks, the economics of data sharing, and the impact of emerging technologies on businesses and markets.
What excites me most is the analytical process — digging into the data, applying estimation techniques, and running simulations to uncover meaningful insights. There's something incredibly rewarding about translating complex data into evidence-based findings that can drive better business strategies and inform policy decisions. Looking ahead, I'm eager to apply AI-driven analytics and dynamic game theory models to drive meaningful advancements across these domains.
What is your academic background? Where did you complete your graduate studies, and what led you to pursue a postdoc?
I earned my bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a master's degree in Economics, both from Korea University. I then pursued a PhD in Economics at the University of Oregon under the supervision of Keaton Miller, who provided valuable guidance throughout my academic journey. Over time, my research interests have expanded from firm strategies and energy markets to firm behavior and market dynamics.
During my PhD, I became particularly drawn to empirical industrial organization and its sophisticated estimation methods, which elegantly combines game theoretic frameworks with advanced simulation techniques. This postdoc position allows me to apply these techniques to real-world problems, while working together with leading researchers from around the world.
What inspired you to pursue a postdoc position at Dartmouth?
I was initially intrigued by the project led by Geoff, whose research in platform economics inspired me to pursue a postdoc position. I also sought to strengthen my research expertise, and this opportunity aligned well with my academic interests.
Beyond that, Dartmouth's strong research environment and the Irving Institute's commitment to cross-disciplinary collaboration made it an ideal place for my postdoctoral work. The culture of innovation and the extensive resources available for cutting-edge research further reinforced my decision to join Dartmouth.
As a member of the Dartmouth Postdoc Association's executive board, what motivated you to get involved, and what do you hope to accomplish in this role?
Transitioning to a new institution can be challenging, and I saw the Dartmouth Postdoc Association as an opportunity to foster connections among postdocs. Postdocs often find themselves in a unique position where it can be difficult to form cohorts and maintain a sense of belongings. Honestly, as a member of the executive board, I wanted to make new friends while also doing something meaningful for other postdocs who might feel the same way.
In addition, I wanted to contribute by organizing professional development workshops and networking events, creating opportunities for postdocs to grow and connect. I am excited and appreciative of the opportunity to work alongside an incredible team of board members.
What advice would you give to those currently pursuing their PhDs about making the most of their time at Dartmouth?
From my own experience, I would encourage current PhD students to value their cohorts and make time to enjoy the journey together. A PhD is a long process, typically lasting around five years, and it's not often that you find peers whose research interests closely align with yours at the same stage of their careers. That shared experience creates a special bond – one that is rare and difficult to replicate in other settings.
So, have some fun and enjoy the journey together. The PhD process is already stressful, and having those special friends by your side can make a difference. They can help you stay motivated and remind you that you're not alone in this experience.
What are some key skills or experiences you've gained during your postdoc that you think will be valuable in your next career step?
I am writing a lot and frequently communicating with other researchers. While I am still learning how to become a better writer and communicator, I firmly believe that this experience is invaluable in shaping me into a more effective academic researcher. Engaging in discussions, presenting my work, and collaborating with experts in different fields have helped me refine my ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively.
I am also developing project management skills as I take on multiple research projects, manage timelines and deliverables, and coordinate with collaborators. Balancing long-term research goals with short-term tasks requires discipline, adaptability, and self-motivation. Constantly staying engaged and driven in a research-intensive environment has taught me how to navigate challenges, prioritize, and maintain momentum in my work.
What are your career goals after your postdoc?
My goal is to continuously grow as a researcher by refining my analytical skills, tackling complex problems, and collaborating with experts across disciplines. After my postdoc, I plan to pursue a career where I can continue engaging in research and contribute to meaningful advancements in my field.
For prospective postdocs considering Dartmouth, what would you say are the biggest benefits of being part of this community?
I would say that Dartmouth offers a variety of rich and accessible databases and resources that support high-quality research! Plus, the tranquil campus, surrounded by natural beauty, creates the perfect environment for focused and productive work.
Beyond research, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy in the Upper Valley?
I think Upper Valley is a great place to enjoy winter sports. Before coming here, I rarely imagined myself skiing, but discovering a ski resort so close to campus changed that. Now, I enjoy going there from time to time for a quick ski session. I'm also a big fan of The Lord of the Rings movies and the Harry Potter books. When it's too cold to go outside, I love rewatching the films or immersing myself in the books.
