Rob Edwards came to the Division of International Studies on April 25 to give a presentation under the Special Lecture Series. Mr. Edwards is not only the Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Korea, but also Senior Vice President of Standard Chartered Bank in Korea. His first posting in Standard Chartered is what brought him to Seoul in 1978. Mr. Edwards shared his knowledge of Korea’s economy from an international viewpoint and recommended how we, as young students, can have a successful career and aid the growing Korean economy. He spoke about six main areas of competitiveness: availability of skilled personnel, regulatory environment, corporate tax regime, culture and language, quality of life, and personal tax regime. He believes that all areas can and should improve in Korea by promoting international experience and gender equity, changing to a negative law system, solving the lame-duck presidency, and by improving educational and medical systems. He praised Korea’s culture and language, which is a great example of Modern Confucianism.
Mr. Edwards taught students about the elements of success and urged students to take psychometric tests to determine whether they have type A or B personality. He also stressed that students must focus on the five values of being ‘courageous’, ‘responsive’, ‘international’, ‘creative’, and ‘trustworthy’. Being ‘courageous’ means that, “you accept accountability, take calculated risks and that you are able to challenge ideas with manners.” Being ‘international’ means that, “you must be sensitive, understand, and adapt to situations.” Being ‘trustworthy’ means that you are reliable, open, and honest; and the highest level of trust is earned when “you did as you said you would.” These values were taught to help students’ communication skills and to continue on a successful career path. He concluded with the quote: “Life is indescribably full, unfalteringly real, unfailing good.”