Kang Seung-woo is the Business Desk editor at The Korea Times. Prior to this position, he covered politics, national affairs, finance and sports.
Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center: a tribute to Korea's innovation
The Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center / Courtesy of Jinju City
By Kang Seung-woo
Historic city paves way for progress and entrepreneurship
JINJU, South Gyeongsang Province — Jinju, a historic city in South Gyeongsang Province, is renowned for its rich cultural and intellectual heritage.
In 2018, the Korea Academic Society of Business Administration honored Jinju as the "capital of Korean entrepreneurship," highlighting its pivotal role in shaping the nation's entrepreneurial spirit. At the heart of this recognition lies the Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center, a hub dedicated to fostering innovation, honoring the city’s storied legacy and inspiring future generations of innovators.
The establishment of the Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center in 2022 is deeply connected to the city’s educational history, particularly through Jisu Elementary School in Seungsan, a 600-year-old settlement known for its cultural and economic prominence.
This seemingly modest institution carries an extraordinary legacy as the alma mater of the founders of Samsung, LG, GS and Hyosung — four of Korea's most influential conglomerates. While these visionary leaders did not attend the school at the same time, their shared educational background underscores the school’s pivotal role in shaping Korea’s entrepreneurial landscape.
In a symbolic move, the school has been relocated, with its original building now serving as the home of the Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center. This transformation reflects the city’s intent to honor its historical roots, while embracing and promoting innovation.
Building on this legacy, Jinju’s municipal government sought to create a space that could both celebrate its historical significance and serve as a catalyst for modern innovation. The Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurs and honoring its role in the development of Korea’s economic giants.
Exhibition Hall 2 of the Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center / Courtesy of Jinju City
Jinju’s entrepreneurial heritage extends far beyond the achievements of its corporate luminaries.
Jinju’s spirit of innovation dates back to the 16th century, inspired by Jo Shik, a renowned Korean philosopher and Confucian scholar.
Jo, who spent a significant part of his life in Jinju, was known for his progressive ideas and practical approach to governance and economics. His teachings emphasized four core values: inner harmony, national patriotism and empathy, talent development and accountability and responsibility. These principles align closely with the ethos of entrepreneurship, providing a philosophical foundation that continues to inspire the city’s innovative spirit.
Jo’s influence is evident in Jinju’s historical role as a center of commerce and intellectual exchange. The city’s vibrant marketplaces and thriving industries during the Joseon Dynasty laid the groundwork for its modern identity as a hub of innovation. By connecting Jo’s philosophical principles to the accomplishments of contemporary entrepreneurs, Jinju has solidified its reputation as the birthplace of Korean entrepreneurship.
The Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center serves as a multifaceted space: a museum, an innovation hub and a training ground for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Its exhibits show the achievements of Jinju’s most famous business leaders, highlighting the global impact of their companies and the foundational values that drove their success. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring to life the stories of the Samsung, LG, GS and Hyosung founders, inspiring visitors to dream big and think creatively.
Beyond its role as a historical archive, the center is also a forward-looking institution. It offers workshops, mentorship programs and networking opportunities for startups and small businesses. By connecting emerging entrepreneurs with seasoned professionals, the center seeks to cultivate a new generation of innovators who can build on Jinju’s rich legacy.
"Jinju’s designation as the capital of Korean entrepreneurship was not merely symbolic; it was a recognition of the city’s enduring contributions to Korea’s economic development. This title reflects Jinju’s historical significance, its educational achievements and its unwavering commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation that continues to drive the nation’s progress," Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Foundation Chairman Kim Jong-wook said.
The city’s leadership has embraced this identity, using it to attract investment and promote local industries. Initiatives like the K-Entrepreneurship Center are part of a broader strategy to position Jinju as a leader in sustainable development and technological advancement.
Buja Hanok in Seungsan Village, a hanok-style guesthouse build and operated by Jinju City. Buja means a rich person in Korean. Courtesy of Jinju City
The story of Jinju and the K-Entrepreneurship Center serve as a powerful reminder of the value of honoring the past, while looking to the future. By celebrating its unique history and investing in innovation, Jinju has positioned itself as a beacon of entrepreneurship in Korea and beyond.
“As the city continues to build on its legacy, the Jinju K-Entrepreneurship Center will play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of leaders,” Kim said.
“Whether through its educational programs, its celebration of historical achievements, or its support for emerging businesses, the center embodies the spirit of resilience and ingenuity that defines Jinju’s entrepreneurial heritage. In doing so, it ensures that the city’s legacy as the birthplace of Korean entrepreneurship will endure for generations to come.”