Kotra Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Kotra has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and regional market development.

Driven by a mission to foster international trade and investment, Kotra operates as a vital government-backed entity, enhancing South Korea's global economic presence through strategic partnerships and market expansion initiatives.

Leadership Roles at Kotra

  • President and Chief Executive Officer - Ki-Hwa Hong
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jeong-yeol Yoo
  • Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operationeel - Leo Dillen
  • President, Kotra (Japan) - Yongmin Park
  • Regional President - Donguk Park
  • Ki-Hwa Hong - President and Chief Executive Officer

    Ki-Hwa Hong, the President and Chief Executive Officer at Kotra, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the organization. This leadership role involves setting the vision for international trade and investment promotion, aligning all departmental efforts with national economic objectives. Overseeing global initiatives, Ki-Hwa Hong ensures Kotra effectively supports South Korean businesses in expanding their market reach and attracting foreign investment. The President and Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering key relationships with international governmental bodies and industry leaders, thereby enhancing Kotra's influence and effectiveness on the global stage. This position demands a comprehensive understanding of international markets and a strategic approach to navigating complex trade landscapes. Ki-Hwa Hong drives the organization's commitment to facilitating economic growth and strengthening South Korea's position in the global marketplace.

    Jeong-yeol Yoo - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jeong-yeol Yoo, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Kotra, spearheads the strategic direction and operational management of the trade and investment promotion agency. This executive leadership position involves defining the organization's core mission and ensuring its effective implementation across all global operations. Jeong-yeol Yoo guides the strategic planning processes, focusing on enhancing South Korea's international trade relationships and attracting foreign direct investment. The President & Chief Executive Officer's purview includes overseeing the development and execution of programs designed to support Korean companies in overseas markets and facilitating inbound investment opportunities. This role requires a deep understanding of global economic trends and a proactive approach to market development. Jeong-yeol Yoo is committed to driving economic growth and solidifying Kotra's role as a pivotal facilitator of international business.
    Jeong-yeol Yoo

    Leo Dillen - Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operationeel

    Leo Dillen, the Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operationeel at Kotra, manages the day-to-day operational functions and oversees the execution of strategic initiatives. This critical role ensures the efficient functioning of all internal departments and the seamless delivery of Kotra's services to businesses. Leo Dillen directs the operational framework, focusing on optimizing resource allocation and enhancing process efficiency across the organization. The Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operationeel's responsibilities include implementing best practices in operational management and ensuring compliance with organizational policies. This leadership position is vital for maintaining the high standards of service expected from a government trade promotion agency. Leo Dillen's focus on operational excellence directly supports Kotra's mission to foster international trade and investment, ensuring that all activities are conducted with maximum effectiveness and impact.

    Yongmin Park - President, Kotra (Japan)

    Yongmin Park, the President, Kotra (Japan) at Kotra, leads the organization's strategic operations and trade promotion efforts within the Japanese market. This executive role involves developing and implementing tailored strategies to enhance bilateral trade and investment between South Korea and Japan. Yongmin Park oversees the regional team, ensuring effective support for Korean businesses seeking to expand into Japan and facilitating Japanese investment into South Korea. The President, Kotra (Japan)'s responsibilities include cultivating strong relationships with Japanese business communities and government entities, thereby strengthening economic ties. This position requires a nuanced understanding of the Japanese business environment and a proactive approach to identifying new opportunities. Yongmin Park drives Kotra's mission to foster economic cooperation and mutual growth within this key regional market.

    Donguk Park - Regional President

    Donguk Park, the Regional President at Kotra, directs the strategic initiatives and operational oversight for designated geographic regions. This leadership position involves tailoring Kotra's trade and investment promotion activities to the specific economic landscapes and opportunities within these areas. Donguk Park focuses on expanding South Korea's economic footprint by fostering partnerships and facilitating investment flows in the regions under management. The Regional President's responsibilities include leading regional teams, developing market-specific strategies, and ensuring the effective delivery of services to businesses operating within or looking to enter these markets. This role is crucial for adapting Kotra's global mission to localized contexts. Donguk Park drives regional economic development and strengthens international business relationships through targeted engagement and strategic planning.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Kotra Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Kotra?
    Kotra is led by Ki-Hwa Hong (President and Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jeong-yeol Yoo (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Leo Dillen (Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operationeel).
    Who is part of Kotra’s executive team?
    The executive team of Kotra includes leaders such as Ki-Hwa Hong (President and Chief Executive Officer), Jeong-yeol Yoo (President & Chief Executive Officer), Leo Dillen (Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operationeel) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Kotra have?
    Kotra has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Kotra’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Kotra includes roles such as President and Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operationeel, President, Kotra (Japan), Regional President.