“WHEN I WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL, I FELT DRAWN TO THE PATH OF SCIENCE, WHERE IT  SEEMED THAT EVERYONE GENUINELY ADMIRED AND VALUED SCIENTISTS AND THE WORK THEY DO.”



For readers who are unfamiliar with the historical background of Korea: After gaining independence from Japan in 1945, Korea experienced a division into the Communist North and Capitalist South. 

The civil war that followed from 1950 to 1953 brought immense suffering, devastating both sides and taking the lives of 2 to 3 million civilians. 

By the end of this tragic conflict, South Korea was left among the poorest and least developed countries in the world, carrying deep scars of loss and hardship.

Societal Culture: In his statement, the word “everyone” includes all the important people in Professor Park’s life—his parents, teachers, and many older members of Korean society at the time—all of whom placed their own hopes and expectations in him. 

Their views, along with the scientific career path they envisioned, left a deep and lasting impression on this young heart and mind.

“MY TEACHERS’ GUIDANCE AND INSPIRATION TRANSFORMED THAT PAIN INTO A POWERFUL MOTIVATION—TO SEEK DEEPER UNDERSTANDING, TO CARE MORE PROFOUNDLY, AND TO SERVE OTHERS WITH COMPASSION.” 



Education: Life in colonized Korea under Japanese rule was unbearably harsh, and people endured an incredibly low quality of life. 

Learning about this painful history in class was difficult, but it changed the way Professor Park understood the world and his role in it. 



His teachers showed him that even in the darkest chapters of history, human courage, and empathy can still shine through. Inspired by their example, he is determined to make his own life part of that light, carrying hope, understanding, and compassion forward for others.

“I FEEL DEEP RESPECT FOR THE “RESISTANCE,” THE CLANDESTINE ANTI-JAPANESE GROUPS WHO OPERATED IN THE CITY SUCH AS SHANGHAI DURING THE JAPANESE RULE ERA.”

Philosophy: Professor Park had read about the resistance activities, and the stories of their courage lit a fire in his young heart. 

Around 1919, these brave individuals built vital bases and organizations in China, all while living under the constant threat of arrest by the Japanese police. 

They gave up their families, their wealth, and even their own safety to stand with those suffering under colonial rule. 

Their selfless dedication to the oppressed moved him deeply and silently planted a seed in his own life. 

Because of their examples, he, too, felt called to devote himself to helping people in need and contributing to society, especially those who are poor or facing difficult times.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: 

When your heart is open, when your intuition is alive, and when you are willing to receive subtle intimations, what you are seeking will appear before you. 

It will become part of your life, enrich your journey, and allow you to keep expanding who you are and what your life can be.

Author’s Note:

Happy 26th birthday, proBionic!

In this special week, proBionic wishes to celebrate in a way that sparks a renewed sense of life and possibility in your heart.

With this spirit, we invite you to join us on an inspiring journey through the life and dedication of the man behind the scenes, Professor Park Yong-Ha.

During your lunch break, we’ll share one of three powerful stories that bring our founder’s passion, perseverance, and vision to life.

These stories are meant not only to honor the legacy of his work, but also to ignite your own sense of purpose and possibility as a leader, encouraging you to face challenges with courage and lead with conviction on your own path forward.

This is Part I: Intimations from Juvenile Reminiscences, from the series titled Lunch Break with Professor Park.

Ma-sit-ge deu-se-yo!

Read more: Part II | Part III |