EO Seo Jung-ho is explaining the drone.@ nesimpact Park Jong kuk
SEOUL (Newsimpact/Jung Hee Lee) - The utilization of drones in our society is growing day by day. Drone events are being held frequently all over the country. Drones are widely used for pest control, construction site safety management, surveying, and more. In the military context, drones perform various missions including surveillance and reconnaissance.
Drones don't just fly alone; they can also fly in swarms like a flock of birds. Swarm drones work together to accomplish tasks that a single drone cannot handle, such as synchronized performances, multi-layered data collection, and complex missions like attacking enemy tanks or warships.
Recognizing the potential of swarm drones, a visionary entrepreneur has emerged. Leading the drone venture company SwarmTech is CEO Seo Jeong-ho. News Impact met with CEO Seo Jeong-ho at the SwarmTech office in Yeouido-dong, Seoul, to learn more about his story.
-I'm curious about your journey leading up to this point.
"I studied classical music and worked as a media production producer. Around 2013, while shooting videos, I encountered drones. I realized that drones could be used in various fields beyond just videos. I became particularly interested in drone shows (performances using multiple drones).
To achieve drone shows, swarm flights were essential. Starting from 2016, I began developing swarm flight technology. I participated in events like the 2017 Volkswagen new car unveiling in Germany (held at the Gimpo Times Aerospace Hangar), the 2018 Hamilton Drone Swarm in Switzerland, and the 2019 International Drone Conference in Gangwon, South Korea."
-Did people around you oppose the idea of a drone business?
"There was significant opposition. Not only my parents but also friends questioned what kind of business I could create with drones. However, I was convinced that drones presented a challenge worth taking on. I felt that even spending time arguing against naysayers would be a waste. I pushed forward with the mindset that I couldn't achieve anything if I let doubt sway me."
-What roles do SwarmTech members fulfill?
"All employees are engaged in technical development and nurturing drone talent. This year, we secured investments to mass-produce swarm drone aircraft. We're also pursuing aircraft exports. The international drone market is much larger than the domestic one, so we need to compete on a global scale."
-Your company philosophy seems unique.
"That's right. It can be summarized as Tinca, Zef, and Ayo. Tinca means 'There is no correct answer.' It emphasizes creative activities. Zef represents SwarmTech, combining 'Z' with 'ef' from 'effect.' It denotes the development of creative human resources. Ayo is derived from 'Are you ok?' It signifies checking in on each other and maintaining open communication."
-Aren't there employees who struggle to adapt?
"Initially, it can be unfamiliar. People are used to doing what they're told at typical companies. But SwarmTech is not that kind of company. I tell my employees to prove their reason for being at the company on their own. I encourage them to work proactively.
In return, we provide all the support they need for their work. We also offer flexible working hours. All employees hold the title of 'manager.' There's no need for hierarchical distinctions. During meetings, we encourage open communication without hiding anything. They're even allowed to criticize me. The focus is on getting the work done rather than following formalities.“
By Jung Hee Lee
저작권자 ⓒ 뉴스임팩트, 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지