On October 29, 2024, the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA) Silicon Valley Chapter, led by Chapter President Dr. Gwansuk Kang, successfully held the first event of its newly launched seminar series titled “Trends in Silicon Valley” at Stanford University. This seminar series was designed to offer KSEA members engaging and accessible insights into emerging trends across diverse fields, fostering both education and dialogue within the professional community.
The inaugural event was moderated by Dr. Jiwon Yeon (Stanford University) and featured guest speaker Dr. Dahyang Jung, a postdoctoral researcher at the Stanford Center for Innovation and Design Research (SCIDR) and author of the Korean bestseller “What is Design Thinking Anyway?” published by Sunrin Books.
Dr. Jung is an expert in Design Thinking methodology, widely recognized for her research at Stanford’s renowned d.school. Her work focuses on innovation and product development processes in Silicon Valley food startups, with a particular interest in creating theoretical frameworks that help startups better understand consumer behavior and apply those insights effectively to new product development. Her talk, titled “Unveiling the Needs of Gen Z in the US,” explored the Generation Z demographic through three key perspectives: Digital Natives, Idealism, and Mental Health. Dr. Jung explained how Gen Z is deeply immersed in digital environments, forms globally connected tastes, supports brands that align with their values, and often views consumption as a form of self-expression. She also highlighted the generation’s active investment in personal wellness, using vivid examples to connect with the audience.
Toward the end of the talk, Dr. Jung introduced the Consumer Innovation Week organized by SCIDR and held at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco on October 17. The event brought together 15 startups from Korea in the food, beauty, and wellness sectors, offering them a platform to showcase their products in the U.S. market while facilitating connections to venture capitalists and distribution channels.
Following the lecture, a lively networking session took place, where participants shared their own experiences and reflections on Gen Z, exchanging insights from both personal and professional perspectives. Chapter President Dr. Kang remarked, “This seminar offered a valuable opportunity for our members to explore current trends in Silicon Valley and engage in meaningful discussions. We will continue to host informative and inspiring events for our community.”
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