We came across this recent publication from DPR Korea highlighting some of the developments in the country. Our education efforts in economic policy and entrepreneurship are about long-term human capital development. Having consistently delivered programs for more than a decade, we are proud to see alumni go on to successfully grow their companies. This issue highlighted two companies that have taken part in our programs.
Unjong Tea
We are proud that the founders of this tea company came to us as part of our 6-month accelerator program, organized with a partner, culminating in a pitch competition at Unjong Park. At the pitch competition, our volunteer workshop leaders from abroad worked with the workshop participants to review their business ideas and provide feedback. Having seen this company go from idea to a sustainable business has been rewarding for our team and volunteers!
Pyongyang Piano Company
If you did not know North Korea makes piano, well, neither did we. This company took part in one of our workshop years ago and asked our volunteers about trends in the piano-making world. We did not have expertise in that area, but still, our volunteers managed to share general marketing and branding advice.
There’s also a fancy new paediatric hospital in North Korea. We visited it last year as part of this delegation with former Foreign Minister of Singapore George Yeo. The place really is as colorful as the pictures indicate. We noted previously that Pyongyang will see a Pyongyang General Hospital soon. With all the attention on public health these days, we wish them the best in upgrading their medical infrastructure, hopefully opening a new front for international cooperation.
Hopefully COVID19 will be in the past at some point, and we can bring future volunteer workshop leaders to visit some of these new landmarks!