Job Interview

The ITM R&D Center explores innovative research projects that will make a difference and develop next-genreration materials.
  • Material Department
  • ITM R&D
  • R&D

Yeon-sin Kim, Senior Researcher

How do you spend your day?

I always pursue a productive life. After waking up, I go through my schedule and to-do list, and during my commute, I check emails and messages, reminding myself of the day's tasks.

Since I tend to concentrate better in the morning, I try to prioritize mentally demanding tasks, such as data analysis, setting the direction for the next experiment, and finding solutions to environmental and technical issues.

During the lunch break, I head to the cafeteria to enjoy lunch with my colleagues. Thanks to the extended break of an hour and a half, I have ample time to relax even after eating. I often spend this time chatting with colleagues over coffee, going for a walk if the weather is pleasant, or occasionally dining out with friends. I find that this sufficient relaxation significantly boosts my concentration and maintains work efficiency.

In the afternoon, I push myself to complete all the tasks I planned for the day. I also ensure that there are no issues with the projects we collaborate on with other teams or other institutions.

After work, I either hang out with friends, relax at home, read a book, or exercise. I play basketball every weekend and make time to catch up with family and friends. This routine is how I strike a balance between my personal and professional life.

Could you introduce your team and your job?

The ITM R&D Center, consisting of experts from diverse fields, is dedicated to exploring innovative projects that contribute to society and to the development of next-generation materials. Although each member is an expert in their respective specialty, we strive to create a supportive work environment where we can collaboratively produce innovative and creative outcomes.

In our projects, I focus on the synthesis and analysis of inorganic materials, deposition and device fabrication technologies, device performance measurement equipment, and data analysis. Currently, I am working on developing next-generation thermal interface and battery materials.

As a relatively new organization, we haven’t yet achieved significant milestones. However, I am confident that, through synergies with my excellent colleagues, we will achieve our goals sooner rather than later.

What do you think about the culture or atmosphere of your team?

ITM R&D Center boasts a very supportive and open culture. With experts from various fields, we highly value sharing knowledge and creative ideas.

Since an R&D organization is driven by creativity, we place a strong emphasis on communication. We regularly hold meetings, both scheduled and spontaneous, to brainstorm ideas for new projects and find solutions. These open discussions enable us to view things from fresh perspectives and enhance the overall performance of our organization.

Moreover, at ITM R&D Center, there's a strong sense of respect and support for one another. We're inspired by each other, sharing knowledge, and always have each other's back, especially when working on new projects. This realization of the power of collaboration fosters a friendly team atmosphere, boosting trust and strengthening the bond between members and creating a positive working environment.

In such a team culture, I've successfully completed projects by sharing ideas and cooperating with my colleagues. I'm truly honored to work alongside such talented individuals.

When have you felt fulfilled the most working in our company?

As a researcher, I feel a great sense of accomplishment as I acquire new knowledge and skills, and work through challenges with my team members during a project. My team and I take great pride in boldly exploring uncharted paths and ultimately making breakthroughs.

I felt most satisfied with my work when I, with the help of my team, found a solution to a problem that I couldn’t solve alone, and it was successful. Overcoming challenges and hardships to achieve success is the moment I feel most proud of my contribution to the ITM R&D Center. Furthermore, the experiences and knowledge gained through these projects boost my confidence and contribute to better outcomes in subsequent projects.

Beyond these achievements, I believe it will be even more fulfilling when the final product we are developing hits the market. I am eager to showcase our solution, which I am confident will be more efficient and perform better than conventional methods, because all members of the center are working hard day and night.

At the ITM R&D Center, I am building endurance to achieve goals with my team members against all odds, which brings me immense pride and fulfillment.

How do you see yourself before and after joining our company? What has remained the same and what has changed?

Before joining the company, I had envisioned contributing to the industry I was entering, while gaining experience in various research fields and developing new skills. I began pursuing this lifelong goal by joining Hanwha, where I am now honing my expertise through a diverse range of projects.

One thing that remains unchanged, both before and after joining the company, is my unwavering aspiration and determination. These qualities continually drive me forward. Additionally, my convictions and principles for ethical behavior have remained consistent, bridging the gap between myself I dreamed of in the past and my current aspiration.

Since joining the company, I am certain that I have had more opportunities to experience and grow, especially as I face various challenges. I am also learning to navigate unexpected situations and dilemmas in reality.

To recap, my aspiration and sense of purpose have persisted, and I find myself becoming stronger after joining the company, thanks to a wealth of experiences and opportunities for growth.

What do you think is the best benefit of Hanwha Corporation/Global and why?

I believe that the unique organizational culture of Hanwha Corporation/Global is its greatest benefit.

Firstly, there's the open and collaborative working environment. The flexible seating with various desk options enhance work efficiency and focus. With options ranging from desks near large windows overlooking Bukhansan Mountain, to a Focus Room that provides a distraction-free environment, and even height-adjustable desks, you can choose a different setting each day based on your task.

Secondly, the flexible working scheme and self-approval of leaves contribute to a work-life balance. I believe these systems increase both individual freedom and responsibility, thereby improving work efficiency and employee satisfaction. This free environment fosters a flat organizational culture, leading to smoother communication and enhanced performance.

Thirdly, the pleasures of food should not be overlooked. The company offers a snack bar and beverages, bringing joy to the workday. Delicious food not only motivates but also fosters a positive work atmosphere. Beyond these benefts, Hanwha Corporation/Global provides a retirement pension program for a secure post-retirement life.

These benefits and support for employees show the company’s commitment to thir well-being and work efficiency. Moreover, such a positive work environment bolsters employee loyalty, which in turn contributes to the company's growth.

What's your personal career goal?

I want to gain in-depth knowledge on a certain area as a researcher and serve as a pivotal role in the ITM R&D Center. Not only that, I want to reach out overseas beyond the domestic market to introduce great technology developed by our center, contributing to Hanwha Corporation/Global expanding its global presence.

I aim to acquire in-depth knowledge in a specific field as a researcher and play a pivotal role in the ITM R&D Center. Beyond that, I aspire to extend our reach beyond the domestic market to the world, introducing the innovative technology developed by our center. This will contribute to expanding Hanwha Corporation/Global's global presence.

Can you advise prospective new hires about what kind of knowledge and skills are required to do this job?

The key to becoming a successful future technology researcher lies in building capabilities across various fields while honing your own specialty.

- Knowledge Expansion: It is crucial to stay on top of new research trends and scientific developments by reading academic papers and participating in conferences, workshops, and seminars. Additionally, keeping up with social trends by regularly watching the news is essential.
- Project Management Skills: This is a vital capability for a researcher. Gain experience in planning projects, managing resources, and collaborating with project team members to carry out successful projects.
- Communication and Presentation Skills: For a researcher, the ability to effectively convey your ideas to an audience is all the more important. Learn how to clearly articulate your research findings in conference presentations or in written theses.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Research involves facing numerous challenges and problems. Seek out challenging situations to develop your creative and effective problem-solving skills.
- Long-Term Career Goals: Establish a detailed long-term career plan and goal as a researcher. Having a clear vision for specific fields and research areas will help you stay on the course.

With these capabilities and experiences, you will be well-equipped to achieve a high level of expertise and produce significant outcomes.