Today we’d like to introduce you to Soo Young Kim.
Hi Soo Young, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I came to the United States from South Korea in 2006 with a passion for sharing the values and traditions of Taekwondo. Over the years, I had the opportunity to teach students in both Raleigh, North Carolina, and Las Vegas, Nevada, gaining valuable experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds.
In 2018, I fulfilled a dream by opening Kim’s Taekwondo Center in Cary, North Carolina. Since then, our mission has been to help students build confidence, discipline, respect, and perseverance through martial arts. It has been incredibly rewarding to watch our students grow—not only as martial artists, but also as leaders in their families, schools, and communities.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not always been a smooth road. Coming to America by myself was a big challenge. I had to adjust to a new language, a new culture, and different customs while also being far away from my family in South Korea.
There were many moments that felt difficult, but those challenges helped me grow stronger and more determined. They also taught me patience, perseverance, and the importance of staying focused on my goals—values.
We’ve been impressed with Kim’s TaekwondoCenter, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Kim’s Taekwondo Center, our mission is to help students become stronger not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally. We believe Taekwondo is much more than learning kicks and punches—it is about building confidence, discipline, respect, perseverance, and leadership that students can carry with them throughout their lives.
We offer programs for children, teens, and adults, with classes designed to meet each student’s individual goals, whether they are looking to improve fitness, learn self-defense, compete, or simply gain confidence.
What sets us apart is the personal attention we give every student. We strive to create a welcoming, family-oriented environment where everyone feels supported and encouraged to succeed. We focus on developing character just as much as martial arts skills, and we celebrate each student’s progress every step of the way.
The thing we are most proud of is the positive impact we have on our students and their families. Watching shy children become confident leaders, seeing students overcome challenges, and building lasting relationships within our community is what makes our work so rewarding. Our goal is to provide a place where every student feels valued, challenged, and inspired to become the best version of themselves.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I have been fortunate to have an incredible support system throughout this journey. First and foremost, I am deeply grateful to my family and my close inner circle, who have always believed in me and encouraged me through every challenge.
I am also especially thankful to the families at Kim’s Taekwondo Center. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many small businesses faced uncertainty, our students and their families stood by us with unwavering support. Their loyalty, encouragement, and belief in our mission helped us make it through one of the most difficult times in our business. I will always be grateful for the trust they placed in us.
Our school would not be what it is today without the support of our family, friends, and the amazing community we are honored to serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimstkdcenter.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kims_tkdcenter
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimstkdcenter
- Twitter: https://x.com/kims_tkdcenter
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kims-taekwondo-center-cary
