Steve Kim is launching the Muju Dream Training Center this May in Muju, North Jeolla Province. The project marks his latest effort to invest in future generations through education.
From Tech Giant to Education Advocate
Kim, 75, sold his company Xylan to France’s Alcatel for $2 billion in 1999. Now, he’s channeling that success into a 500-person training facility on the grounds of a former elementary school.
Construction began in January 2023. Kim led the planning and oversaw the materials himself. The project totaled ₩20 billion, including ₩1 billion for the land.
Affordable and Easy to Reach
“This isn’t about making money,” Kim said in an interview with The Korea Daily. “I wanted a place where people of all ages can come together, learn, and grow.”
Daily fees will be kept low—between ₩20,000 and ₩30,000. The center is two hours from Incheon International Airport and just five minutes from Muju’s town center.
Surrounded by national parks and known for its clean environment, Muju is a major tourist draw. The town sits at the junction of four provinces and is reachable within two hours from most parts of the country.
Large-Scale Facilities and Strong Local Support
The four-story complex includes over 170 rooms, a buffet restaurant for 400 guests, 10 classrooms, seminar rooms, and a 3,000-pyeong auditorium for concerts or lectures.
Interest is rising fast. Kim says schools in Seoul, Busan, and Gunsan have already asked about programs. Others reaching out include military units, government agencies, older adults, companies, and religious groups.
The Muju County Government invested ₩1 billion to support water infrastructure. Kim thanked local officials, noting their professionalism and cooperation throughout the year-long construction.
Rediscovery and Reflection
The center will offer a two-day self-exploration program. Kim hopes visitors, including Korean Americans, will use the time to reflect and reconnect. “It’s a program everyone should try at least once,” he said.
Welcoming the Korean Diaspora
After watching videos of Koryoin—ethnic Koreans in former Soviet regions—Kim was moved to act. He plans to offer them free stays at the center when they visit Korea. Having once lived abroad, he says he understands the longing for home and wants to help others reconnect with their roots.
Jobs and Long-Term Vision
The center has hired 50 local staff. Kim says creating good jobs is part of the mission.
He’s also active in hospitality. After returning to Korea, he acquired Sand Canyon Golf Resort in Santa Clarita, California, in 2017. He continues to develop resort and hotel projects, including in Temecula.
His Dream Hope Future Foundation opened a leadership center at Konyang University in 2015 and signed an agreement with the Korean Army Headquarters in 2017.
More details on the Muju Dream Training Center are available at www.dhffn.com.
BY BRIAN CHOI [ichoi@koreadaily.com]
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