LGE Vice Chairman appointed CEO

As a reform-minded businessman with outstanding leadership skills and strong drive and initiative, Kim is well respected throughout Asia. News of Mr. Kim's appointment caused LG Electronics' stocks to rise over two percentage points on the Korean exchange.

John Koo had been instrumental in the dynamic brand change from Goldstar to LG Electronics and the recent re-structuring of the LG group under a holding company umbrella. His move out of the corporate spotlight and the appointment of Kim brings the company re-structuring in line with the modern business model analysts had long viewed as lacking in most South Korean conglomerates.

"I feel overwhelmed by such great responsibility especially following on from Mr. John Koo's achievements as the former chairman and CEO," said Mr. Kim.

"I will do my utmost to continue the sterling efforts Mr. Koo started and assist LG Electronics to rank among the world's top three electronics and information communication companies by 2010."

Since entering the company in 1969, Kim has witnessed LG Electronics' phenomenal growth and been an integral part in its successes. It was Kim who proposed adopting six sigma innovation and knowledge-based management campaigns across the board, spearheading the company's reform activities as a field-oriented entrepreneur. Kim advocates listening to his employees, believing business opportunities come from the workforce as well as the boardroom.

In January 2003, Mr. Kim was appointed as LG Electronics Vice Chairman & CEO and head of LGE's digital appliance company. He was selected as the 'Star of Asia' for 2003 in June's edition of Business Week magazine.

On a recent visit to the Middle East, Mr. Kim said the region was one of the most important markets in LGE's plans to break into the top-tier of electronics and information communication companies.

"LG Electronics Middle East and Africa was honoured to have hosted Mr. Kim earlier this year," said LGE's Middle East and Africa President Mr. M. B. Shin.

"Mr. Kim now has first hand experience of the Middle East and understands the enormous potential of the region.

"A CEO who has experienced and appreciates the dynamics of this region allows us to communicate more effectively our business plans and objectives leading to greater understanding of the unique markets we operate in."