Where My Way of Thinking Began

Discovering Chess (Age 6, UK)

I first encountered chess when I was six years old during a month-long stay in the United Kingdom. On weekends, I visited a local library where a small chess club gathered. What started as a casual activity quickly became something I genuinely looked forward to, as I discovered how engaging it was to think through possibilities on a chessboard.

What fascinated me most was not winning, but the thinking itself. I enjoyed watching how each piece moved, imagining different scenarios, and taking time before making a decision. Considering one move ahead and sometimes several felt like solving a puzzle where patience mattered as much as creativity.

Continuing the Journey in Korea

After returning to Korea, I actively searched for chess clubs so I could continue playing. Chess became a constant part of my routine, and over time I participated in various competitions and earned multiple awards. While these experiences were meaningful, what stayed consistent was my enjoyment of learning and improving through each game.

How Chess Shaped My Thinking

Chess was not just an activity I enjoyed; it shaped how I learned to think and reset my mindset. I continued my involvement through the chess club at NLCS Jeju and later helped lead junior tournaments as a senior student. Alongside regular participation in competitions such as the Phobisia Chess Tournament, chess became a space where strategic thinking, leadership, and balance came together—both individually and within a team.