Korea Zinc Commemorates Honorary Chairman Choi Chang-gul with Solemn Funeral Service

Korea Zinc Commemorates Honorary Chairman Choi Chang-gul

On October 10, 2025, a significant funeral service was held for the late Honorary Chairman Choi Chang-gul at the Korea Zinc headquarters in Jongno-gu, Seoul. The event was not just a farewell; it was a homage to a visionary leader who shaped the company into a global powerhouse in the nonferrous metals sector. The gathering witnessed the presence of Chairman Yun B. Choi, family members, and employees, all coming together to honor a legacy of commitment, innovation, and growth.

Honoring a Legacy

The funeral service was deeply personal, lasting about an hour with notable elements such as a biographical tribute, a memorial video, and heartfelt eulogies. Baek Soon Hum, President and Head of Management, shared poignant remarks about Choi's unwavering dedication and entrepreneurial spirit that propelled Korea Zinc to its esteemed status in the industry. He acknowledged Cha's dual commitment: not only to Korea Zinc but also to the nation’s advancement, emphasizing his people-oriented management philosophy that fostered shared growth.

Vice Chairman Lee Je Joong, a long-time associate of Choi, also spoke, emphasizing the influence of Choi's vision in overcoming the challenges of a nascent industry. He highlighted how Choi’s contributions were fundamental in establishing Korea as a significant player in the global nonferrous metals market, reinforcing the idea that today’s robust performance of Korea Zinc stems from the groundwork laid by its late chairman.

The Journey of Choi Chang-gul

Born in 1941 in Hwanghae Province, Choi was a man of education and high ambition. He attended Kyunggi High School before graduating from Seoul National University with a degree in economics. Further honing his skills, he earned an MBA from Columbia Business School in the United States. As a founding member of Korea Zinc in 1974, Choi imbued the company with an ambitious mission that transformed it into a leading name in the smelting industry. His tenure as chairman from 1992 to 2002 was marked by groundbreaking projects, enhancing Korea Zinc's production capabilities and establishing a robust foundation for future growth.

Throughout his career, Choi was entrusted with significant undertakings that would reshape the company, such as the completion of the lead smelter and the establishment of a cogeneration power plant. His foresight and relentless pursuit of excellence not only elevated Korea Zinc's status but also enhanced the overall competitiveness of the nation's metal industry.

The Core Values of Leadership

Choi’s management philosophy stemmed from a belief in teamwork and collective achievement rather than individual brilliance. This approach fostered a culture of harmony and resilience at Korea Zinc, reflected in the company’s impressive record of 38 years without a labor dispute and 102 consecutive profitable quarters—a testament to a stable work environment and Choi’s effective leadership.

In commemorating Korea Zinc's 40th anniversary in an interview, he articulated his belief in continuous evolution, comparing a stagnant company to life itself: both must adapt and grow, or face extinction. This philosophy resonated deeply and shaped the corporate culture at Korea Zinc, emphasizing that a successful organization is not merely built by a few stellar individuals, but by the concerted effort of all its members working together.