#USA #New York #UN Global Compact #Naver #Choi Soo-yeon

Choi Soo-yeon's Journey to the UN Global Compact Board

On September 17, 2025, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of Choi Soo-yeon, the CEO of Naver, to the UN Global Compact Advisory Board. This initiative is recognized as the world’s largest corporate sustainability movement, challenging businesses to align their operations with principles focused on human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption.

A New Era for Naver

Choi Soo-yeon has been at the helm of Naver, South Korea's leading internet company, since 2022. Making history as the second female CEO and the youngest non-founder CEO, she has quickly established herself as a trailblazer in the tech industry. A graduate of Harvard Law School, Choi transitioned back to Naver in 2019 after a stint in corporate law at Yulchon. Her focus on global business initiatives is reshaping Naver’s strategy, especially the AI-first global expansion that emphasizes sustainable technology.

Expertise in Responsible Business

Her expertise lies not only in corporate governance but also in responsible technology—a perfect match for the mission of the UN Global Compact. Sanda Ojiambo, the CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, expressed excitement over Choi’s participation, emphasizing her ability to drive both value and sustainability in the digital space. This appointment is not just symbolic; it's rooted in Choi's profound understanding of how digital enterprises can effectively operate while adhering to sustainable practices.

Enhancing International Collaboration

Since 2014, Naver has been an active member of the UN Global Compact, and Choi's role is expected to deepen this relationship. Lee Dong-Kurn, President of the UN Global Compact Network Korea, voiced pride in Choi's appointment, being the first Korean board member in 17 years. He anticipates that Naver will spearhead initiatives that foster a sustainable business ecosystem globally, reinforcing its commitment to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Importance of Sustainable Development

The UN Global Compact serves as a vital platform for advocating business practices that contribute positively to society and the environment. Companies that participate are called to undertake concrete measures to facilitate growth in alignment with the SDGs. A multi-stakeholder body, the Board advises on critical strategies and policies to ensure that global businesses conduct their operations ethically and sustainably.

Looking Ahead

As the dialogue around corporate sustainability intensifies, Choi Soo-yeon’s insights and leadership in technology and responsibility will be instrumental in guiding the UN Global Compact's efforts. Her elevation to such an influential role underscores a shift in recognizing the critical part that digital firms play in shaping sustainable futures. The ongoing collaboration between Naver and the UN Global Compact is anticipated to yield innovative pathways for responsible business conduct and sustainable development across various sectors.

In conclusion, Choi’s appointment is not just a personal achievement but a significant milestone for Naver and its global strategy. As businesses worldwide navigate the complexities of sustainability, Choi's leadership embodies the integration of technology and corporate responsibility—a combination that is crucial for future success. For more information on the UN Global Compact and its objectives, visit unglobalcompact.org.