Mr. Choi Kyoo-ok

Accomplishments or support for the ROK-U.S. Alliance:

Chairman Choi Kyoo-ok is making significant contributions to the enhancement of ROK-U.S. alliance through Osstem Implant. His efforts are notable in the economic, medical, and technological fields, leading to the strengthening of the ROK-U.S. alliance. In economic terms, Chairman Choi has been solidifying bilateral economic cooperation through continuous investment and job creation in the United States. Since establishing the first production facility in Philadelphia, of Pennsylvania in 2007, he has steadily expanded its scale. In 2022, a major expansion was implemented, resulting in a production base of approximately 4,700 square meters. Currently, 423 local employees are working in the U.S., and this is considered an exemplary case of ROK-U.S. economic cooperation leading to substantial job creation. In the medical field, he has established himself as a leader in technology exchange between Korea and the U.S. Since 2007, he has been operating a clinical education program to transfer Korea’s advanced implant technology to American dentists, contributing to the improvement of dental care standards in the U.S. Notably, the ‘Hiossen World Meeting’ held in Los Angeles in 2015 was attended by 1,000 dentists from 27 countries worldwide. This continued with the recent ‘Osstem World Meeting’ in Seoul in 2024, creating a forum for international dental academic exchange. Furthermore, he is strengthening technological cooperation between the two countries by expanding R&D personnel in the U.S. Since 2008, in collaboration with the Department of Community & Economic Development, he has increased the recruitment of local R&D personnel, which has become a catalyst for promoting technological convergence and innovation between ROK and the U.S. These efforts are leading to improved technological competitiveness of both countries, contributing to enhancing the status of both companies in the global market. In recognition of these contributions, Osstem Implant received the ‘President’s ‘E’ Awards’ from the President of the U.S. Biden in June 2023. This is the highest honor awarded to companies that have contributed to increasing U.S. exports, officially recognizing that Osstem Implant’s activities are significantly contributing to bilateral economic cooperation and strengthening the alliance between Korea and the U.S. Furthermore, leveraging his experience serving as KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the United States Army) from 1982 to 1985, he has been actively supporting U.S. Forces Korea. In recognition of his contributions to the U.S. military community, in 2021 he was awarded the 8A SSG Kim, Sang-Won Distinguished Former KATUSA Award (8th Army KATUSA Hall of Fame), presented by the Commanding General of the Eighth United States Army, acknowledging Chairman Choi’s contributions to the U.S. military community. Chairman Choi is also working to promote the friendship between the two nations through corporate social responsibility activities. He supports free implant procedures for vulnerable social groups in the U.S. and promotes Korean culture through sponsorship of local community events, fostering cultural exchange between the two countries. This contributes to strengthening the alliance beyond the economic and technological fields. Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok is contributing to the strengthening of the alliance in various aspects and playing an important role in developing bilateral relations as a civilian diplomat. His ongoing efforts are expected to brighten the future of the ROK-U.S. alliance, and he is to continue making significant contributions to the development of relations between the two countries.

Volunteer efforts:

Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok is demonstrating exemplary leadership to contribute to society and through various volunteer activities it extends beyond business success to positively impact communities in both Korea and the United States. These qualities are expected to make even greater contributions to strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance and advancing international society.

In Korea, he is improving the quality of life for those in medical blind spots through free dental implant support programs for vulnerable groups. An agreement signed with Haeundae-gu, Busan in October 2023 provides implant surgery funding for local residents who had given up treatment due to financial difficulties. This goes beyond mere medical support, leading to restored self-esteem and increased social participation for vulnerable groups. Additionally, he is fostering coexistence with local communities by donating oral care products to the Haeundae-gu office and sponsoring local festivals. These activities are raising awareness of corporate social responsibility and strengthening community cohesion.

He is also actively engaged in volunteer work to improve the welfare for people with disabilities. In December 2023, in collaboration with KCC Glass, he participated in renovating the aged facilities of “Tree of Dreams House,” a residential facility for people with disabilities in Ilsan, Gyeonggi-do. This enabled 25 residents with disabilities to live in an improved environment, raising awareness about the need for attention and support for vulnerable groups in society.

Overseas, he is conducting various volunteer activities. In July 2023, he visited the “SOS Children’s Village” in Haiphong, Vietnam, providing oral health education and donating toothbrushing kits and school supplies to children in need. This contributes to improving health and expanding educational opportunities for children in developing countries. Similar activities in the Philippines, where he visited local child welfare facilities to conduct oral health education and donate necessities, serve as exemplary cases of global corporate social responsibility by Korean companies, enhancing Korea’s image in the international community.

The impact on American society is also noteworthy. Osstem Implant’s U.S. subsidiary supports free dental implant procedures for local vulnerable groups, providing tangible help to those marginalized in the U.S. healthcare system and fostering positive perceptions of Korean companies’ social responsibility. Furthermore, free clinical education programs for U.S. dentists contribute to the advancement of dental medical technology in the U.S. and promote medical technology exchange between Korea and the U.S.

He actively participates in global disaster relief efforts. During the February 2023 earthquake in Turkiye, he cooperated with local dental associations to donate relief funds to the most affected areas and provided support to affected local employees, demonstrating the responsibility of a global company as a member of the international community. Beyond medical volunteering, he is striving to promote international goodwill through cultural exchange. In May 2023, he officially sponsored the “14th Baek Moon-Jong Cup International Taekwondo Championship” in Uzbekistan, contributing to the spread of Korean culture and fostering bilateral friendship. This serves as a good example of cultural exchange through sports, helping to enhance Korea’s soft power.

These diverse volunteer activities are creating significant ripples both domestically and internationally. In Korea, they are raising awareness about corporate social responsibility and highlighting the importance of supporting vulnerable groups. Overseas, they are forming a positive image of Korea and Korean companies, contributing to elevating Korea’s status in the international community. Particularly, activities in the United States are playing a role in civilian diplomacy, further solidifying the friendly relations between Korea and the U.S.

Short biography:

Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok, born on May 10, 1960, in Cheonan, has built a distinguished career in dentistry and business. He served US army for KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army) from 1982 to 1984. After graduating from Seoul National University’s School of Dentistry, he completed advanced degrees at Dankook and Korea Universities. His academic background laid the foundation for his future innovations in dentistry. Beginning his career as a dentist in 1991, Dr. Choi gained valuable clinical experience, which led to the establishment of Osstem Implant in 1997. This venture positioned him as a pioneer in Korea’s implant industry. His concurrent role as director of Apsun Dental Hospital from 2001 further enhanced his clinical expertise, contributing to the development of practical and innovative implant products. Dr. Choi’s influence extends beyond business into academia and industry. He has held professorships at Korea University and leadership positions in various industry associations, fostering industry-academic cooperation and sharing his expertise widely. His achievements have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Korean Management Award (2003) and the Industrial Service Medal at the Venture Business Awards (2006). Notably, his selection as a ‘Science and Technology Figure to Admire and Aspire to Be’ in 2007 acknowledged his innovative entrepreneurship and contributions to scientific advancement. As Chairman of Osstem Implant, Dr. Choi continues to lead global business expansion and technological innovation. He has spearheaded the company’s entry into the U.S. market, establishing production facilities in Philadelphia in 2007. Through international academic conferences and education programs for overseas medical professionals, he actively promotes global medical technology exchange, strengthening ROK-U.S. economic cooperation and advancing the field of dentistry worldwide.

Statement from the nominator about the nominee’s qualities:

Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok, is a leader with outstanding entrepreneurial spirit, passion for the ROK-U.S. alliance, and diverse qualities that can contribute to the ROK-U.S. alliance. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his management philosophy and social contribution activities, particularly his decision to enter the U.S. market, which was aimed at long-term ROK-U.S. economic cooperation and strengthening the alliance. His passion for the alliance is demonstrated through efforts to promote cooperation in various fields such as economy, healthcare, and culture. Examples include large-scale investments and job creation in the U.S. and facilitating technology and knowledge exchange between the two countries. Based on his experience as a KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army) from 1982 to 1984, Chairman Choi is planning support projects for Korean War veterans. This is part of his effort to remind people of the historical significance of the ROK-U.S. alliance and convey its value to future generations. His success in the global market through Osstem Implant will contribute to promoting cooperation between ROK and U.S. companies and strengthening economic ties. His transformation from a dentist to a global entrepreneur demonstrates innovative thinking and a spirit of challenge, which will help address new challenges faced by the ROK-US alliance. Chairman Choi’s experience in localizing in the U.S. market, global network, and various social contribution activities are expected to play significant roles in promoting cultural exchange, expanding private diplomatic channels, and pursuing cooperative projects to solve social issues in both countries. With this award, it is believed that Chairman Choi will further strengthen the ROK-U.S. alliance through expanded investment and employment in the U.S. promoting exchange in medical technology, expanding cultural exchange programs, and supporting educational programs for younger-generation leaders.