This is an interview series about friends of The Grocery. To revisit the last interview with James Park, click here.
This Mother’s Day, I want to give a big shoutout to all the amazing mamas out there - especially my mom friends and all the new moms navigating this season with strength and grace.
I’m Ji from Korea. I’ve been in NYC for 4 years now. During these 4 years, I’ve become a mom and started my own business in NYC. It's not easy living in a new country in my 30s, but every day is a challenge, and I’m learning new things from new people and the city. And!! I have a lot of respect for all working moms.
What's been your favorite purchase so far this year? Why?
The answer to this question has changed a lot. Last year, when I was asked this, I thought about something I bought for my own pleasure. But if I answer it now, it would be my "play mat!"
Our entire living room is covered with a play mat because my baby started crawling. But my whole family loves it. First of all, it makes sitting and lying on the floor really comfortable. This environment makes me feel closer to my baby and my dog.
What do you like to wear? Why? Has this changed with pregnancy?
I love wearing genderless clothes and pairing them with ankle boots. I think I’ve been pretty influenced by New Yorkers. Imagine wearing ankle-cut jeans or pants with boots, and maybe adding a leather jacket. I definitely prefer comfortable clothes. I hate anything uncomfortable.
Yes! Pregnancy has affected me a lot—first of all, my body has changed, even after giving birth! Did you know that women’s feet often change size during pregnancy and might not go back to their original size? I’m one of those people who now has different foot sizes.
What is a current project you’re working on?
Do or die, haha! Being an entrepreneur sounds cool, but on the other hand, every moment feels like a survival challenge. So, my projects and what I’m doing keep changing depending on the market demand, lol. My current project is helping Korean startups expand into the U.S. market.
What does your day look like?
Since having a baby, the biggest change has been that I go to bed early and wake up early. My day usually starts at 6 a.m. with preparing for the day (housework, arranging my to-do list, checking my schedule, etc.). Then, I usually head out with my baby to drop her off at my mother-in-law’s house. After that, I return to the office and work, have meetings, etc. The good thing is that since I have a baby, my time isn’t just for me, so I have to find the most practical way to get things done within the limited time. The bad part is... I don’t have much time for myself.
What is the best thing about what you do?
Meeting all kinds of new people and working in different industries, from AI and health devices to food! It makes life and the world more exciting to explore.
Where can we find/follow you?
You can reach me at my email: hangoorume@gmail.com or find me on Instagram @green_lover_ji