Choi Jun-ho of Hyungji Elite (right) poses for a commemorative photo with former Minister of Knowledge Economy Hong Seok-woo at the awards ceremony held on June 9. [Photo=Hyungji Elite]
Hyungji Elite announced on June 10 that its CEO, Choi Jun-ho, was named a Global Leader at the 14th 2026 Korea Global Leader Awards and received the Minister of Industry Award.
The Korea Global Leader Awards recognize business leaders who have achieved significant results in various fields through innovation and challenge. At the ceremony held on June 9, Choi was honored for his contributions to national development through industrial innovation, talent discovery, and job creation, earning both the Global Leader title and the Minister of Industry Award.
Hyungji Elite explained that Choi's leadership in business diversification and management achievements were key factors in this recognition. Since being appointed president of Hyungji Elite in 2021, he became vice chairman of Fashion Group Hyungji in 2023 and was promoted to CEO of Hyungji Elite in 2024. Under his leadership, the company expanded its business beyond domestic student uniforms into sports merchandise, workwear, and international markets, leading to improved profitability.
The company has also seen success in overseas markets. Through its joint venture, Shanghai Elite, Hyungji Elite has established a foothold in the local premium school uniform market. This year, it entered the Japanese market, successfully supplying products to Kyoto International Junior and Senior High School.
The newly developed sports merchandise business is also experiencing growth. Hyungji Elite is expanding its collaborations with various sports teams, which has contributed to increased sales. According to the company, its revenue has nearly doubled over the past three years, rising from approximately 90 billion won to 160 billion won.
The positive trend in performance continues. Hyungji Elite reported that its consolidated revenue for the second half of the 25th fiscal year (July to December 2025) reached 88.1 billion won, a 19% increase compared to the same period last year, amounting to an increase of 14.2 billion won. During the same period, operating profit soared to 7.3 billion won, up 346% from 1.6 billion won in the previous year.
Choi expressed his gratitude, stating, "I am honored to be recognized for my efforts toward innovation and growth in the domestic fashion industry. I will do my best to elevate the global status of Korea's fashion industry."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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