Magazine
A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
Interview and Article by Choi Gabi
Photo Credit: MOiM Studio
This July 4th marks the 243rd Independence Day of the United States. As always, celebrations across the nation, including in Washington D.C., will be adorned with parades, fireworks, and dazzling displays. The American public holds a profound trust in its military personnel, a sentiment stemming from the country’s hard-won independence through war. A striking element when encountering honored soldiers is the uniform, a symbol that epitomizes their identity. Since 2005, a Korean-run company has been a crucial supplier of these military uniforms — a tale not widely known.
At the helm of 'Bethel Industries,' which supplies to the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines, is CEO Kim Sun-Jong. Her story of success and community dedication is shared with Mam & I.
During preparations for this interview at the Bethel Industries factory, I was slightly surprised to learn that the CEO of a military uniform manufacturing company, employing around 700 people, was a woman. Meeting CEO Kim in person, her gentle demeanor and femininity were unexpectedly evident.
“I was a very shy and passive child, dreaming of becoming an ideal wife. Living a humble life was considered well-lived back then. However, in 1972, I found a job at the Cambodian embassy before Cambodia transformed into Democratic Kampuchea in 1975. Subsequently, I worked under Kyunghee University’s Director Cho Young-sik, who greatly influenced my life. Following my marriage to a man introduced to me there, I immigrated to the U.S.”
Transitioning to life in America wasn't smooth. Despite setbacks, CEO Kim's unyielding philosophy and determination helped Bethel Industries flourish as the sole Korean company securing U.S. military contracts.
“Immigrating nearly 40 years ago, I started with Becton Dickinson while my husband joined a trading company. We later entered the garment industry, supplying major brands like Jones New York and Ralph Lauren. The post-9/11 market contraction forced us to pivot, establishing Bethel Industries focused on government contracts. The persistence bore fruit when we triumphed on the 11th military uniform bid after ten failures, a victory driven by our uncompromising work ethic.”
From 2005, Bethel Industries expanded military supplies across branches, earning the government’s top partnership award in 2008. Kim also received the 2005 Asian Women in Business (AWIB) Leadership Award and the Urban Angels Award from the New York Theological Seminary. Her accolades reflect resilience, converting challenges into strengths.
“My initial endeavors faced biases against a female Asian CEO. However, this minority status provided unexpected advantages in government projects. At business conferences where I was among a few women and Asians, I realized this differential could be an asset.”
“The fun lies more with commercial brands due to creative freedom, while military uniform production adheres strictly to specifications. This simplicity makes it operationally straightforward but competitive due to periodic bidding.”
With an ingrained sense of social responsibility, Kim's efforts transcend business, founding the CSK Foundation for local charities and scholarships. She chairs Family in Touch and serves as a board member of Englewood Hospital, aiming to uplift the Korean community.
“Seeing Americans’ dedication to their communities inspired me to initiate contributions. Though I'm often busy with my business, I strive to give back, especially within the Korean community.”
Mother of two, Kim cherishes her family while reflecting on balancing a busy career. Her advice, rooted in personal experience, emphasizes understanding and nurturing relationships for a harmonious household.
“My husband was my pillar. I’ve always believed nurturing understanding and making efforts to maintain relationships cultivate happiness at home.”
“Throughout my life, I perceived challenges as integral to my journey. It’s crucial to focus on giving your best and never capitulating. Life becomes truly valuable when you can retrospectively affirm that you ‘lived well.’ My faith reminds me of the divine companionship in my journey, and I wish to continue relying on that.”
In an insightful dialogue, CEO Kim offers a compelling testament of determination, community commitment, and personal reflection — a narrative resonating deeply with many aspiring individuals.
