Soo Young CHO
9401 Harlow Ct, Prospect, KY 40059
KIWA, 2235 Frankfort ave, #104, Louisville, KY
C: +1 502-888-3513 | E: scho@kiwausa.com
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Professional Summary
Entrepreneur and culinary innovator with nearly two years of experience as founder and head operator
of KIWA, a Korean-inspired café in Louisville, KY. Skilled in menu development, customer engagement, and
cultural programming, with a strong background in architecture and design. Passionate about creating warm,
community-driven dining experiences that celebrate Korean food culture while remaining accessible to
diverse audiences. Currently preparing for relocation to Chicago to launch a new restaurant concept built on
lessons learned from first venture and strengthened by mentorship and collaboration.
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Culinary & Hospitality Experience
Founder & Head Operator
KIWA Café, Louisville, KY | Dec 2023 – Present
• Launched and managed a specialty café introducing Korean teas, light meals, and seasonal menus.
• Designed and tested unique menu items inspired by Korean flavors and contemporary café culture.
• Oversaw daily operations including purchasing, cost management, sta\ing, and customer service.
• Built partnerships with the City of Louisville, universities, and multicultural organizations to host
workshops, language cafés, and cultural events.
• Cultivated a non-Korean customer base (99% of clientele), bridging cultural heritage and local
community engagement.
• Adapted space as a multipurpose venue for gatherings, meetings, and collaborative events.
Culinary Workshops & Menu Development | 2023 – Present
• Conducted food and tea workshops highlighting Korean ingredients, techniques, and traditions.
• Developed menu concepts (e.g., corn cream latte, rice bowl variations, Korean dessert pairings).
• Collaborated with local farmers and artists to incorporate sustainable ingredients and tableware.
Other Professional Experience
Project Manager, Real Estate & Infrastructure Advisory
KPMG, Seoul, Korea | 2020 – 2021
• Conducted feasibility studies, business optimization, and large-scale project analysis.
• Strengthened financial planning, analytical, and stakeholder communication skills.
Architectural Design & Project Coordination
Hanwha E&C, Seoul, Korea | 2017 – 2020
• Managed project planning, design reviews, and construction documentation.
• Developed keen attention to spatial design and detail, later applied to hospitality and café design.
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Education
M.Arch, Master of Architecture – Korea University, Seoul, Korea (2015 – 2017)
• Research focus: spatial needs of single households; crime prevention through environmental design.
B.Arch, Bachelor of Architecture – Korea University, Seoul, Korea (2010 – 2015)
• Thesis: spatial solutions for aging-in-place with dementia.
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Skills
• Culinary Development & Food Styling
• Cafe & Restaurant Operations
• Financial & Business Planning
• Community Engagement & Event Programming
• Cross-cultural Communication (Korean/English)
• Design: Photoshop, Illustrator, Microsoft Office
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Languages
• Korean (Native)
• English (Upper-Intermediate)