Who Is Jensen Huang’s Closest “Kkanbu” Among Lee Jaeyong, Euisun Chung, and Chey Taewon? Here’s His Answer

First-ever Appearance on an Entertainment Talk Show, Domestically and Internationally
Praise for Lee Jaeyong, Euisun Chung, and Chey Taewon as World-class Leaders
Highlighting Connections with PC Bangs, E-sports, and NVIDIA’s Growth

Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, appeared on a Korean variety show and expressed his special affection for Korean business leaders and Korean society. On June 10, he made an appearance on tvN's variety program 'You Quiz on the Block,' wearing his signature black leather jacket.

Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, appeared on the tvN variety show You Quiz on the Block. Photo by CJ ENM

Meeting with host Yoo Jaeseok, he spoke candidly about his upbringing, his connection to Korea, and his perspectives on the era of artificial intelligence (AI). This appearance marked the first time CEO Huang has participated in an entertainment talk show, both domestically and internationally, drawing significant attention even before the broadcast aired.

"Wishing Everyone Success" - On His Ties with Korean Business Leaders

During the show, CEO Huang was asked which of the business leaders—Lee Jae-yong, Executive Chairman of Samsung Electronics; Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group; or Chey Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group—he was closest to, referencing the much-discussed "Kkanbu Chicken Meeting" from last year. Rather than choosing a particular individual, he responded that he "wishes for the success of all," and spoke highly of all three leaders.

Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, is seen giving a thumbs-up while sitting in the driver’s seat of the Kia PV5 at the Hyundai Motor Group headquarters in Yangjae-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul on the 8th, listening to Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group. Photo by Yoon Dongju

He went on to describe them as "unbelievably outstanding global leaders," and remarked that Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor Group, and SK Group are fortunate to have such leadership. He also said he wishes for continued success for Korean partner companies such as Samsung, SK, Hyundai Motor, LG, and Naver, and emphasized that he is doing his utmost to support their growth.

During his recent visit to Korea, he reportedly met with key figures in the Korean business community to discuss potential cooperation in future industries such as the AI ecosystem, physical AI, and robotics. The longstanding relationship between Korea and NVIDIA was also a major topic. CEO Huang explained that Korea's technology industry and NVIDIA have grown together alongside the rise of the internet and gaming industries. He particularly highlighted Korea's PC bang culture, e-sports, and the influence of Korean gamers, noting that Korea provided a crucial foundation for the spread of NVIDIA's graphics technology.

Chairman Chey Tae-won of SK Group and CEO Jensen Huang of NVIDIA are answering questions from the press on the 8th at the SK Seorin Building in Jongno-gu, Seoul, about future AI factory collaboration. Photo by Kang Jinhyung

He stated that Korea's e-sports culture has spread globally, and as gamers worldwide came to love it, NVIDIA was able to grow along with them. He added that Korea is always close to his heart, and the history of Korea’s technology industry is closely intertwined with that of NVIDIA.

"The Strength to Endure Failure Shapes Character" - Jensen Huang’s Advice for the AI Era

CEO Huang also spoke honestly about his personal growth. He recalled immigrating to the United States at the age of nine and working as a dishwasher, cleaning restrooms, and delivering newspapers as a child. He emphasized that it is important to give 100% effort to any task, regardless of its size or the pay involved. He stressed that the outcome of one's work ultimately represents oneself, not whether the job is big or small or highly paid.

Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, attended a pork belly dinner meeting held on the 5th at a barbecue restaurant in Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, with Chey Tae-won, Chairman of SK, Koo Kwang-mo, Chairman of LG, and Lee Hae-jin, Chairman of Naver. Photo by Dongju Yoon

Above all, CEO Huang identified 'resilience' as the most essential quality for success. He explained that while it is impossible to perfectly predict the future, one can develop the strength to endure failure and get back up again. He advised that, instead of responding emotionally to criticism, one should look for lessons within it, noting that experiences of failure and frustration build character and resilience.

He also shared specific views on the era of AI. CEO Huang pointed out that while computers in the past were difficult tools accessible only to those who had learned programming, today, thanks to AI, anyone can utilize technology simply by describing what they want in natural language. He predicted that AI will help close the technology gap, but emphasized that in an age where access to knowledge has become easier, character and resilience are even more important for people. Intelligence and knowledge can be easily acquired through AI and the internet, but the strength to endure failure and a person’s character are cultivated through long experience and attitude.

Jensen Huang’s appearance on 'You Quiz' garnered tremendous public interest. According to Nielsen Korea, the Jensen Huang special episode of 'You Quiz' recorded a nationwide household rating of 5.7% on average and a peak of 8.3%, setting the highest ratings of the year. In the Seoul metropolitan area, the average was 5.9% with a peak of 8.5%, ranking first in its time slot across all channels, including terrestrial broadcasters.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.