Pak Se-ri is currently engaging with viewers through the show "Pop-Up Landing Operation." Captured from Pak Se-ri's Instagram In interview, Pak discusses taking on challenges to set precedent for others By KTimes Pak Se-ri, who has transitioned from being a golfer to a coach and now an entrepreneur, is currently featured on the KBS2 show "Pop-Up Landing Operation" (translated). While audiences are familiar with her charisma forged due to her inner strength, the show reveals a different side of her as she leads her team with care and guidance, contrasting her solitary battles on the golf course and offering viewers a new perspective on her character.
"Pop-Up Landing Operation" is a project where the hosts travel abroad, discover local eateries and invite them to Korea to open pop-up restaurants. The show first aired on July 6 and is set to return on Saturday after a three-week break. The upcoming episode will feature intense business competition between teams from the United States and Japan.
In an interview, Pak shared her passion for the business aspect of the show. She revealed that she had in-depth discussions with the production team about the concept earlier this year, where she was their top choice for the show due to her suitability for identifying high-demand products in foreign markets. Pak Se-ri, center, works with colleagues on the show "Pop-Up Landing Operation.
" Captured from Pak's Instagram Stronger-than-expected public reaction Despite the challenges, Pak reflected on her concerns about the pop-up store's success in Korea, saying, "I was worried about recreating the local taste authentically and whether it would appeal to people here. Although I was confident just before the store opened, I was still anxious about the outcome." When selecting dishes, Pak emphasized "familiarity with a twist.
" She said, "We aimed for dishes that had a special element within the familiar to attract people's interest without being too unusual." As she recalled the success of the pop-up store, Pak expressed her gratitude, saying, "Even on a weekday, more people than I expected visited the store, including some from far-off regions. Seeing their delighted reactions made me realize how rewarding it is to share good food.
" During the pop-up event, fans lined up early, and all products quickly sold out, with wait times closing before 11 a.m. Pak warmly greeted customers and offered exceptional fan service throughout the day.
When asked about her current goals and aspirations, Pak said, "I want to be a pioneer on a new path. I've walked the path of a golfer and now that of a businesswoman. I hope the new path I pursue can become a precedent that encourages others to follow, giving them the courage and strength to do so.
" This article from the Hankook Ilbo, sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by staff of The Korea Times..
