CEO | YK Consuting | South Korea
Dr. Young Chan Ko is an internationally experienced researcher with a distinguished career across Korea, Sweden, and the United States, contributing significantly to biopolymers, nanoscience, pulp and paper technology, and innovation studies. His early research experience began at the Korea Institute of Science & Technology, followed by eight years of leadership as the founding Managing Director of the R&D Center at S-Oil Company, where he strengthened industrial innovation and technology strategy. He expanded his global research footprint in Sweden as a Visiting Scientist at the Swedish Pulp & Paper Research Institute, and later held key R&D positions at Procter & Gamble, Georgia-Pacific, Kimberly-Clark, and Weyerhaeuser in the United States, contributing to major advancements in consumer product technology and fiber science. Returning to Korea, he transitioned into academia, teaching creativity and innovation at Sogang University and conducting research as a Research Professor at Kookmin University, with specialization in surface and colloid science, paper physics, and international standard development for the pulp and paper sector. His research pursuits currently focus on fractal geometry applications, Industry 5.0, sustainability strategies, and innovation-driven growth in the paper industry. Dr. Ko has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal, BioResources, and Journal of Korea TAPPI, addressing physical property evaluation, advanced surface characterization, sustainable industrial transformation, and consumer product technology development. He has also contributed to pioneering patent innovations in fiber modification, absorbent technologies, and polymer processing during his tenure with global corporations. With a rare blend of industrial leadership, scientific expertise, global research exposure, and forward-looking innovation insights, Dr. Ko demonstrates strong suitability for a Best Researcher Award, exemplifying multidisciplinary excellence, impactful industrial contributions, and a sustained commitment to bridging scientific research with creativity, technological advancement, and sustainable industrial development.
Featured Publications
Ko, Y. C., Melani, L., Park, N. Y., & Kim, H. J. (2019). Surface characterization of paper and paperboard using a stylus contact method. Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal, 35(1), 78–88.
Ko, Y. C., Park, J. Y., Lee, J. H., & Kim, H. J. (2017). Principles of developing a softness evaluation technology for hygiene paper. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 49(4), 184–193.
Ko, Y. C., Kim, H. J., & Allan, G. G. (2019). 4th Industrial Revolution and the sustainable growth strategy for the pulp & paper industry. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 51(2), 123–130.
Ko, Y. C., Kim, H. J., & Park, J. M. (2024). Sustainable growth strategy of the paper industry in the artificial intelligence era. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 56(6), 5–14.
Ko, Y. C., Park, J. M., & Shin, S. J. (2015). The principles of fractal geometry and its applications for the pulp & paper industry. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 47(4), 177–186.
Dr. Young Chan Ko’s pioneering work bridges advanced material science, industrial innovation, and sustainable engineering, driving transformative progress in the global pulp and paper sector. His research in fractal analysis, nanostructured surfaces, and Industry 5.0 innovation frameworks supports next-generation manufacturing, environmental responsibility, and smarter product development. Through global industry–academia collaboration, he continues to influence scientific advancement, industrial modernization, and creative innovation culture worldwide.