In this episode of Mentor Up, I sit down with Hyunwoo Sun, one of the most respected entrepreneurs in the global language-learning industry.

Hyunwoo has spent over 16 years building a brand that became #1 in its niche worldwide, publishing 50+ books and 80+ courses, all while staying deeply present as a father and leader. But this conversation isn’t about hustle, shortcuts, or overnight success.

We talk about what it really takes to build something that lasts: calm leadership, long-term thinking, knowing when to step back as a founder, and why impact matters more than metrics. Hyunwoo shares why he never started with a traditional business plan, how his definition of success has evolved, and what most founders misunderstand about growth, business models, and freedom.

We also explore the future of language learning, the role of AI, and what will remain deeply human no matter how advanced technology becomes.

This episode was recorded in Taiwan, right after our first Language Business Retreat, making it both a strategic deep dive and a reflection on what happens when experienced entrepreneurs come together to mentor, learn, and zoom out from day-to-day operations.

Interested in joining the next Language Business Retreat in November 2026 in Italy?
Add your name to the waitlist, and we’ll let you know as soon as spots open: https://tally.so/r/ob6LxN

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Connect with Hyunwoo and his brand Talk to me in Korean

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hyunwoosun/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hyunwoosun_ttmik/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talktomeinkorean