What was the most memorable moment during your time at Pilotfish?
"The very beginning of my start as an intern, which was not easy at all due to the work permit that almost dragged me back to Korea—and becoming a general manager of the Munich office after 9 years was a fantastic (and dramatic) journey."
It was a full-circle transformation. The company’s perseverance in those early days inspired Sungchul to stay committed—and ultimately lead.
Pilotfish has always been about humanizing technology. How did that philosophy influence the way you work and innovate today?
"I experienced a wide range of industries that could be touched by technology (and human); consumer electronics, home appliances, industrial machinery, robotics, medical, retail, automotive, wearables, and much more. I have a lot of different stories to tell, knowledge to use, and the mindset to inspire: never stop learning new things."
His exposure to so many domains showed him how design can translate technology into meaning—and why staying curious is key to innovation.
What’s one lesson or skill you gained at Pilotfish that you carry with you to this day—whether in your career or personal life?
"Three things: First, it is people’s business. Pilotfish, in most big decision-making moments, I always felt like I was in care. It has been deeply engraved and became my attitude.
Second, in my mid-term review, I heard that I am talented, but invisible, as most of the Korean/Asian education systems lock their personality. That was a good lesson that changed the way I stand out, express myself, and integrate into a team.
Third, understanding how the design industry works. As a designer, I always thought I could only focus on creation, but the reality is that the project is not just given - designers need to fight for it. I tried my best to develop my commercial skill for me and for the team, and that shaped my additional value."
These insights - from empathy and self-expression to business acumen - continue to guide his approach to collaboration and leadership.
If you could describe Pilotfish’s spirit in just three words, what would they be, and why?
"First, People: It is about human beings.
Second, Dream: It is about our desire.
Third, Tangible: It should be possible, and do the best to make it possible."
A reflection of what truly defines Pilotfish: being human-centric, visionary, and committed to execution.
Imagine stepping into the Pilotfish studio again today, what’s the first thing you’d say to your former teammates?
"Montags bin ich müde. (On Mondays I am tired)"
A line only his old teammates will truly appreciate - his first full German sentence and a shared inside joke from the early days.
🙏 Thank you, Sungchul!
For the years of passion, perspective, and professionalism you brought to Pilotfish. You’ve helped define not just our design legacy, but the culture and care that live on in everything we do.
We’re proud you are part of our story and always will be. Here’s to the next chapter, wherever it takes you.
