JINKYU KIM
BARISTA CHAMPION OF KOREA
Barista Mag: Before coffee, did you work in a different job or industry, or what did you study in school?
Jinkyu: Before coffee, I repaired cars at a car center and I worked a clothing store.
BMag: How did you get started in coffee?
Jinkyu: By chance, I drank a cup of espresso. I felt strongly intrigued by the coffee. So I decided to start in coffee.
BMag: What was your first amazing experience with coffee?
Jinkyu: The espresso which was supposed to be bitter was sweet, and it tasted like fruit and chocolate. The taste remained. I was surprised and it was amazing.
BMag: What would you like to see change about the coffee industry/community?
Jinkyu: I would like to see more profit going to the producing countries.
BMag: Name a coffee luminary (famous person) you would like to meet, and why:
Jinkyu: James Hoffmann. I want to meet James Hoffmann and ask him about coffee and coffee machines.
BMag: Name a barista you admire, and why:
Jinkyu: James Hoffmann. I admire James Hoffmann because he knows a lot about coffee.
BMag: Besides your own cafe, what cafe do you think everyone should visit?
Jinkyu: Square Mile Coffee Roaster in London.
BMag: Which coffee producing country you would like to visit, and why?
Jinkyu: I want to go to El Salvador, because I am using coffee from El Salvador at the WBC.
BMag: What are your interests outside of coffee?
Jinkyu: I have no other interests besides coffee.
BMag: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Jinkyu: I think that in 5 years, other baristas around the world will be buying my coffee. I will be one of the best baristas in the world.
BMag: Is there anyone you would like to thank or who helped you prepare for the WBC?
