NBC

 

James, 29, immigrated from Seoul, Korea to the United States when he was four years old, and grew up in Houston, Texas and Seattle, Washington. He started a technology investment fund at age 18 with just $5000 and turned it into over $2 million at age 23, while earning his degree in business and computer information systems from the University of Washington, from which he graduated cum laude. After graduating college as a multi-millionaire, James joined one of the largest business consulting firms in the world, offering management consulting services to Fortune 500 companies. He currently lives with his wife and two children in Seattle, where he is the CEO and founder of an internet company that provides a unique approach to professional and online social networking at www.zoodango.com. James feels he should be the next Apprentice because, he says, "I bring a strong balance of Fortune 500 experience and the initiative and drive of a true entrepreneur, and I've already proven myself by achieving the 'American Dream' since I started with nothing to build everything I have today."

"Success" can mean different things to different people; what does it mean to you and how will you know when you've achieved it?
True success means more than just money, big titles, or trophies. Success breeds from within and it means having peace with yourself every day. You know you've achieved it when you can wake up in the morning with passion, generate a big smile, and appreciate the simple things in life.

Describe the toughest business situation you've had to deal with and what you did to solve the problem.
During my management consulting days, I had to learn a technology solution in one night before presenting to a client's CEO and CTO. I drank three Red Bulls, memorized a new programming language, and created a national implementation plan. In business, you have to do whatever it takes to get the deal done, and I was able to solve the problem by having more tenacity and determination than my body wanted to give. Sometimes, you have to force your mentality to overcome your physical weakness.

What lessons have you learned from past Apprentice winners or candidates?
I learned from Randal and Sean that you have to focus on building a winning record as a project manager and rally the respect of your teammates in the process. It's extremely important to show Mr. Trump that you can lead, compete, and be victorious. Bottom line, Mr. Trump wants a winner!

Why should you be Donald Trump's next Apprentice?
I bring a strong balance of Fortune 500 experience and the initiative and drive of a true entrepreneur, and I've already proven myself by achieving the "American Dream" since I started with nothing to build everything I have today.

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles?
The best thing about Los Angeles is the extended diversity and lifestyle. It really is a city of cities with the widest range of characters and personalities. The California coast is also one of the most beautiful scenes in the U.S.

What's your least favorite thing about Los Angeles? And you're not allowed to say "traffic."
Believe it or not, I really missed the lack of rain. I know... I'm from Seattle... but the sound of rain is very peaceful and therapeutic.

What will surprise viewers about this sixth season of The Apprentice?
The most surprising thing will be the caliber of Hollywood stars who make an appearance... it will be awesome!




UP CLOSE

What's your marital/parental status?
Happily married with two beautiful daughters.

If you could be the star of any movie ever made, which movie would it be and why?
Danny Ocean played by George Clooney in "Ocean's Eleven" because he was the "idea man."

What are your three favorite albums of all time?
"The Joshua Tree" by U2
"Appetite for Destruction" by Guns N' Roses
"Me Against the World" by 2 Pac

What are your three favorite books of all time?
"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu
"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
The Bible

What hobbies do you enjoy, outside of trying to impress Donald Trump?
ZooViting... it's a Zoodango thing. I also love playing basketball, snorkeling, and watching Veggie Tales with my daughters.

Quote:
"Success breeds from within and it means having peace with yourself every day."