Former Olympian in riflery shoots for business success

Lee Eun-chul

It may be illegal for civilians to have guns in Korea, but for Lee Eun-Chul, firing a shot is just a part of his everyday life. The past Olympic gold medalist in riflery, now 41, has spent more than two-thirds of his life practicing his shots and competing around the world. At the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, Lee won a gold medal in the 50-meter riflery event. He’s participated in five consecutive Olympic Games, from the 1988 Los Angeles Games to the 2000 Sydney Games.
After the 2000 Games, the longtime star athlete suddenly announced his retirement. “After the Sydney Olympics, I came to hate shooting,” Lee said. “At that time, I was totally exhausted.” Lee said. By this point, he had achieved his dream of winning a gold medal, and he was confused about his next step, Lee said. While other people wanted him to keep shooting, Lee wanted to pursue a coaching career.
Once he left the field, he decided in 2001 to try his hand at working in the United States. After studying computer science at Texas Lutheran University, Lee began working for an IT venture company in Silicon Valley, California. Lee had spent time living and studying in the States as a youngster, so he was able to work productively and earn a competitive salary.
With his work experience in the U.S., Lee came back to Korea as a CEO. Now, he is busy operating his own IT business, Silicon Valley Tech, located in Bundang, Gyeonggi. He said that even though he employs only seven people, the company’s sales have steadily increased.
As a businessman, he said his ultimate goal is to build a scholarship fund for underprivileged children. His Olympic days are well past now, but the CEO applies lessons he learned as an athlete today. “When I helped other people, I felt happy,” Lee said of aiding less-skilled athletes. “Establishing the fund is my long-term goal. To make it happen, I need money, so I started my own business.”
It’s a neverending cycle for Lee. “I’ll help people and recommend they help others when they’re successful in the future,” he said.

By Chun Su-jin Staff Reporter [sujiney@joongang.co.kr]