Anime Visionary Azuki Appoints Steve Chung as New COO
Staff Writer • 2024-06-18
Former FOX and CJ ENM Executive Brings Two Decades of Experience to Spearhead Expansion Azuki, an innovative anime community platform and digital art collection, has announced the appointment of Steve Chung as its inaugural Chief Operating Officer. With a rich career spanning Hollywood, Korean entertainment, and Silicon Valley, Chung brings nearly two decades of expertise to his new role at one of the fastest-growing start-ups in the anime industry. Leveraging Extensive Industry Experience Steve Chung, a seasoned media and technology executive, is set to drive Azuki's ambitious growth plans and help shape its vision for the future of anime entertainment. "Even as a new entrant, Azuki already has a proven track record of building a passionate community and has a clear vision of how to build IP and experiences tailor-made for anime fans," said Chung. "I am thrilled to join this world-class team to develop the next generation powerhouse in the industry as anime content and consumers quickly expand to become an ever more important and mainstream segment of global media." Bridging Web2 and Web3 Under Chung's leadership, Azuki aims to broaden its influence in both the anime and entertainment sectors, with a robust pipeline of new content and products. Chung's background in traditional media will be crucial in bridging Azuki's web3 brand into the evolving market. As the transition from web2 to web3 accelerates, Chung will play a pivotal role in positioning Azuki to capitalize on this new media landscape. His extensive knowledge of media and brand development will be instrumental in securing partnerships and collaborations with top anime creators and leading entertainment brands. Launching AnimeChain In addition to his role at Azuki, Chung will also contribute to the launch of AnimeChain, a blockchain network designed for and by anime fans. This initiative represents a significant step in redefining anime community engagement, leveraging blockchain technology to enhance the fan experience. A Storied Career Before joining Azuki, Chung served as the Chief Global Officer for CJ ENM, one of Korea's largest mass media companies, known for producing hit K-dramas, television series, movies, and musicals. In his role as CEO of America, he was instrumental in driving the "K-wave" expansion in North America. Chung's experience in Hollywood includes serving as Chief Growth Officer for Fox, where he was responsible for incubating strategic projects and launching new direct-to-consumer streaming products. He began his career at Goldman Sachs in New York and has experience as an Executive Producer for a prime-time talk show in China for the Shanghai Media Group. Additionally, Chung has successfully taken a start-up from founding to a publicly-traded company in Silicon Valley. Industry Recognition Steve Chung is widely recognized as one of the most influential media executives today. He is a member of the Gold House A100 List, which honors the most impactful Asian Americans in media and tech. Chung holds an MBA from Stanford University and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree. About Azuki Azuki is revolutionizing the future of anime by developing decentralized IPs and enriching the fandom experience with innovative blockchain products. Founded at the intersection of art, technology, and culture, Azuki emphasizes co-creation with its community, ownership of collectibles, and aims to expand anime culture to all corners of the world.
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