Author: Dr. Yun

I’m Dr. Ohsoon Yun, a cultural geographer with a passion for coffee. Over the years, my research and travels have taken me to some of the world’s most renowned coffee regions, from the highlands of Ethiopia to the urban coffee culture of Tokyo. Coffee has always been more than a drink to me—it’s a gateway to understanding culture, economics, and community.

Serendipity and Connection: My Unplanned Journey Through Crete

In 2013, I embarked on a spontaneous trip to Crete with minimal preparation. After attending a tourism conference, I had a brief opportunity to explore the island. I expected to spend most of my time resting at the hotel, as I had no clear itinerary. Hoping to get travel tips during the flight, I was…… Continue reading Serendipity and Connection: My Unplanned Journey Through Crete

[From Walker to Runner] Studying Philosophy #2

After graduating high school, I entered the workforce early, beginning my career in the planning department of a securities company. The experience was a blend of both rewarding and challenging moments. However, one thing became glaringly obvious to me—the environment was deeply hierarchical and discriminatory. Gender inequality was rampant, and there was a sharp divide…… Continue reading [From Walker to Runner] Studying Philosophy #2

A Moment That Didn’t Take Ethiopia Away from Me

When people hear about my experiences in Ethiopia, they often assume that I only carry good memories. They see my love for Ethiopian coffee, my deep academic research, and my long-standing relationships with the people there. But life is never just a collection of beautiful moments—there are difficult ones, too. And Ethiopia, like anywhere else…… Continue reading A Moment That Didn’t Take Ethiopia Away from Me

Reconnecting Across Time and Borders: A Journey Back to Kaffa, Ethiopia

Fourteen years ago, I was a PhD student researching Ethiopian coffee tourism. My work took me to Kaffa, the birthplace of Arabica coffee, where I conducted fieldwork and immersed myself in the region’s rich coffee culture. During that time, I met an American Peace Corps volunteer, Chuck, and together we visited Ethiopia’s oldest coffee tree,…… Continue reading Reconnecting Across Time and Borders: A Journey Back to Kaffa, Ethiopia

[Book] Because Coffee Excites Me: A Special Moment on Amazon

A few days ago, I launched my Korean-language book, Because Coffee Excites Me (original title: 설레는 게 커피라서), on Amazon.com, the world’s largest online marketplace. Since it’s an English-based platform, I wasn’t sure if a Korean-language book would sell, but I uploaded it with a hopeful heart. Today, I was thrilled to see my first…… Continue reading [Book] Because Coffee Excites Me: A Special Moment on Amazon

A Journey Back in Time: Revisiting a 14-Year-Old Peace Corps Memory

Yesterday, I came across an article written by a former Peace Corps volunteer who was stationed in Ethiopia. The piece, written 14 years ago, unexpectedly included a photo of my younger self along with my name, which completely surprised me. Back when I was pursuing my PhD in the UK, I conducted fieldwork in the…… Continue reading A Journey Back in Time: Revisiting a 14-Year-Old Peace Corps Memory

[From Walker to Runner] How I Transformed Myself #1

I am a researcher specializing in Ethiopian coffee tourism and the Asian Coffee Road, but for now, I’ve stepped away from academia to run a coffee business in Seoul, focused on Ethiopian coffee. As I grow older, I often reflect on things I wish I had approached differently—particularly in regard to my physical fitness. Transitioning…… Continue reading [From Walker to Runner] How I Transformed Myself #1

Ethiopia: The Birthplace of Coffee and Its Connection to Korea

Ethiopia, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is a landlocked country in East Africa with a population of around 110 million, making it the second-most populous nation on the continent after Nigeria. It shares borders with Eritrea, Djibouti, Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, and Somalia. Despite its geographic location, direct flights connect Incheon Airport in…… Continue reading Ethiopia: The Birthplace of Coffee and Its Connection to Korea

Exploring Japan’s Diverse International Exchange Programs

Today, I’m stepping away from my usual coffee-related topics to share valuable insights into Japan’s diverse international exchange programs. As a Korean, I’ve had the privilege of participating in several of these programs, which have allowed me to build an extensive global network. These connections have been invaluable to my research and business ventures, including…… Continue reading Exploring Japan’s Diverse International Exchange Programs

[Book] Exciting News: My Korean Book is Now Live on Amazon Kindle!

I’m overjoyed to announce the release of my Korean essay, 설레는 게 커피라서 (Because Coffee Excites Me)! This book captures my personal journey of transforming from a complete coffee novice into an expert while traveling across three continents. It’s a story of passion, exploration, and transformation that I’m thrilled to share with you. This book is not…… Continue reading [Book] Exciting News: My Korean Book is Now Live on Amazon Kindle!