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Kang Seog Hwan, the founder of Ultra Construction Incorporated, was born on April 16, 1946. He was
born as the first son to his father, Kang Gap Rin and his mother, Lee Sun Hee in the state of Kyung Sang Nam Do, in the city
of Moon Jung.
After graduating from Han Yang University with a degree in Architectural Engineering, he pursued his life-long passion of architecture
by furthering his education in the United States of America in 1971. Starting with only $300 dollars, he had to struggle both
mentally and physically in order to attain his goals. Meeting every hardship with determination, he successfully earned a Masters
of Architecture, a Doctorate of Architecture, and a Doctorate of Theology.
He began his career as one of the youngest leaders of the South Korean construction industry. Beginning in 1977, he became the
youngest person to achieve the lofty position of Overseas Construction Engineering Manager in Hyundai Construction Company. Later,
he went on to become the General Manager of Byuk San Construction Company and the General Manager of Han Bo Construction Company
all while in his 30’s. In 1984, he returned to American soil in Los Angeles, California with a steadfast determination to “do
construction the right way.” There, he planted the seed that ultimately led him to achieve the American dream.
During the economical crisis of 2000, he conquered all challenges by remaining devoted to his firm belief that “risks present
opportunities.” Fueled by his ambition to create the most reliable construction company in the world, he bought out Youone Construction
Company of South Korea. This was the first successful example of a merger and acquisition deal between construction companies
in South Korea. The strong financial stability and high-tech engineering techniques and machinery made this transaction unique,
and thus highly successful.
Realizing the stresses of working for the formerly bankrupt Youone Construction Company, he encouraged his new employees by saying,
“I will do my best to help you do your best,” and, “Keep knocking when the door shuts because it will open.” Inspired by his
determination to boost their morale, the employees began to flow positive energy back into the company. His dedication to his
people was unparalleled?he remained true to his words, demonstrating his genuine compassion by engaging in conversations with
each individual employee and visiting all of the construction sites around the world to make sure to provide the best working
conditions. His sincere care resonated throughout the company, as his employees voiced their gratitude by calling him the honorable
Dr. Kang.
To solidify the position of his company, he refused to rest in the comforts of present success. Instead, he went on various journeys
around the world, visiting countries such as India, China, and Africa winning various bids to ensure future growth.
Without enough time to even look after his own well-being, he succeeded in achieving what no one could ever predict. Within three
years after taking over management, Dr. Kang achieved a 400% growth rate by winning $72,000,000 dollars in bids. By spearheading
new management techniques and bold company changes, he developed his company into a leading benchmark for all companies in the
construction industry to follow. After just three years of establishment, Ultra Construction Incorporated made more than $740,000
in pure profit in 2003, demonstrating its limitless growth potential.
On his own time, Dr. Kang also showed what it meant to have a true passion for architecture and construction by establishing
Ultra Construction Museum with his own funds. Ultra Construction Museum currently displays his collection of antique construction
tools that he collected over 30 years of his life.
A professional in every aspect, Dr. Kang lived a life of passion and determination. He walked a worthy path of life while always
trying his best in every endeavor. His strong work ethic developed many examples and lessons from which everyone in the construction
industry can learn from and greatly benefit.
By spending his life creating a solid foundation for Ultra Construction Incorporated, Dr. Kang truly showed what it meant to
do your best in any situation. He was the finest example to his philosophies, “My life would be worthwhile if I am meeting the
end without shame or regret,” and “there is no problem, but there is a big challenge.” Dr. Kang passed away at the young age
of 58 on May 2, 2004, leaving us with the ultimate example of a man who never saw giving up as an option.
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introduction > Founder
introduction 
