Team
Yungi Jung - Team Leader
Yungi, as the Team Leader, has a very extensive international background. He has experience working at Herzog & de Meuron in Switzerland and also at Kohn Pedersen Fox in New York. These wealth of experience helped him to become a versatile expert in architecture. Yungi was born in Korea and studied architecture at Hongik University. Upon graduation, he moved to the United States and acquired a Master’s degree in architecture from Harvard University. As the Team Leader, Yungi leads a diverse portfolio of projects from residential to commercial buildings. His expertise ranges from planning, engineering, permitting, construction, and entitlement.
Jimmy Jung - Team Leader
Jimmy boasts a very diverse range of experiences in real estate development. Prior to starting BBD, Jimmy worked at the Google Charleston East Project as a Project Manager, overseeing the construction of the new Google HQ building in Silicon Valley. Jimmy’s educational journey began at Yonsei University in Korea, where he pursued degrees in architectural engineering and business administration. Upon relocating to the United States, he further honed his expertise by studying Civil Engineering at UC Berkeley. At Stanford, he embarked on a second master’s degree in Management Science and Engineering, solidifying his multidisciplinary foundation. Jimmy has over 12 years of experience in new construction and holds the highest level of engineering licenses, including Licensed Professional Engineer in Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.
David Kim - Staff
David is an accomplished architect with over nine years of experience, having worked at SmithGroup in Washington, DC, and MMA Architects in New York. He has contributed to large-scale projects ranging from museums and laboratories to commercial developments, focusing on both design and execution. David holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Syracuse University and a Master of Architecture from Columbia University. He has led and contributed to renowned projects such as the VMFA Extension, Gilcrease Museum, Princeton Laboratory, NIH Laboratory, and the Bezos Learning Center Competition.
Ayoung Kim - Staff
Ayoung studied architecture in Chung-Ang University, located in Seoul, Korea. But her unwavering passion for real estate ultimate led her to pursue her dreams in New York. In the heart of the Big Apple, Ayoung earned her Master’s Degree in Real Estate Development from the esteemed Columbia University.Prior to her journey to New York, she worked at Haenglim Architecture Firm, one of the largest architectural firm in Korea. Currently, she is working as a staff member in BBD. Her expertise is in financial planning and planning.
Bo Chang - Staff
Bo also boasts a wealth of international experience. Most notably, Bo worked at Qatar, where he worked on design-build of landmark complex and high rise buildings. Since young, Bo grew up in the United States. His obtained his bachelor’s degree in architecture in Iowa State University. Upon graduation, he joined Heerim Architecture Firm, one the esteemed architectural firms in Korea. Bo’s expertise is in planning, designing, and permitting. He is also a licensed LEED AP BD+C.
Jihyun Kim - Staff
Jihyun's journey into the world of architecture is a testament to her passion and adaptability. Jihyun made a significant career pivot to fully immerse herself in architecture-related fields. She earned her master's degree in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania, solidifying her commitment to the craft. As an intern, Jihyun gained valuable international experience by working at various prestigious studios across the globe. Her journey included roles at Studio Skaggs Kennedy in Berkeley, Unstudio Architecture in Amsterdam, Junglim Architecture in Seoul, and Dumican Mosey Architects in San Francisco.
Irene Choi - Staff
Irene graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in architecture. She is passionate about residential and commercial projects, and also has a strong interest in interior design and real estate. Irene brings to the team her international experience. She was born and raised in both Korea and New Jersey, and after completing her studies in Pennsylvania, she worked at an architecture studio (LSM) in Washington, D.C., and briefly in their Manhattan office. Her global perspective was further shaped by her internships at Heerim Architects & Planners in Seoul, Korea, and a residential architecture firm in Dublin, Ireland.
Jenny Heo - Staff
Jenny has a diverse international background that enriches her architectural expertise. Born in Korea and raised in four different countries, she brings a global perspective to her work, having gained valuable experience at firms in both Korea and New York. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from The Cooper Union in New York, where she developed a strong foundation in design and project management. She oversees a variety of projects, primarily focusing on commercial and residential. Her expertise in project management allows her to effectively coordinate all aspects of the design and construction process, ensuring successful project delivery.
Kelly Shin - Staff
Kelly was born in South Korea and raised in the United States, providing her with a unique, multicultural perspective. Academically, She pursued her passion for interior design by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the University of Georgia. During her studies, Kelly further honed her design abilities through an internship with Studio Eccentric. Upon graduating, she joined Kukbo Design, Korea’s leading interior construction firm, as a Project Coordinator, where she gained significant experience overseeing global projects. These opportunities have allowed her to build a comprehensive skill set in both design and project management.
Seul Yoon - Staff
Seulgie earned her degree in Urban Planning from California State University, Northridge (CSUN). However, her deep passion for interior design and project management inspired her to expand her career into a broader spectrum of development. While studying, Seulgie gained valuable experience working on urban planning and design projects with the LA City development team. She also contributed to a diverse range of residential and commercial projects at her previous firm. Currently, she serves as a project manager at Build Block, Inc., where she combines her expertise in design and project management to deliver exceptional results.
Sarah Kim - Staff
Sarah's academic and professional journey is a testament to her passion for economics and real estate. She pursued her undergraduate studies in economics at Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea. Building on her newfound interest, she transitioned into the role of a real estate analyst at CLSA Securities. In this capacity, she took on the responsibilities of conducting analytical analyses, generating comprehensive market research reports, and developing financial valuation models. Sarah's expertise and dedication in the realm of real estate make her a valuable asset to our team.
Sam Kwon - Staff
Born in Korea, Sam studied architectural engineering in Seoul National University of Science and Technology. Upon graduation, he worked as a project leader in Jakob Shiel and J&S Hanbaek. His career took an exciting turn when he took the job as the Project Leader in a project in Hawaii. It eventually led him to relocate to the United States. Upon moving to the States, he joined BBD team. Sangho’s expertise is in engineering and construction.
Kun Chang - Staff
Kun, with an extensive international portfolio spanning the United States, China, and South Korea, has successfully led and delivered a diverse range of projects, from commercial developments and educational institutions to recreational facilities and residential complexes. Kun holds a dual degree in Architecture and Urban Planning from the prestigious CAFA in Beijing. This academic foundation, combined with years of hands-on experience, has shaped Kun’s ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and execute large-scale projects across varying contexts.
Min Kim - Staff
Graduated from UCLA with a focus on structural engineering, materials engineering, and urban planning. Participated in a tall building design and construction project, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge structural design. Worked in the Structural Design and Testing Lab, and completed specialized coursework in reinforced concrete structures. Currently gaining field experience to further grow as a skilled engineer.
Eric Kim - Staff
Eric, a graduate in Real Estate from the University of Washington, brings a deep passion for property management and development to Build Block. His previous experience as a Community Assistant at Tripalink equipped him with the skills to manage complex projects and foster community engagement. Eric was drawn to BBD for its dynamic approach to transforming real estate spaces and its commitment to innovative project management. His dedication to creating value and delivering high-quality results aligns perfectly with the company’s vision, making him an integral part of the team. Eric’s expertise is in Asset Management and Client Relations.
Benji Park - Staff
Jungmin (Benji) Park is a skilled real estate development specialist with a focus on global investment platforms and construction management. A graduate of Pennsylvania State University's Smeal College of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, he combines academic knowledge with extensive practical experience. As a Development Intern at EK Holdings in South Korea, he contributed to the financial planning of a 15-floor Innovation Hub, managing complex financial models that supported a $1.5 billion revenue forecast. At Inspire Wealth Management & Consulting, Jungmin excelled in creative financing and real estate valuation, playing a key role in high-stakes acquisitions and achieving significant cost reductions. His academic research explores global real estate dynamics, particularly China's investment influence within the EU, showcasing his ability to integrate geopolitical trends with investment strategies. He is well-prepared to contribute to any international real estate investment or construction management team.
Kaiden Kim - Staff
Kaiden has a diverse background in design and construction. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Yonsei University in South Korea, he expanded his global perspective through an exchange program at the University of Utah. While in Utah, Kaiden gained experience in designing and constructing high-end residential projects at Prime Builders, an architectural and development firm. As an intern, he contributed to international design competitions at Massstudies, a prominent architecture office in Korea. Kaiden's expertise encompasses all aspects of architectural projects, including planning, design, permitting, and construction.
Sidney Om - Staff
Born in the U.S. and raised in Seoul, Sidney brings a unique global perspective to his design work. His international experience includes internships with HK Architects & Associates in Seoul, Woods Bagot in New York, and a study abroad program at the Architectural Association in London. After earning his Bachelor of Architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design, Sidney joined BBD to explore interdisciplinary practices in architecture.