Michael Kors Names Hanjoon Kim President of Korea

1 min readUpdated Jun 4, 2025Apr 23, 20151:00 AM

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Michael Kors, a global luxury lifestyle brand, is pleased to announce that Hanjoon (Michael) Kim has been named President of Korea, a newly created position. He will report to Stephane Lafay, the Company’s President of Asia.

Kim’s appointment, effective on 13 April 2015, follows the company’s recent assumption of direct control of the Michael Kors business in South Korea. In his new role, Kim will focus on building the infrastructure for this region and developing an expansion strategy for South Korea to position the business for long-term growth. “We believe that Korea represents a tremendous opportunity for Michael Kors,” says John D. Idol,

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Michael Kors. “Michael’s appointment is an important step in building the brand’s success in the Korean market.”

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What this means

Michael Kors’ creation of a dedicated President for Korea, following its assumption of direct business control, represents a robust push into a high-potential market. This move pressures rivals who may not have such focused, direct leadership, ensuring a more agile and tailored expansion strategy than prior franchise models. While other luxury brands have also sought direct control in Asia, this appointment signals Michael Kors' intent to replicate its broader Asian successes through specific local infrastructure development. The primary risk lies in misjudging the nuanced Korean luxury consumer preferences. The market will be watching for the initial roll-out of their expansion strategy and any new store openings in the coming year.

Aiko Tanaka · Retail News Asia newsroom

Questions & Answers

What is Hanjoon Kim's new role within Michael Kors?

Hanjoon Kim has been appointed as the President of Korea, a newly established position within the company. He will be responsible for building the regional infrastructure and developing an expansion strategy for South Korea.

Who will Hanjoon Kim report to in his new role?

As President of Korea, Hanjoon Kim will report directly to Stephane Lafay. Mr. Lafay currently holds the position of the Company's President of Asia.

Why has Michael Kors created this new position for Korea?

The new position follows Michael Kors' recent decision to take direct control of its business in South Korea. The company believes Korea offers a significant opportunity for the brand's growth.

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