Prior to joining The Korea Society, Yong Jin Choi launched the Korean Studies Council International, which enabled U.S. teachers to travel and conduct research in Korea. In her previous and current positions, she has overseen the spring, summer, and fall study opportunities in Korea for over 600 educators. She has implemented numerous professional development programs, directed the production of classroom curricula and teaching materials, and provided information about Korea for major textbooks. In 2002, she received a presidential citation from South Korean President Kim Dae Jung for her contributions to the country. She was also the recipient of the 2001 Franklin Buchanan Award from the Committee on Teaching about Asia from the Association for Asian Studies, which cited her work on the curriculum series, Korea: Lessons for Grades 1-12. She has also lectured in anthropology at Seoul National and Hanyang Universities. Mrs. Choi holds a BA in history from Sogang University in Seoul, and an MA in anthropology from the University of Hawaii.