A group of pioneering Korean women are making their mark in the rapidly evolving Web3 space, embracing its flexibility and innovation despite the industry’s fast-paced nature and male-dominated culture. Among them is Lee Hyun-jeong, known as LJ at Aptos Labs, who has found both professional satisfaction and personal balance in the decentralized world of blockchain technology.
Every morning at 6 a.m., LJ starts her day with virtual meetings with her U.S. colleagues, balancing work and personal commitments throughout the day. Formerly employed by tech giants Microsoft and Google in Korea, she now thrives in her role as a partner success manager at Aptos Labs. Reflecting on her work-life balance, LJ said, “In this industry, it’s easier to maintain balance across [happiness categories], creating a well-rounded hexagon.” Her ability to work remotely has allowed her to spend more time with her family, a flexibility she says was lacking in her previous roles.
LJ is not alone in this journey. Five other Korean women, including Jane Lee, the Korea country lead at Scroll, and Lee Yumi, the communications lead at Xangle, have also found empowerment in Web3. They praise the industry’s merit-based culture and the flexibility it offers, a sharp contrast to the rigid hierarchies often found in traditional Korean workplaces.
“Web3 brings together people with diverse skills, each focusing on different parts of the industry. Since it’s new to everyone, it creates a level playing field for those who can adapt and grow,” said Christie Lee, Korea business lead at Aptos Labs. Having worked in startups and investment firms for over a decade, Christie has embraced the challenges and opportunities presented by this nascent field.
Web3 companies leverage blockchain technology to create decentralized applications, and the rapid growth of the industry has attracted people from diverse backgrounds. Lee Eun-jin, the sales director of institutional business at Fireblocks, transitioned from traditional finance to digital assets, motivated by the transformative potential of blockchain. “It seemed inevitable that traditional financial markets won’t be able to resist the rise of digital assets,” she said.
The flexibility that Web3 offers has been a meaningful advantage for many women balancing career and family. “Long-term parental leave may not be the most effective solution… The flexibility Web3 offers is a meaningful advantage,” said Xangle’s Lee Yumi.
However, the fast-paced nature of the industry can also present challenges. The relentless workload and always-on culture have led to concerns about burnout. “The pace can be relentless,” admitted Xangle’s Lee. “Everyone is constantly in ‘go, go, go’ mode. When work seeps into your mornings, nights, and weekends, burnout becomes a real risk.”
The industry’s male-dominated culture also poses hurdles for women, particularly in leadership positions. A 2023 report by Cointelegraph revealed that women hold only 6% of leadership roles in the crypto sector, a disparity echoed by the experiences of those interviewed. “Women were a minority in the early stages of the finance industry as well,” noted Fireblocks’ Lee, adding that building supportive communities is vital to fostering a more inclusive environment.
Despite these obstacles, the women in Web3 are optimistic about the future. As LJ at Aptos Labs explained, the core principles of Web3 are solid, and the challenges women face today are part of the industry’s growing pains. “We’re still in the early stages, seeing some negative aspects, but the core principles of Web3 remain strong.”
As more women enter the Web3 space, these pioneers hope to see the industry become more inclusive and supportive, with opportunities for all to thrive.
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