The Korean grain industry honored retiring U.S. Grains Council (USGC) Korea office director Byong Ryol Min at a luncheon in Seoul last week as he prepares to retire after more than 35 years of service.

Mr. Min has been a dedicated employee of the Council since joining the organization in 1977. Beginning as a dairy management consultant, he has proven to be an excellent conduit for USGC’s mission to develop markets, enable trade and improve lives.

“Mr. Min has personally witnessed the amazing evolution of the Korean marketplace and the Council’s presence in Korea, and he has managed these changes with tact, understanding and efficiency,� said USGC President and CEO Tom Sleight. “He is a staunch defender of Korean agriculture and a very able, honorable representative for the U.S. coarse grains industry in Korea.�

Mr. Min was recently awarded a lifetime achievement award by the Council’s Board of Directors, a very rare honor for a staff member and a sign of the respect and affection with which the U.S. grain industry regards him.

“Mr. Min has shown himself to be brilliant, selfless and creative in a mature and important market for our industry,� said Alan Tiemann, USGC chairman and a farmer in Nebraska. “His skills and expertise in understanding the unique political, economic and trade factors that affect the Korean market are greatly appreciated and will be honored and remembered.�

Mr. Min’s last day with the Council is Oct. 23.

Enjoy your retirement, Mr. Min!